Flying with a baby can feel stressful, especially the first time. American Airlines lets infants under 2 travel as a lap child (“infant in lap”), so you may not need to buy a separate seat. This guide covers the rules, how to add your baby to your booking, and tips that can make the trip easier.
To add an infant in lap on American Airlines, your baby must be under 2 for the whole trip and listed on the reservation. On aa.com, open Passenger details and choose “Add infant in lap.” Domestic lap infants are usually free; international trips may add taxes and a percentage of the adult fare.
Key takeaways
- Only 1 lap infant is allowed per ticketed adult, and the infant must be added to the reservation.
- If your child turns 2 during the trip, they need their own seat for the remaining flights.
- International lap-infant tickets can include taxes and a percentage of the adult fare.
- The FAA says the safest choice is a separate seat with an approved child car seat or restraint.
Requirements and guidelines
American Airlines treats a child as an infant if they are under 2. Your baby must stay under 2 for the whole trip. If they turn 2 mid-trip, you must buy a seat for the rest of the flights.
American Airlines welcomes infants as young as 2 days old. If your infant is under 7 days old, you must contact Reservations and bring a doctor’s letter that says your baby is fit to fly.
You may be asked to show proof of age, such as a birth certificate. For international travel, infants usually need the same travel documents as adults, like a passport.
Booking process
American Airlines explains the lap-infant steps on its Traveling with children page.
Domestic flights (including Puerto Rico): You can add an infant in lap during booking on aa.com, or after your trip is ticketed. On the Passenger details page, select Add infant in lap.
International flights: Add the infant after your trip is ticketed. Open your trip on aa.com and use Add infant in lap on the Passenger details page. Taxes and a percentage of the adult fare may apply.
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Safety precautions
Lap infants are allowed, but they can be hard to hold during sudden turbulence. The FAA recommends using an approved child restraint system in a separate seat when you can.
| Item | What to know |
|---|---|
| Lap infant limit | Only 1 lap infant per ticketed adult. If you have more than 1 infant under 2, the extra infant must have their own ticket and seat. |
| Turbulence and seatbelt sign | Keep your infant held close, and follow crew instructions during taxi, takeoff, landing, and when the seatbelt sign is on. |
| Restraints | If you buy a seat, use an FAA-approved child seat or restraint. Devices that attach to an adult’s belt or position a child on an adult’s lap or chest are not approved for use. |
| Bassinets | Bassinets may be available at the gate on select wide-body planes, first come, first served, with size and weight limits. |
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Tips for traveling with an infant in lap
- Time your flight: If you can, pick a flight that lines up with naps.
- Pack smart: Keep diapers, wipes, a spare outfit, and feeding supplies in one easy-to-reach bag.
- Know the bag rules: American Airlines allows 1 carry-on diaper bag per child. Strollers and car seats can usually be checked free when you travel with a child.
- Ask for help: Let the gate agent or flight crew know you’re traveling with a lap infant if you need help with boarding or stowing items.
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Benefits of flying with a lap infant
The main benefit is cost. On many domestic trips, your infant can fly without a separate seat fare. Being close can also make it easier to feed, soothe, and settle your baby.
Common challenges and solutions
- Tight space: If you can choose, consider extra-legroom seats or a bulkhead row (and ask about bassinets on eligible planes).
- Ear pressure: Feeding, a pacifier, or swallowing during takeoff and landing can help some babies.
- Delays: Carry extra diapers, a spare top, and a bit more formula or milk than you think you’ll need.
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Final considerations
Adding an infant in lap on American Airlines is usually quick, but it helps to do it early—especially for international trips and newborns. Bring proof of age and any required travel documents. For the safest setup, consider buying a seat and using an approved child seat.
Related reading: Best carry-on luggage for international travel.
FAQs
Is a lap infant free on American Airlines?
On many domestic American Airlines flights, lap infants under 2 can travel without an added fare. On international flights, taxes and a percentage of the adult fare may apply.
How do I add an infant in lap after I booked?
Open your reservation on aa.com, go to Passenger details, and choose “Add infant in lap.” If your infant is under 7 days old, you must contact Reservations.
What proof of age do I need for my baby?
American Airlines may ask for proof of age, such as a birth certificate. A passport is often used for international trips.
Can I request a bassinet on American Airlines?
Bassinets may be available at the gate on select wide-body aircraft on a first-come, first-served basis. They have size and weight limits and are not offered in First or Business.
Is it safer to buy my baby a seat?
Yes. The FAA says the safest place for a child under 2 is in their own seat using an approved child restraint system, especially during unexpected turbulence.