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| |    Airplane Travel with Kids: Overview by Laura Jana, M.D., F.A.A.P. reviewed by Robert Needlman, M.D., F.A.A.P. Once you become a parent, a new sense of reality sets in as you consider air travel. Frankly, it's just not as easy and carefree as it used to be without kids in tow. Your memories of grabbing a bag, running through the airport, and showing up at the gate at the last minute are probably fading fast (if they're not already long gone). At the same time, many of us have become increasingly dependant on air travel as a routine way to stay in touch with family and friends. Whether you are planning your first cross-country flight to show off your baby to relatives or are sending your child off into the wild blue yonder on his first solo trip, it helps to know what steps you can take to make traveling with kids a more enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Rules and regulations When it comes to air travel, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for setting certain guidelines that all airlines must follow. In addition to the more general safety rules and regulations, this includes such standards as what type of airplane seat restraint is required for children at what age, and where children can (and cannot) be seated on a plane. Special offerings In addition to the current federally approved option to have a child under two travel as a lap child without having to purchase a ticket, each airline also has its own offerings when it comes to children. Some sell discount airplane tickets for children under a certain age, while others provide special services to insure that children traveling alone make it to their destination and are delivered into the appropriate hands, safe and sound. Quite often, you even can request children's meals when making reservations. Other things to consider When it comes to traveling successfully, knowing airplane rules and regulations is only half the challenge of achieving a fun-filled trip. Accommodating your child's daily routine, whether it involves diapers and breastfeeding or naptime and snacks, calls for a bit of advanced planning. A few practical tips and sound advice about everything from snacks and entertainment to packing and timing can make all the difference. For more information, visit the FAA's passenger information web site.
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