Preparing to Get on a Airplane with a Baby

If you want to travel with your child, taking an airplane with a baby is actually a safer route for babies compared to traveling by land, if using a special baby seat. Before you take your baby on a plane, there are a number of things that need to be prepared and understood. Many assume that the baby's immune system is not strong enough, so traveling by plane will make the baby vulnerable to contracting the infection. But actually, viral and bacterial infections can occur anywhere, including at home though. In addition, turbulence in aircraft can also be overcome by special baby seats and the use of seat belts.

Before traveling

Carrying a baby on a plane is actually an activity that is classified as safe if properly prepared. Therefore, before traveling or ordering tickets, there are some things that should be realized and prepared.

• Pay attention to the baby's age. Each airline sets a minimum age for a baby to be able to fly, usually around 2-14 days after birth. There are also some airlines that ask for a doctor's letter stating if the mother and child are in good health to get on a plane. As for premature babies, the age of flight may be calculated from the estimated date given by the doctor, not the date when they were born.
• Choose flight hours. Choose the hours when the baby sleeps, such as during the day after eating, when he naps, or late afternoon. That way, in the plane he will fall asleep easily. In addition, taking into account the age of the baby, it is advisable to avoid flights that require a long time for hours.
• A special crib or baby bassinet (BSCT). Ask if the airline provides baby bassinet or stroller that has been certified for use on airplanes. If not, you have to bring your own baby stroller or special place. If not breastfeeding, the baby will be safer in the baby bassinet. Infants or children under the age of 2 years are safer if sitting in a special seat for him.
• More space in the front bench. Also ask if the airline accommodates extra space for cots. On airlines, passengers traveling with their babies and needing a BSCT are generally allowed to sit in the front row seats at no additional charge. If your child is around six months old, it is recommended to buy a separate chair. That way you can put your baby in the car seat and put it on the plane seat next to you.
• Baby's breathing. Oxygen content in aircraft is 30 percent less than on land. If your baby has respiratory problems, your doctor may recommend reserve oxygen. But if your baby is born prematurely or has a history of respiratory distress, your doctor may ask you to postpone the trip until the baby is at least one year old.
• Baby gear. Bring objects that can make a baby calm on the plane, such as pacifiers, toys, blankets, and warm clothes. Also prepare tableware to feed him during the trip. Don't forget to ask about the possibility of bringing this special food on the plane. You can also order special baby food on the plane. But to maintain safety and cleanliness, you should bring baby food that has been prepared before leaving.

While on the plane

While on the plane, make sure the baby is in a comfortable position. Make sure you are ready to meet all their needs immediately. The following are things that deserve attention:

• Changes in air pressure in the plane can cause ears to become painful. To reduce the risk to the baby's ears when boarding a plane, condition him to suckle, drink milk from a bottle, or suck on his pacifier, especially when the plane is taking off or on
• When the seatbelt can be removed, carry it and take it for a walk along the hallway if possible.
• Protect your baby from exposure to bacteria and viruses, such as sneezing or coughing.
• Use an antique hand sanitizer before you feed your baby.
• Consume lots of fluids so you can give enough milk to the baby on the plane.
• If holding a baby in a hug, put your seat belt on its body when the plane lands or takes off. By making sure the seat belt is installed, you can more easily calm and feed Little On the plane.

Babies often cry when they feel uncomfortable, including if they feel changes in the plane. Staying calm is the key so that you can handle the situation well. That way, when the baby boarded the plane will also be calmer until arriving at the destination. Calm babies will make your trip and other passengers more comfortable.