Section 1: The Core Requirements — United Airlines Infant Policy Basics

To master the United Airlines infant policy, you must first understand the fundamental rules that govern who can fly and how they must be registered.

1.1 Age Limits: How Young is Too Young?

According to the United Airlines infant policy for 2026, infants must be at least seven days old to fly. If your newborn is younger than seven days, you will typically need a medical release from a physician to board. Once they reach the seven-day mark, they are welcomed as part of the United Airlines infant policy until their second birthday.

1.2 Lap Infant vs. Ticketed Seat

A primary question for parents is: “Does my baby need their own seat?” The United Airlines infant policy provides two distinct paths:

• Infant on Lap (Infant-in-Arms): Children under two years of age can travel on an adult’s lap. Under the United Airlines infant policy, this is free for domestic flights within the U.S. and Canada (though taxes may apply).
• Ticketed Seat: If you prefer your child to be in a car seat for safety, the United Airlines infant policy requires you to purchase a full-fare ticket. FAA and United safety experts strongly recommend a separate seat for maximum protection during turbulence.

1.3 The 1-to-1 Ratio Rule

A critical safety component of the United Airlines infant policy is the adult-to-infant ratio. Each adult passenger is only allowed to carry one lap infant. If you are traveling alone with two infants, the United Airlines infant policy mandates that at least one of them must have a purchased seat and be secured in an FAA-approved car seat.

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Section 2: International Travel — Fees and Documentation

The United Airlines infant policy changes significantly when you cross international borders. While domestic lap travel is free, international travel involves specific fees and paperwork.

2.1 International Infant Fares

If you are flying internationally, the United Airlines infant policy typically charges 10% of the adult fare for a lap infant, plus any applicable international taxes and country-specific fees. This ensures your baby is listed on the official manifest and is covered by international flight regulations.

2.2 Passport and Visa Requirements

Under the United Airlines infant policy, every passenger—regardless of age—must have a valid passport for international travel. Some countries also require specific “consent to travel” forms if only one parent is present. Always check the specific destination requirements in conjunction with the United Airlines infant policy.

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Section 3: Baggage and Equipment — What Can You Bring?

One of the most generous aspects of the United Airlines infant policy is the allowance for baby gear. United recognizes that babies require a lot of “stuff,” and their 2026 policy reflects that.

3.1 Strollers and Car Seats

The United Airlines infant policy allows you to check one stroller and one car seat per child free of charge. This can be done at the ticket counter or at the gate.

• Gate Checking: Most parents prefer to use their stroller through the airport and “gate check” it right before boarding.
• Onboard Use: If you have purchased a seat, you can bring an FAA-approved car seat onboard. Check the label for the text: “This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.”

3.2 The Diaper Bag Exception

In 2026, the United Airlines infant policy explicitly states that one diaper bag per infant is allowed as a free carry-on item. This does not count against the adult’s personal item or carry-on limit, giving you extra space for the essentials.

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Section 4: In-Flight Amenities — Comfort for Your Tiny Traveler

The United Airlines infant policy extends to the cabin experience, offering several features to help parents manage the flight.

4.1 Onboard Bassinets (SkyCots)

For long-haul international flights, the United Airlines infant policy offers a limited number of bassinets on wide-body aircraft (Boeing 767, 777, and 787).

• Weight Limit: Infants must weigh less than 22 lbs (10 kg).
• Availability: These are first-come, first-served. You should request one through “Manage Trips” or by calling United as soon as you book.

4.2 Changing Tables and Nursing

Most United aircraft are equipped with changing tables in at least one lavatory. Additionally, the United Airlines infant policy fully supports breastfeeding and pumping at your seat. Flight attendants can also provide ice to keep expressed milk or formula cool during the journey.

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Section 5: 10 Essential FAQs — United Airlines Infant Policy

1. Does a lap infant get a boarding pass? Yes. Even though they don’t have a seat, the United Airlines infant policy requires a “Lap Infant” indicator on the adult’s boarding pass for manifest and security purposes.

2. Can I use a breast pump on the plane? Absolutely. Under the United Airlines infant policy, breast pumps are considered medical devices and can be used and carried on for free.

3. Does United provide baby food? No. You should bring your own food and formula. The United Airlines infant policy aligns with TSA, allowing reasonable quantities of baby food and milk through security.

4. Can I sit in an exit row with a lap infant? No. For safety reasons, the United Airlines infant policy prohibits passengers with lap infants from sitting in emergency exit rows.

5. How do I add a lap infant to an existing booking? You can usually do this via the “Manage Trips” section on United.com or the United app. Look for the “Add Infant” option under traveler details.

6. What if my child turns two during the trip? Under the United Airlines infant policy, if a child turns two during the journey, they will require a purchased seat for any flight segments occurring after their second birthday.

7. Can I bring a folding wagon instead of a stroller? The United Airlines infant policy generally allows for collapsible wagons to be checked for free, but they must be fully folded for gate checking.

8. Is formula exempt from the 3.4oz liquid rule? Yes. The United Airlines infant policy and TSA guidelines allow formula and breast milk in “reasonable quantities” exceeding 3.4 ounces. Just declare them at the security checkpoint.

9. Does United offer pre-boarding for families? Yes. The United Airlines infant policy includes pre-boarding for families with children aged two and under, allowing you time to settle in before the rush.

10. Can I earn miles for my infant? Only if they have a purchased seat. If they are traveling as a lap infant, they do not earn MileagePlus miles under the current United Airlines infant policy.

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Section 6: Conclusion — Ready for Takeoff

The United Airlines infant policy is designed to support the modern family, blending safety with convenience. By understanding the 2026 rules regarding lap travel, international fees, and free gear allowances, you can avoid the “airport scramble” and focus on making memories with your little one. Remember to register your infant early, pack your free diaper bag wisely, and take advantage of the pre-boarding perks. With the United Airlines infant policy as your guide, the sky is truly the limit for you and your baby.

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