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Does United Airlines Have Bassinets? A Comprehensive Guide for Flying with Infants

Yes, United Airlines does offer bassinets on select international flights, providing a convenient option for parents traveling with infants. However, availability is limited and specific conditions apply, making it crucial to understand the details before your trip. Let’s delve into the specifics of how to secure a bassinet for your little one, and what to expect when flying United with an infant.

Understanding United’s Bassinet Policy

Traveling with an infant requires careful planning, and knowing whether you can utilize a bassinet during your flight can significantly impact your comfort and your baby’s. United Airlines understands this need and strives to accommodate families whenever possible, but there are several factors to consider.

Availability and Aircraft Type

The most important thing to understand is that bassinets are only available on specific international routes and aircraft. United equips certain long-haul planes with special bulkhead seats that have attachments for these bassinets. These seats are typically located in premium cabins like Polaris business class and Premium Plus, although they can sometimes be found in Economy Plus or even standard Economy, depending on the aircraft configuration.

Unfortunately, bassinets are not available on all United flights, particularly shorter domestic routes or those operated by smaller aircraft. Therefore, the first step is to confirm whether your specific flight and aircraft offer bassinet options.

Infant Size and Weight Restrictions

Even if your flight has bassinets, your infant must meet certain size and weight restrictions to use them. United typically requires that infants be under 22 pounds (10 kg) and no more than 26 inches (66 cm) in length. These limitations are in place to ensure the safety and comfort of your child within the bassinet. Be prepared to provide your infant’s weight and length when requesting a bassinet.

How to Reserve a Bassinet

Reserving a bassinet requires proactive planning and timely action. You cannot book a bassinet online. Here’s the recommended process:

Book Your Flight: First, secure your flight booking. It’s best to book directly through the United Airlines website or by calling their customer service.
Contact United Customer Service: After booking, immediately contact United Airlines customer service to inquire about bassinet availability on your specific flight. Provide your flight details and your infant’s weight and length.
Request a Bassinet: Explicitly request a bassinet and the corresponding bulkhead seat. Be prepared to provide proof of your infant’s age if requested.
Confirmation and Seat Assignment: United customer service will check availability and attempt to assign you a bulkhead seat with a bassinet. Note that bassinet requests are generally handled on a first-come, first-served basis and are subject to availability. The assignment is not guaranteed until confirmed by United.
Confirm Again Closer to Departure: It’s wise to call United again a few days before your flight to reconfirm your bassinet reservation. Unexpected changes to aircraft or passenger load can sometimes affect bassinet assignments.

What to Expect Onboard

When you board the plane, inform the flight attendants that you have a bassinet reservation. They will provide the bassinet and assist in securing it to the bulkhead wall. Keep in mind:

Bassinets are not always available during taxi, take-off, or landing due to safety regulations. The flight attendants will instruct you on when the bassinet can be used.
Turbulence: If turbulence occurs during the flight, you will need to remove your baby from the bassinet and hold them securely in your arms.
Carry-on Essentials: Ensure you have all the necessary baby essentials in your carry-on bag, including diapers, wipes, bottles, and a blanket.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about United Airlines Bassinets

Here are twelve frequently asked questions to address common concerns and provide additional valuable information for parents planning to fly with United Airlines and their infants:

FAQ 1: Is there a fee to reserve a bassinet on United Airlines?

No, United Airlines does not charge a fee for reserving a bassinet. However, you may need to pay for seat selection, especially if the bassinet is located in a premium cabin like Economy Plus or Polaris.

FAQ 2: What happens if all the bassinets are already reserved on my flight?

If all the bassinets are reserved, you will need to hold your infant for the duration of the flight or consider purchasing a seat for your child and using an approved car seat. You should also inquire about the possibility of being placed on a waiting list for a bassinet in case of cancellations.

FAQ 3: Can I bring my own bassinet or travel cot onboard?

Generally, no. United Airlines does not allow passengers to bring their own bassinets or travel cots to be used during the flight. Only United-provided bassinets are permitted for safety and logistical reasons.

FAQ 4: What if my infant exceeds the weight or length limit for the bassinet during the flight?

If your infant exceeds the weight or length limit at any point during the flight, you will need to remove them from the bassinet and hold them in your arms. It’s important to accurately assess your baby’s size before flying.

FAQ 5: Are bassinet locations guaranteed after booking?

No, bassinet locations are not guaranteed until confirmed by United and are subject to availability. Aircraft changes, passenger loads, and operational requirements can sometimes affect bassinet assignments. It’s crucial to reconfirm closer to your departure date.

FAQ 6: Do I get priority boarding if I have a bassinet reservation?

While not always guaranteed, families traveling with infants often receive priority boarding. This allows you extra time to settle in and prepare the bassinet. Inquire about family boarding options when checking in.

FAQ 7: Can I request a bassinet at the airport?

While it’s possible, it’s highly unlikely that a bassinet will be available if you haven’t reserved one in advance. Bassinets are limited, and requests are typically handled on a first-come, first-served basis. Always try to reserve in advance.

FAQ 8: Are there any specific seat types I should avoid when flying with an infant on United?

Avoid seats that are not near a bulkhead wall or do not offer enough legroom for you and your infant. Seats near emergency exits might also be restricted for passengers traveling with infants.

FAQ 9: What other amenities does United offer for families traveling with infants?

United Airlines allows passengers to check strollers and car seats free of charge. They also offer baby food and milk onboard, though availability may vary. Check with the flight attendants for specific offerings.

FAQ 10: Can I use a CARES harness on United Airlines flights?

Yes, the CARES (Child Aviation Restraint System) harness is approved for use on United Airlines flights for children who are at least 1 year old, weigh between 22 and 44 pounds, and are no more than 40 inches tall.

FAQ 11: What documents do I need to fly with my infant on United Airlines?

For domestic flights, you typically only need proof of age, such as a birth certificate or passport, to verify that your infant is under two years old and can fly as a lap child. For international flights, a passport is always required for infants.

FAQ 12: What are the best tips for keeping my infant comfortable during a long flight on United?

Dress your baby in comfortable clothing.
Bring familiar toys and blankets.
Nurse or bottle-feed during take-off and landing to help with ear pressure.
Walk around the cabin periodically (when safe and allowed) to provide movement and stimulation.
Be prepared with extra diapers, wipes, and changes of clothes.
Stay calm and relaxed; your baby will sense your mood.

By understanding United Airlines’ bassinet policy and preparing thoroughly, you can significantly improve your experience of flying with your infant. Remember that proactive communication with the airline and careful planning are key to a smoother and more comfortable journey for both you and your little one.