Some airlines require a medical release for travel for infants under 14 days old. Babies that are under the age of 2 and are not occupying a seat can usually be carried on a passenger's lap free of charge. Some airlines may request a birth certificate to prove the child is under 2 years old. According to the Air Tran website, the Child Aviation Restraint System is the only child restraint system approved by the Federal Aviation Administration for babies occupying seats while taxiing, taking off and landing. Other restraint systems are allowed during the cruise flight.
According to the Transportation Security Administration website, mothers flying with or without children are allowed to bring breast milk in quantities larger than three ounces if the milk has been declared for inspection at the security checkpoint. Most airlines allow you to bring baby strollers to the gate of the flight, although they are usually not allowed on the plane. Baby strollers and car seats are generally checked free of charge and will be returned to a plane's jetway when you arrive at your destination. On most airlines, if you are traveling with a baby you are allowed to bring more than one carry-on item so you can bring your baby supplies.
According to the TSA website, safety officials may test breast milk that has been declared for inspection for traces of explosives but they will not ask the mother or infant to taste the fluid. Safety officials may also ask the guardian to open the container so they can test the fluid. Babies are required to be screened at the security checkpoint. It is recommended that young children who can walk unassisted go through the metal detector separately from the guardian. Babies unable to walk must be removed from any strollers and carried through the metal detector with the guardian. All baby supplies such as diaper bags, blankets and toys must pass through the X-ray machine for inspection.
Some airlines will allow you to board the plane early when flying with a baby in order to give you extra time and space to set up your FAA approved baby seat and supplies. Some airlines will also heat your baby formula for you on the plane, if requested. Airlines occasionally have an emergency supply of diapers on board for parents who run out of clean diapers. Some airlines will also issue you an escort pass that will allow a friend to help you carry your things to the plane's gate.
