Do 2 year olds fly free?

Many parents wonder if their young children can fly for free or at a discounted rate on flights. With airfare being a significant expense for family travel, free or reduced fares for little ones are certainly appealing. So what are the policies for infants, toddlers and young children when it comes to airline tickets? Do 2 year olds fly free?

The answer depends on the airline, the child’s exact age, the destination, and other factors. Policies vary among air carriers regarding free or discounted fares for small children. Some general guidelines apply, though specifics can differ. Here we’ll explore the basics of whether 2 year olds can fly for free or cheaply.

Table of Contents

When Can Infants Fly Free?

Let’s start with the youngest flyers – infants under 2 years old. Many major airlines allow infants to fly for free provided they sit on an adult’s lap instead of having their own seat. This policy applies to domestic U.S. flights and short international routes operated by the airline. For instance:

American Airlines – Infants under 2 fly free for domestic travel when sitting on lap
Delta – Infants under 2 are free for domestic and international flights within North America when sitting on lap
United – Infants under 2 are free for travel within the U.S. and to Canada, Mexico, Caribbean, Central America when sitting on lap

So if flying in the U.S., Canada or to nearby international destinations, infants generally fly free as lap children on many common carriers. However, some limitations exist:

Infants are only considered free lap children if an adult is holding them during the flight. They do not get their own seat.
Once the infant turns 2 years old, they are no longer eligible for free travel as a lap child.

On international long haul flights, infants may need a ticket for a small fee even if sitting on lap.

In summary, infants under 2 can fly free domestically provided they sit on an adult’s lap the entire flight and do not occupy a seat. But what about older toddlers like 2 year olds?

Do 2 Year Olds Fly Free as Lap Children?

Unfortunately, the free lap child policy ends when babies celebrate their 2nd birthday. While infants under 2 years can fly free sitting on an adult’s lap, 2 year olds need their own seat and ticket.

Some key points regarding 2 year olds on flights:

Once a child turns 2, they are no longer eligible for free travel as a lap child.
Starting on their 2nd birthday, children require their own aircraft seat and a paid ticket for the flight.

A 2 year old cannot fly free or at a reduced rate as a lap child even if the parent wants to hold them during the flight.

So although infants fly free until age 2, the free travel lap child policy does not extend to 2 year olds. All major U.S. airlines require 2 year olds to have a purchased ticket for their own seat.

Discounts for 2 Year Olds

While 2 year olds cannot fly for free as lap children, some discounts may be available on their airfare. Airlines occasionally offer reduced fares for travelers age 2 and up. For example:

United – Up to 25% off domestic flights for children age 2-13 when booking through United’s website.
American – Discounted child fares sometimes offered for age 2-14 for U.S. and international flights.
Delta – Children age 2-11 eligible for child fare discounts on some routes if available at time of booking.

However, discounted fares are not guaranteed and have terms such as:

Advance purchase requirements
Travel during specific time frames

Blackout dates when discounts don’t apply
Limited number of seats eligible for reduced child fares

Families should check with the airline at the time of booking to see if any 2 year old discounts are offered on their desired flights. But in general, free travel for 2 year olds is not an option.

Tips for Flying with 2 Year Olds

While flying with a 2 year old requires buying them a plane ticket, parents can use these tips to make the trip easier:

Book direct flights to avoid long layovers
Request bulkhead or aisle seats for more space

Pack snacks, small toys and books for in-flight entertainment
Have the child use a car seat or sit on your lap if permitted
Fly during nap times or at night so they can sleep

Utilize early boarding privileges for families with small children
Keep your expectations flexible traveling with a toddler

Having realistic expectations will enhance the experience for both you and your 2 year old. While they have to give up their free lap child status, some thoughtful planning can still make the trip enjoyable.

Policies by Airline

For specifics on infants and children traveling free or at discounted fares, here are the policies of major U.S. airlines:

American Airlines

Lap Child Age: Under 2 years old
Free Seat for Lap Child? No – Must be held by adult

2 Year Old Free? No – Requires purchased ticket
Discounts for Age 2-14? Yes, sometimes offered on U.S./international flights

Delta Air Lines

Lap Child Age: Under 2 years old for U.S. flights; under 12 months for international flights

Free Seat for Lap Child? No – Must be held by adult
2 Year Old Free? No – Requires purchased ticket
Discounts for Age 2-11? Yes, sometimes offered on select routes

United Airlines

Lap Child Age: Under 2 years old
Free Seat for Lap Child? No – Must be held by adult
2 Year Old Free? No – Requires purchased ticket

Discounts for Age 2-13? Yes, up to 25% off U.S. flights when booked direct

Southwest Airlines

Lap Child Age: Under 2 years old
Free Seat for Lap Child? No – Must be held by adult

2 Year Old Free? No – Requires purchased ticket
Discounts for Age 2-11? No, but Child fares offered at a lower price point

JetBlue

Lap Child Age: Under 2 years old

Free Seat for Lap Child? No – Must be held by adult
2 Year Old Free? No – Requires purchased ticket
Discounts for Age 2-14? Yes, occasionally discounts offered based on flight

So in summary, infants under 2 can fly as free lap children but 2 year olds cannot. Discounts may be available for older toddlers, but policies vary between airlines. Always check with the specific carrier when booking tickets.

Buying Plane Tickets for 2 Year Olds

Since 2 year olds require their own purchased airline ticket, here are some tips for buying their plane seats:

Search for any eligible discounted fares for age 2-14 children

Ask if the airline offers free companion tickets for infants/toddlers traveling with an adult
Check pricing for all airports in your departure/arrival cities and compare
Be flexible on travel dates/times if possible to find lower fares

Book far in advance for best selection of discounted seats
Use miles/points from frequent flyer programs to book award seats

While 2 year olds don’t fly free, looking for deals and being flexible can help minimize the airline ticket cost for your toddler.

Laws Regarding Child Restraints

Along with buying a plane ticket for your 2 year old, be aware of safety rules regarding child seats and restraints. Laws vary depending on the child’s age and weight.

FAA regulations state:

Under 2 years: Should be in a CAA-approved car seat or other restraint if a seat purchased

2-4 years; under 40 pounds: Should be in a CAA-approved car seat or other restraint if a seat purchased
Over 40 pounds: Can use regular airplane seatbelt

However, these are only guidelines. Contact the airline for their specific policies on car seats, lap children, and restraints. Use of a car seat may be advised but not always required.

The safest practice is always to secure toddlers and young children properly in a CAA-approved restraint suitable for air travel. Do not assume lap children can be held during turbulence or emergency situations. Protect little ones with proper seats/belts.

Summary

In summary, here are the key points on children’s fares:

Infants under 2 years fly free domestically and to nearby international destinations as lap children

At age 2, children require their own purchased airline ticket for travel
Discounts may be offered by airlines for kids age 2 and up, but are not guaranteed
2 year olds cannot fly free as lap children – they need their own seat and ticket

Use caution and appropriate restraints like a CAA-approved safety seat for in-flight toddler safety

Check with your airline to understand their policies, look for ticket discounts, and use care when flying with your 2 year old. Safe, enjoyable air travel is possible even if you have to buy them a plane ticket on their second birthday!