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Why families fly private
Children make the slow parts of airline travel slower: queues, security, gate changes and long walks with bags and buggies. At a private terminal you usually drive close to the aircraft, board in minutes and leave the same way. The departure time follows your plans, so a flight can fit a nap or bedtime, and nobody minds if a toddler walks the aisle when the seat belt sign is off. You can also choose an airport closer to your home or your destination, which shortens the car journey at both ends.
The cabin is private, which also helps with feeding, nappy changes and noise. On larger jets there is room for a travel cot or for a child to sleep on a divan.
Lap infants and seats
Every person on board, including a baby, goes on the passenger list, and the total cannot exceed the aircraft's approved seats. Whether an infant can travel on a lap depends on the rules of the authority that regulates the operator and on the operator's own policy. Under both FAA and EASA rules, children under two are commonly allowed on an adult's lap with a suitable restraint, but some operators require every passenger to have a seat.
If your baby needs a seat, count them when you request the trip so the aircraft has enough. On a light jet, one extra seat can mean moving up to a larger aircraft.
For families, cabin size matters more than for business trips. A midsize or larger jet has a flat floor or more headroom, a bigger lavatory and space for a cot or a pram inside. On longer flights a stand-up cabin is easier with a toddler who wants to move. For a short hop, a light jet is often enough.
Planning a trip?
See every aircraft for your route with a price in seconds. Mention this in your request and the team checks it with the operator.
Car seats and restraints
Bringing a car seat is often the safest and most comfortable option for babies and toddlers. It must be approved for use in aircraft. In the United States look for a label stating it is certified for motor vehicles and aircraft; in Europe operators may accept seats meeting relevant standards. The seat also has to fit the aircraft's seat and belt, which vary between models.
Tell the team the make and model of the car seat. The operator confirms whether it can be fitted and where, as some seats, such as those facing an emergency exit, cannot hold one.
Passports and consent letters
A private flight does not change border rules. Every child, including a baby, needs their own passport or valid travel document for international trips, and a visa where the destination requires one.
When a child travels with only one parent, or with grandparents or a nanny, many countries ask for a signed consent letter from the absent parent or parents, and some require it. A copy of the birth certificate helps when surnames differ. Check the rules of each country on the trip, and the team can tell you what the operator and the arrival airport expect.
Comfort on board
Pressure changes in the climb and descent hurt small ears. Feeding a baby or giving an older child a drink or something to chew during take-off and the descent helps them swallow and clear their ears. The descent usually starts well before landing, so begin early.
Heavy jets and some super-midsize jets usually fly with a flight attendant. On light and midsize jets the pilots look after the cabin, so plan to care for children yourselves.
- Order children's meals and snacks when you order catering, 24 to 48 hours ahead.
- Bring nappies, wipes, a change of clothes and medicines in a cabin bag, not the hold.
- Smaller jets have small lavatories with no changing table; a changing mat on a seat works.
- Prams and buggies fold into the hold; tell us so the space is planned.
- Download films and games before the trip, as not every aircraft has Wi-Fi.
Questions
Can a newborn fly on a private jet?
Generally yes. Operators do not usually set a minimum age, but many doctors advise waiting a short time after birth. Check with your paediatrician, especially for premature babies.
Does a baby count as a passenger on a private jet?
Yes. Every infant goes on the passenger list, even when sitting on a lap. Count babies when you request the trip.
Do children need a passport on a private jet?
Yes, for any international flight. Each child needs their own passport or valid travel document, and a visa where required.
Can I bring a pushchair and car seat?
Yes. Tell us the sizes so the team confirms space in the hold and whether the car seat can be fitted on the aircraft.
Do I need a consent letter if only one parent is flying?
Many countries ask for one, and some require it. Carry a signed letter from the absent parent and a copy of the birth certificate, and check the rules for each country on the trip.
What size of jet is best for a family?
For short flights a light jet often works. For longer trips, toddlers or a lot of luggage, a midsize or larger jet gives more floor space, a bigger lavatory and room for a pram or cot.
