etihad travelling with baby

Etihad Infants Policy

• Planes & Seat Maps

Do I need to reserve a seat for my infant?

Children up to two years old (24 months), are not required to have their own seat as these children may sit on an adult's lap. Only one lap child is allowed per adult. If one adult is traveling with more than one infant under two years of age, a seat will have to be purchased for the second infant. You can also choose to purchase a seat for your infant as long as you have the proper child restraint device.

Will I pay for my infant to travel?

Yes, a child up to two years old (24 months) is usually charged 10% of an adult fare plus taxes if he or she will be sitting on an adult's lap.

What if my child turns two on the trip; will I have to buy a ticket for the return flight?

Yes, a ticket will have to be purchased for any flight on which the infant will be over two years old.

What infant amenities are available on the aircraft I'll be flying (i.e. bassinets)?

Etihad Airways offers:

• Changing facilities
• Baby meals (to be requested at the time of reservation or 24 hours before departure)

Can I sit in the exit row with my infant?

Neither lap children nor infants in car seats are allowed to sit in an exit row. In fact, all passengers in an exit row must be at least 15 years of age. In addition, infant seats are not allowed in the row directly in front of or directly behind an exit.

SeatGuru was created to help travelers choose the best seats and in-flight amenities.

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Flying with children and infants

We do everything we can to make flying with children as comfortable as we can. Some of our airport lounges have dedicated family rooms, and when it’s time to board, we’ll invite families on to the plane first to give you a bit of extra time to get settled. You can check your pushchair in, or we'll collect your pushchair from you just before you board.

Don't forget to reserve your seats together in your favourite spot on the plane.

Your family’s safety is our priority

We’re taking extra steps to make sure you and your family feel safe and well when you travel, with additional deep-cleaning procedures and other initiatives to keep you protected.

Our team will do everything they can to sit you together on board, with as much space as possible between you and other guests.

Remember to wear a face mask whilst you travel and wash your hands regularly.

If you’re flying to Abu Dhabi, all guests – excluding children under 12 – will undergo thermal screening and COVID-19 PCR testing in Abu Dhabi International Airport.

Read our health and wellness guide  to find out more about what we’re doing to keep you safe.

Infants and children

Check the baggage allowance and onboard rules for children and babies.

Normal fare rules apply.

No time to be bored with E-BOX

Little flyers will be entertained for hours with kids' movies, TV and cartoons on E-BOX. There's also music and games if they'd prefer something interactive.

Etihad explorers

Tiny adventurers should get ready to explore with our children’s activity packs, Etihad Explorers. The collectable character bags include colouring books, games and puzzles.

Children’s meals

Our healthy and fun children's meals keep little tummies happy on board. Please order your child's meal at least 24 hours before your flight.

The safety of your child is our number one priority. For infants weighing up to 11kg, our bassinets are specially designed carry-cots to help your baby sleep flat during the flight. Our cabin crew will confirm that your infant fits comfortably and safely in the bassinet before affixing it at your seat position. You may request a baby bassinet when you book your flight or through  Manage my booking . All bassinets will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.

For safety reasons, you may only use a bassinet when the seatbelt sign is switched off and when the cabin crew permit you to do so. When the seatbelt sign is on, you must secure your child on your lap using an infant seatbelt; our cabin crew will provide a seatbelt for you and show you how to use it. You may also use an approved car seat or child restraint device.

Car seats and pushchairs

Children aged up to three years old travelling on a child’s ticket may use certain approved car-seats, in conjunction with our aircraft seats.

You are also permitted to carry one pushchair or carrycot or car seat for free, in addition to your child's checked baggage allowance .

Questions about flying with children

Can my child use a car seat on board.

Yes! Children aged up to three years old travelling on a child’s ticket may use certain approved car-seats. As the parent or guardian, you are responsible for correctly installing the device as per the manufacturer’s instructions and restrictions.

• Children must be properly secured in the car seat and accompanied by an adult in the adjacent seat for take-off and landing.
• Car seats must be forward or rear facing with a harness that can be strapped to a seat with a seatbelt only
• Rearward facing seats are restricted to infants from 0 to six months weighing less than 10kg and are only allowed in First or Business cabins
• The car seat must be in good condition and show no signs of damage
• The car seat harness must have a single release button and must secure the infant's lap, torso and crotch

As per the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority, the following car-seats and child restraint devices are accepted on board:

• Australian Car-Seat regulations
• USA Standards FMVSS213
• Canadian Standard CMVSS 213
• European Standards ECE-44
• German Standards (TÜV Doc.TÜV/958-01/2001)

I’m flying in Business/First. Will I be sat next to my child?

The way that our premium cabins are configured on some of our aircraft means that you won’t always be sat next to your child, or have clear visibility of them in their seat. As a parent or guardian, you are responsible for ensuring that your child stays in their seat and is secured with own seatbelt whenever the seatbelt signs are on.

What travel accessories can my child bring on board?

To help children sit or sleep comfortably on our flights, most travel accessories are permitted on board, including JetKids TM BedBox TM , Plane Pal and Fly Tot, subject to certain conditions. The accessory must be securely stowed during take-off and landing.

Accessories that attach to any part of the seat are not permitted.

What devices are permitted on board for children with special needs?

The following supporting devices are accepted on board for children with special needs:

• CARES Harness for children over one year weighing less that 20kg (only permitted in Economy)
• SPECIAL CARES Harness for adult guests with special needs and children more than 20kg in weight
• CRELLING Harness Model 27. Type 27I (two-five years) and Type 27A (five-eight years) are only allowed in Economy Class, and Type 27B (nine years - adult) are allowed in all classes
• CRELLING Shoulder Strap HSB1. Type HSB1 (two years - adult) are only allowed in Economy Class)

Do children need to wear masks whilst they travel?

We understand it may be difficult for young children to wear a mask when they travel. If they’re comfortable, we recommend that children aged two to five wear a mask as much as they possibly can. Children aged six or older must wear a mask at all times, wash their hands regularly and follow social distancing guidelines as much as possible. 

Etihad Guest Family

An Etihad Guest Family membership lets everyone earn miles individually and spend them together as a family.

Children flying alone

If your child is between 5 to 11 years old, they can travel on their own  if you pre-book our Unaccompanied Minor service.

Flying during pregnancy

Find out everything you need to know if you’re planning to fly during your pregnancy.

Flying when pregnant

Etihad Airways flying with babies

How long after delivery can a new mother travel with her baby on etihad airways flights.

A mother traveling with her baby will be accepted on Etihad Airways flights only if the newborn is at least 7 days old on the date of travel . In the case of any birth complications or premature birth , Etihad requires the submission of a MEDIF form and medical report .

Does Etihad offer discounted fares for children?

Children under 2 years old on the date that travel commences are considered infants and will be charged 10% of the adult fare , provided they sit on an adult’s lap during the flight . Each adult can only be responsible for one infant .

Children aged between 2-11 years on the date that travel commences will be charged either 2/3 or 3/4 of the adult fare, depending on the point of departure . A child traveling on his or her 12th birthday is considered an adult and would need to have been ticketed as such.

When are children required to have their own seat on board the plane?

Children above the age of 2 years on the date of travel will require their own seat. A child traveling on his/her second birthday is considered a child and would need to have been ticketed as such.

If you want to use a car seat on board the aircraft, your baby requires a separate seat on board the plane. Infants are not provided with their own seat unless the child’s fare is purchased for them . You can bring your child’s own car seat provided it meets certain strict criteria and is approved for use on board an aircraft.

Infant Baggage Allowance

When traveling with an infant , the following additional allowance applies in any class of travel :

• Flights to/from the US and Canada (Piece Concept) – one piece of checked baggage , with a maximum weight of 23 kg (50 lbs ) and maximum total dimensions of 158 cm.
• All other Etihad flights (Weight Concept) – 10 kg of checked baggage.
• All Etihad flights:
• Cabin baggage : one extra handbag that must weigh no more than 5 kg .
• One fully collapsible stroller, carry-cot or approved car seat , as a carry-on item if cabin space is available or else as checked baggage.

When the child fare is purchased for an infant, the same baggage allowance as for adult passengers will apply for the infant, too.

At the check-in desk, luggage tags will be placed on any pushchair or stroller . You will still be able to use these within the airport up to the departure gate . On arrival at your destination, the pushchair or stroller will either be returned at the aircraft door or should be collected at the baggage carousel (this is determined by local regulations in each country).

Bassinets and Car Seats

All Etihad aircraft are fitted with baby bassinet positions . Baby bassinet positions are available on a first come, first served basis . The baby bassinets are designed to accommodate infants under 11 kg and 75 cm .

For safety reasons, bassinets can only be used once the aircraft is airborne, and the seat belt signs have been switched off. If the aircraft experiences turbulence and the seat belt sign is switched on, the infant must be removed from the bassinet and secured on your lap using the infant seat belt.

Children up to 36 months may travel in an approved car seat in conjunction with an aircraft seat provided that the appropriate child fare has been purchased . The child must be accompanied by an adult in an adjacent seat for take-off and landing.

Rearward facing seats are allowed in First or Business Class only (not allowed in Economy class due to seat pitch limitation) and can be used only for infants from 0 to 6 months weighing less than 10 kg .

As per the UAE – General Civil Aviation Authority, only car seats and child restraint devices that comply with one of the following standards/regulations are acceptable on board :

• Australian Car Seat regulations.
• The US Standards FMVSS 213.
• Canadian Standard CMVSS 213.
• European Standards ECE-44.
• German Standards (TÜV Doc.TÜV/958-01/2001).

To help children sit or sleep comfortably, most travel accessories, such as BedBox, JetKids, Fly Tot, and Plane Pal, are permitted on board subject to certain conditions . The accessory must be securely stowed during take-off and landing, and accessories that attach to any part of the seat are not permitted.

Etihad Services for Family Travel

Baby food in a range of delicious flavors is available on Etihad flights. Baby meals and children meals are available on all Etihad flights only if they have been pre-ordered at the time of booking the flight, or at least 24 hours before departure .

In Abu Dhabi and other major airports, complimentary strollers are available in the terminal, close to the gate. If you’re traveling in First or Business Class, Family Rooms at certain airport lounges offer fun ways to keep your children entertained, including books, toys, and TV, as well as a great children’s menu and qualified nannies.

When boarding begins, families with young children will be called first for pre-boarding , thus giving you some extra time to get settled on board.

In order to keep your children entertained on board, Etihad’s in-flight entertainment system includes a wide choice of television shows, movies, music, and video games .

More information here >>

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Airline Reviews , Blog

Etihad airways: family flying airline review.

We are reviewing 30 of the world’s leading international airlines for their family-friendliness.  Our reviews cover the airline’s policies and service offerings that the average family will deal with when flying standard economy class. For more details on the Globetrotters reviews and ratings referenced, please see the   lead article .

Etihad is one of the world’s youngest but most rapidly expanding international airlines, now the third-largest in the Middle East with an enormous new hub due to open in Abu Dhabi in 2019 (right on the Globetrotters doorstep!).  It excels particularly with its business and first-class passengers, winning numerous awards in these categories, but what do they have to offer for the average family flier in economy?

Base: Abu Dhabi – UAE

Alliances: etihad airways partner, skytrax rating 2018: 15, jacdec safety rating 2018: 7, you can also read about how etihad compares to neighbouring emirates here.

Etihad Pregnancy Policy

Travel is unrestricted up to 28 weeks.  From the beginning of the 29th week to the end of the 36th week expectant mothers must submit at check-in a doctor/midwife’s letter stating they are fit to fly (issued not more than 7 days before); From the 37th week you will not be accepted for travel.

In the case of a multiples pregnancy, a doctor/midwife’s letter is required between the 29 th to 32 nd week, from the 33 rd week you will not be accepted for travel.

Related Reading : Our Complete guide to flying pregnant

Newborns on etihad.

The airline recommends avoiding air travel for 7 days after delivery.

Infants (under 2 years) on Etihad

Each adult can only be responsible for one infant for which they will pay an infant fare. Any additional infants or if you require the child to use their own seat, you must pay a child’s fare.  Your own child’s seat is permitted to be brought on board if it meets safety standards for children 6 months to 36 months.

A limited supply of infant meals are kept on board but they suggest to bring your own and staff can warm meals and bottles for you.

Strollers are permitted to be brought to the gate before being stowed, or you can use the free stroller service at Abu Dhabi International Airport.

Etihad Baby Bassinets

Infant bassinets are designed to hold babies below 10 months or 10kg.  You must pre-book these as they are given out on a first-come basis so book early (note you cannot book these seats online, if you try to call and book they will tell you they can only note it on their systems and the bulkhead seats will be allocated once you arrive at the airport).

Children (2-11 years) on Etihad

For children aged 3 to 12 (don’t worry, they’ll give them to the younger ones too!) there are kids packs available themed around the airline’s mascots Zoe, Jamool, Kundai and Boo. In addition, they have an extensive in-flight entertainment menu “The Kids Club” with around 30-60 games (depending on the aircraft), TV shows, movies and music suited to the junior audience. Parents can block any content they find inappropriate.

Kids meals must be ordered 24 hours in advance and will be served in priority in brightly coloured packs, in keeping with the airlines Kids Club theme and mascots.

Children under five must be travelling with a person over 18 years old and pay a child’s fare, approximately 75% of the adult fare.

Pre-flight when leaving from Abu Dhabi there are a few children’s entertainment options available. For those able to access Etihad lounges, Family Rooms are available with qualified nannies supervising so children may be left to play.

In the main Abu Dhabi Airport Terminal 3  (near gate 32) there is also a free children’s play area suitable to those under 6 years old and breastfeeding and baby change facilities.

Etihad Flying Nanny 

Etihad’s unique selling point for families is their  “Flying Nanny” service.  They are the first to come out with such a bold statement of their family-friendliness but don’t get too over-excited, it is not a stop-and-drop service at the back of the plane!

According to their marketing materials, the job of the flying nanny is to “help children get settled, keep them entertained or offer support and advice to parents” .  The Nanny’s training is approved by renowned UK nanny college Norland.

Now this all looks good on paper, but I guess it really depends on your flight route and staff member on any given day, as well as how many other families are on board for what sort of service you will get – see our personal experience from more than a dozen flights in the Globetrotters Review below.

Note this is not a service that you book, it is part of the standard service now on all long-haul flights. The Flying Nanny should introduce herself at the start of the flight to any families on board, you will identify her from the orange apron. The Flying Nanny’s activities with the children (supposedly) include arts and crafts, hand puppets, drawing competitions, face painting and magic tricks.

Sleeping devices on Etihad

For those interested in using infant sleep products such as the Bed Box or pillow products like the Fly Tot or Kooshy Kushion to improve sleeping comfort, they ARE allowed on Etihad at the time of writing, in both business and economy cabins.  Staff direct the restriction of their use although Etihad has no specific published policy on this, unlike Emirates and Qantas who have specifically banned their use in cabin.

You can see our full review of the Bed Box, the Kooshy Kids Kushion and the Flyaway Kids Bed . All were tested on Etihad long-haul flights out of Abu Dhabi – and read our complete guide as to which airlines accept these devices . 

Unaccompanied Minors

Children between 5 years old but younger than 12 years old may travel as UM’s. Children’s between 12 years old but under 16 years old may travel alone but parents can request the UM service.

Where the UM service is used the child must pay for a full adult fare.   Fares can be booked online but you must then print and complete a UM form and submit back to your local booking office or head office UM email, the airline will contact you within 24 hours to confirm information is correct.

If flights are operated by a codeshare partner you will need to check age limits and conditions directly with that carrier.

Etihad Baggage Allowances

From 31 January 2018, there were significant changes made in airline allowances.  Your allowances within economy will depend on what type of economy ticket you have purchased – Deal, Saver, Classic or Flex.   It is best that you check the airline’s baggage policy directly before you fly .

As a general rule, depending on ticket type you will get 23kg, 30kg or 35kg for both adults and a child tickets.

Exceptions are routes to the Americas, adults and children may take up to 2 bags of 23kg each (Brazil 32kgs) and infants one bag of 23kg – other tickets classes and route deals may apply.

Infants are allowed 1 bag up to 10kg.   (Additional limits for stowed infant equipment is not specified but we have never had a problem with addition strollers, car seats, carry-cots – this could be because we fly as Gold Members though).

When an infant is carried in a cot or car seat, bedding, napkins, feeding bottles and food for the journey may be carried onboard up to an additional 5kg.

Etihad Guest passengers and those flying up the pointy end get additional checked and carry-on baggage allowances too.

Related Reading: See what it’s really like in Etihad Business Class – Tour up the top in an A380 here 

Frequent Flyer Program – Etihad Guest

Children from age 2 can be registered in the Etihad Guest program.  Etihad offers family membership where each family member registers individually but all points can be pooled into a single account.  A Family Head is nominated and up to eight family guests can join (NB they do not have to be direct relations of the family head, nor live in the same household).  

Etihad Guest is one of the most generous family programs we have come across. As local residents with an Etihad Guest credit card as well, we have cashed in numerous long haul rewards over the years.

Our Globetrotters View of Etihad Airways

We fly with Etihad most often as they are less than a 10-minute drive from our home – but not always the cheapest, and despite their claims of winning best airport, not always the most user-friendly. Abu Dhabi International Airport AUH can be incredibly busy, with most flights it seems outside of A380’s boarding from the tarmac which requires additional transfers, never easy with small children.  This is doubly challenging after long flights when you need to board a bus back to the terminal.

The move to the new Midfields Terminal is desperately needed and seems to be constantly delayed – here we are in 2020 several years after the build was seemingly complete and countless opening deadlines have been and past. 

I am yet to be convinced on the Flying Nannies concept, however.  Heading the right way and a great initiative, but I have found them of limited help on most flights.  We had one wonderful experience flying to Perth, right at the end of the flight they did face painting and gave the kids crowns and cards, but generally speaking, I seem to get less than a cursory glance. In fact I’d go as far as to say the lady in orange deliberately avoids eye contact with me.   

I am nit-picking a little as we do travel with them so frequently, they do bring kids meals out in advance, but like so many airlines can they not clear the trays away a little earlier too? So many times I have been trapped along with bouncing infants and have taken tidying up into my own hands.

I also love the concept of the free airport strollers , but too often we have arrived at the far end of Terminal 3 and had to walk the entire way back to baggage claim carrying infants, looking forlornly at the empty racks where the strollers should be (Update: yes this just happened again in August when I tried to get to passport control with three very sleepy tots in the middle of the night, on my own).

All in all, Etihad are an airline I would recommend for families – particularly if you’re lucky enough to be sitting up the pointy end and access the lounges – but economy passengers are not entirely forgotten.

The Etihad Guest frequent flyer family pooling system is arguably one of the best in the world and we have benefited many times from pooling our family points.  Our children are now all Silver Guests and Mr Globetrotter and I are Gold which helps significantly with accumulating points faster and being offered upgrades when available. (This never happens when I’m flying alone with the kids, but we did recently get an upgrade from Economy to First, cannot argue with that for loyalty paying off).

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page should be used as a guide only.  It has been gathered from both our own onboard experiences and public sources, correct at the time of going to print (May 2015 – last updated February 2020).  Please consult the airline’s own website before booking any family travel with this airline. This review is not an endorsement of Etihad Airways services and I am in no way affiliated with the airline.

Have you flown pregnant or with infants/children on Etihad? Do you have a review or advice to share with travelling families?

If you’re looking into travel via the UAE, don’t forget to check out our page Discover the UAE , full of ideas for day trips and activities in the capital Abu Dhabi, Dubai & beyond – especially with kids!!

© Our Globetrotters

Kids lounge image courtesy Etihad Airways

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2 thoughts on “ Etihad Airways: Family Flying Airline Review ”

Great tips Keri! We are flying Etihad for the first time this summer when we go back to the uk, good to hear about kids packs etc as I was so impressed with Emirates version of this, will be interesting to see how it compares this time!

Yes the kids packs aren’t bad – need updating though, sick of the same old stuff every time we fly!!

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Cabin baggage allowance

All our fares include free cabin baggage. Read our cabin bag policies to find out how many bags you can bring on board, as well as size and weight restrictions. Bags exceeding these restrictions must be checked in, or you may be charged an excess baggage fee. 

Flying with a partner airline? Find your cabin baggage allowance on your ticket.

One cabin bag weighing up to 7kg. It cannot be bigger than 56cm x 36cm x 23cm.

Personal item

You are not permitted to carry an additional personal item on board.

Business, First and The Residence

Two cabin bags with a combined weight of up to 12kg. Each bag cannot be bigger than 56cm x 36cm x 23cm.

You can also carry one personal item – like a laptop bag – weighing up to 5kg. It cannot be bigger than 23cm x 39cm x 19cm. 

Children and infants

If you’ve booked a child’s fare (two years +), normal baggage rules apply as above.

Infants (seven days to 23 months) can take one cabin bag weighing up to 5kg.

You can also carry one pushchair, or carrycot, or car seat at no extra cost. To carry as cabin baggage, pushchairs must be no longer than 115cm (length + height + width) and not weigh more than 7kg. If it's too big for cabin storage, it will need to be checked in. 

Flying with children 

What to pack in your cabin bag

There are rules around which items you can carry on board. Find them below or check our FAQs for more details.

Cabin bag only

• Items with a lithium battery
• Electronic cigarettes, refills and e-liquids up to 100ml (these devices are illegal in some destinations so check before you go)
• Apple MacBook Pro

We also recommend packing

Medicine and medical equipment with a prescription or letter from your doctor 

Fragile or valuables items and personal devices like your phone or laptop

Device chargers and plugs, especially if you’re planning to stream content through E-BOX Stream on on board our A320/321 aircraft

Important documents, like your passport 

Not permitted

Pointed or edged weapons and sharp objects like knives and scissors

Blunt instruments, including sports equipment 

Skateboards

Cremated remains 

Powdered items are subject to restrictions in the US and Australia 

Liquids, aerosols and gels

To be carried your cabin bag, liquids, aerosols and gels, including Zamzam water, must be in containers of up to 100ml and placed in a clear, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1L.

Medications, baby milk and food, or special dietary foods are exempt. 

Duty Free and other items

Items you buy at the airport must fit within your cabin bag allowance. You may need to check your bag in at a charge of USD$60 otherwise. Liquids, aerosols or gels bought at the airport must be sealed in a Security Tamper-Evident Bag and stay sealed until you arrive at your destination. 

Storing your cabin bag on board

You must store your cabin bag in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. If your flight’s busy, you may be asked to check your cabin bag in.

Looking for a lighter way to travel?

If you only need to take cabin baggage with you, our Basic fare is the best value way for you to fly.

Find out more 

I’ve booked a Basic fare. Can I take any checked baggage?

Our Basic fare does not include any checked baggage allowance. However, if you’re an Etihad Guest member, your free checked baggage allowance still applies. You can check how much extra baggage you’re entitled to based on your membership Tier at  etihadguest.com

If your cabin baggage exceeds our maximum weight or dimension limits, you will be asked to check your bags in. Excess baggage charges will apply. 

You can always add checked baggage in  Manage Your Booking if you need to, and you’ll save upto 65% by booking your extra bags online up to 30 hours before you fly. 

Can I bring a car seat on board for my child?

Children up to 36 months travelling on a child or infant ticket may use an approved car seat on board. 

If you’re travelling with a child or infant, you can carry one pushchair, or carrycot, or car seat for free, in addition to your child’s baggage allowance. To carry as cabin baggage, pushchairs must be no longer than 115cm (length + height + width) and not weigh more than 7kg. If it's too big for cabin storage, it will need to be checked in.

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Can I pay to bring fragile items on board?

If you’re carrying something fragile or an item that needs to be handled with special care, you can purchase an additional seat for the item. To book, get in touch . 

Can I carry my wedding dress on board?

We recommend that you carry your wedding dress as part of your cabin baggage. You can do this for free if you stay within your cabin baggage allowance and our maximum cabin baggage dimensions. Alternatively, you can pay for an extra seat for your wedding dress by calling us or pack it as part of your checked baggage allowance.

On long haul flights, ask your cabin crew if there’s space to hang your wedding dress and they’ll do their best to help. We have very limited hanging space on board, so we can’t guarantee that we’ll be able to hang your dress before your flight.

Can I carry medication with me on board?

Yes, you can carry any medication that doesn’t need to be refrigerated. It must be stored in your cabin baggage with a prescription or letter from your doctor.

As regulations will vary depending on the country that you’re visiting, always familiarise yourself with what type and quantity of medication you can or cannot take with you on your trip. If you're flying to Abu Dhabi, please contact the Ministry of Health and Prevention .

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Can I bring fruit and vegetables on board?

The rules on carrying fruit and vegetables depend on where you're flying to and from. Always check the regulations on the government website for the country you’re travelling to. 

Please note that strong smelling perishable items are prohibited on all Etihad aircraft. This includes but is not limited to:

Can I take Zamzam water on board?

You can only carry Zamzam water from Jeddah if you hold an Umrah or Haj visa. This applies to all guests including GCC nationals.

You can carry a maximum of 100ml of Zamzam water in your cabin bag. It must be placed in a transparent, resealable bag.

In your checked bag, you can carry a maximum of 5L of Zamzam water. It must be suitably packaged to avoid spills. 

This applies if you:

Are travelling on a hand baggage only fare

Are taking a stop in your journey 

Hold a one-way ticket or two separate tickets

Are powdered substances restricted in cabin baggage?

The US and Australia have restrictions on the carriage of powdered substances in cabin baggage.

Unites States

Powder substances, like makeup, protein powder, salt and sugar of 350ml/350g/12oz or more are not permitted in your cabin baggage. 

The following items are exempt: 

• Medically prescribed powder substances and baby formula provided they are sealed, not tampered with and have supporting evidence 
• Duty free items in Security Tamper Evident Bags purchased at Duty Free 

Always check with the operating airline if you’re connecting to the US with another airline. 

Inorganic powder substances (powders not consisting of, or derived from, living matter, like deodorant and cleaning products) of 350ml/350g/12oz or more are not permitted in your cabin baggage. 

• Organic powders like baby formula, powdered food, coffee, protein powder, flour, spices, sugar, most cosmetics and Epsom salt 
• Prescription and non-prescription medicines (including special dietary products) 
• Medical items required during a flight and accompanied by supporting evidence from a doctor
• Duty free items in Security Tamper Evident Bags 
• There are no restrictions on the number of containers of inorganic powders per guest provided the total volume of all the containers is 350ml/350g/12oz or less. There is no limit on organic powder.

Can I carry olive oil or other cooking oils on board?

You can carry up to 1L of olive oil or cooking oil in your cabin bag. It must be packed in separate containers of up to 100ml and placed in clear, resealable bags. 

Any amount over 1L must be carried in your checked bag. It can be included as part of your baggage allowance, or you can pay for extra baggage. You can carry up to 20L in your checked bag. 

Bottles must be:

• Packaged within two leak-proof plastic bags with a zip or tie closure
• Placed in a solid, taped box identified with a name tag
• 5% of the bottle must be empty to prevent leaks due to cabin pressure

I have a smart bag. Can I bring it on board?

Smart bags powered by a single, removable lithium battery with a watt-hour (Wh) rating below 160Wh are permitted on Etihad flights. 

The lithium battery and/or power bank must be removed from the bag and carried separately in a protective case or pouch.

If the battery and/or power bank are an integral part of the bag and cannot be removed, you will not be permitted to bring it on board.

Flying With a Baby? Here’s What to Know Before You Go

Medical review policy, latest update:, how old should a baby be to fly, read this next, what do children need to fly, tips for flying with an infant.

What to Expect the First Year , 3rd edition, Heidi Murkoff.  WhatToExpect.com, Do Babies Need Passports? , May 2019.  WhatToExpect.com, Should You Bring Your Child’s Car Seat on an Airplane? , August 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Your Ultimate Guide to Traveling While Breastfeeding , August 2020. American Academy of Pediatrics, Family Friendly Flying , November 2015.  American Academy of Pediatrics, Flying With Baby: Parent FAQs , November 2019.   American Airlines, Traveling With Children .  Delta Air Lines, Infant Air Travel , 2021.  Federal Aviation Administration, Flying With Children , March 2021.  Transportation Security Administration, Coronavirus (COVID-19) FAQ .  Transportation Security Administration, Identification .  Transportation Security Administration, Will Minors Need to Have a State ID to Fly Domestically? United Airlines, Traveling With Children , 2021.  U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Children – Child Traveling With One Parent or Someone Who Is Not a Parent or Legal Guardian or a Group , December 2019.

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Do I need to reserve a seat for my infant?

Children up to two years old (24 months), are not required to have their own seat as these children may sit on an adult's lap. Only one lap child is allowed per adult. If one adult is traveling with more than one infant under two years of age, a seat will have to be purchased for the second infant. You can also choose to purchase a seat for your infant as long as you have the proper child restraint device.

Will I pay for my infant to travel?

Yes, a child up to two years old (24 months) is usually charged 10% of an adult fare plus taxes if he or she will be sitting on an adult's lap.

What if my child turns two on the trip; will I have to buy a ticket for the return flight?

Yes, a ticket will have to be purchased for any flight on which the infant will be over two years old.

What infant amenities are available on the aircraft I'll be flying (i.e. bassinets)?

Etihad Airways offers:

• Changing facilities
• Baby meals (to be requested at the time of reservation or 24 hours before departure)

Can I sit in the exit row with my infant?

Neither lap children nor infants in car seats are allowed to sit in an exit row. In fact, all passengers in an exit row must be at least 15 years of age. In addition, infant seats are not allowed in the row directly in front of or directly behind an exit.

Simple Flying

Which airlines are best for traveling with children.

Holidays are always exciting, but traveling with young children? The jury's out. Love it or hate it here are the best airlines for traveling with your kids.

What is it about traveling with children that makes flying just that little bit more stressful? Flying with children requires a lot of determination. So it comes as pleasing news that there are some airlines out there that want child and parent alike to have a relaxing onboard experience. This could be in the form of children's entertainment and meals to free baggage allowances or even sky nannies! In no particular order, here are the world's best child-friendly airlines.

Etihad Airways

It appears that the Middle Eastern carriers are leading when it comes to offering a family-friendly service. Among them, Etihad offers an almost unprecedented service with child and infant fares for passengers under 12 years old as well as children's meals, movies, and games. The airline also offers a bassinet for babies on a first-come-first-served basis and provides young children with an activity pack on board. But that's not all. The airline takes the pressure off parents by offering a Flying Nanny. That's right, with Etihad your children will get just that extra attention for no extra cost. And for parents, there's the extra assurance that a pushchair or car seat can be taken for free in addition to a normal baggage allowance. Etihad does pull out all the stops. On its website , it says:

"We do everything we can to make flying with children as comfortable as we can."

And we believe it.

When it comes to catering for children, Air Canada makes its inflight experience as adventurous as possible. It offers an explorer-themed backpack packed with entertainment like puzzles and coloring books as well as special luggage tags. It also makes a commitment to sit children under 14 with a parent or guardian for no extra cost, has family priority boarding and family check-in. But traveling on Air Canada is the most child-friendly when flying internationally. This is when the airline offers a child fare and child meals.

Whilst other airlines accommodate passengers by allowing them to bring extra bottled milk and food sachets, All Nippon Airways operates a kind of onboard baby shop. It provides formula milk and nappies to allow for extra passenger ease. It also has bassinets that come with the latest technology: a blanket designed for heat retention, ventilation, and absorbency. As well as this, All Nippon Airways has allergen-free child meal options which can be requested before flying.

Lufthansa is turning the operational element of the airport on its head. When it comes to traveling with children, it incentivizes parents to make the most of viewing points as a form of entertainment for children. It says :

"At many airports, there are viewing terraces available which, in fine weather, allow even better insights into how an airport works. If your children would prefer to play and run around, visit the play corners specifically designed for children which most airports provide."

There's also the option to check in one 23kg bag for passengers under two years old. What's more, the airline recently collaborated with a Michelin star chef to provide a healthy, balanced, and fun-looking in-flight menu for its young passengers.

Special mentions

Whilst some airlines excel in their provisions for children, it seems as though the Middle Eastern and Asian carriers are championing the child-friendly aura. Special mentions must also be handed to Emirates who offer child headsets unlike most airlines as well as a free stroller at hub airports. Gulf Air, like Etihad, also uses a Flying Nanny to make flights more enjoyable for children.

What's your favorite airline for traveling with children? Let us know in the comments!

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

How to Fly With Children, According to a Traveling Nanny

By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

For parents, seamlessly getting from point A to point B with kids can be challenging. Add in a long-haul flight through multiple time zones, and it’s a full-blown nightmare. And while it would be great to travel with a personal nanny, that’s not an option for most. Instead, you’re left figuring out ways to entertain your children for hours and prevent evil glares from surrounding passengers . Terrible? Yes. So we thought, There's got to be a better way .

To figure out the secret to having a (mostly) stress-free flight with little ones, we turned to Denya Glover, one of Etihad Airways' flying nannies . Not to be confused with a flying nun, a [Flying Nanny is a free service offered by the airline on lengthy flights across all classes of service to serve as an extra pair of hands for parents. They are experts in the art of entertaining antsy toddlers and lulling fussy newborns to sleep, even at 30,000 feet. Every Flying Nanny is a certified flight attendant and graduate of the prestigious Norland College in England, receiving the same training trusted by the royal family to keep their children in line.

Here are Glover's top tips for keeping your kids—and yourself—sane during your next flight.

1. Choose child-friendly airlines and airports.   "As most parents know, not all airlines are ideal for traveling with little ones. Etihad Airways’ inflight Flying Nanny service is designed to give parents an extra set of hands. When they see our orange apron—a signature part of the Flying Nanny uniform—they know a helping pair of hands is on the way."

2. Check in-flight meal offerings beforehand and plan ahead with snacks. "Children have their own food habits and oftentimes can stay hungry if they won’t eat what’s served onboard. Parents should pack high-protein snacks so they always have something to munch on. Carrying something you know your child likes makes for a relaxed journey ahead and becomes especially helpful when waking up jet-lagged in another country with no 24-hour room service."

3. With a child’s carry-on, less is more. "While most children will want to bring each and every toy on their journey, it’s important to downsize, especially since, as the parent, you will be tasked to keep tabs on it all. Let children pack their own carry-on (those with wheels work best), but limit items to only what can fit inside."

4. Take advantage of early boarding.   "When you hear that early boarding announcement, those are your magic words to make a break for it. Utilize the few extra minutes to get everything settled and communicate any specific needs with your flight attendant prior to general boarding."

5. Relieve pain due to ear pressure.   "When taking off, many children experience ear pain due to the increase in air pressure. Most parents think that ear plugs will solve the problem, but I recommend something else. Ask the flight attendant for some warm water (not too hot, not too cold), a tissue, and a cup. Place the wet tissue in the cup and then over the ear. The steam will relieve the pressure and soothe the pain. Happy children, happy flight!"

6. Prepare for messy moments.   "Carry extra bibs to avoid having to give your baby a new change of clothes. They are great for spit up and easy to wash and carry, saving you space for that extra outfit you really want to take with you. And don’t forget lots of wipes for toddler meals and diaper changes."

7. Distraction is key.   "While a quick movie works for shorter flights, keeping children entertained for 15+ hours is no easy feat. Distraction is essential for keeping younger guests occupied without getting anxious. One of my favorite activities is to teach our younger guests origami, which is great for kids of all ages and requires little preparation as paper is easily accessible on any flight."

8. Make in-flight bedtimes easy.   "While some children fall asleep almost immediately on planes, for others it can be more difficult. It’s important to bring a set of comfortable pajamas, as well as any favorite stuffed animals or blanket to make older kids feel comfortable if they get homesick or scared."

9. Let your child sleep, regardless of time zone changes.   "While our cardinal rule as adult flyers is to adjust to the time zone of our destination, the opposite is true for children. Allowing your child to sleep as normal will prevent grumpiness and diminish jet lag."

10. Ward off meltdowns with surprises.   "Offering packable surprises like stickers or sweet treats toward the end of the flight as a reward will give your child something to look forward to and encourage good behavior."

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Etihad Airways, China Eastern Airlines sign joint venture

Marking the first commercial JV between a Middle Eastern airline and a Chinese airline

Abu Dhabi: Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, and China Eastern Airlines, a top global airline, on Wednesday announce the signing of a Joint Venture (JV) to cement the strategic partnership between the two airlines. This historic milestone, signed at Etihad Airways' headquarters in Abu Dhabi, marks the first commercial JV between a Middle Eastern airline and a Chinese airline.

The Etihad Airways - China Eastern Airlines JV will allow the airlines to jointly develop and grow the routes between the UAE and China, resulting in a stronger combined network. This JV signifies a commitment to offering expanded travel options and seamless travel experiences for passengers travelling between major Chinese cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Xi'an, and Kunming, and key cities in the UAE and across the Middle East and Africa regions.

Etihad and China Eastern Airlines will implement the joint venture cooperation in early 2025 when both teams secure all necessary regulatory clearances. Additionally, both airlines will introduce full reciprocity to their existing frequent flyer programmes in the final quarter of 2024, allowing passengers to seamlessly earn points and redeem rewards when flying with either airline.

Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of Etihad Aviation Group, lauded the agreement as a landmark achievement, stating: "This Joint Venture signifies a deep commitment to strengthening the bonds between the UAE and China, while fostering deeper cultural and economic ties. We look forward to welcoming a greater number of Chinese tourists to explore the rich cultural heritage and vibrant experiences that the UAE has to offer. This partnership is more than the expansion of routes; it is about creating lasting and meaningful connections between our two nations which will stand for decades to come."

Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, emphasised the significance of the partnership. He said: "This JV marks a significant milestone in our partnership with China Eastern. The JV will allow Etihad and China Eastern to offer travellers enhanced travel options and exceptional value. We are confident the JV will unlock a new era of travel opportunities, while also boosting the economic growth of Abu Dhabi and the UAE."

China Eastern Airlines Chairman Wang Zhiqing said: "This year marks the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the UAE. Both countries continue to develop and strengthen the high-value, strategic collaboration on the Belt and Road Initiative, and this momentum creates opportunities and motivation for deepening cooperation between China Eastern Airlines and Etihad Airways. The signing of this JV signifies a new level of collaboration, and China Eastern is eager to work with Etihad Airways to expand the cooperation in the various business areas, and thereby enhance the strategic partnership between both airlines."

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