How to Book Infant Flight Tickets in India — Complete Guide 2026

Quick Answers: Child and Infant Flight Rules in India

Indian airlines use three age bands, and the fare changes at every band. These are the short answers to the questions parents ask most often. Remember that airlines apply the age on the date of each individual flight, so a birthday in the middle of a trip changes the rules for your return leg.

What are the flight charges for a 1 year old in India?

A 1 year old is an infant, so they travel on an adult’s lap and pay an infant fare of roughly 10% of the adult base fare on domestic routes, plus taxes and surcharges. There is no separate seat. On international routes, infant fares typically run between 10% and 25% of the adult fare depending on the airline and the sector.

What are the flight charges for a 2 year old in India?

Once your child turns 2, the lap-infant fare ends. A 2 year old must be booked as a child with their own seat. On low-cost carriers such as IndiGo, SpiceJet and Akasa Air, the child fare is usually the same as the adult fare. Full-service carriers sometimes offer a discounted child fare, so it is worth comparing both before you book.

What is IndiGo’s flight ticket age limit for a child?

IndiGo follows the standard Indian age bands: infant is 7 days to under 2 years travelling on a lap, child is 2 to under 12 years with their own seat, and 12 years and above is treated as an adult. IndiGo charges a nominal infant fare on domestic flights, commonly around 10% of the adult base fare or a small fixed amount plus taxes. Children under 12 cannot fly alone on IndiGo and must be accompanied by an adult.

What is the minimum age for a baby to fly in India?

Most Indian airlines accept infants from 7 days old. Some ask for a paediatrician’s fitness certificate for babies under 14 days. There is no upper age limit for flying as a passenger, although anyone with a medical condition may need a fitness-to-fly clearance from the airline’s medical desk before departure.

Introduction: Flying with Your Baby Does Not Have to Be Stressful

Travelling by air with an infant is a rite of passage for Indian families. Whether you are heading home for a family function, taking your little one on their first holiday, or flying internationally for the first time as new parents, the process of booking an infant ticket and preparing for the flight can feel overwhelming.

The good news is that Indian airlines have clear, well-defined policies for infant passengers. Once you understand the rules around age limits, pricing, documentation, and baggage, the entire experience becomes much simpler. This guide covers everything you need to know about booking infant flight tickets in India in 2026, including airline-specific policies, practical packing tips, and answers to the most common questions parents ask. If your baby is just a few weeks old, our newborn first-flight prep guide walks through the extra precautions step by step.

When you book your family trip through HappyFares, you can add infant passengers directly during the booking process and our support team is available to help with special requests like bassinets or meal preferences.

Who Qualifies as an Infant on Indian Flights?

According to DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) regulations and standard airline policies in India, an infant is defined as a child who is:

• At least 7 days old (most airlines will not carry newborns younger than 7 days for medical safety reasons)
• Under 2 years of age (24 months) on the date of travel

If your child turns 2 years old before or on the date of the return flight, you will need to book a child ticket (ages 2-11) for that leg. The child ticket includes a separate seat and costs more than an infant fare. Always calculate your child’s exact age on each travel date, not just the departure date, to avoid last-minute issues at the airport. For a fuller breakdown of when kids need their own ticket, see our guide on child plane ticket age and fare rules.

Minimum Age Requirement

While the standard minimum age is 7 days, some airlines may require a medical fitness certificate from a paediatrician for infants under 14 days old. If you are flying with a very young newborn, check with your airline in advance and carry a doctor’s fitness letter as a precaution.

What is the flight ticket age limit for a child in India?

India’s flight ticket age bands are simple once you see them side by side. An infant is under 2 years and travels on a lap. A child is 2 to under 12 years and gets a separate seat at child fare. From 12 years onward, a passenger is treated as an adult and pays the full adult fare. The age is always judged on the date of each flight, so check the return leg too. This rule is the same across IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, Akasa Air and Air India Express.

Infant Flight Charges: How Much Does an Infant Ticket Cost in India?

Infant charges in flight bookings are nominal compared with an adult seat, because the baby does not occupy one. Here is how the pricing works on domestic and international routes.

Domestic Flights

On domestic routes within India, infant fares are typically around 10% of the adult base fare. This is a nominal charge since the infant does not occupy a separate seat. However, applicable taxes and airport charges are added to this base amount. On a typical Delhi to Mumbai flight costing Rs 5,000 for an adult, the infant ticket would be approximately Rs 500-800 including taxes.

International Travel

For international routes, infant fares range from 10% to 25% of the adult fare, depending on the airline and the route. Full-service international carriers generally charge closer to 10% of the published fare, while the exact percentage varies by fare class and destination. Fuel surcharges and airport taxes are added on top.

Important Pricing Notes

• Infants do not get a separate seat. They travel as “lap infants” seated on an adult’s lap.
• Each adult passenger can carry only one infant. If you are travelling with twins, the second adult must be booked to accompany the second infant.
• Some promotional and sale fares may not include infant pricing in the advertised amount, so always check the final price breakdown on HappyFares before confirming.

Documents Required for Infant Air Travel

For Domestic Flights

• Birth certificate: original or a clear photocopy. This is the primary document to prove the child’s age.
• Aadhaar card: if available for the infant, this serves as valid ID.
• Vaccination records: not mandatory for boarding, but useful to carry.
• Parent’s photo ID: the accompanying adult must carry their own valid government-issued photo ID.

For International Flights

• Infant’s passport: a valid passport in the child’s name is mandatory. Apply well in advance since passport processing for minors can take 2-4 weeks.
• Visa: if the destination country requires a visa, the infant needs one too. Many countries issue visas for infants at the same fee as adults.
• Birth certificate: carry it as backup documentation.
• Consent letter: if only one parent is travelling, some countries and airlines may ask for a notarised consent letter from the other parent.

For a complete checklist of paperwork to keep handy, see our guide on documents for flying with an infant or child.

Seating Rules: How Does Lap Infant Seating Work?

Infant passengers on Indian flights travel as lap infants, meaning they sit on the accompanying adult’s lap throughout the flight. Here is what you need to know:

• The airline provides an infant seatbelt (a loop belt that attaches to the adult’s seatbelt) for use during takeoff, landing, and turbulence.
• Infants are not permitted in exit row seats, as safety regulations require those seats for passengers who can assist during evacuations.
• Airlines limit the number of infants per row, typically one infant per row, because of the limited number of extra oxygen masks available.
• On wide-body aircraft used for international flights, bulkhead seats (the front row of a cabin section) are preferred for families with infants as they offer more legroom and bassinet attachment points.
• If you want to guarantee a specific seat, book early and select your seats during the booking process on happyfares.in.

Bassinet Requests on Indian Airlines

A bassinet (also called a sky cot or baby cot) is a small bed that attaches to the bulkhead wall in front of your seat. It allows your infant to sleep during the flight without being held the entire time.

Key Points About Bassinets

• Bassinets are available only on international and long-haul flights. Domestic flights in India do not offer them.
• They are offered on a first-come, first-served basis and are limited in number (usually 2-4 per cabin).
• Most bassinets have a weight limit of 10-11 kg and a length limit of approximately 70 cm.
• Request a bassinet at the time of booking or at least 48 hours before departure by calling the airline or through your booking platform.
• During turbulence, the infant must be removed from the bassinet and held by the adult with the loop seatbelt.

When booking international flights on HappyFares, you can mention your bassinet preference in the special requests section or contact our support team for assistance. Our step-by-step bassinet booking guide explains which seats to target and how early to ask.

Baggage Allowance for Infants

Even though infants do not get a separate seat, they are entitled to some baggage allowance on most airlines:

Checked Baggage

• Domestic flights: Most airlines allow 7-10 kg of checked baggage for infant passengers.
• International flights: Allowance ranges from 10 kg (on many carriers) up to 23 kg (on select full-service airlines), depending on the airline and fare class.
• Stroller/Pram: One collapsible stroller or pushchair is allowed free of charge on virtually all Indian airlines. You can use it right up to the aircraft door, where airline staff will gate-check it and return it to you at your destination gate or baggage belt.
• Car seat: A child car seat can also be checked in free of charge on most airlines, though policies vary.

Cabin Baggage

Infants typically get one small bag (a nappy bag or baby essentials bag) in addition to the accompanying adult’s cabin baggage allowance. Pack this bag with everything you need for the flight: diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, feeding supplies, and any medicine.

Airline-Specific Infant Policies for Indian Carriers

Below is a summary of infant travel policies for major Indian airlines. Each airline has its own specific rules, so always verify the latest details at the time of booking.

IndiGo

IndiGo, India’s largest domestic carrier, offers straightforward infant travel policies. Infants aged 7 days to under 2 years can travel as lap infants, a child is 2 to under 12 years and needs a seat, and from 12 years the passenger is an adult. The infant charge on domestic routes is nominal, commonly about 10% of the adult base fare or a small fixed amount, plus applicable taxes, and it appears in the fare breakdown once you add an infant to the search. IndiGo allows one checked bag of up to 7 kg for infant passengers on domestic flights. A collapsible stroller can be gate-checked at no extra cost. IndiGo does not offer bassinets on its domestic fleet, and children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. For international IndiGo flights, infant baggage allowances may be higher, so check at the time of booking.

Air India

Air India, India’s flag carrier and a full-service airline, provides comprehensive infant travel facilities. Infant fares are approximately 10% of the adult fare on domestic routes and 10% on most international routes. Air India allows infant checked baggage of up to 10 kg on domestic flights and up to 23 kg (one piece) on many international routes. Bassinets are available on long-haul international flights and should be requested at the time of booking. Air India also accommodates special meal requests for older infants on international flights. The airline’s wide-body aircraft on international routes offer bulkhead seating well-suited for families.

SpiceJet

SpiceJet welcomes infant travellers on all its routes. The infant fare is approximately 10% of the adult base fare for domestic flights. SpiceJet provides a checked baggage allowance for infants (typically 7 kg on domestic routes). One collapsible stroller is permitted free of charge and can be gate-checked. SpiceJet’s cabin crew are trained to assist parents travelling with infants, and the airline allows pre-boarding for families with small children on many routes.

Akasa Air

Akasa Air, one of India’s newer airlines, has family-friendly policies for infant passengers. Infants aged 7 days to under 2 years can travel on a parent’s lap at approximately 10% of the adult base fare. Akasa Air provides a checked baggage allowance for infants and permits one stroller to be gate-checked at no cost. The airline’s modern fleet and spacious seating make it comfortable for parents travelling with babies.

Vistara (now part of Air India)

Vistara, the full-service carrier known for its premium cabin experience, merged into Air India in November 2024, so Vistara-coded flights no longer operate and those routes are now sold and flown as Air India. Infant fares on these services are approximately 10% of the adult fare for domestic routes, with infant checked baggage of up to 10 kg on domestic flights and higher allowances on international routes. The premium economy and business cabins inherited from the Vistara fleet provide extra space that is particularly convenient for parents with infants, and pre-boarding is available for passengers travelling with babies.

Air India Express

Air India Express, which operates international routes to the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and other destinations, allows infants to travel at approximately 10% of the adult fare. The airline provides a checked baggage allowance for infant passengers (the amount depends on the route and fare type). One collapsible stroller is allowed free of charge. For international routes, ensure your infant has a valid passport and any required visa before booking.

How to Add an Infant to an Existing Booking

If you have already booked your flight and need to add an infant passenger, here is what to do:

1. On HappyFares: Contact our customer support team with your booking reference number. The team will add the infant to your existing booking and process the infant fare. You can reach support through the happyfares.in website or help centre.
2. Directly with the airline: Call the airline’s customer service helpline with your PNR. Most airlines can add an infant to a confirmed booking over the phone.
3. At the airport: As a last resort, you can add an infant at the airline check-in counter. However, this is not recommended as availability may be limited, because airlines cap the number of infants per flight for safety reasons.

Pro tip: Always add the infant at the time of initial booking to avoid hassles. When booking on HappyFares, simply select the number of infant passengers in the search form and the system handles the rest. For the full walkthrough, read our guide on how to add an infant to an existing flight booking.

Essential Tips for Flying with a Baby

Before the Flight

• Book early: Airlines limit infants per flight. Booking in advance ensures you get the seat and configuration you want.
• Choose flight times wisely: Try to book flights that align with your baby’s nap schedule. Early morning or late evening flights often work best as the baby may sleep through the journey.
• Request bulkhead or front-row seats: These offer more legroom, which is invaluable when managing a baby on your lap.
• Check your baby’s health: If your infant has a cold, ear infection, or any illness, consult your paediatrician before flying. Cabin pressure changes can be very uncomfortable for babies with congestion.

What to Pack in Your Cabin Bag

• Diapers and wipes: Carry more than you think you will need, at least 2-3 extra beyond your estimate. Delays happen.
• Change of clothes: At least two spare outfits for the baby and one extra top for yourself (spit-ups are unpredictable).
• Feeding supplies: Breast milk, formula, or baby food as needed. Indian airlines allow you to carry baby food and milk through security, so inform the security officer at the checkpoint.
• Pacifier or teether: Sucking helps babies equalise ear pressure during takeoff and landing.
• Blanket or muslin cloth: Aircraft cabins can get cold, and a familiar blanket comforts the baby.
• Favourite toy or book: A small, familiar toy can be a lifesaver during the flight.
• Medications: Any prescribed medicines, nasal saline drops, and infant paracetamol (consult your doctor).
• Plastic bags: For soiled clothes and used diapers.

During the Flight

• Feed during takeoff and landing: Breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or offering a pacifier during ascent and descent helps your baby’s ears adjust to pressure changes.
• Stay hydrated: Cabin air is dry. If your baby is old enough, offer small sips of water during the flight.
• Move around: On longer flights, walk up and down the aisle with your baby when the seatbelt sign is off. It helps both of you.
• Use the changing table: Most aircraft lavatories have fold-down changing tables. Use the larger lavatory (usually at the rear of the aircraft) for more space.
• Stay calm: Babies pick up on parental stress. If your baby cries, remember that most fellow passengers are understanding, especially on Indian domestic flights where families are the norm.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Booking Infant Tickets

1. Not checking the child’s age on the return date: If your baby turns 2 during the trip, the return leg needs a child ticket.
2. Forgetting to carry the birth certificate: Even on domestic flights, airlines may ask for age proof. Do not leave home without it.
3. Booking at the last minute: Infant seats per flight are limited. Book early to guarantee a spot.
4. Not requesting a bassinet in advance: For international flights, waiting until check-in often means missing out.
5. Packing baby essentials in checked luggage: Always keep diapers, milk, food, and medicines in your cabin bag.
6. Ignoring the airline’s specific policies: Each airline has slightly different rules, so verify before you fly.

Book Your Family Flight on HappyFares

Booking infant tickets does not have to be complicated. On HappyFares, you can search for flights with infant passengers included from the start. The platform clearly shows the infant fare alongside the adult fare, so there are no surprises at checkout. If you need help adding an infant to an existing booking, requesting a bassinet, or choosing the best flight times for your family, our customer support team is ready to assist.

Visit happyfares.in to search and book your next family trip with confidence.

Common Questions

What is the flight ticket age limit for a child in India?

India uses three age bands on flights. A child under 2 years is an infant and travels on a lap at roughly 10% of the adult base fare. A child aged 2 to under 12 years needs a child ticket with their own seat. From 12 years onward, the passenger pays the full adult fare. The age is checked on the date of each flight, including the return leg.

What is the age limit for an infant ticket on Indian flights?

An infant is defined as a child aged between 7 days and under 2 years (24 months) on the date of travel. Once a child turns 2, they require a separate child ticket with their own seat. If your child turns 2 during the return journey, you will need to book a child ticket for the return leg.

How much does an infant flight ticket cost on domestic flights in India?

On most domestic Indian airlines, an infant ticket costs approximately 10% of the adult base fare. This is a lap infant fare, so the baby sits on the parent’s lap and does not get a separate seat. Taxes and surcharges are added on top of this base amount. On international routes, infant fares can range from 10% to 25% of the adult fare depending on the airline and route.

Do children pay full fare on Indian flights?

A child aged 2 to under 12 always needs a seat, and on low-cost carriers like IndiGo, SpiceJet and Akasa Air that seat usually costs the same as an adult fare. Full-service carriers sometimes publish a discounted child fare, though it is not available on every fare type. From 12 years the passenger pays the standard adult fare on every Indian airline.

What documents are needed for an infant to fly within India?

For domestic flights, you need the infant’s birth certificate (original or a clear photocopy) as age proof. An Aadhaar card of the infant, if available, also works. For international flights, a valid passport in the infant’s name is mandatory, along with a visa if required by the destination country.

Can I request a bassinet on Indian airline flights?

Bassinets are generally available only on international long-haul flights operated by full-service carriers like Air India. They are subject to availability and must be requested in advance, typically at the time of booking or by calling the airline at least 48 hours before departure. Bassinet seats are in bulkhead rows and are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Low-cost domestic carriers do not offer bassinets.

Do infants get any baggage allowance on Indian flights?

Most Indian airlines allow infants one piece of checked baggage (typically 7-10 kg on domestic and 10-23 kg on international flights, depending on the airline). In addition, you are usually allowed to carry one collapsible stroller or pram free of charge. Cabin baggage allowance for infants is generally limited to one small bag for baby essentials.

Can I add an infant to an already booked flight ticket?

Yes, in most cases you can add an infant to an existing adult booking. On HappyFares, you can contact customer support to add an infant passenger to your confirmed booking. Some airlines also allow this through their customer service helplines. It is best to add the infant as early as possible, since airlines cap the number of infants per flight for safety reasons, usually around one infant per row.

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