Which airlines let families board first?

Which Airlines Let Families Board First?

When it comes to flying with children, families often face the challenge of managing their little ones in crowded airports and cramped airplane cabins. To make the journey more comfortable and stress-free, many airlines have implemented family-friendly policies, including allowing families to board first. By doing so, families can settle in, stow their belongings, and ensure their children are safely buckled in before the rest of the passengers board. So, which airlines prioritize families and offer them the convenience of boarding early?

One top choice for families is Southwest Airlines. This popular United States-based carrier allows families with children six years of age and under to board after boarding group A but before boarding group B. This gives families ample time to find seats together and get settled before the majority of passengers board. Additionally, Southwest does not assign seats, so boarding early ensures families have a better chance of sitting together.

FAQs About Family Boarding Policies

1. Which other airlines prioritize families boarding first?

Several other airlines understand the importance of family-friendly travel and offer early boarding options for families. These include:

• American Airlines
• Delta Air Lines
• United Airlines
• Alaska Airlines
• JetBlue Airways

These airlines recognize the needs of families and aim to make the boarding process less chaotic for parents and children.

2. Are there any age restrictions for family boarding?

The age restrictions for family boarding vary among airlines. Southwest Airlines, as mentioned earlier, allows families with children six years of age and under to board early. Other airlines may have age limits that differ, so it is important to check with the specific carrier before your flight.

3. Can I bring a stroller on board when boarding early?

Most airlines allow families to bring strollers on board when boarding early. However, there may be certain size restrictions or guidelines that need to be followed. It is recommended to check with the airline beforehand to ensure a smooth boarding process.

4. Is there any additional cost for family boarding?

In most cases, family boarding is offered as a complimentary service by the airlines that provide it. However, it is essential to verify this with the specific carrier, as policies may vary. Some airlines may offer family boarding only to passengers with certain fare types.

5. Can I board early if I am traveling alone with an infant?

Yes, many airlines extend the early boarding privilege to parents traveling alone with infants. This allows parents to secure overhead compartment space for their diaper bags, strollers, and other essential items before other passengers board.

6. What are the benefits of family boarding?

Family boarding provides several benefits, including:

• Ensuring families have enough time to get settled and organized before the flight departs
• Allowing families to secure seats together
• Reducing stress for parents by providing a smoother boarding experience
• Helping families with young children manage their carry-on luggage efficiently

7. Do all airports follow the family boarding policy?

While most airports follow the family boarding policies of the respective airlines, it’s essential to note that policies can sometimes vary. It is recommended to confirm the boarding process at your specific departure airport to ensure a seamless experience.

8. Can I request family boarding if the airline does not offer it?

If an airline does not offer family boarding, unfortunately, it cannot be requested. However, you can still inform the airline staff about your situation, and they may provide assistance or make arrangements to accommodate your family’s needs.

9. Can I pre-board if I have a child with special needs?

Airlines understand that families with children who have special needs may require additional assistance. In such cases, many airlines allow families to pre-board to ensure they have the extra time needed to settle in and make any necessary arrangements for their child.

10. Are there any restrictions on the number of family members who can board early?

Typically, there are no restrictions on the number of family members who can take advantage of early boarding. However, as policies can vary between airlines, it is recommended to check with the specific carrier beforehand.

11. Can families still board first if they have checked luggage?

Family boarding is mainly focused on allowing families to secure seats together and get settled before the majority of passengers board. Checked luggage should still be dropped off at the designated areas before proceeding to the boarding gate.

12. Is family boarding available on all flights and routes?

Family boarding policies apply to most flights operated by the airlines that offer this service. However, there may be certain exceptions or limitations on specific routes or types of aircraft. It is advisable to verify the availability with the airline for your particular flight.

Traveling with children can sometimes be a challenging experience, but airlines that prioritize family boarding aim to make it easier and more enjoyable. By knowing which airlines allow families to board first, parents can plan their trips more efficiently and reduce the stress associated with air travel.