What To Know
- In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the details of American Airlines’ family boarding policy, providing you with all the information you need to make your travels as smooth as possible.
- Family boarding is a service offered by airlines that allows families with young children to board the plane before the general boarding process.
- Whether you’re traveling with an infant or a toddler, family boarding can help make the boarding process smoother and more efficient.
Traveling with children can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to navigating airports and boarding planes. One of the most common questions parents have is whether American Airlines offers family boarding. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the details of American Airlines’ family boarding policy, providing you with all the information you need to make your travels as smooth as possible.
What is Family Boarding?
Family boarding is a service offered by airlines that allows families with young children to board the plane before the general boarding process. This can be a major convenience, as it gives families extra time to get settled and avoid the chaos of the main boarding process.
Does American Airlines Do Family Boarding?
Yes, American Airlines does offer family boarding. Families with children under the age of 2 can board the plane during Group 5, after Group 4 (active military and their dependents) and before Group 6 (main cabin).
How to Qualify for Family Boarding on American Airlines
To qualify for family boarding on American Airlines, you must meet the following criteria:
- Have a child under the age of 2 traveling on your reservation
- Be traveling with the child on the same flight
- Have purchased a seat for the child
How to Request Family Boarding
To request family boarding, you can:
- Check in online: Select the “Family Boarding” option during the online check-in process.
- Check in at the airport: Inform the gate agent that you are traveling with a child under the age of 2 and would like to board during Group 5.
Benefits of Family Boarding on American Airlines
There are several benefits to taking advantage of family boarding on American Airlines:
- Reduced stress: Boarding the plane before the main boarding process can help reduce stress for both parents and children.
- Extra time to settle in: Family boarding gives families extra time to find their seats, stow their luggage, and get their children comfortable before takeoff.
- Priority seating: Families with young children are often given priority seating, which can be especially helpful for those traveling with infants.
Tips for Using Family Boarding on American Airlines
Here are a few tips to make the most of family boarding on American Airlines:
- Be prepared: Have your boarding passes and child’s documents ready to present at the gate.
- Arrive early: To avoid any delays, arrive at the gate at least 30 minutes before your scheduled boarding time.
- Be patient: Family boarding is a popular service, so be patient if there is a line.
- Ask for assistance: If you need any help with boarding, don’t hesitate to ask a gate agent or flight attendant.
What if I Don’t Qualify for Family Boarding?
If you don’t meet the criteria for family boarding, you can still board the plane with your child during Group 6 (main cabin). However, you may have to wait in a longer line and may not be able to secure priority seating.
Alternatives to Family Boarding
If you’re unable to take advantage of family boarding, there are a few other options to make boarding with children easier:
- Pre-boarding for families: Some airports offer pre-boarding for families with young children. Check with your airport to see if this service is available.
- Gate agent assistance: Gate agents can often assist families with young children in boarding the plane. Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it.
- Bring entertainment: Keep your child entertained during the boarding process with books, toys, or a tablet.
The Bottom Line: Making Travel Easier for Families
American Airlines offers family boarding as a convenient service for families with young children. By taking advantage of this service, you can reduce stress, save time, and make your travels more enjoyable. Whether you’re traveling with an infant or a toddler, family boarding can help make the boarding process smoother and more efficient.
What You Need to Know
Q: Does American Airlines offer family boarding for children over the age of 2?
A: No, family boarding is only available for children under the age of 2.
Q: Can I bring a stroller on board during family boarding?
A: Yes, you can bring a stroller on board during family boarding. However, you will need to check it at the gate.
Q: What if my child is disruptive during family boarding?
A: If your child is disruptive during family boarding, the gate agent may ask you to wait until a later boarding group.
