The Best Airlines For Family Travel

Only three airlines meet the recommendations set by the Department of Transportation.

Katie Sue Webber
Katie Sue Webber
Mom to two sweet little boys. Helping moms is her passion.
Last updated
April 18, 2023

Traveling with children is challenging, especially when it comes to seating arrangements on flights. Many US-based airlines make little to no attempt to try to sit children with family members. There has also been an increase in viral social media posts from passengers refusing to exchange their seats with parents to sit next to their kids.

In response, the Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued guidelines recommending airlines ensure that children aged 13 and under can sit next to an adult family member or accompanying adult to the maximum extent practicable and at no additional cost. The DOT has also created an online chart showing which airlines guarantee "fee-free" family seating.

To date, only three airlines have updated their customer service plans to comply with the new guidelines: American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Frontier Airlines. United Airlines has a new family seating policy, but it does not meet all of the DOT's requirements. Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, Allegiant Air, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and Spirit Airlines have not guaranteed fee-free seating for families. Parents may have to pay $10-$50 to book a seat next to their child, depending on the airline.

Family-Friendly Airlines Chart

Read more (via Parents)

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