Turkish Airlines: Booking Seats For Infants - A Quick Guide

Oct 30, 2025 by Admin 60 views

Hey guys! Planning a trip with your little one on Turkish Airlines? Awesome! But navigating the seat booking process for infants can sometimes feel like deciphering ancient hieroglyphs, right? Don't worry, I've got you covered. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to secure the perfect spot for you and your baby, ensuring a smooth and comfortable flight. So, buckle up (pun intended!) and let's dive in!

Understanding Turkish Airlines' Infant Policy

Before we jump into the booking process, let's get the basics straight. Turkish Airlines, like most airlines, has specific policies regarding infant travel. An infant is generally defined as a child under two years old. Now, here’s the key thing: infants usually don't get their own seat unless you specifically pay for one. Typically, they travel on your lap using a special infant seatbelt provided by the airline. However, for added comfort and safety (especially on long flights), you might want to consider booking a separate seat for your baby.

Why might you want to book a separate seat, you ask? Well, imagine holding a squirming baby for a 12-hour flight! It's exhausting for you and potentially uncomfortable for the little one. Booking a seat allows you to use an approved car seat, which provides a familiar and secure environment for your infant. Plus, it gives you a much-needed break. Turkish Airlines allows the use of FAA-approved car seats that meet specific size requirements. Make sure to check their website for the exact dimensions allowed to avoid any surprises at the airport. Speaking of safety, always prioritize using a car seat if you book a separate seat for your infant. It's the safest way for them to travel.

Also, remember that there might be a small fee associated with infants, even if they're traveling on your lap. This usually covers taxes and other charges. It's always a good idea to check the airline's website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date information on infant fares and policies. Turkish Airlines often has promotional offers or specific guidelines, so doing your homework can save you some money and hassle.

Finally, keep in mind that only one infant is allowed per adult. This is a standard safety regulation across airlines. If you're traveling with twins or multiple infants, you'll need another adult to accompany you for each additional infant. So, plan accordingly and make sure you have enough helping hands!

Step-by-Step Guide to Booking a Seat

Okay, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of booking that seat! Here's a step-by-step guide to make the process as smooth as possible:

Start Your Flight Search: Head over to the Turkish Airlines website (www.turkishairlines.com) or use their mobile app. Enter your origin, destination, and travel dates. Make sure to accurately specify the number of adults and infants traveling. This is crucial because the system needs to know you're traveling with a baby to offer the correct options.
Select Your Flights: Choose the flights that best suit your schedule and budget. Pay close attention to the flight duration and any layovers, especially when traveling with an infant. Shorter flights and longer layovers might be preferable for your baby's comfort.
Add Passenger Information: This is where you'll enter the details for yourself and your infant. Make sure to provide the correct date of birth for your baby. The system will automatically recognize that the passenger is an infant and apply the appropriate fare and policies.
Choose Your Seating Options: Here's where the magic happens! If you want to book a separate seat for your infant, you'll need to select this option. The system will then allow you to choose a seat for your baby, just like you would for any other passenger. Consider bulkhead seats, which offer more legroom and space for a bassinet (if available on your flight). However, keep in mind that bulkhead seats might have restrictions on storing personal items during takeoff and landing.
Review and Confirm: Double-check all the details of your booking, including the passenger names, flight dates, and seating arrangements. Make sure everything is accurate before proceeding to payment. Any errors could cause problems later on.
Payment: Enter your payment information and complete the booking. Once the payment is processed, you'll receive a confirmation email with your booking reference number. Keep this number handy, as you'll need it for check-in and any other inquiries.
Manage Your Booking: After booking, you can manage your reservation online or through the mobile app. This allows you to change seats, add special requests (like a bassinet), and update your contact information.

Tips for a Smooth Flight with Your Infant

Booking the seat is just the first step. Here are some extra tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable flight with your little one:

Pack Smart: Bring plenty of diapers, wipes, formula or breast milk, snacks, toys, and a change of clothes. Having familiar items can help soothe your baby during the flight.
Consider the Timing: Try to book flights that coincide with your baby's nap times. This can help them sleep through part of the journey.
Dress Comfortably: Dress your baby in loose, comfortable clothing. Layers are a good idea, as the temperature on the plane can fluctuate.
Stay Hydrated: Keep your baby hydrated by offering them breast milk, formula, or water throughout the flight. This is especially important during takeoff and landing to help with ear pressure.
Take Advantage of Airline Amenities: Turkish Airlines offers amenities like bassinets (on some flights) and baby changing facilities. Inquire about these when booking or checking in.
Be Prepared for Ear Pressure: Encourage your baby to suck on a pacifier, bottle, or breastfeed during takeoff and landing to help equalize ear pressure.
Walk Around: If your baby is fussy, try walking around the cabin with them. A change of scenery can sometimes do the trick.
Be Patient: Remember that flying with an infant can be unpredictable. Be patient, stay calm, and don't be afraid to ask for help from the flight attendants.

What to do after booking a ticket

After successfully booking your Turkish Airlines ticket with an infant, there are a few important steps to take to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience. Here’s what you should focus on:

Confirm and Double-Check Booking Details: First and foremost, carefully review your booking confirmation. Verify that all the information, including your name, your infant’s name and date of birth, flight dates, and seat assignments, is accurate. Any discrepancies should be addressed immediately with Turkish Airlines to avoid issues at the airport. Keep a digital or printed copy of your confirmation for easy access.
Request Special Services: Determine if you require any special services for your infant. Turkish Airlines offers amenities such as bassinets on certain long-haul flights. Contact the airline to request a bassinet in advance, as they are subject to availability. Also, inquire about any specific dietary needs your infant may have, and see if the airline can accommodate them. If your infant has any medical conditions, inform the airline beforehand and carry any necessary medical documentation.
Prepare Essential Documents: Ensure you have all the necessary travel documents for both yourself and your infant. This includes passports, visas (if required), and any health certificates. For infants, a birth certificate is typically required, especially if they are traveling on your lap. Make copies of these documents and store them separately from the originals in case of loss or theft.
Plan Your Packing Strategy: Pack a well-stocked diaper bag with all the essentials your infant will need during the flight. This includes diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream, changes of clothes, bottles, formula or breast milk, snacks, toys, and any comfort items like a blanket or pacifier. Consider packing a few extra items in case of delays or unexpected situations. It's also a good idea to pack a small first-aid kit with basic medications and supplies.
Check Baggage Allowances: Familiarize yourself with Turkish Airlines' baggage allowances for infants. Typically, infants traveling on your lap are entitled to a certain amount of checked baggage, as well as a stroller or car seat free of charge. Confirm the exact allowances with the airline to avoid any surprises at the airport. Weigh your bags before you leave home to ensure they comply with the weight restrictions.
Confirm Seating and Bassinet: Reach out to Turkish Airlines a few days before your flight to reconfirm your seat assignments and bassinet request. This is especially important if you made the booking a while ago. Ensure that your request is still in the system and that you have been assigned suitable seats. Confirm the dimensions and weight limits for the bassinet to ensure your infant can use it comfortably.
Plan for Airport Arrival: Arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare, especially when traveling with an infant. This will give you ample time to check in, go through security, and navigate to your gate without feeling rushed. Allow extra time for security checks, as you may need to remove your infant from their stroller or carrier. Take advantage of family lanes at security, if available, to expedite the process.
Prepare for Boarding: During boarding, take advantage of any pre-boarding options for families with young children. This will allow you to get settled on the plane before the general boarding process begins. Stow your carry-on items in the overhead bins and keep essential items, such as diapers and wipes, easily accessible in the seat pocket.
Stay Informed: Monitor your flight status regularly in the days leading up to your departure. Check for any schedule changes, delays, or gate changes. Download the Turkish Airlines mobile app to receive real-time updates and notifications. Stay informed and be prepared for any unexpected events that may occur.

By taking these steps after booking your Turkish Airlines ticket with an infant, you can minimize stress and ensure a more enjoyable and comfortable travel experience for both you and your little one. Safe travels!

Conclusion

So, there you have it! Booking a seat for your infant on Turkish Airlines might seem daunting at first, but with a little planning and preparation, it can be a breeze. Remember to check the airline's policies, book your seats in advance, pack smart, and be patient. With these tips, you'll be well on your way to a fantastic trip with your little travel buddy. Happy flying!