Why do airlines charge for infants?

Question

It seems like a trip from Toronto to Atlanta is 200$ for an infant who would be sitting on my lap. Why is this?! At least give me a seat for her!

Also, when did this come in effect? Last year I travelled with her and her ticket was 12$ (same airline, Delta), what's with the big jump? What are they charging me for, she doesn't get a seat, nor food??

Answer 1

It is awful.  When my kids were that young, they traveled for free as long as they were on my lap.  Now you can't even get a can of soda!

Answer 2

because their is some weight limit to be carried by aircraft......

an infant also carries weight ,which adds to the aircraft load......

n during in emergencies ....if level of oxgen(o2) gets low ur infant will be provided with the oxygen mask........

the infant can not b left without any mask or any other assistance by the cabin crew during any kind of emergencies...........

Answer 3

cause they are rip offs

Answer 4

A child age from 1 day and/or from the day the doctor allowed her to travel up until 2 years of age, is called a lap child. Some airlines, they don't charge for that, as long as you will have her on your lap. But if there is  an open space in the aircraft, you can take the seat right next to you and the baby.

For those airlines that  charge them, might be for the reason that it is an international flight and lap children are included in the soul count. In case something happens during the flight, they are liable for each soul count.

Some pay for the seat on purpose  for their comfort and convenience.

Other reasons is soaring fuel increase, they need to keep the bussines going , hence, they find ways and means to keep up with it.

Answer 5

One, learn where the dollar sign goes.  (BEFORE the number)

Two, you are risking the life of your child by holding it in your lap.  It's a practice that should be illegal.  If there is an air pocket or turbulence the child becomes an unguided missile.  You cannot hold onto them.  In fact, that is how crews describe lap children:  missiles.

Three,  fuel went up, everything went up.

Answer 6

"International Taxes & Fees—For infants under the age of two and held in the adult's lap, the cost is usually about 10% of the adult fare plus any international taxes and surcharges, which can be significant."

You may find it worthwhile to purchase a seat for her rather than handle her on your lap, if the costs are close. Otherwise, this is Delta's policy, and if you hve any other questions you may want to call them rather than ask the general public here.

Answer 7

The infant pays the same taxes that you pay for your ticket and the taxes do not change for an infant to child to adult. For a seat they would charge you the price of a childs' ticket.

Taxes have gone up this year because of fuel.