Turkish Airlines: How To Book A Seat For Your Infant

Oct 30, 2025 by SLV Team 53 views

Hey guys! Planning a trip with your little one on Turkish Airlines? Figuring out the seat situation for your infant can be a bit tricky, but don't worry, I’ve got you covered! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about booking seats for infants on Turkish Airlines, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey for both you and your baby.

Understanding Turkish Airlines' Infant Policy

Before we dive into the booking process, let's get familiar with Turkish Airlines' policy regarding infant travel. An infant is defined as a child under the age of two (24 months) for the entire duration of the journey. Turkish Airlines, like most airlines, has specific regulations to ensure the safety and comfort of its youngest passengers. Knowing these policies beforehand will help you make informed decisions and avoid any last-minute surprises at the airport.

Key aspects of the policy include:

Infant Tickets: Infants typically fly at a reduced fare compared to older children and adults. This fare usually amounts to a percentage of the adult fare, but it's subject to change, so always check the most current pricing when booking. Remember, even though they're traveling at a reduced fare, a ticket is still required for your infant.
Lap Infants vs. Seat: You have two main options: You can either hold your infant on your lap (a "lap infant") or purchase a separate seat for them. If your infant is on your lap, they must be secured with an infant seatbelt, which the airline will provide. If you opt for a separate seat, you'll need to bring an approved car seat to ensure their safety during the flight. More on that later!
Bassinets: On long-haul flights, Turkish Airlines often provides bassinets for infants. These bassinets attach to the bulkhead seats and offer a comfortable place for your baby to sleep. However, bassinets are subject to availability and specific aircraft configurations, so it's crucial to request one in advance.
Baggage Allowance: Infants are usually entitled to a certain baggage allowance, although it's typically less than that of adults. This allowance may include a checked bag and a carry-on item, such as a diaper bag. Be sure to check the specifics of your ticket to understand the baggage allowance for your infant.
Required Documentation: Just like adults, infants need their own travel documents. For international flights, this means a passport. For domestic flights, a birth certificate may suffice, but it's always best to confirm the requirements with Turkish Airlines or your travel agent.
Health and Safety: It's always a good idea to consult with your pediatrician before traveling with an infant, especially on long flights. They can provide advice on managing ear pressure during takeoff and landing, as well as any necessary vaccinations or medications.

Understanding these policies is the first step in ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience with your little one. Now, let's move on to the practical steps of booking a seat!

Step-by-Step Guide to Booking a Seat for Your Infant

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of booking a seat for your infant on Turkish Airlines. There are a few different ways you can go about this, so I'll walk you through each option:

1. Booking Online

While you can book your own seat online, booking a seat for your infant sometimes requires a call to Turkish Airlines directly.

Visit the Turkish Airlines Website: Start by heading to the Turkish Airlines official website. Navigate to the booking section and enter your travel dates, destinations, and the number of adults traveling.
Add Infant to Booking: When prompted for the number of passengers, include your infant. The website should recognize that you're traveling with an infant and adjust the fare accordingly. Be sure to accurately enter your infant's date of birth. This is crucial for confirming their eligibility as an infant for the entire journey.
Select Flights: Choose your preferred flights. Consider factors like flight duration, layover times, and aircraft type. Longer layovers might be easier with an infant, giving you time to stretch your legs and change diapers. Also, check if the aircraft is equipped with bassinets if you're interested in requesting one.
Choose Seating Options: This is where things get a bit more specific. If you want your infant to travel on your lap, you usually don't need to select a specific seat for them during the initial booking process. However, if you prefer to purchase a separate seat for your infant, you'll need to select a seat for them as well. Keep in mind that not all seats are suitable for car seats, so you might need to contact Turkish Airlines to confirm compatibility.
Complete Passenger Details: Fill in all the required information for yourself and your infant, including names, dates of birth, and passport details (if applicable).
Review and Confirm: Double-check all the details before confirming your booking. Make sure the dates, times, and passenger information are accurate. Pay close attention to the fare breakdown to understand the cost of your infant's ticket.
Payment: Proceed to the payment page and complete your transaction. You'll receive a confirmation email with your booking details and ticket information.

2. Booking Through the Turkish Airlines Call Center

If you encounter any difficulties booking online or have specific questions about traveling with an infant, the Turkish Airlines call center is your best bet. Their representatives are trained to handle these types of inquiries and can provide personalized assistance.

Find the Contact Number: Locate the Turkish Airlines call center number for your region on their website. Have your travel dates, destinations, and passenger information ready before calling.
Explain Your Needs: Clearly explain that you're traveling with an infant and whether you want to book a separate seat or have your infant travel on your lap. If you're interested in a bassinet, be sure to mention it to the representative.
Follow Their Instructions: The representative will guide you through the booking process, answer any questions you have, and help you select appropriate seating options. They can also confirm whether specific seats are compatible with car seats.
Confirm and Pay: Once you're satisfied with the booking details, the representative will process your payment and send you a confirmation email.

3. Booking Through a Travel Agent

Using a travel agent can be particularly helpful when traveling with an infant, as they can handle all the details and ensure a smooth booking process. Travel agents have experience with airline policies and can advocate for your needs.

Find a Reputable Travel Agent: Choose a travel agent with experience booking flights for families with infants. Ask for recommendations from friends or family, or check online reviews.
Provide Your Travel Details: Give the travel agent your travel dates, destinations, and passenger information. Explain that you're traveling with an infant and whether you want to book a separate seat or have your infant travel on your lap. Mention any specific requirements, such as a bassinet or car seat compatibility.
Let Them Handle the Booking: The travel agent will handle the booking process, negotiate with the airline, and ensure that all your needs are met. They can also provide valuable advice on traveling with an infant, such as packing tips and airport procedures.
Review and Confirm: Before finalizing the booking, review all the details with the travel agent to ensure accuracy. Clarify any questions you have and confirm the fare breakdown.

Tips for a Smooth Flight with Your Infant

Okay, you've booked your flight and secured a seat for your infant – awesome! Now, let's talk about some tips to make the flight itself as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Request a Bassinet (If Available): If you're on a long-haul flight, definitely request a bassinet. These can be a lifesaver, giving your baby a comfortable place to sleep and freeing up your arms. Keep in mind that bassinets are subject to availability and weight restrictions.
Bring an Approved Car Seat: If you've purchased a separate seat for your infant, bring an approved car seat. This will ensure their safety during the flight and provide a familiar and comfortable environment for them. Make sure the car seat meets the airline's requirements and is properly installed.
Pack Smart: Pack a diaper bag with all the essentials: diapers, wipes, formula or breast milk, bottles, snacks, toys, and a change of clothes. It's always better to overpack than to run out of something you need.
Dress Comfortably: Dress your infant in comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Layers are a good idea, as the temperature on the plane can fluctuate. Don't forget a blanket or sweater to keep them warm.
Plan for Feeding: If you're breastfeeding, nurse your baby during takeoff and landing to help relieve ear pressure. If you're bottle-feeding, bring pre-made bottles or formula powder and bottled water. Check with the airline about their policies on bringing breast milk or formula through security.
Bring Entertainment: Pack plenty of toys, books, and other entertainment to keep your infant occupied during the flight. Consider bringing a tablet loaded with their favorite shows or movies.
Be Prepared for Ear Pressure: Infants can experience discomfort from ear pressure during takeoff and landing. Encourage them to suck on a pacifier, bottle, or breast to help equalize the pressure. You can also try giving them a small snack or drink.
Stay Calm and Patient: Traveling with an infant can be challenging, but it's important to stay calm and patient. Remember that other passengers may be understanding, and the flight attendants are there to help. Take deep breaths, relax, and focus on enjoying the journey with your little one.

Car Seat Compatibility and Regulations

If you're planning to use a car seat on the plane, it's crucial to ensure that it's compatible with the aircraft and meets Turkish Airlines' regulations. Not all car seats are approved for air travel, so it's essential to do your research beforehand.

Check for FAA Approval: Look for a label on the car seat that indicates it's approved for use in aircraft. This label typically states "This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft." Only FAA-approved car seats are allowed on Turkish Airlines flights.
Car Seat Dimensions: Ensure that the car seat fits within the dimensions allowed by Turkish Airlines. The seat width should not exceed 16 inches to fit comfortably in the aircraft seat. Check the airline's website or contact them directly for specific dimension requirements.
Forward-Facing vs. Rear-Facing: Depending on your infant's age and weight, you may need to use a rear-facing or forward-facing car seat. Follow the car seat manufacturer's instructions and Turkish Airlines' guidelines for proper installation.
Installation: Properly install the car seat in the aircraft seat according to the manufacturer's instructions. Use the aircraft seatbelt to secure the car seat tightly. If you're unsure about the installation process, ask a flight attendant for assistance.
Window Seat Preference: Turkish Airlines typically requires car seats to be placed in a window seat to avoid obstructing other passengers. Confirm the seating requirements with the airline when booking your flight.

Final Thoughts

Booking a seat for your infant on Turkish Airlines might seem daunting at first, but with a little preparation and knowledge, you can ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for both you and your little one. Remember to familiarize yourself with Turkish Airlines' infant policy, book your seats in advance, pack smart, and bring an approved car seat if necessary. With these tips, you'll be well on your way to a memorable travel experience with your family. Happy travels!