UK families booking holidays face a daunting array of charges when flying with children, with some airlines levying steep fees for infants that can outstrip the cost of an adult's ticket. While Ryanair has recently revised its policy to exempt parents from sitting fees for two-to-11-year-olds – following pressure from the Competition and Markets Authority – many other airlines continue to impose significant costs.
One of the most surprising charges targets lap infants under two years old, despite them occupying no separate seat. Airlines like Wizz Air charge a flat fee of £28 per flight, regardless of the adult ticket price, contrasting with British Airways and Virgin Atlantic's more modest 10% surcharge for lap infants. Consumer advocates have criticised this practice as unjustified.
For older children, airlines vary widely in their charging structures. Two-year-olds upwards must occupy their own seat, with fares ranging from full adult prices on Wizz Air, Ryanair and easyJet to reduced rates under 12 on British Airways. These base fares are often compounded by additional charges for seat selection, particularly if parents wish to sit together.
Many families report being caught out by the complexity of airline pricing. The true cost of flying with children only becomes apparent deep into the online booking process, making it hard to compare costs effectively across airlines. Wizz Air's booking system automatically assigns seats for one adult and a child under 14, but guarantees no more than that.
For UK families, understanding these varying policies is crucial. Always check each airline's specific infant and child policies before booking, paying attention to flat fees for lap infants and the cost of seat selection for all ages. Factor in these potential additional costs from the outset, as they can significantly impact your holiday price. Don't forget to ensure travel insurance covers all family members, including infants.