Qatar Airways Infant Policy: Baggage, Seats & Travel Guide

When traveling with an infant, choosing the right airline is crucial for comfort, convenience, and safety. Qatar Airways infant policy is thoughtfully designed to provide a smooth and stress-free experience for families traveling with babies. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about traveling with an infant on Qatar Airways—from booking to in-flight amenities and safety regulations.

What Qualifies as an Infant on Qatar Airways?

According to the Qatar Airways infant policy, an infant is defined as a child under two years of age on the date of travel. Infants are allowed to travel either on the lap of an adult or in a separate seat, depending on the parent’s preference and the airline's availability of safety equipment such as infant seats or bassinets.

Booking Tickets for Infants

When making a reservation, it is important to declare if you are traveling with an infant. Qatar Airways allows you to book an infant ticket directly through its website, call center, or travel agent.

• Lap Infant Ticket: If the infant is not occupying a separate seat, the ticket is typically priced at 10% of the adult fare plus applicable taxes and surcharges.

• Infant with a Seat: If you choose to have your infant in a separate seat, the fare may be similar to that of a child ticket, and you must bring an approved car seat.

Each adult passenger is permitted to travel with one infant. If you're traveling with twins or more than one infant, a separate seat must be booked for the additional child, and a car seat is mandatory.

Infant Baggage Allowance

Qatar Airways provides generous baggage allowances under its infant travel policy. The allowances differ slightly depending on the route and fare type, but typically include:

• 10 kg (22 lbs) checked baggage for infants not occupying a seat.

• One collapsible stroller, pushchair, or carrycot free of charge.

• For infants occupying a seat, the child is eligible for the same baggage allowance as adults.

In addition to checked baggage, one diaper bag is usually allowed as hand luggage, provided it fits within the airline’s cabin baggage size and weight limitations.

In-Flight Amenities for Infants

Flying with Qatar Airways ensures a premium and family-friendly experience. Their aircraft are equipped with various amenities to accommodate infants, ensuring a comfortable journey.

Bassinets

Available on long-haul flights, bassinets can be reserved in advance by contacting customer service. They are ideal for infants weighing up to 11 kg (24 lbs) and shorter than 76.8 cm (30.2 inches). Bassinets are installed at bulkhead seats, and availability is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Baby Meals

Special infant meals can be pre-ordered up to 24 hours before departure. These meals are tailored to infants' nutritional needs and are available in both puree and solid forms depending on the age.

Baby Kits and Toys

Qatar Airways also provides baby kits containing essentials like diapers, baby wipes, and lotion. Soft toys and activity packs may also be offered to keep your little one entertained during the flight.

Seating Arrangements and Safety Equipment

For infants traveling on an adult’s lap, a special seat belt extension is provided and must be fastened during taxiing, takeoff, landing, and turbulence.

If you choose to have your infant in a separate seat, Qatar Airways requires the use of an aircraft-approved car seat. The seat must:

• Be forward-facing or rear-facing.

• Be approved by FAA, EASA, or other regulatory authorities.

• Fit within the airline’s seat dimensions.

Note that rear-facing seats may not be permitted in certain cabin configurations.

Priority Boarding and Airport Facilities

Families traveling with infants are granted priority boarding. This allows extra time to settle in and stow away hand luggage before general boarding begins.

At major international airports, Qatar Airways lounges often include family rooms equipped with diaper changing tables, nursing rooms, and children’s play areas. Additionally, Doha’s Hamad International Airport features dedicated family zones with interactive screens and play facilities, making layovers more manageable.

Health and Medical Considerations

Infants less than 7 days old are not permitted to travel unless there’s a compelling medical reason and prior approval is granted by the airline’s medical department. If your infant has any special medical needs, it is strongly advised to notify the airline at least 72 hours before departure.

For infants with medical conditions requiring equipment such as oxygen tanks, Qatar Airways has a Medical Information Form (MEDIF) that must be completed and approved ahead of time.

Travel Documents Required for Infants

When traveling with an infant on Qatar Airways, ensure you have the following documents ready:

• Valid passport for the infant.

• Visa (if required) for the destination country.

• Birth certificate or proof of relationship may be requested for international travel.

• Consent letter if one parent is not traveling.

Some countries require additional documents, especially for solo parents or guardians. Always check the immigration requirements of your destination before departure.

Qatar Airways Infant Policy on Codeshare and Partner Flights

If any leg of your journey involves a codeshare partner, the Qatar Airways infant policy may not apply. Always verify the infant travel policies with the operating airline, particularly when booking multi-leg journeys or flights through alliances like oneworld®.

Tips for a Smooth Flight with an Infant

To maximize comfort and convenience:

• Book early to reserve bassinet-compatible bulkhead seats.

• Bring extra clothes, formula, and diapers in your carry-on.

• Feed during takeoff and landing to help equalize ear pressure.

• Use a baby carrier for ease of movement in the cabin.

Conclusion

The Qatar Airways infant policy is designed to support parents and guardians through every stage of travel. From generous baggage allowances to thoughtful in-flight amenities, Qatar Airways ensures a high standard of service for families. By planning ahead and taking advantage of the services provided, you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable journey with your little one.