Traveling internationally with an infant can be challenging, and Delta Airlines provides bassinets on international flights to make the journey more comfortable for parents and newborns. Understanding the Delta bassinet request process, eligibility, and policies ensures a smooth experience.
What is a Delta Bassinet?
A bassinet is a small, foldable cot-like bed provided by Delta Airlines for infants, allowing babies to sleep safely during the flight. These are typically attached to the bulkhead seat and are ideal for infants under 20 pounds (9 kg) and 26 inches (66 cm) in length.
Features of Delta Bassinets:
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Safety straps to secure the baby
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Padded sleeping area for comfort
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Easy fold-up design for storage
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Positioned near the bulkhead for more legroom
Delta recommends requesting a bassinet in advance since availability is limited on each flight.
Who is Eligible for a Delta Bassinet?
Not all passengers or infants qualify for a bassinet. Delta has specific eligibility criteria:
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Age: Infants must be between 0 and 12 months. Some international flights may allow up to 2 years if the infant meets size requirements.
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Weight & Size: Maximum weight of 20 pounds and length of 26 inches.
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Seating: Bassinets are only available in bulkhead seats, which have extra space for installation.
Passengers traveling with lap infants are most likely to benefit from a bassinet, but the airline recommends reserving the bassinet as early as possible during booking.
How to Request a Bassinet on Delta International Flights
Delta provides several ways to request a bassinet:
During Booking:
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When booking your ticket on Delta.com, you can select a bulkhead seat and request a bassinet if available.
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Look for the “Infant Bassinet” option during seat selection.
After Booking:
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Contact Delta Reservations directly via phone to request a bassinet.
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Provide the infant’s date of birth and weight to confirm eligibility.
At the Airport:
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Check in early and confirm your bassinet request with the gate agent.
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Gate agents can sometimes help if the bassinet wasn’t pre-booked, subject to availability.
Bassinet Seat Placement
Bassinets are installed in bulkhead seats, which are located at the front of each cabin section. Bulkhead seats provide:
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Extra legroom for parents
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Direct access to the bassinet attachment points
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Easier movement for feeding and changing diapers
Tips for Choosing the Right Seat:
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Front of the cabin: Less engine noise, more space
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Window or aisle preference: Decide if you want extra privacy or easy aisle access
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Avoid emergency exit rows: Bassinets cannot be installed in these seats due to safety regulations
Delta Bassinet Policies for International Flights
Delta has several policies that passengers must understand:
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Limited Availability: Baggage check and flight load may limit the number of bassinets per flight.
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Weight & Age Restrictions: Infants exceeding 20 pounds or 26 inches cannot use a bassinet.
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Lap Infant Requirement: Bassinets are intended for lap infants, not for children with a separate purchased seat.
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Safety Compliance: Parents must use the provided safety straps and ensure the baby remains secure while in the bassinet.
Fees and Charges
Good news: Delta does not charge an extra fee for using a bassinet, but the bulkhead seat may have standard seat selection fees, depending on fare type and route.
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Delta Comfort+ Bulkhead Seats: May require a fee for seat assignment in addition to bassinet request
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Main Cabin Standard Bulkhead: Typically free, first-come, first-served basis
Preparing Your Infant for International Travel
Traveling long-haul requires careful planning to ensure comfort and safety:
Packing Essentials:
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Diapers, wipes, and a changing mat
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Bottles, formula, or breast milk
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Pacifiers, blankets, and comfort toys
Feeding Tips:
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Feed during takeoff and landing to help ease ear pressure
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Bring a spill-proof bottle or cup for convenience
Clothing and Comfort:
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Dress the baby in layered, comfortable clothes for temperature changes
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Consider bringing extra blankets for overnight flights
In-Flight Bassinet Tips
Using the bassinet effectively improves travel experience for both the parent and infant:
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Test the Bassinet: Confirm stability with the flight attendant before placing your baby inside
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Monitor Baby Closely: While in the bassinet, always supervise to ensure the infant remains safe
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Use During Nap Times: Ideal for long stretches when the baby is sleeping
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Minimize Movement: Avoid carrying the baby around while in the bassinet area
Delta International Flight Considerations
Long-Haul Flights: Bassinets are more valuable on 12+ hour flights where your infant will need extended sleep.
Multiple Infants: Delta generally allows one bassinet per bulkhead seat, so families with multiple infants may need to coordinate additional seats.
Feeding and Diapering:
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Flight attendants are usually happy to provide water for mixing formula
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Changing tables are available in most international aircraft lavatories
Alternative Options if Bassinet is Unavailable
If a bassinet is not available, Delta provides alternatives:
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Bring Your Own Portable Bassinet: Some soft-sided carriers approved for cabin use may be accepted
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Purchase a Seat for Your Infant: Seat belts or FAA-approved child safety seats can be used
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Request Additional Assistance: Flight attendants can offer tips on lap infant comfort and support during sleep
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How early should I request a bassinet?
A: Ideally at booking, but at least 4–6 weeks before departure to ensure availability.
Q: Can a toddler use a bassinet?
A: No, bassinets are only for infants under 20 pounds and 26 inches in length.
Q: Are bassinet seats refundable if not used?
A: Bassinet seating fees (if any) are non-refundable, but the bassinet itself is free once approved.
Q: What happens if the bassinet is occupied or unavailable?
A: Parents may request alternative bulkhead seats or use lap infant seating with FAA-approved restraints.
Q: Can I reserve more than one bassinet for multiple infants?
A: Only one bassinet per bulkhead seat is allowed, so families need multiple bulkhead seats for more than one infant.
Tips for Stress-Free Bassinet Travel on Delta
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Book Early: Secure bulkhead seats and bassinet requests as soon as possible
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Arrive Early: Check-in at least 3 hours before international flights
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Communicate with Flight Attendants: Inform them of your infant’s schedule and special needs
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Bring Familiar Items: Blankets or toys can help your baby feel comfortable
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Stay Hydrated and Relaxed: Calm parents make for a calmer infant
Conclusion
Traveling internationally with an infant on Delta Airlines is more manageable and comfortable with the use of a bassinet. Understanding the request process, eligibility criteria, seating options, and in-flight tips ensures a smooth and stress-free journey.
By planning ahead, securing a bulkhead seat, and adhering to Delta’s safety policies, parents can focus on enjoying their trip while their infant sleeps safely in the bassinet. Whether it’s a short international flight or a long-haul journey, the Delta bassinet provides peace of mind, comfort, and convenience for traveling families.
