Airlines approach to fly kids

Some airlines globally seem to stop kids under 12 years old from being seated in their first or business class cabin, probably to ensure quiet and peaceful flights for other passengers onboard.

But, most carriers around the world, including airlines in Nigeria such as Arik Air, Dana Air, Med-View airlines and others do not have such restrictions, as children are allowed to seat in the first, business or economy class onboard the aircraft with their parents.

There are lots of children-oriented onboard entertainments being provided by the airlines, like Dana Air has special package for children onboard its aircraft to any destination, Med-View Airline offers kids package for promo.

However, the frequent collision between passengers longing to enjoy a calm flight home and the need for families to travel together has brought nothing but endless debate to the industry in the recent time.

And while airlines are seeking the best ways to deal with the issue, it seems like the crying babies have decided to fly private. Travelling with kids has long been a hot topic for both – parents in need of getting from point A to B and other passengers onboard, trying to catch a moment of peace and quiet.

With that in mind, airlines worldwide have tried several different approaches to deal with the issue. For instance, Malaysian Airlines have entirely banned kids under 12 years old from being seated in the first class while, Emirates have decided to provide all kinds of children-oriented onboard entertainment to its business class passengers, including an array of cartoons, interactive games and children’s magazines.

If you are planning a summer family vacation that includes flying somewhere with the kids, especially a long-haul flight, you are probably looking forward to a good flight. Naturally, your choice of airlines will be determined by where you are flying, but it is good to know what you can expect from the airline.

According to an expert, despite the multiple initiatives to improve the situation, it seems like the advantages of flying private with the children are excelling what the business class in a commercial airline may offer.

“Though business travel remains the primary market for private jets, during the last 5 years the segment of personal users has increased from 9 per cent to 22 per cent,” said the Chief Executive Officer, KlasJet Vitalij Kapitonov. KlasJet is a European VIP charter carrier, specializing in private and corporate charter flights as well as comprehensive aircraft management solutions.

He added: “We have witnessed some families shifting from commercial airlines to private aviation. After all, the latter still remains the most comfortable and suitable environment for children and larger families.

Considering the growing demand, all private jet operators should consider extending their services to suit extensive family needs.” Although for quite a while now most private jet companies have provided customized catering and entertainment services, nowadays more and more companies offer such extra perks as organic food and child-sized seats.

In fact, there is an entire luxury travel market focusing specifically on the needs of much younger tourists. Some private jet companies are going as far as new TV channels especially designed for small children or teenagers, or special iPads with additional entertainment options, he noted.

But, most carriers around the world, including airlines in Nigeria such as Arik Air, Dana Air, Med-View airlines and others do not have such restrictions, as children are allowed to seat in the first, business or economy class onboard the aircraft with their parents. There are lots of children-oriented onboard entertainments being provided by the airlines, like Dana Air has special package for children onboard its aircraft to any destination, Med-View Airline offers kids package for promo.

According to Kapitonov, flying private eliminates the issue of keeping children satisfied and entertained during endless hours at the airport.

The basic hassles of commercial aviation – long waits, checks and delays – are definitely made worse when travelling with kids. In other words, he stated that even though flying private with the entire family can be a costly adventure, statistics show that by the time they are 30 or 40, some families can certainly afford to use private jets and enjoy comfortable and undisturbed trip at least once in a while.

“It can definitely save you a lot of nerve cells. As the commercial air travel is becoming even more vexing with cancellations, delays and continuous worker strikes affecting an increasing number of travellers, families are seeking ways to improve their experience.

In addition to the freedom provided by private jets, they also allow families to reach destinations that commercial planes don’t fly to and create a vacation of a lifetime.

“The VIP aviation is not only about business needs. Families are increasingly becoming part of the industry. Therefore, private carriers should reconsider their packages and tailor their services not only according to business passenger need but to the demands of family travellers as well,” he said.