Ryanair's recent decision to scrap its family seating policy has sparked a debate about the hidden costs of flying with children. While the airline has made it easier for parents to sit next to their kids, the fees associated with traveling with infants and older children can still be substantial. This article delves into the various fees and charges that families may encounter, highlighting the complexities and potential financial burdens of air travel with children.
The Hidden Costs of Flying with Infants
One of the most surprising aspects of flying with infants is the potential cost of having a baby on your lap. While some airlines offer discounts for children over two, others charge a flat fee for infants to sit on an adult's lap, regardless of the adult ticket price. For instance, Wizz Air imposes a €32 (£28) fee for each flight for an infant to sit on an adult's lap, which can be higher than the adult ticket itself.
This fee structure raises questions about fairness and profitability. As Rory Boland, editor of Which? Travel, points out, "The idea that in-lap infants are charged more than a full adult because of some fixed fee they’ve arrived at, is clearly unfair." Boland's concern is valid, as some airlines may be making a profit from these charges.
Fees for Older Children
For older children, the costs can vary widely depending on the airline. On Wizz, Ryanair, and easyJet, tickets for children over two cost the same as adult fares, which can be a significant expense. Lisa Francesca Nand's experience with Wizz Air exemplifies this, as she paid £136.50 to sit next to her sons, aged 11 and 13, on their return trip to Málaga, more than a third of the cost of their actual tickets.
Wizz Air's policy guarantees at least one seat next to a child under 14 for free for adults on the same booking, but the second child's seat arrangement can be unclear. This lack of clarity may deter families from booking seats together, potentially leading to a less comfortable travel experience.
The Complex Web of Fees
The headline cost of a flight is often just the beginning of the financial journey. On British Airways, for example, a return flight from London to New York on July 17th includes 11 extra charges for an adult ticket, compared to nine for an infant and ten for a child (aged 2-11). These fees can add up to more than £500 to the adult fare, while an infant fare increases from £30 to £162.19.
The complexity of these fees is further exacerbated by the varying practices of different airlines and countries. Some countries impose air passenger duty, a government-imposed tax based on distance and class of travel, which may affect return journeys. Additionally, fees such as passenger service charges, carrier-imposed charges, and immigration/entry fees can further increase the overall cost.
Layover Destinations and Cost Variations
The layover destination can also significantly impact the cost of a child's flight. On an Air New Zealand flight from London to Auckland via Los Angeles, the total cost of an infant's flight is 15% of the adult ticket. However, returning via Vancouver with the same airline results in a 9.6% cost.
These variations in fees and charges highlight the importance of thorough research and understanding of airline policies. As Boland suggests, "Trying to work out the final cost has become incredibly complicated and frustrating. It’s not until you’re a good bit into the booking journey that the amounts become clear."
In conclusion, while Ryanair's decision to scrap its family seating policy is a step in the right direction, the hidden costs of flying with children remain a significant concern. Families should be aware of the various fees and charges associated with air travel, as these can add up quickly and potentially offset the benefits of discounted fares. As the travel industry continues to evolve, it is crucial for airlines to provide transparent and fair pricing practices to ensure a positive travel experience for all families.
