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Lap Child Policy: A child who is at least 14 days old and under two (2) years of age can travel as a "lap child" without purchasing a seat, as long as they are held on the lap of an adult passenger who is 12 years of age or older. Each adult may travel with only one lap child. If you are traveling with more than one infant, you must purchase a ticket and a seat for each additional infant.
Age Verification is Mandatory: Southwest Airlines requires age verification for all lap children. You must present an original or a physical photocopy of a government-issued identification document that shows the infant's date of birth. This can be a passport, a birth certificate, or a government-issued photo ID. Electronic screenshots, phone images, or immunization records are not acceptable forms of proof. Southwest may ask for age verification at any point during your journey, so it is crucial to keep the document accessible. If you cannot provide proof of age, you will be required to purchase a ticket for the child.
Lap Child Boarding Document: Although a boarding pass is not required for a lap infant, you will need a "Boarding Verification Document." This document confirms that your infant meets the age requirements and has been officially added to your booking. You can obtain this document at a self-service kiosk or at the ticket counter on the day of travel.
Infant Fares: For domestic flights, lap children travel free of charge. For international flights, however, you will need to pay for applicable government-imposed taxes and fees, and a ticket will be issued for the infant. The best way to manage this is to call the airline in advance.
Purchasing a Seat: While a lap child travels for free, many parents choose to purchase a separate seat for their infant for added safety and comfort. This is especially recommended for long flights. If you purchase a seat, you must use an FAA-approved child restraint system (CRS) or car seat for the infant. This car seat must be properly installed in the window seat to avoid blocking the aisle. It is also important to note that a ticketed infant will need to be in their seat with the seatbelt fastened during take-off and landing.
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Q1: What documents do I need for my lap child?
A1: You must have an original or physical photocopy of a birth certificate, passport, or government-issued photo ID to prove the infant's age.
Q2: Do I have to pay for a lap child?
A2: For domestic flights, a lap child travels for free. For international flights, government-imposed taxes and fees may apply.
Q3: Can I bring a car seat for my infant?
A3: Yes, you can bring an FAA-approved car seat. If you have purchased a seat for your infant, you must use it during take-off and landing. You can also check it for free or gate-check it.
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Q5: What is the benefit of purchasing a seat for my infant?
A5: Purchasing a seat provides the infant with a designated, safer space. It also allows you to use an FAA-approved car seat, which is the safest way for an infant to travel.
Q6: What if my child turns two during the trip?
A6: If your child turns two during the trip, you will need to purchase a separate ticket for the return flight.
Q7: Can I take breast milk or formula through security?
A7: Yes, the TSA considers breast milk, formula, and baby food to be medically necessary items, and you are permitted to travel with more than the standard liquid limit.
Q8: What is a Boarding Verification Document?
A8: This is a document issued by the airline at check-in that verifies the infant's age and confirms they have been added to the reservation.
Q9: Can I board early with my infant?
A9: Yes, Southwest Airlines offers family boarding between the "A" and "B" boarding groups. Up to two adults can board early with a child age six or younger.
Q10: What about a stroller?
A10: Each ticketed Customer traveling with a child may check one stroller and one car seat free of charge, in addition to their standard baggage allowance.
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