Transpacificflyer

It is not an unreasonable expectation to be able to fly in relative peace and quiet. Yes, I understand that a child can cry. However, there is a difference between short episodes and a prolonged state of noise. At all times, it is the moral obligation of the guardian to try and stop the noise that goes on for an extended period of time.

There is no dispute that it is normal for a small child to cry during descent and ascent because of the blocking of ears. We all know that the crying is good because it helps equalize the air pressure. However, this should not go beyond 10-15 minutes. We also know that children cry when they are scared, or tired or when the diaper is full or when they are hungry. There are easy fixes which achieve peace relatively quickly.

It is abnormal for a child to cry for an extended period of time. And that is what this case is. I emphasize abnormal. A child that goes on for that length of time is either physically ill or mentally impaired. If physically ill or emotionally or physically incapable of handling the stress of flying, the child should not fly. If the child demonstrates an extended period of pain while crying this is indicative of a physical condition. A parent who forces a child to fly under such a condition is putting the child's health at risk. It is irresponsible and cruel to subject the child to travel. In plain language, if children are incapable of sitting quietly at this stage of their development, then they should not be flying. The children who act up for a prolonged period of time demonstrate this condition before they get on the flight. It's not a surprise event.

The reality is that the vast majority of children can and do behave quietly, even children with cognitive impairments. It is the parents who usually ignore this and who impose their child on others. It's time to hold the parents responsible for inflicting the pain and suffering on the children and on others in the cabin.