Does AA permit the use of a folding floor bassinet or other similar object for infants? I was looking to purchase my own since AA does not provide one like UA. I ask because there are no wall mount bassinets in Business class.

Looking forward to finding some clarity before spending money to hold my 2 month old infant for 26 hours of travel.

-Trey

I can't speak for AA but the FAA does allow this (obviously if other companies have them) BUT the baby has to be removed in turbulence.

To be honest, I'm not sure if that would be even that useful. There is hardly any floor space, even at the bulkheads. Getting her down and out of that thing would be a bit awkward to say the least. You would have to pick her up every time it gets bumpy.

Are you flying alone?

A better option would be to bring an infant car seat and try to get it on the plane. Ask at check-in how full the flight is and if not, if you can have an empty seat placed next to you. This is really, the only safe way to fly with an infant.

Also, it would be much better to have a good baby carrier, whether you get the seat or not. Don't get an awkward "front pack" like a Bjorn. They're difficult to sit down with and the baby is held in a bad position for both of your backs. Get something like a wrap or sling. These can also be used as blankets, baby changers and breastfeeding covers while you're traveling. They do have a learning curve but especially for such a long flight, it would be well worth it.

You can also use carriers like a Beco or Ergo but for newborns, a sling is so easy to put on and take off. Make sure your baby is NOT attached to you for take-off and landing. It's dangerous and this is also a FAA reg. You can keep the baby in the carrier, like a blanket or whatever. Just detach it from you.

During the flight, having your baby comfortably attached to you will make your flight much, much easier, especially if you're alone. I've done 11 1/2 hour flights on my own with an infant and two other children and it was so great to just be able to get up, move around, etc. and not worry about her being left alone or having to hold her in my arms. My hands were free. I almost forgot she was there. It's possible to eat but be careful with hot food (I simply waited until it cooled down a bit).

Pick a portion of the flight when the F/A's aren't too busy and they'll be happy to hold your baby for you while you use the restroom.

At this tender age, they don't do much and quite frankly, are very easy to travel with, so there's your good news. They just want to be with their Mommies so putting them in a comfortable position while you watch the movie and having an option where you can get up and move around is really your best bet, IF you don't get an empty seat (good luck with that!!)

Thanks for the optimism! I was thinking to "hope" for an empty seat although I don't know the rules with UA and AA regarding upgrading of frequent flyers, etc. If they don't always bump ppl that would be great and I could use the car seat- problem solved. we have some of the slings so we can practice once the baby is born (especially me, I think the wife will use it most often). My wife will travel alone on the return from US back to SIN. I think you might be right on the floor bassinet option but for less than 50 bucks I can at least travel with it and see how it goes- worst case, I sell it for 10 bucks on craigslist and at least had some "insurance"

This is definitely such a mess... I never thought it would be but so glad I called AA before I booked anything.

Just be sure she's completely comfortable with whatever carrier she picks. Getting one that works is kind of like asking someone their favorite toothbrush. I found a ring sling best for flying. Less comfortable than a wrap but easier to learn and easy to get on and off. But many fly with a wrap just fine.

She can visit http://peppermint.com (I like this link since there are products from many sources) or if she's already involved in her La Leche group, they might be able to help... Some carriers come with videos and there are many baby-wearing sites.

It's good that you're going over with her. She'll have experience for the way back. If the cot doesn't work out, than you take it back (one less thing for her to lug around). It's not a "mess". It's a little uncomfortable, long and not something you want to do every day but she'll survive. She needs to stay well-hydrated if breastfeeding (recommended for many reasons, including easier travel). My worst flights were with toddlers, not newborns!

So, we have settled on AA. AA doesn't provide a bassinet (but neither did UA). In fact, the best I could come up with was flying NH (ANA) but their business class seats seemed less than desirable (especially the 7 hour legs between SIN and NRT). We will purchase a bassinet for use onboard (if baby will go for it) and for home.

Does anyone know if the Eddie Bauer one, found here, http://amzn.com/B004I10VUG open up but allow the handle/overhead bar thing to collapse? Will this one fit in the floor space in front of the seat? We will try to get the mini-cabin at check-in as AA told us we could not reserve it ahead of time.

Any and all assistance would be greatly appreciated. This forum is great and hope to offer some input as it seems I am currently seeking input from others.