British Airways bassinet: what the airline says
Guide to British Airways infant policies. Learn about complimentary bassinets on long-haul flights, weight limits, lap infant fares, and seat rules.
British Airways offers complimentary bassinets, which they call carrycots, on their long-haul flights for babies who meet a specific weight limit. This is a helpful option for parents on international trips. The airline also has a clear rule for what happens if your baby turns two years old during your journey.
| Topic | What British Airways says |
|---|---|
| Bassinet | On long-haul flights, British Airways provides complimentary carrycots and infant seats for babies up to 2 years old weighing under 12.5 kg (27.5 lbs), for use when the seatbelt sign is off.Source |
Bassinets
On long-haul flights, British Airways provides complimentary carrycots for babies up to 2 years old who weigh less than 12.5 kg (27.5 lbs). Your baby must meet both the age and weight requirements to use one. These can be used only when the aircraft’s seat belt sign is turned off.
“On our long-haul services, we provide carrycots and infant seats free of charge for babies up to 2 years old, weighing under 12.5 kg (27.5lbs) that can be used in flight when the seat belt signs are off.”
Official wording, britishairways.com, checked Oct 21, 2026
Lap infant rules that go with a bassinet
If your baby travels on your lap, you will be charged an infant fare. If you prefer your infant to have their own seat, you must purchase a child fare and the airline recommends using an approved car seat. A special rule applies if your infant turns 2 years old during your trip: they must have their own seat for any flights on and after their birthday. British Airways states there is no extra charge for this, and the infant fare will apply to the entire journey.
“Infants travelling on an adult's lap pay infant fare.”
Official wording, britishairways.com, checked Oct 21, 2026
“Infants travelling on an adult's lap pay infant fare.”
Official wording, britishairways.com, checked Oct 21, 2026
“If your customer like their infant to have his/her own seat (the age/weight range of the child should be in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions), they pay a child fare. We recommend they travel in an approved car seat or AmSafe System which fits into the aircraft seat securely.”
Official wording, britishairways.com, checked Oct 21, 2026
“If your infant turns 2 during their journey, you’ll have to book them a seat for any flights on and after their 2nd birthday. We won’t charge you extra for this, you’ll pay the infant fare for the entire journey.”
Official wording, britishairways.com, checked Oct 21, 2026
Related pages
More on British Airways:
- British Airways infant and child policy: lap infants, bassinets and kids flying alone
- British Airways car seat and stroller policy
Same topic, other airlines: