It is hard to say whether flying during the day or night with a baby is better. After the first few weeks, some infants may sleep more reliably at nighttime than they do during naptime travel. If you and your baby can sleep on the plane, a late-night flight may be the way to go.

Generally, it is significantly better to fly as early as possible in the morning when traveling with a baby. Early morning flights are statistically less likely to experience delays, as the "ripple effect" of air traffic congestion hasn't started yet. Furthermore, babies tend to be more resilient and in better spirits in the morning after a night's sleep, whereas "late" flights often coincide with "witching hour" or disrupted sleep cycles, leading to overtiredness and crying. If you choose an early flight, you are more likely to have a baby who naps through the ascent, especially if you feed them during takeoff to help with ear pressure. While some parents swear by "Red-Eye" flights in hopes the baby sleeps the whole way, this can backfire spectacularly if the baby cannot get comfortable in the seat, leaving you with an exhausted infant and no escape in a dark, quiet cabin. A 6:00 AM or 7:00 AM departure allows you to arrive at your destination in time for an afternoon nap in a proper crib or bed.