Many pediatricians recommend waiting until your child is at least 3 months old before traveling long distances. This allows for their immune system to be better developed, making them more resistant to infections. This applies to babies who are born full-term and have no other health conditions.

Most airlines allow newborns to fly as early as 7 to 14 days old, but medical professionals generally recommend waiting until the baby is at least 4 to 6 weeks old if the travel is not essential. The primary concern is the baby's developing immune system; airports and planes are crowded environments where exposure to germs can be risky for a neonate. Furthermore, a newborn's lungs are still maturing, and the pressurized cabin air can occasionally be challenging for very young infants. If you must fly with a baby under two weeks old, some airlines require a physician’s letter confirming the infant is fit for air travel. Another practical consideration is the baby's ears; the pressure changes during takeoff and landing can be painful, so breastfeeding or bottle-feeding during these times is highly recommended to encourage swallowing. In 2026, many parents also prefer to wait until the first round of major vaccinations is complete before embarking on long-haul international journeys to ensure the infant's safety.