BABIES IN PREMIUM CABINS

POST GordyUK DATE April 28 0:54

I’m afraid I’m one of those who really don’t want babies in premium cabins. My view is simple: if I wouldn’t subject passengers to my kids, other people should be just as considerate. A baby couldn’t care less what cabin it’s in.

Dutchyankee April 28 11:13

I tend to agree with GordyUK on this one. Of course I have nothing against babies, and I think we all were one at one stage. A crying baby can be a pain, but it’s natural, and the aircraft environment is not always helpful to keeping a baby quiet, comfortable and happy. My biggest issue is actually the parents. Children will be children, but it is up to the parents to ensure their children do not disturb other passengers. A crying infant I have patience for and feel for the parents. An obnoxious, ill-behaved child I have no time for and do hold the parents accountable. If they don’t control their “brats” then I will get the crew involved. Whatever their parenting practices are in their own home is their business, but on board an aircraft, children must be controlled and behave, and if not, then the parents must be dealt with or removed from the aircraft (along with their ill-behaved child).

SimonS1 April 28 12:38

I can see both sides of this. A small child who is crying is not necessarily a badly behaved child, however running up and down the aisles and generally misbehaving is unacceptable. Unacceptable behaviour needs to be dealt with by the cabin crew. The issue here is that few crew really have a clue when it comes to how to handle these situations. Sadly those who are hoping for a baby-free environment in premium cabins will be waiting a long time as airlines wouldn’t give up the income or bite the bad PR that might result.

Esselle April 28 19:30

For me it’s not the kids I get frustrated with, but the parents who think the cabin is an extended playground. Sadly, a lot of parents think changing a nappy in their seat, accompanied by congratulatory comments about how big/smelly/messy the content, is a moment for sharing with a dozen other strangers.

Graemeo1 May 6 16:55

I think the answer is in the name – “Business Class” as in, travelling on business. You wouldn’t take your kids to work or to a business meeting. I’m a corporate travel agent and have a high-end client who regularly flies in first or business... while his nanny and kids are in economy! I do think customers should be allowed children in first class – but at full fare. This would act as a deterrent in itself. When you total up a family of four travelling first class at full fare, they might as well hire a private jet... or even buy one if it’s a regular need!