Travelling Tots
Flying with kids can be quite challenging—from finding the right seating to being nervous about your child’s behaviour on-board. Rachel Ng speaks to Nivat Chantarachoti, who shares some insight which allows parents to take-off with ease of mind
Put your worries to rest, parents. It doesn’t have to be a hassle anymore with these pointers from Nivat Chantarachoti, the general manager (for Malaysia and Brunei) of Thai Airways International PCL. With more than 28 years of experience in the airline industry, he’s well equipped with insider’s knowledge, and therefore has got some friendly advice so that you can rest easy about your little darling’s first (and following) foray into the skies. While there are bound to be hiccups, we can always take baby steps in addressing whatever issues that may crop up, with the aid of friendly Thai Airways flight attendants.
1I’m travelling with a baby for the first time, any tips on what to bring?
When travelling with infants, you should bring along all the necessities the infant may need during the flight. Although on board every Thai Airways flight, there are supplies of diapers, milk, and baby food as standard load, in case required. Nevertheless, we recommend that you bring along enough of your baby’s necessities for the whole duration of the flight. We normally pre-assign those travelling with babies, a seat where a baby bassinet can be installed. Thai Airways provides it for infants on all flights, and the bassinet will be installed once airborne.
2How do I help my child deal with motion sickness or discomfort during take-off?
We have airsickness tablets available on every flight, though we would not recommend this for children below a certain age. Our cabin crew are well trained and will be able to help with the child should the situation arise.
3What are the regulations on bringing my car seat/stroller/crib?
On board Thai Airways, passengers with babies may bring their baby stroller/car seat/crib up to the aircraft door. Then our ground staff will safely store it in the baggage compartment and return it upon arrival, when you disembark the aircraft.
4What can I do to occupy my kids and avoid boredom tantrums while on the plane?
Your child will never be bored on our flights because all our seats are equipped with personal VDO monitors and entertainment systems with a selection of games, movies, and children’s channels for your child to enjoy throughout the flight.
5I’m still breastfeeding, how do I go about it in a public place like the plane?
You may nurse your baby during the flight at your own discretion. But we would recommend that you prepare your breast milk in bottles or in insulated bottle bags. Our cabin crew can assist you by storing them in the cold unit during the flight.
6My child has dietary restrictions, will there be food suitable for him/her on the plane?
You can always request for a child or infant meal when you make your reservation on Thai Airways. Additionally, please specify if (you or) your child has any dietary restrictions, so that special meals may be prepared in advance.
7Is there a designated place for me to clean my child up in case of ‘accidents’ during the flight?
Some of the toilets in Thai Airways’ aircraft are equipped with folding tables which you can use to clean or change a baby’s diaper. Our cabin crew will be able @ to assist you if required.