Child Free Flights

I read an article today that highlights the announcement from a well known low cost flight operator with their introduction of child free zones on their flights and whilst we will all have our own opinions on the subject I’m not sure the idea is that well thought out and throws up a few arguments in my mind.

Sure, having to sit near a seat kicking, unruly child who whinges, cries and paddies for several hours is nothing short of annoying (I’ve been there myself) but is segregation really the answer? Whilst I appreciate that some children do, not all children misbehave on flights. My 4 year old is quite happy to settle down for a few hours with a movie or a colouring pad and a set of pens, she really doesn’t bother anyone and I have seen plenty of other little ones who are just as content when given something to focus on. I find mostly its the children who are plonked into their window seat and expected to entertain themselves whilst their parents have a tipple or two, read a book or get their heads down who are the problem and not the children themselves.

Babies of course are a different kettle of fish all together. You cant stop them from crying and I think its unfair to judge any parent who is trying to console and comfort a distressed little one (I’ve been there myself too!) the likelihood is they are getting as stressed out about it as those frowning and making comments, but with the embarrassment of being ‘that parent with the screaming baby’ to add to it.

I quite like the idea of adult only and family friendly flights, just like adult only or family friendly cruising options available in this day and age. Those who really do object to sharing their flying space with the little monsters can choose to book adult only flights and families then don’t have to worry about the stares from other passengers when little Tommy wants to stand up and have a look around and play peek-a-boo with the chap behind. Again! In an ideal world that would be great. But what cost implications would that have? Surely there’d be a premium for those wanting to fly child free? And surely the cost for the family flights during the school holidays would further increase making the yearly getaway unaffordable for some? The extra expense to fly child free would likely mean stag and hen parties on a tight budget would go with the cheaper option and lets be honest some groups can turn the most pleasant of flights into the journey from hell and isn’t a nice environment to be in, especially with children (Been there too!!).

Of course the article I read wasn’t announcing adult only flights, simply child free areas where the front 14 rows for example would be reserved for adult passengers only. That would nip in the bud the seat kicking issue, but a screaming child can be heard a mile off let alone a few rows of an aircraft so personally I’m not sure this will take off, what do you think? Perhaps you have a solution to this so far unsolved issue. Id love to hear your thoughts.