Flying business class with children, a guide for parents

Recently, I flew with Etihad Airways from Manchester to Abu Dhabi with my DH and our two DC, who are both under five years old. 

I’ve flown business class before - with Emirates from Dubai to Bali - and my DH has travelled for work in the past, but this was our first time experiencing it with children in tow. Some people question whether business (or even first) class is the right place for young children. And while I understand the hesitation, after doing it myself, I say: if you can afford it, do it. 

I’ve read plenty of Mumsnet posts where users have felt strongly against it, though: 

“Please don't book business class with young children, it will be a nightmare for all the people who have spent more for a relaxing flight. Maybe arrange a private plane if you can't handle your children in economy”, advised lafado.

But I’m firmly in the “go for it” camp now. Because, as user ukborn wisely said:

“Absolutely take your kids in business or first. They have as much right to be there as anyone. Go prepared - snacks, change of clothes, iPad - whatever will keep them entertained, and hope they sleep for a good part of the trip!” 

If you too are planning a trip in business, find my guide on what to expect, what to know before you book, and how to make the most of the experience so all of you are prepared, comfortable and happy. 

Are children allowed in business class?

Yes. All major airlines allow children in business class, though some are more child-friendly than others.

Etihad and Emirates are especially family-focused, offering services like children’s meals, activity packs, and entertainment. Others, such as Singapore Airlines, may have age restrictions for certain seating types (e.g. suites).

Children aged 2 to 11 generally require their own seat and pay 50 to 80% of the adult fare depending on the airline. Under-twos can often fly on a parent’s lap for 10% of the adult fare plus taxes. Over 12s usually pay full adult fare.

Related: Family holiday packing list and guide

Seat selection matters

When booking business class with children, strategic seat selection makes all the difference (as well as flight times). In a 1-2-1 configuration like the one we had on our Etihad flight, the centre seats are ideal for families. In a 2-2-2 layout, it’s a little bit easier. 

Our flights were booked quite late to our travel date, and so originally we weren’t sitting together. But Etihad impressed us and rearranged seats as best they could to ensure both our DC were sat next to DH and I. On our outbound flight, my DH sat with our eldest in the middle, and I was behind with our youngest. 

Our youngest and I were sat together in the middle, which was great as I could easily reach him

On the return, we were spaced across three rows but it worked out surprisingly well, to be honest. The boys had their own window seats and space - a novelty for them, for sure - DH sat across the aisle from our youngest. Thankfully both kids managed three hours of solid sleep before landing. 

On the return flight, we were in a reverse configuration but still in close proximity to each other

Of course with all that said, that wouldn’t be possible with much younger children, so it’s definitely something to bear in mind when booking seats in business as a family. 

The good news is for babies, there are bassinets available in business class also that are cleverly integrated into the design of each seat. 

Secure bassinet fixtures are integrated into the design, so no room is taken from the parent's seat

What Mumsnet users say

“The business set-up entirely separates the seats, presuming that you may not know and want to be close to those happening to sit by you. This may be a disadvantage with a toddler, you cannot very easily touch, comfort, cuddle, or even see them, mealtimes might be more difficult as would keeping them entertained and quiet and perhaps plugged into their seat, as you are physically blocked much more.” SummaLuvin

“For the posters saying she has to sit next to her DD… yes, that’s true, but OP explained that the business class configuration makes that difficult. Sometimes the seat next to you tops and tails, for example, and there’s a dividing wall so you can’t reach over or cuddle up like you would in economy seats.” DelisButAlsoCrime

In terms of timings, I’d recommend you select flight times that will complement the natural sleep pattern of your DC. Pick overnight flights departing in the evening, which will help your kids to sleep naturally after their inflight meal.

Alternatively, if you’re travelling during the day and your DC still has a nap, ask the cabin crew to bring their meals around that routine.

DH could still reach our youngest with ease across the aisle

My top tip: Separating siblings across two rows reduced squabbles during our flights and gave each child their own zone to play, eat and relax. We did this - separated our two DC - during both journeys and it was much easier than having to contend with two siblings arguing over who got the apple juice served to them first. 

Etihad’s policy on seating families in business 

The airline itself admits that due to the configuration of most business class cabins, it’s not always possible to have a child seated directly next to their parent. 

However, for flights to Canada, the airline will make sure that children under 14 years of age are seated close to a parent or guardian. 

On all flights, any child four and under will be seated next to an adult whereas those aged 5 to 14, if they cannot be seated next to an adult, will be seated in the same row with no more than one seat in between.

Having the extra space with two small children meant they could both play and sleep comfortably without disturbing anyone else

Pre-flight preparation

No matter what class you’re seated in, preparation makes all the difference when travelling with children. Each of our kids had a backpack with snacks, books, their tablets and comfort items inside that were in easy reach to them throughout the flights. I also packed extra clothes, spare chargers and extra snacks in a shared family backpack. 

Request children’s meals in advance. Once onboard, the cabin crew will ask you when you’d like to feed your kids. We chose to feed them at a time that aligned with their usual routine, and allowed us to help them eat before we had our own meals. 

The Warner Bros. themed kids’ meals were a hit: nuggets, pasta, fruit, chocolate and juice. 

Honeyroar

If your DC are sensitive to noise, consider packing child-sized noise-cancelling headphones. The ones we were given by Etihad were standard headphones, and admittedly, a little too big for the boys but we managed.

(L) DC enjoying his pasta and on the (R), the chicken nuggets he also had

Finally, explain what’s going to happen before boarding so they know how to behave and what’s expected. We find this works well with our kids before going anywhere, to be honest. Setting clear expectations about space boundaries and voice levels certainly helped. 

Related: Best kids' luggage for travelling

Baggage benefits 

Ask any parent and they’ll surely agree - travelling with children means bringing everything but the kitchen sink with you. 

Thankfully, business class baggage allowances are generous and with Etihad, we had 30kg per person (120kg total for our family of four), plus cabin bags to play with. 

We also got priority baggage, which meant our suitcases arrived quickly after landing, minimising that post-flight wait time with tired children. This, I can imagine, would also be hugely appreciated for families waiting for pushchairs and/or car seats. 

The business and first class check-in area at Zayed International Airport is large and luxe

If you’re travelling with a baby or toddler, consider using part of your allowance for ready-made food and extra supplies if heading to destinations where familiar children's items are hard to find. Nappies, milk, fruit pouches and snacks, and so on. We’ve graduated from that phase with our two DC so admittedly, packing is a bit easier.

Breastfeeding and baby’s milk transportation in business

• Check airline policies before flying regarding breast milk transportation

• Most airlines have no specific in-flight breastfeeding rules, for instance Etihad Airways permits breastfeeding on flights regardless of class

• Some airlines offer privacy options (jump seats, curtained areas)

• Airlines typically don't store breast milk but will provide ice for cooling or hot water for warming

• Breast milk can be brought through airport security after being declared for inspection

• Most airlines like Etihad can provide bottled drinking water on board, which can be used to prepare baby milk

Check-in and security checks

At Manchester Airport: being able to use the business class check-in and fast-track security made a huge difference during our outbound journey. We had set off quite early from Leeds to travel to Manchester for our 9am flight, and so the kids were a little tired by the time we’d arrived. 

Obviously holding a business class ticket doesn’t protect you from those dreaded pat downs (poor DH’s shoes failed him this time), but all in all, the process was a lot smoother and the kids were helped by staff while DH and I were collecting our items. 

Last time we flew from Manchester, the kids were much younger, we were in economy and the security process was tedious. This time, it was a lot easier. 

(L) our Etihad chauffeurs dropping us off at Zayed International Airport, and (R) inside the check-in area

At Zayed International Airport: on the other side in Abu Dhabi, we were chauffeured from the hotel by Etihad’s own cars and checked in via a dedicated entrance for business and first class passengers. Staff were on hand to help us with our luggage from the car to the check-in desk. Security was separate too, and we went straight to the Etihad business lounge to seek the family room to kill time before our departure. 

Related: 8 ways to keep your kids entertained on a plane

Access to the business class lounges

Manchester’s T1 1903 Lounge: Admittedly, it wasn’t the most luxe, on the smaller scale but was perfectly functional for what we needed. The kids had snacks, plenty of plane-watching time (seeing the A380 at Manchester is always a novelty!), and enjoyed some quiet colouring time. Lounge staff notified us when to board so there was no rushing or clock-watching required on our part. 

Inside Manchester's 1903 lounge that's compact but does the job

Zayed International Airport’s Etihad Business Class Lounge: This new flagship lounge is massive, beautiful and very family-friendly. There’s a dedicated playroom, games room, showers, a buffet restaurant, snacks and drink stations, as well as ample seating, and of course - a bar. So during our time here before boarding, we let the kids burn off steam while we enjoyed some peace and a couple of drinks. 

The entrance to the Etihad business lounge at Zayed International Airport

Other standout business lounges for families include:

• Qatar Airways: Al Mourjan Lounge in Doha, Qatar: features games rooms, simulators, family areas

• Singapore Airlines: SilverKris Lounge in Changi, Singapore: family playroom, baby care rooms, ample seating and changing/shower facilities

• Emirates: Dubai International in Dubai, UAE: children’s play areas, computer games, toys, playhouses and even a trampoline playground

• Turkish Airlines: Turkish Airlines Lounge Business in Istanbul, Turkey: interactive play spaces (including a mock aircraft cabin), simulators, soft play, a mini-theatre and an impressive electric car racetrack and golf simulator 

Onboard tips and amenities for kids

When travelling early in the morning, we like to keep our kids in their PJs until we pass through security. It keeps them comfy and happy in the car en route to the airport and we’re not too bothered if they get them dirty. We got them dressed with ease in the lounge ready for the flight ahead. 

On our inbound journey, we found recreating the kids’ bedtime routine helped to settle them for a three hour sleep before landing (and manage the three hour time difference). We changed them into their PJs midflight and brought their favourite blankets and soft toys. 

Kids entertainment in business class

Entertainment-wise, Etihad gave both of them themed Warner Bros. backpacks that had a cape, crayons and a colouring book inside. On the way out they got Batman (which they were so happy about), and on the way back, Justice League. 

Both kids were kept entertained easily throughout each flight

Other airlines that do this well include: 

• Turkish Airlines: amenity kits, kids’ slippers, toothbrushes, toys

• Qatar Airways: baby kits, entertainment packs, pre-ordered kids’ meals

• Singapore Airlines: Dora packs, kids’ meals via Book the Cook

• Emirates: Take-home toys and bags that celebrate sport and creativity

Of course, beyond the freebies, kids also have access to the in-flight entertainment packages that offer hundreds of kid’s movies, TV shows and games. With Etihad, our eldest found navigating the onboard entertainment platform easy but our youngest needed a little help and usually opted for their tablet. 

Related: ERTH Abu Dhabi hotel review by a Mumsnet editor

Kids dining in business class

Dining-wise, the cabin crew were flexible with when we could eat as unlike economy, meals are not at set times. Our kids were fed first (on request - in fact, on suggestion from the cabin crew to be honest), and we waited until they were settled before eating ourselves. Which meant everyone was happily fed and uninterrupted. 

Most carriers also stock child-friendly snacks like fruit cups and sandwiches, which can be very handy to have to fend off those hangry moments between meals with kids. With Etihad, our DC had access to crisps, biscuits and a lot of apple juice on tap. 

I had ample room to relax, eat and also have DC sit with me for a little bit

Best airlines for business class with kids

Not all airlines offer business class products that serve families equally. Middle Eastern carriers generally excel from experience, and the likes of Singapore Airlines offer dedicated family services (despite being quite adult-focused). Among European carriers, Lufthansa and Swiss feature thoughtful family touches, while United's Polaris business class stands out among American carriers for family accommodation. 

Here are the airlines I feel are the best when it comes to travelling with kids in business:

1. Etihad: Fantastic all-round. From ground experience to in-flight service, Etihad makes families feel welcome.

2. Emirates: Offers great lounge access, kids’ meals, and travel packs.

3. Singapore Airlines: Great for food and entertainment, plus family lounges.

4. Qantas: Good baggage allowance, Joey Club lounges with toys and dress-up kits.

5. Qatar Airways: Top-notch service, lounges, and clever suite-style seating for privacy.

6. Turkish Airlines: Often more affordable but still delivers great facilities for kids.

Loyalty schemes to know about

Travelling in premium cabins like business can be more accessible when you join loyalty programs. 

For example, programs like British Airways Executive Club and Cathay Pacific's Asia Miles offer "household accounts" that pool family points. Etihad does this also, I’ve discovered, allowing you to add up to nine household members to your family account. On the other hand, other airlines, like Alaska Airlines, allow generous sharing of miles between family members.

Some credit cards also offer business class companion vouchers (like American Express Platinum and Delta Reserve cards), which can help you fly as a family together in business for less. 

Related: Best things to do in Abu Dhabi with kids

Dealing with negative passengers

IMO, children have every right to be in business class. But that’s not to say that everyone will see it this way. After all, some will be travelling for work while others may have saved for a special occasion, and the last thing they want is kids sat next to them. 

And as a parent, I totally get that. 

But, either way, by applying common sense and managing the expectations of younger travellers, there’s no reason why you can’t have a problem-free flight in business class. We managed it and found that Etihad’s cabin crew were very supportive and attentive. 

Flying business class with kids might raise eyebrows. Prepare, stay calm, and use cabin crew support when needed. We found everyone polite and the staff were incredibly attentive.

What Mumsnet users say

“I fly business long haul a lot with work. There are always kids; they are never an issue - they sleep, they watch iPads or play quietly. And the background hum of the plane drowns out most noise. I've been disrupted far more often by overweight businessmen snoring incredibly loudly right next to me. Would rather have a family next to me!” weaselish

“We are travelling in business class with our 3 year old tomorrow, only to Europe so not long haul. We’ve paid for her ticket the same as any one else so I don’t see the issue 🤷🏼‍♀️” berksandbeyond

About the author

Rebecca Roberts is a writer, editor, and content marketing expert hailing from Leeds. She spent six years living and working in Dubai so knows the UAE well. Here at Mumsnet, she commissions, writes, and edits to bring parents content designed to make life easier. As a mum of two herself, she knows all too well how difficult travelling with kids can be. Whether it’s within the UK or abroad, she’s on a quest to find only the best and most family-friendly locations, with the help of Mumsnet user recommendations. 

Beyond her role as an editor here at Mumsnet, Rebecca can be found balancing life as a working mum of two toddlers and when she’s not at her desk, you’ll likely find her at a local playgroup, in a nearby coffee shop, or walking the dog up and down country lanes.

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