Flying to Malaysia with a baby: Malaysia Airlines bassinet and infant rules explained
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In this guide
A 13-hour flight with a baby is very doable with the right preparation. This guide walks through the order to do things in, using Malaysia Airlines' published infant rules. They can change, so confirm your own booking details with the airline.
Who counts as an infant
On Malaysia Airlines an infant is a child under two years old on the whole journey, outbound and return. If your baby turns two before the return flight, you need a child seat for that leg. Each adult can normally travel with one infant on their lap.
Bassinets: size limits and where they are
Bassinets are available for infants, subject to the aircraft and cabin. As a guide, the limits are about 24 months, up to 11 kg and up to 70 cm in length, and the baby cannot be in the bassinet during takeoff, landing or turbulence. They cannot be fitted in emergency exit rows, and you cannot bring your own. On the newer aircraft types bassinets can be offered at no charge, including in standard seats, while some configurations only offer bassinets in extra-legroom seats. Ask when you book.
Baby food, milk and meals
You can normally request baby or child meals when you book, and the airline asks for the request at least 24 hours before departure. Powdered formula, baby food and milk for the journey are allowed through security as essentials, but be ready for them to be checked and keep them accessible.
Baggage for babies
Infant baggage allowances and pushchair rules differ by fare and route. Check your booking, because fare brands such as basic and flex have different weights. Many airlines let you check in a pushchair or car seat at no extra charge, but confirm this.
Practical tips from the planning side
- Choose an evening departure so the flight overlaps with night-time sleep.
- Feed or offer a bottle at takeoff and landing to help ears.
- Pack a change of clothes for you as well as your baby.
- Ask cabin crew to warm milk or bottles.
- Keep the arrival card details for each child ready (see the arrival card guide).
Frequently asked questions
At what age does a baby need their own seat on Malaysia Airlines?
Children aged two or over need their own seat. A baby under two for the whole journey can travel as a lap infant.
Is the bassinet free on Malaysia Airlines?
On some aircraft and seats bassinets are free, while other configurations only offer them in extra-legroom seats. Confirm when you book.
Can I bring baby milk and food on a flight to Malaysia?
Yes, infant milk and food for the journey are allowed, but you may be asked to show or test them at security.
What is the weight limit for a bassinet?
As a guide up to about 11 kg and 70 cm in length, but check the airline for the latest limits.
