China Southern Airlines infant check-in:How do I check in an infant when flying with China Southern Airlines?
Q: How do I check in an infant when flying with China Southern Airlines?
A: Infants under 2 years old traveling with China Southern Airlines must be accompanied by an adult and added to the adult's ticket at booking. At check-in, bring the infant's birth certificate or passport plus the adult's travel documents to the counter. Online check-in is generally unavailable for infants, so arrive at the airport early—about 2 hours before domestic flights—to complete the process. Staff will issue a boarding pass for the infant and confirm the infant fare (usually 10% of the adult fare). Bassinets can be requested in advance for long-haul flights.
Q: What documents are required for infant check-in on China Southern Airlines?
A: For infant check-in with China Southern Airlines, you need the infant's valid travel document—usually a birth certificate for domestic flights or a passport with any required visa for international flights—alongside the accompanying adult's ID or passport and ticket. The infant must already be listed on the adult's booking; if not, contact the airline before arriving at the airport. Staff will verify the infant's age to confirm eligibility (under 2 years). Photocopies are generally not accepted, so bring originals. For international routes, check visa and entry requirements for the infant as well.
Q: Can I check in an infant online with China Southern Airlines?
A: China Southern Airlines typically does not allow online or mobile check-in for infants. Infants must be checked in at the airport counter so staff can verify the infant's identity documents, age, and booking details. The accompanying adult may be able to check in online separately, but the infant's boarding pass will be issued at the counter. Because counter queues can be long, arrive early—at least 2 hours before domestic departures and 3 hours before international departures. You can also use self-service kiosks for the adult, but final infant processing requires the staffed counter.
Q: What is the baggage allowance for an infant on China Southern Airlines?
A: On China Southern Airlines, an infant (under 2 years) not occupying a seat generally receives a checked baggage allowance of one piece up to 10 kg on many international routes, while domestic allowances may differ—confirm at booking. A fully collapsible stroller and a child car seat can usually be checked free of charge. Infants are often entitled to one small cabin bag for essentials, subject to space and safety rules. Liquid baby food and formula needed during the flight are permitted through security within reasonable quantities. Policies vary by route and fare class, so verify with the airline before travel.
Q: What should I know about bassinets and seat arrangements for infants on China Southern Airlines?
A: China Southern Airlines provides bassinets on many wide-body aircraft for infants, but they must be reserved in advance and are subject to availability and the infant's weight/height limits. Bassinets attach to bulkhead positions, so request these seats when booking or by calling the airline. Infants under 2 may travel on an adult's lap, or you can purchase a separate seat and use an approved child restraint. For long-haul flights, reserve early and confirm at check-in. Staff can help with boarding priority for families, and strollers are usually gate-checked and returned at the arrival gate.
Words of experience
Common scenarios of "China Southern Airlines infant check-in"
【Parent】 Hi, I'm flying with China Southern Airlines next week and I'll be traveling with my 6-month-old baby. Can you tell me what I need to know about infant check-in?
【Agent】 Hello! Congratulations on your little one. For China Southern Airlines, an infant is considered under 2 years old. You'll need to book an infant ticket, which is usually 10% of the adult fare. Do you already have a ticket for your baby?
【Parent】 Yes, I booked the infant ticket when I purchased my own. But I'm not sure what documents I need to bring for check-in.
【Agent】 You'll need the baby's birth certificate or household registration booklet (hukou) for domestic flights. For international flights, a passport and visa if required. Also, bring the infant ticket confirmation. Make sure the name on the ticket matches the document exactly.
【Parent】 Got it. Can I check in online with an infant, or do I have to go to the counter?
【Agent】 For China Southern Airlines, online check-in is not available for passengers traveling with infants. You'll need to check in at the airport counter. We recommend arriving at least 2 hours before departure for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights.
【Parent】 That's good to know. What about baggage allowance for the baby? Can I bring a stroller and a car seat?
【Agent】 Infants typically have a 10kg checked baggage allowance, and you can check one stroller or car seat free of charge. You can also bring a diaper bag as carry-on, but it must fit within the carry-on size limits. Battery-operated strollers may have restrictions, so check with the airline.
【Parent】 Thanks. Is there a bassinet available on the flight? My baby is small, and it would be helpful.
【Agent】 Yes, China Southern Airlines offers bassinets on many long-haul flights, but they are limited and need to be reserved in advance. They are usually available for infants up to 10-12 months old and weighing less than 10-12 kg. I recommend calling the airline as soon as possible to request one.
【Parent】 I'll do that. What about food and formula? Can I bring baby formula and baby food through security?
【Agent】 Yes, you can bring baby formula, breast milk, and baby food in reasonable quantities for the flight. They are exempt from the 100ml liquid restriction, but you may need to declare them at security. It's a good idea to pack them separately for easy inspection.
【Parent】 Okay. And can I pre-board with the baby?
【Agent】 Yes, China Southern Airlines usually allows passengers traveling with infants to board first. Just listen for the pre-boarding announcement or ask the gate agent.
【Parent】 What about seating? Should I request a seat with a bassinet or an aisle seat?
【Agent】 If you have a bassinet reserved, you'll be seated in the bulkhead row where the bassinet attaches. Otherwise, an aisle seat can be convenient for moving around with the baby. When you check in, ask the agent if there are any seats with more space available.
【Parent】 Are there any fees for checking in an infant at the airport?
【Agent】 No, there are no additional check-in fees for infants. However, if you need to change the infant ticket or add services, there might be fees. It's best to confirm with the airline directly.
【Parent】 What if my baby needs a diaper change during the flight? Are there changing facilities on board?
【Agent】 Most China Southern Airlines aircraft have changing tables in at least one lavatory. It's a good idea to check with the cabin crew when you board to find out which lavatory has the changing facility.
【Parent】 Great. One more thing: do I need to bring a car seat for the flight? Can I use it on board?
【Agent】 You can bring a car seat, but it must be approved for aircraft use (look for a label indicating it meets FAA or equivalent standards). Whether you can use it on board depends on the aircraft and seat size. You'll need to purchase a separate seat for your baby if you want to use the car seat on board. Otherwise, you can check it as baggage.
【Parent】 I see. So if I don't buy a separate seat, my baby will be on my lap the whole flight?
【Agent】 Yes, infants under 2 years old can travel on an adult's lap. However, for safety, some airlines offer a special infant seat belt that attaches to yours. China Southern Airlines provides these, so ask the cabin crew when you board.
【Parent】 Okay. What about priority boarding and security? Is there a family lane?
【Agent】 Many airports have family lanes at security, and China Southern Airlines often offers priority boarding for families with infants. Just ask the staff at the airport for assistance.
【Parent】 Thank you. I think I have all the information I need. I'll call to reserve a bassinet and confirm the documents.
【Agent】 You're welcome! Have a safe and pleasant flight with your baby. If you have any more questions, feel free to contact China Southern Airlines customer service.
