If you’re a frequent flyer, you’ve probably experienced the unmistakable sound of a baby crying through the cabin, reminding you that you’re trapped in a metal tube at 30,000 feet. For many passengers, that noise is the worst addition to their flight.
The wail seems to always hit at the worst time, when you’re trying to relax with a movie or sleep. On long-haul flights, hours of non-stop crying can feel like a lifetime. If only passengers had the power to pick their seat away from a crying baby before they even board. Japan Airlines might just have made that dream a reality.
The Genius Behind the "Baby Map"
Image via Wikimedia Commons/Anna Zvereva from Tallinn, Estonia
Japan Airlines (JAL) has introduced a new feature on its booking system that’s catching attention. It’s a “baby map” that shows exactly where infants are seated on your flight. You’ll know exactly which seats are claimed by babies under the age of two. Each baby is marked with an unmistakable icon, so you can steer clear if you want a quieter journey.
This is a game-changer for those who want a little peace. And for parents flying with babies, it’s a win too. The map not only gives you a heads-up about where other babies are, but it also shows where you’re least likely to disturb other passengers. It’s a simple solution to one of the most annoying issues in air travel.
Japan Airlines Isn’t Alone in This Trend
It turns out that Japan Airlines isn’t the only airline that has tackled the issue of flying with children. AirAsia X, for instance, introduced a "quiet zone" in 2017 to make sure that no one under the age of 10 could sit in eight specific rows. Similarly, Air New Zealand and Qantas also display bassinets on seat maps to help parents choose the best seats for their little ones and give other passengers a heads-up.
These changes reflect a growing trend in the airline industry: making flying more comfortable for everyone, not just parents.
Will Other Airlines Follow Suit?
Image via Wikimedia Commons/Marek Ślusarczyk
Will other airlines adopt this kind of “baby map” feature? And if so, will they take it a step further? After all, JAL’s tool is still a relatively new feature, and it may not be perfect just yet. The airline admits that the child icons may not always show up correctly, especially in the case of last-minute flight changes or if the ticket is booked through third-party sites. But despite these minor glitches, it’s a step in the right direction.