Why Ban Children From First Class

The thirteen years I spent in the airline industry allowed me to enjoy flying first class on not only domestic flights but also international flights. The roomy seats, free drinks, meals or snacks served in the first class section coupled with the serene environment makes for an enjoyable trip. Throw an unruly child in the mix and one can feel the tensions rising throughout the first class compartment.

Having only paid a fraction of the cost for premium first class seats as an airline employee flying I still experience the same amount of irritation from a crying or annoying child sitting in the first class compartment as those air travelers who paid full price for the privilege of sitting there also.

My Experience

As a parent who raised three children, I am aware how grouchy and irritated children can become when traveling. Air travel can cause discomfort from air pressure building up in young ones ears. Travel can also contribute to stomach discomforts from irregular eating schedules and unhealthy foods. Children seldom listen to reason when asked to sit back and be quiet if they are tired or are feeling antsy. There are times when it may take more than a few whispers to quiet the child down and this can almost be impossible to accomplish with a crying baby. Why should a air traveler who has paid for a first class ticket be subjected to an unruly child’s actions especially if they aren’t accustomed to the behavior of little children?

Yes, I believe children should not sit in first class. After all, there is another section of the plane to accompany families. I would never think of having my children when younger, or my grandchildren when traveling now, to sit in first class on an airplane. First class should be reserved as a “privilege” whether you can afford to pay for a first class seat or you unexpectedly receive a “comp” upgrade at check-in. The thought of sitting in a first class seat brings to mind flying in luxury, a small slice of paradise in the air. Imagine it is you who is reclining in an oversize seat, after enjoying a cold libation, slowly drifting into sleep when suddenly you are awakened by the screech of an unhappy child.

You get the picture. And so I vote with the airline banning children seated in first class for air travel. My vote is Yes! No children in first class!