We’ve all experienced it: settling into a long flight only to be disturbed by a loud child or constant seat-kicking from behind. While some parents manage their children effectively, others struggle, leading to discomfort for fellow passengers.
Recently, an airline introduced a kids-free zone on their planes, but many travelers believe more should be done, possibly even considering adults-only flights.
During a recent flight with the lights dimmed for rest, a child in a flashing bunny onesie transformed the cabin into something resembling a dance club. The video, shared on social media, shows the child peeking over a seat and smiling, while the adult next to him, presumably his father, does nothing.
This incident, which went viral on Instagram, reignited debates about adults-only flights and sparked outrage over both the child’s actions and the accompanying adult’s inaction.
@malecastellonn♬ original sound – Vanessa Sirias
Many took to social media to voice their concerns. One user commented, “Parents need to be told that the whole world doesn’t have to tolerate their children.” Another even joked about wanting to open the plane’s emergency door for a breather. Among the concerns raised, some highlighted the potential health risks, like triggering seizures in those with photosensitivity. A flight attendant also weighed in, urging passengers to think of others. They reminded travelers about the diverse needs of fellow passengers, emphasizing the importance of considering those with sensitivities and disabilities, especially in the confined space of an airplane.
Morgan Lee, a 24-year-old from Florida, went viral last year when she posted a TikTok video of her grueling three-hour flight experience with a continuously screaming child. The video, which garnered 1.2 million likes, had Morgan advocating for adults-only flights. She captioned the clip with, “Why isn’t there such a thing as adults only flights? I would pay SO much money.” Detailing her ordeal, she mentioned, “The flight was three hours and I listened to this the entire time. “I have noise cancelling headphones, the child was well over five years old, and they sat directly behind me while kicking my chair as the mother slept.”
Morgan Lee’s TikTok video about her flight ordeal drew varied reactions online. While many rallied behind her desire for kid-free flights, some criticized her strongly, labeling her “disgusting” and a “cretin” for her lack of patience with a disruptive child. One user pointed out the anxiety parents feel when going out, stating, “And this is why people/parents/mums have anxiety when leaving the house. Because no grace is given.” Another user sarcastically commented, “Poor you. My heart goes out to you and the amount of hours you endured another human’s cries. I hope you’re better now.” However, not all parents were against Lee’s sentiment. A mom commented in agreement, saying, “as a mom, I want an adult only flight too.”
Responding to increasing calls for child-free flight experiences, Turkish-owned Corendon Airlines is introducing a child-free zone for passengers aged 16 and above, aiming to provide a quieter flight experience. Known for managing adults-only hotels in destinations such as Curaçao, Bodrum, and Ibiza, Corendon will roll out this option on their flights starting November, albeit for an added fee.
However, some frequent flyers feel that a separate section is insufficient. One traveler remarked, “Don’t see the point, where ever you sit you’ll hear a child crying/screaming. Only thing that would work is separate flights, one for families and one for people without kids.” Another suggested that the extra charges should be levied on parents instead of solo adult travelers.
@mooorganic The flight was 3 hours and I listened to this the entire time #travel ♬ original sound – Mo
“They should be putting a separate section for ‘Passenger with Children’ and let them pay extra charges not the other way around, besides [it’s] about time for them to pay the inconvenience they’ve been causing to other passengers.”
Corendon Airlines is earmarking a forward cabin space with 102 seats as a child-free zone, a first for a European carrier. This comes after several Asian airlines like Malaysia Airlines, Scoot, Air Asia X, and IndiGo had already designated specific areas for families with children. The move acknowledges the challenges both children and their parents can face during flights, alongside the discomfort it may cause other passengers.
Flying can be bewildering for youngsters, and while some argue that parents could explore alternative travel options, others believe a little understanding goes a long way. Yet, it’s clear that not everyone has the tolerance for unruly kids, with some passengers even citing adverse health impacts due to excessive noise. This new venture by Corendon aims to create a more pleasant flying experience for those who prefer tranquility.
What are your thoughts on children-free zones in flights? Would such a zone be enough to ensure a peaceful journey? Share this story, and let’s broaden the discussion regarding kids on planes!
