Everts Air Cargo connects remote Alaskan communities with essential passenger and freight service, flying rugged routes in places like Fairbanks, Anchorage, and the North Slope. These flights often use DC-3s, C-23 Sherpas, or other workhorse aircraft built for tough conditions. Traveling with babies or young children on such routes requires careful planning—the Everts Air Infant Policy follows standard FAA and industry guidelines while adapting to the realities of small-plane operations in Alaska. The policy prioritizes safety, limited cabin space, and the unique challenges of cold-weather travel. In early 2026, rules remain straightforward but emphasize advance coordination due to aircraft size and seasonal weather.

Defining Infants and Children: Age Limits

Infants are defined as children under two years old (under 24 months) at the time of travel. Babies younger than 7 days old are generally not permitted to fly unless accompanied by a medical release from a physician. This seven-day minimum aligns with FAA recommendations and protects very young newborns from cabin pressure changes.

Children between two and twelve years old count as standard child passengers and require their own paid seat. Anyone two years or older must occupy a seat—lap travel is not allowed past the second birthday, even if the child turns two mid-trip.

Proof of age (birth certificate, passport, or hospital record) may be requested at check-in, especially near the two-year cutoff or on international segments involving Canada.

Lap Infant Travel Rules

On most Everts Air passenger flights, one infant under two years old may travel free as a lap child on an adult’s lap. Only one lap infant per adult is permitted—families with twins or multiple infants under two need additional adults or paid seats for the extras.

The adult must hold the infant securely during takeoff, landing, and turbulence. No supplementary infant loop belt is typically provided on these smaller aircraft, so parents should practice a firm, protective hold.

Lap infants do not receive their own seatbelt; sharing the adult’s belt is not allowed. The adult’s seatbelt secures only the adult, while the infant remains in arms.

For safety reasons, lap infants are not permitted in exit rows or seats without armrests that can be raised.

Purchasing a Seat for the Infant

Parents can purchase a seat for an infant under two at the full child fare (often the same as adult fare or slightly discounted). Buying a seat allows the use of an FAA-approved child restraint system (car seat) during the flight.

The car seat must be labeled “approved for aircraft use” and fit the aircraft seat width (typically 17–18 inches on Everts’ aircraft). Rear-facing for infants under one year, forward-facing for older toddlers. Installation follows FAA guidelines—rear-facing seats go against the direction of flight.

When a seat is purchased, the infant receives the same baggage allowance as an adult passenger, including carry-on and checked options.

Baggage Allowances for Infants and Baby Gear

Everts Air permits gate-checking of strollers, car seats, and diaper bags at no charge. These items do not count against the standard baggage allowance.

Strollers and car seats are gate-checked and returned planeside upon arrival—handy for navigating small terminals and boarding stairs. Diaper bags qualify as an extra personal item in most cases, allowing parents to carry essentials onboard.

Formula, breast milk, and baby food follow TSA liquid rules but receive special screening—ice packs and gel packs are permitted if frozen. Medications and medical devices get priority handling.

No free checked bag is automatically included for lap infants, but the gate-check exemptions cover most family needs on short flights.

Car Seat and Child Restraint Guidelines

Bringing a car seat onboard is encouraged when a seat is purchased. The restraint must be installed correctly and cannot block the aisle or protrude into adjacent seats.

If no seat is purchased for the infant, the car seat cannot be used in the cabin—parents must gate-check it. On less-full flights, crew sometimes allow use in an empty seat, but this is not guaranteed and depends on the captain’s discretion.

No booster seats or harness devices are permitted unless FAA-approved for aircraft use. Forward-facing car seats require the child to be at least one year old and 20 pounds.

Onboard Comfort and Safety Tips for Young Children

Short flight times (often 30–90 minutes) reduce the need for extensive in-flight entertainment, but ear pressure during descent can bother young ears. Encourage swallowing (nursing, bottle, pacifier, or snacks) during climb and descent.

Bring extra clothes, diapers, wipes, and a change of outfit for both child and parent—spills happen, especially on bumpy regional flights.

Lavatories on Everts aircraft are very small or nonexistent on some types—plan diaper changes before boarding.

Crew members are accustomed to families in remote areas and will assist where possible, but space limits what can be accommodated.

Documentation and Special Requirements

Carry proof of age for children near the two-year threshold—birth certificates or passports are best. Agents may ask to verify lap infant eligibility.

For international segments (rare on Everts but possible to Canada), infants need passports and may require visas depending on nationality.

Medical clearance may be needed for premature infants or those with health conditions—contact reservations at least 48 hours in advance.

Practical Advice for Families Flying Everts Air

Book early—small aircraft fill quickly, and seat assignments are limited. Request adjacent seats when reserving.

Arrive early at smaller airports—ground handling is limited, and check-in closes 30–45 minutes before departure.

Pack light but prepared—regional weather can delay flights, so bring enough supplies for extended waits.

Consider purchasing a seat for the infant on longer segments or during busy seasons—extra space and car seat use make a difference.

Overall: Family-Friendly Aspects of the Policy

The Everts Air Infant Policy balances safety with practicality for remote Alaskan travel. Free lap infant travel on domestic segments, no fees for strollers/car seats, and flexible car seat options support families. Short flight durations and small cabins limit some conveniences, but the policy accommodates essential community travel needs.

Always confirm current details directly with Everts Air reservations when booking—weather, aircraft type, and route-specific rules can influence application. Safe travels—Alaska’s remote beauty is worth the journey, even with little ones along.