Why Babies Cry on Airplanes and What You Can Do About It

Baby and Mother on an Airplane

Key Takeaways:

• Ear pressure changes are the top cause of in-flight crying in babies.
  
  

• Gas buildup and dry cabin air also cause major discomfort.
  
  

• Feeding, burping, and nasal spray can ease these physical stresses.
  
  

• Overstimulation and emotional stress contribute too—babies thrive on routine.
  
  

• Calm, attuned parenting makes a real difference, even if the crying continues.
  
  

• Compassion from other passengers helps everyone have a better flight.
  
  

Why Do Babies Cry on Planes?

Flying can be a tough experience for many individuals, especially babies. Unlike adults or young children, they don’t have the capacity to express discomfort. The most common reason for crying is ear pressure during takeoff and landing. According to Brian Clark, a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist:

“Their eustachian tubes are still immature and narrow. This makes it harder for them to adjust during altitude shifts, leading to painful pressure buildup.”

Swallowing helps open those tubes, which is why feeding during ascent or descent helps relieve discomfort.

Clark also explains that gas buildup during flight can cause abdominal cramping and general discomfort around the mid section:

“The drop in cabin pressure causes air trapped in the intestines to expand. Burping your baby regularly—especially after feeding—helps release this trapped air.”

Another often overlooked issue is dry cabin air. Babies breathe only through their noses in their first months. Low humidity can dry out their nasal passages, making breathing uncomfortable; many even experience a bloody nose. Clark recommends a simple fix:

“Using a sterile saline nasal spray before takeoff helps keep their nose moist and reduces nasal blockage.”

Emotional & Sensory Triggers

It’s not just physical. According to Anat Joseph, LCSW and Psychoanalyst:

“Other triggers include overstimulation, fatigue, hunger, or simply being in an unfamiliar environment that feels overwhelming.”

In other words: your baby isn’t misbehaving—they’re doing their best to cope with an overwhelming environment.

5 Things to Try if Your Child is Crying on an Airplane

Here are some evidence-based, parent-tested tips to make flying smoother:

1. Feed During Takeoff and Landing

Whether nursing or using a bottle, feeding helps your baby swallow and equalize ear pressure. Pacifiers help too.

2. Burp Regularly

Do this after feedings and mid-flight to prevent uncomfortable gas buildup.

3. Use a Saline Nasal Spray

A few drops before takeoff can reduce dryness and nasal discomfort.

4. Bring Comfort Items

Familiar blankets, toys, or pacifiers create a sense of routine and calm.

5. Stay Calm Yourself

Babies tune into your emotional cues. If you stay calm, your baby is more likely to settle.

6. Walk the Aisle

If safe, gently rocking or walking your baby can help soothe them.

Should You Be Annoyed by Crying Babies?

The reality is, when using communal amenities, it can be normal to experience disturbance by peers. Although it can be annoying, it is important to be compassionate to those who are handling a crying baby on board. Crying on a flight isn’t a parenting failure, it’s normal. As Joseph puts it:

“A calm, attuned response can go a long way in soothing your child, even if the crying doesn’t stop right away. Compassion—for both your baby and yourself is key.”

So next time you hear a baby crying midair, remember: this is a moment for empathy, as it can take a community to help parents in our society.

Expert Contributors:

• Anat Joseph, LCSW – Psychoanalyst in NY/NJ. Specializes in child development, trauma, and anxiety. mypsychotherapy.org
  

• Brian Clark, BSN, MSNA – Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist and Founder, United Medical Education. acls-pals-bls.com