Etihad Stroller Policy: Rules, Gate Check And Infant Travel Guide

Discover the complete Etihad stroller policy including gate check rules, size limits, and tips for parents flying with infants or toddlers on Etihad Airways.

Jul 4, 2025 - 10:57
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Etihad Stroller Policy: Rules, Gate Check And Infant Travel Guide
Etihad stroller policy

Traveling with children can be challenging, especially for parents flying with infants. At Etihad Airways, the Etihad stroller policy is thoughtfully designed to provide maximum comfort and convenience for families. Whether you're checking a stroller, bringing it onboard, or using a collapsible one through the airport, it's essential to understand every detail before your journey begins. In this comprehensive guide, we break down the Etihad Airways stroller policy to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

Understanding the Etihad Stroller Policy

The Etihad Airways stroller policy allows families to carry strollers for infants and toddlers without additional cost. Etihad considers strollers as an essential item for families, and hence, they do not count against your Etihad infant baggage allowance when traveling with an infant. You can either check in the stroller or bring a small collapsible one up to the aircraft door, depending on your convenience and destination.

Bringing a Stroller to the Aircraft Gate

Etihad permits passengers traveling with infants to bring a compact, fully collapsible stroller to the aircraft gate. This flexibility is especially beneficial for parents who wish to use the stroller throughout the airport. Upon boarding, the stroller will be taken by ground staff and stored in the cargo hold, then returned to you either at the aircraft door upon landing or at the baggage claim area—depending on the airport’s policy.

Please note that this option is subject to space availability and airport security guidelines. It's advisable to confirm with the ground staff during check-in to ensure a seamless boarding experience under the Etihad stroller policy.

Checking in a Stroller

If you prefer to check in the stroller along with your baggage, you can do so free of charge. The Etihad stroller policy allows one stroller per infant, and it doesn’t count towards your checked baggage allowance. This is ideal for larger strollers or those that aren't easily collapsible.

When checking in the stroller:

  • Label it clearly with your name and contact details.

  • Use a stroller bag or protective cover to prevent damage.

  • Ensure it’s securely packed with no loose items inside.

This approach is commonly chosen by families with older toddlers or when connecting flights make gate strollers less practical.

Use of Strollers During Layovers and Connections

For long-haul flights involving layovers in Abu Dhabi or other transit airports, the Etihad stroller policy may allow access to your stroller during the layover. However, availability is subject to airport ground handling procedures. In many cases, Etihad provides complimentary airport strollers at Abu Dhabi International Airport for families in transit, which helps parents navigate terminals comfortably.

Passengers are encouraged to confirm stroller availability during check-in or with ground staff upon arrival.

Carry-On Alternatives for Infants

While strollers offer convenience, the Etihad stroller policy also encourages the use of baby carriers or slings onboard, particularly on fully booked flights where cabin space is limited. Parents may bring a baby sling or soft carrier onboard in addition to their carry-on luggage. This allows more mobility inside the aircraft and helps soothe infants during the journey.

Additionally, Etihad provides onboard bassinets for infants on long-haul routes, which must be pre-booked and are subject to availability.

Size and Weight Guidelines for Cabin-Approved Strollers

Although Etihad does not currently allow strollers to be used inside the cabin, certain lightweight and compact designs may be allowed up to the aircraft door. The Etihad stroller policy does not explicitly set size limits for these, but to avoid inconvenience, consider strollers that:

  • Weigh less than 7 kg (15.4 lbs)

  • Fold into compact dimensions (ideally carry-on size: approx. 55 x 35 x 25 cm)

Always double-check with Etihad’s customer service or airport staff prior to your travel date to confirm your specific stroller model’s eligibility.

Traveling with Car Seats Alongside Strollers

Etihad Airways allows car seats in addition to strollers when flying with infants who occupy their own seats. As part of the Etihad stroller policy, car seats must meet international safety standards and be approved for aircraft use. Both strollers and car seats are accepted as essential infant items and are carried free of charge.

To ensure smooth processing:

  • Inform Etihad in advance if you intend to bring both.

  • Use approved car seat brands with visible FAA or ECE R44/04 certification.

  • Check whether your fare class includes seat selection to secure a window seat, where car seats are often accommodated best.

Tips for Maximizing Your Travel Comfort with the Etihad Stroller Policy

Here are practical suggestions for families flying with Etihad:

  1. Contact Etihad in advance to register your stroller and confirm specific guidelines for your route.

  2. Label your stroller clearly to avoid delays during collection.

  3. Bring a sling or baby carrier as backup in case your stroller is checked at the gate.

  4. Opt for compact, umbrella-style strollers that fold quickly and occupy less space.

  5. Request priority boarding to manage your stroller and child with more time and space.

  6. Use protective covers or bags for strollers during check-in to avoid damage.

These steps will enhance your overall travel experience and ensure that the Etihad stroller policy works in your favor.

Conclusion

Etihad Airways thoughtful approach to infant travel ensures that families can fly in comfort and confidence. With its flexible and cost-free stroller regulations, the Etihad stroller policy stands out as one of the most accommodating among global airlines. By understanding your rights and preparing accordingly, you can make the most of this policy on every journey.

If you're traveling with infants or toddlers, knowing the ins and outs of the Etihad Airways stroller policy will allow you to plan your trip better, navigate the airport with ease, and ensure your child’s comfort from check-in to landing.

rickjones I am Rick Jones and our website provides the latest information on airlines, flights, and airport services worldwide. Stay informed with real-time airline updates on schedules, terminals, and policies. Our platform ensures travelers get accurate and timely details. Explore airline reviews, baggage rules, and travel tips effortlessly. Trust Airlines-Updates website for seamless and stress-free air travel insights.