Press Release

Crying Babies on Planes

February 19, 2008

The survey was conducted by online travel marketplace totaltravel.com and asked 'Should there be a separate area for parents with babies or toddlers on overseas flights.'

An overwhelming 81 per cent of Aussie travellers surveyed (1989 people) voted for a separate area, stating that babies crying non-stop for 12-hours was not their idea of fun.

Three per cent (83 people) voted that babies didn't belong on planes at all.

The remaining 16 per cent of voters (385 people) voted in the negative, stating that everyone should be treated equally.

totaltravel.com global marketing manager Paul Fisher said the results confirmed air travellers had low tolerance for noise and other distractions.

He suggested that parents contact their chosen airline prior to departure to determine what onboard entertainment was available for their children.

"Airlines usually have a range of games and activities to keep young travellers amused and occupied for lengthy periods of time," Mr Fisher said.

"Parents can also bring their child's favourite soft toys, games or food."

Meanwhile, other passengers could bring an mp3 player or earphones to block out any loud noises, he said.

Although the idea of a separate area for parents with babies was a popular one, Mr Fisher said it was unlikely to become reality.

"Unless parents campaign for their own separate area, I think everyone will be sharing cabin space for some time to come," he said.

A total of 2457 people responded to the survey over a period of four weeks.

ENDS

Media enquires:
Paul Fisher
Global Marketing Manager
totaltravel.com
Phone +61 (0)2 6680-8755
Mobile 0404 057 367

About totaltravel.com
totaltravel.com was established in 2002 and is Australia’s leading online travel marketplace for travellers and travel suppliers. Travellers can research destinations, read the opinions of other travellers, find travel offers and then deal directly with travel suppliers to save money.