Airlines Prohibit Young Passengers Below 8 Years in First Class on Reward Journeys from Emirates

In a move that may spark debate among travelers, Emirates, the Dubai-based major airline, has tightened access to its most premium cabin by banning children under 8 from flying first class on award tickets. This change is a reminder for families using Skywards miles to stay flexible and consider alternatives like business class or cash bookings for first class seats for children.

The policy change, which applies to Emirates' Skywards program, has been introduced to make the first class experience increasingly exclusive. It's unusual for airlines to have a set rule excluding kids from first-class award seats, but Emirates has limited these seats to elite Skywards members.

The policy change may be seen as a way to keep the first class experience focused on adult travelers. However, it could potentially be a significant inconvenience for families planning award trips. Acting early could help families secure first class seats before the new child restriction is fully enforced.

It's advisable for families planning award trips to plan ahead in light of this policy change. Cash bookings for first class seats for children are still allowed, but award bookings will now be restricted. It's advisable to plan award bookings well in advance and monitor the Skywards system closely.

The policy change has not yet fully appeared in the booking system, but is expected to be rolled out soon. The move only affects award tickets for Emirates flights, and it's worth noting that Singapore Airlines, for example, is likely to have no rule excluding children under 8 years from first-class award seats.

This policy change was flagged by One Mile at a Time, and it serves as a reminder for families to be aware of the evolving travel policies when planning their trips. Emirates continues to make its first class experience increasingly exclusive, a trend that is likely to continue in the future.