A mother traveling with her infant and young child has sparked controversy online after she criticized Delta Air Lines for not providing her with enough room, despite not having purchased a separate seat for her baby.
Mary Skoglund shared a widely circulated photo that depicted her and the two children in the cramped economy row. In her post, she mentioned the challenges of the 12-hour flight back to the U.S., expressing frustration about the lack of space.
It’s not clear where her family was flying from or if she had tickets for both children, but she did seemingly purchase seats for herself and her older child.
Many users on social media reacted to her situation, with opinions sharply divided. Some criticized her for not planning better, suggesting she assumed she could secure an extra seat just for her infant. One user remarked, “I’m really grateful my mother always got the right number of seats for everyone traveling.”
Others echoed that sentiment, with comments like, “What part of SOLD OUT didn’t you understand?” and critiques about her expecting a free seat for her baby.
However, not everyone was quick to judge. Some defended her by noting that she likely did not purchase a separate seat under Delta’s policy, which allows children under two to fly for free or at a discounted rate if they sit on an adult’s lap.
Supporters provided insights like, “Every child under three can fly for free. Don’t act like you’re superior because you grew up differently.” Another commenter added more context, stating that she indeed purchased the correct number of seats: one for her and one for the toddler, saying, “The airline wouldn’t allow that child to fly without a seat!”
Some expressed skepticism over the airline’s policies, questioning what’s wrong with asking for a complimentary seat for a baby when airlines generate substantial profits.
According to airline policy, Delta allows infants under two to travel free on domestic flights or at reduced fares on international flights. Parents can also buy a separate ticket to have an FAA-approved child safety seat or harness. However, regulations limit passengers to one infant per adult, necessitating that any additional children have their own seats.
Delta Air Lines has yet to comment on the situation.
