British Airways (BA), which runs a special sale until April 10, is offering discounted fares across all cabins from Jeddah and Riyadh to London and the rest of Europe, and North America with travel valid until Nov. 30.

Paolo De Renzis, BA’s head for MEA and Central Asia sales, who has been flying with his three children since they were very young, says being in a confined space with a noisy youngster can be awkward for parents and disturbing to fellow flyers.

“Often you can avoid this with just a bit of planning and taking a few simple steps to ensure your child is as relaxed, occupied and comfortable as possible,” he said.

“Most children are naturally quite excited about flying. The trick is to harness that interest, without them getting over-excited, while ensuring they don’t become fretful in an unfamiliar environment,” says Paolo.

He suggests the following to ease travel: “A happy flight starts online before you leave for the airport. Sites have comprehensive details of paperwork required for traveling with minors, so you can plan ahead. You can also order children’s meals online, better still get them to help you. You can also reserve equipment such as bassinets for infants.

“There’s plenty of information about family travel. Take advantage of all the concessions offered to families, such as being allowed to take strollers to the door of the aircraft when boarding. Families also get priority when boarding and you can wait until other passengers have disembarked before doing so with your family.

“Understand air-pressure: The pressurization in passenger aircraft is likely to be your child’s main source of discomfort.

“Most parents have a good idea of which foods make their kids overactive and tetchy, but in general, avoid sweet treats of ones that have artificial colorants when traveling.”