A grueling 29-hour flight with a screaming baby onboard has reignited calls for child-free flights, sparking heated debates across social media. The incident came to light when Henry Beasley, a musician and one-half of the New Zealand duo Balu Brigada, shared his experience on TikTok, where the video quickly went viral.
Henry, on his way to Berlin, documented his struggle, humorously inviting viewers to “rate my 29-hour journey.” His video showcased his subtle but telling reactions to the child’s relentless cries, from eye twitches to exaggerated sighs. Despite his visible frustration, Henry maintained a lighthearted tone, even giving the baby a “10/10 for stamina” and joking about the “stellar performance.”
Mixed Reactions from the Internet
The video struck a chord, amassing over 3.7 million views and sparking widespread discussions about traveling with children. Commenters shared mixed opinions, with some empathizing with Henry and expressing frustration at parents bringing small children on such long flights.
One viewer questioned the reasoning behind taking young children on extensive journeys, writing, “Kids don’t even remember anything from those trips. Why would anyone do that?”
Even some parents admitted that flying with babies and toddlers is far from ideal. “I know some people don’t have the option, but I never took my babies or toddlers on flights. Ever. It’s painful for everyone,” one commenter admitted.
Others offered unconventional advice, like using medication to make children drowsy during flights. One commenter shared, “My mom used to give my brother and me cough syrup to keep us quiet. At least she was considerate.”
Renewed Calls for Child-Free Flights
The video reignited a long-standing debate about whether airlines should offer child-free flights or zones. Some commenters expressed a willingness to pay extra for flights without young children, seeking a quieter and less stressful travel experience.
Interestingly, a few airlines already cater to such preferences. For example, budget carrier Scoot offers a “ScootinSilence” section, where children under 12 are prohibited. Similarly, Japan Airlines provides passengers with seat maps indicating where babies are seated, allowing travelers to choose seats accordingly.
However, these options remain divisive. Critics argue that child-free zones may not be practical or inclusive, as families often have no choice but to travel with their young children. On the other hand, proponents see them as a reasonable compromise to improve the overall flying experience.
Finding Humor in the Struggle
Henry’s video doesn’t just highlight the challenges of long-haul flights with children—it also offers a humorous perspective on a shared travel struggle. His lighthearted approach struck a chord with viewers, serving as a reminder to find moments of levity even in frustrating situations.
While the debate about child-free flights continues to divide opinions, one thing remains clear: the experience of flying with children is a universal challenge that resonates with parents and passengers alike.
