Is it too soon to take my baby on a 12-hour airplane trip?

My parents are from the Far East and are anxious to see their first grandchild. Is it too soon for me to take my 3-week-old baby on a 12-hour flight? And what tips can you suggest to make the journey more comfortable and safe for the baby?

Unless there is a time pressure, such as a critically ill grandparent you must see as soon as possible, I recommend parents wait until their infants are at least a month old before travelling - and 2 months is even better. Infants younger than 2 months are more susceptible to infections. Though infections aren't likely at home, you do risk one when you take your baby into an environment where many people are enclosed in a small space for many hours. Newborns aren't equipped to fight off bugs in the same way as older children are; a minor cold or viral infection can quickly become serious and life-threatening. Also, small infants don't show the same signs of infection that older children do. By the time they have a high temperature, poor colour, or even seem ill, they may be in serious trouble. If this happens while you are in transit there is little you can do, and time may be of the essence. In addition, many 1-month-old babies do not have an established night and day cycle - and travelling to a new time zone may delay its development. I suggest waiting a month or more if you can.