We used to think flying private was the only way we'd ever get from point A to B with our kids and keep our sanity. But we've seen the new dream and it is Etihad Airlines' Flying Nanny service.
The Flying Nannies are part of the airplane's cabin crew, yet their main responsibility is to the children on the flight. Thus, they will help set up bassinets for babies, refill bottles, look after unaccompanied minors, assist in delivering the kids's meals and break out activities and craft projects when the little ones start to get antsy. The nannies will even do some face painting! .
You can identify a Flying Nanny by the orange apron she wears. Check this super catchy video out to see her in action.
But these aren't flight attendants who just happen to draw the nanny shift that day. According to the Daily Mail, the nannies have all been trained at England's Norland College, which has been training childcare professionals since 1892.
Alas, you can't just leave your kids with the nanny while you kick back with champagne and an Ambien. Here's what the Etihad website says about that:
And while we cannot take the kids completely off your hands, as we must cater to the needs of every family onboard, we hope our Flying Nanny makes your experience with us a little bit more relaxing and enjoyable.
Still, it's nice to see an airline caring about families. We hope more and more airlines pick up on this trend. Can you imagine–no more exasperated looks as you try to hold a squirmy baby while making a bottle?
The Flying Nanny service is only offered on long-haul only but it's available to the entire plane, not just first class, free of charge.
