There is little evidence to guide the best tidal volume (V_T) strategy at birth. In this study, comparable aeration, lung mechanics, and lung morphology were observed using static, incremental, and alternating V_T strategies. However, transient reduction in V_T was associated with ventilation heterogeneity and inflammation. Our results suggest that rapidly aerating the preterm lung may not be as clinically critical as previously thought, providing clinicians with reassurance that gently supporting the preterm lung maybe permissible at birth.