If you’re like most people, you’re probably wondering whether or not car seats are required in airplane. The answer, surprisingly, is no. While airlines have been increasing their requirements for child safety in recent years, a car seat is not one of them. In fact, many parents choose to leave their children unsecured in the airport in an effort to save time. However, there are a few cases where a car seat may be required. If you are traveling with a young infant or if your child is exceptionally large or heavy, a car seat may be the safest option for them. So if you’re at all concerned about the safety of your child, be sure to check the airline’s requirements before traveling.
Why is car seat required in airplanes?
The FAA website states: “A child must be restrained in a rear-facing or forward-facing child carrier, booster seat, or seat belt during takeoff and landing.” The website cites three reasons for this requirement:
To reduce the risk of death or serious injury in the event of a crash. To reduce the risk of injury to the child during a crash. To help ensure that the child is properly positioned for optimal safety.
Types of car seats
Types of car seats:
Infant car seats:
The safest option for a new baby is an infant car seat. These are custom-made to fit the child’s size and weight, and provide complete safety in a crash. They can be installed in the family car or taken on planes with you. Some models can also convert to a toddler seat when your child outgrows the infant stage.
Child safety seats:
A child safety seat (CSS) is one option for older children who are not yet big enough for an infant car seat or who have outgrown their infant seat. A CSS is a chest strap system that holds the child close to your body in aCrash-tested protection system
With proper use, most CSSs will last through at least three years of regular use, although they may need to be replaced after more severe crashes. All types of CSSs should have either an expiration date or can be registered with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Be sure to read all instructions and labels before using a CSS.
endanger your child in a crash? Checkout our blog post on which types of cars seats are required on airplanes!
How to determine if a car seat is required in an airplane
There is no federal regulation requiring car seats for infants or children traveling in U.S. airliners, but most airlines have policies stating that car seats are required for infants and young children (under age four). If you’re flying with a small child, be sure to read your airline’s policy on bringing instruments and other larger items into the cabin with you.
If your child is between ages two and four and is heavier than 20 pounds, they can use an adult-sized seat belt without having their own seat fitted with a safety belt system. Please consult your airline’s policy on using adult-sized safety belts in lieu of a car seat.
What to do if your child does not have a car seat
If your child does not have a car seat, you may be able to bring a carrier or use an airport wheelchair. Airlines generally require children under the age of two to be seated in a carrier. If your child is over two years old and cannot sit in a carrier, they will need to be placed in an approved child restraint. Airline staff can help you choose the best option for your child.
How to get a refund for a car seat that is not used
One of the most common questions we get at The Baby Center is whether or not a car seat is required in an airplane. The answer? It depends!
Airplanes are designed to accommodate both children and adults, but the space inside is limited. If you’re traveling with a baby who isn’t using a car seat, keep these things in mind:
-The airline may require that your baby be carried in an infant carrier, sling, or stroller. If this is the case, make sure to bring along the appropriate equipment.
-If you have a convertible car seat that can be used as an adult seat, it may be enough to bring that instead of purchasing a new car seat for your trip. However, it’s always best to check with the airline before you travel just to be sure.
-If you’re flying with an older child who’s using a standard car seat, it may fit in the overhead bin if it’s properly secured. Just be aware that any excess weight will affect how much luggage your bag can carry.
The bottom line? Always consult your airline before traveling and make sure you have all of the necessary gear!