Next vacation is coming soon and you are planning to travel with the family. We are extra careful when we are traveling with kids. A car seat provides the necessary protection and comfort during car rides, but what about air travel? A question comes to parents’ mind “Is it allowed to take a baby car seat on a plane?
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I am here to help you. In this article, we will go over airline policy, FAA approval requirements, installation methods, and alternate choices for parents.
Can you bring a baby car seat on a plane?
Both the American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) firmly advise bringing your infant’s newborn car seat with you when traveling. It safeguards against turbulence and keeps your child secure in their seat, preventing them from attempting to explore the aircraft.
According to a statement from the NTSB Chairman, utilizing car seats for infants when flying is highly advised.
According to 96% of parents surveyed by the FAA, utilizing a car seat on a plane is helpful for the comfort and security of their child.
Other Guide: Flying With Kids | What Should You Pack?
Overview of Airline Policies Regarding Baby Car Seat on a Plane
Most airlines allow travelers to bring car seats on board as long as they adhere to certain requirements.
The seat should have a sticker demonstrating conformity with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements and be approved for use in airplanes.
Each airline, however, can have its own unique additional needs or restrictions.
READ: How Does Airplane Mode Work? Using Its Potential For Easy Travels!
Different Rules and Regulations
It’s crucial to remember that different airlines may have varied policies regarding the usage of car seats on aircraft.
Car seats are permitted by some airlines in all seating classes, including business and first class, although they are prohibited in other areas of the aircraft.
A car seat may also need to be approved in advance by some airlines or notify them in advance. To avoid any last-minute shocks, it is recommended to review the specific policies of the airline you are using.
You can also know the rules about How to fly with a stroller on a plane.
Installing the baby Car Seat on a plane
It is now time to place your car seat on the aircraft after making sure it has FAA approval. It’s important to become familiar with the procedure in advance because installing a car seat on a plane may differ slightly from installing one in a car.
How to Install a Baby Car Seat on a Plane
- Make sure your chosen airplane seat can suit the measurements of your car seat to start. On their websites or during the booking process, some airlines list seat dimensions.
- After settling into your assigned seat on the aircraft, turn the car seat so that it is facing forward.
- Make sure the seatbelt is securely adjusted before fastening it around the car’s seat.
- Give the car seat a light tug to make sure it is secure and not moving, then verify the installation once more.
- Ask a flight attendant for help if you need it or if you have questions regarding the installation procedure.
Tips for a Secure Installation
- To get comfortable with the procedure, practice putting the car seat in your car a few times prior to your trip.
- To prevent damage to the car seat during transport, think about utilizing a travel bag for car seats.
- Instead of utilizing the built-in harness, utilize the airplane seat belt since it provides a more secure fit.
- Check that the car seat is properly attached and can only move an inch in any direction.
Read Next: Tips For Travel Abroad Safely
Bringing the baby Car Seat on Board
When it comes to transporting a car seat on board, parents have two options: carry it as a carry-on item or check it as baggage. Analyzing your individual needs and preferences is crucial because every option has benefits and drawbacks.
Car Seat as a Carry-On Item
You may always take the car seat with you. And ensure its security and usability by packing it as a carry-on item.
However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that packing a car seat may take up valuable cabin room, especially if the plane is already overbooked.
It is necessary to contact the airline ahead of time to inquire about their carry-on limitations and any additional expenses associated with bringing a car seat on board.
Checking the Car Seat as Baggage
Consider checking the car seat as baggage if you’d prefer not to carry it through the airport or if there isn’t much room in the cabin. The car seat will be handled by airport personnel and put in the cargo hold of the aircraft when it is checked as luggage.
It’s crucial to take safety measures to guard the car seat from harm during handling, such as utilizing a travel bag for the seat or covering it in a cover. In case it is lost, labeling the car seat with your contact information can be helpful.
Baby car seat for plane
Baby Trend EZ Flex Loc Infant Car Seat
With only 16.5′′ in width and a reasonable price, the Baby Trend Flex Loc is a remarkably small infant rear-facing car seat.
It supports a wide variety of weights.
Safety 1st Jive 2-in-1 Convertible Car Seat
It has a slim design that is lightweight for airplane seating.
Suitable for people who weigh 5 to 65 lbs.
Britax Emblem 3-Stage Convertible Car Seat
The Britax Emblem can also be utilized through LATCH or the belt system in both rear- and forward-facing positions and is slightly smaller (18.5′′) and lighter (19.5 lbs) than the Pinnacle.
Rear-facing children 5 to 40 pounds and forward-facing children 20 to 40 pounds can use it.
Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX Convertible Car Seat
This lightweight, FAA-approved car seat is designed to be user-friendly for traveling.
The weight capacity of the convertible seat is between 5 and 40 pounds.
Britax Grow with you
When used in harness mode (rather than as a booster), the Britax Grow With You+ is appropriate for use on airplanes. It can support a child weighing 25 to 120 pounds when in harness mode.
Maximum child weight is 25–120 pounds; forward-facing harnessed weight is 25–65 pounds.
Conclusion
Is it possible to bring a baby car seat on a plane? Definitely! It is also strongly advised for your child’s safety and comfort.
Just remember to observe the FAA and your airline’s requirements. Remember that the goal isn’t simply to get from point A to point B. It’s all about keeping your youngster comfortable and safe while doing so.
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