Do kids sit in car seats on planes?
Flying with children can be an overwhelming experience for many parents, especially when it comes to ensuring their safety and comfort. One common question that often arises is whether children are allowed to sit in car seats on planes. In this article, we will explore the topic of car seats on planes, including the regulations, benefits, and alternatives for keeping your little ones safe and secure during air travel.
Car seats are an essential piece of safety equipment for young children, providing protection and support during car rides. However, when it comes to air travel, the use of car seats on planes is subject to specific regulations and guidelines. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in Europe have set strict rules regarding the use of car seats on aircraft.
Regulations and Guidelines
According to the FAA, children under the age of two are allowed to use car seats on planes, but only if the car seat is an approved aircraft child restraint system (ACRS). This means that the car seat must meet the requirements for use in an aircraft, including having a harness system that can be securely fastened to the plane’s seatbelt.
Similarly, the EASA has similar regulations, stating that children under the age of two can use car seats on planes, provided that the car seat is certified for use in an aircraft and meets the necessary safety standards.
It is important to note that children who are over the age of two or taller than 4 feet 9 inches are not allowed to use car seats on planes. Instead, they must be seated in an aircraft seat with an appropriate safety belt.
Benefits of Using Car Seats on Planes
Despite the regulations, many parents prefer to use car seats on planes to ensure their child’s safety and comfort. Here are some of the benefits:
1. Enhanced safety: Car seats provide a secure and crash-tested environment for children, reducing the risk of injury during turbulence or an unexpected event.
2. Comfort: Car seats can be adjusted to fit a child’s size and provide a more comfortable and familiar sleeping position than an airplane seat.
3. Control: Parents have more control over their child’s environment when using a car seat, which can be especially beneficial for young children who may be sensitive to changes in altitude or air pressure.
Alternatives to Car Seats on Planes
If a child is too tall or too old to use a car seat on a plane, or if the parent prefers not to use one, there are alternative options for ensuring their safety and comfort during air travel:
1. Use an airline-approved child restraint system: Some airlines offer child restraint systems that meet the necessary safety standards. These systems are designed to fit into an airplane seat and provide protection for children.
2. Secure the child with a seatbelt: For children over the age of two or taller than 4 feet 9 inches, parents can secure them with a seatbelt while sitting in an airplane seat.
3. Use a harness or seatbelt extender: Some airlines provide harnesses or seatbelt extenders that can be used to secure a child in an airplane seat.
In conclusion, while children under the age of two are allowed to use car seats on planes, there are regulations and guidelines that must be followed. The decision to use a car seat on a plane ultimately depends on the child’s age, size, and the parent’s preference. Regardless of the choice, it is essential to prioritize the safety and comfort of the child during air travel.
