Flying Safely with Children

Flying with children requires special planning for safety. While airlines allow infants to fly on laps, using a car seat on the plane is the safest option. Understanding aviation safety for children helps you make the best choices for your family.

Should You Use a Car Seat on the Plane? FAA

The short answer: Yes, if you can.

Why car seats are safer:

• Turbulence can happen suddenly and severely
• Children held on laps can be thrown from arms
• Car seats provide the same protection they do in cars
• FAA recommends car seats for all children under 40 pounds

The lap child debate:

• Airlines allow children under 2 to sit on adult's lap
• This is less safe than using a car seat
• In severe turbulence, adults can't hold children
• Some incidents have resulted in injuries to lap children

The cost consideration:

• Buying a seat for baby adds expense
• Balance cost against safety
• Some airlines offer discounts for children
• Consider it an investment in safety

Using Car Seats on Planes AAP

Which car seats can fly:

• Must be FAA approved (labeled "This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft")
• Most rear-facing and forward-facing seats are approved
• Booster seats are NOT approved for aircraft
• Check your seat's label before flying

Installation on the plane:

• Use airplane seat belt through same path as car
• Tighten until secure
• Most car seats fit in coach seats
• Window seat often best (no aisle blocking)
• Ask gate agent for help if needed

Rear-facing on planes:

• Allowed and recommended for young children
• May require seat with extra legroom
• Check with airline about seat assignments

What to do without a car seat:

• Tighten seat belt snugly across child's thighs
• Hold child securely during turbulence
• Be prepared for unexpected movements
• Consider buying a seat and using car seat next time

CARES Harness: An Alternative FAA

The CARES (Child Aviation Restraint System) is an FAA-approved alternative to car seats.

What it is:

• Harness that attaches to airplane seat belt
• Adds shoulder straps for chest restraint
• For children 22-44 pounds
• Portable and lightweight

When to use:

• If you can't bring a car seat
• For children who've outgrown rear-facing
• When traveling with multiple children
• When car seat won't fit

Limitations:

• Not for children under 22 pounds
• Not for children over 44 pounds
• Not as protective as car seat
• Not approved for cars—only planes

Booking and Seat Selection

Choosing your seat:

• Window seat for car seat (doesn't block aisle)
• Consider bulkhead for extra room
• Avoid exit rows (no children allowed)
• Book early for best selection

Requesting assistance:

• Let airline know you're bringing car seat
• Ask about seat dimensions if unsure of fit
• Inquire about early boarding
• Request bassinet on long flights (for airlines that offer them)

At the Airport TSA

Security screening:

• Car seats go through X-ray machine
• Strollers can be gate-checked
• Formula, breast milk, and baby food allowed in larger amounts
• Keep essentials accessible

Gate-checking:

• Strollers and car seats can be gate-checked free
• Get a bag to protect car seat
• Check items are returned properly
• Some families prefer keeping car seat to use on plane

During the Flight AAP

Takeoff and landing:

• Children should be secured during these phases
• Keep seat belt fastened when seated
• Even young children should have snug belts
• Follow crew instructions

During cruising:

• Keep seat belt loosely fastened
• Respond quickly to turbulence warnings
• Don't let children roam during flight
• Be prepared for sudden turbulence

Turbulence safety:

• Most dangerous time for lap children
• Secure children immediately when turbulence starts
• Don't assume flight will be smooth
• Keep children in seats as much as possible

Ear Pain and Pressure

Why children's ears hurt:

• Pressure changes affect small ear canals
• Babies can't equalize pressure as easily
• Pain is often worst during descent

Helping babies:

• Nurse or bottle-feed during takeoff and landing
• Offer pacifier
• Keep baby upright if possible
• Don't let baby sleep through descent if possible

Helping older children:

• Give drinks to sip
• Have them chew gum (if old enough)
• Teach them to yawn or swallow
• Try "popping" ears (hold nose and blow gently)

If child is congested:

• Consider postponing travel if possible
• Ask doctor about decongestant
• Use saline drops before flight
• Be prepared for discomfort

Food and Hydration

Bringing food for children:

• Pack familiar snacks
• TSA allows baby food and formula
• Breast milk has no quantity limits
• Consider special treats for good behavior

Staying hydrated:

• Cabin air is very dry
• Offer drinks frequently
• Bring empty water bottles to fill after security
• Avoid too much sugary drinks

Managing Long Flights

Entertainment:

• New small toys
• Tablet with downloaded content
• Coloring books and crayons
• Quiet activities

Sleep:

• Try to maintain schedule
• Bring comfort items from home
• Use car seat or CARES for safe sleeping position
• Dress in layers (cabin temperature varies)

Diaper changes:

• Aircraft bathrooms have changing tables
• Bring more diapers than you think you need
• Keep changing supplies accessible
• Change before boarding when possible

International Travel Considerations

Documentation:

• Children need passports for international travel
• Check visa requirements
• Some countries require proof of relationship
• Allow extra time at customs with children

Health:

• Check vaccination requirements
• Bring health records
• Have insurance that covers travel
• Know location of medical facilities at destination

The Bottom Line

The safest way for young children to fly is in an FAA-approved car seat in their own seat. If that's not possible, the CARES harness is an alternative for children 22-44 pounds. Lap children face more risk in turbulence. Whatever you choose, keep children secured as much as possible during flight and follow crew instructions.

Clara is here to help you fly safely with your little ones!