See Child Safety Seat Ease of Use Ratings for more information. Many companies manufacture CRSs approved for use on aircraft that are specifically designed for larger children who are physically challenged. and need the support and security of a CRS or device so they can travel safely on an airplane.Īirlines must allow a child who is under the age of 18 to use an approved CRS that is properly labeled, appropriate for the child's weight, and as long as the child is properly secured in the CRS. However, there are some children with physical challenges who weigh more than 40 lbs. Most young children who use a CRS weigh 40 lbs. See Regulatory Requirements Regarding Accommodation of Child Restraint Systems ( PDF) to learn more.īack to Top Children with Special Needs Children Under 18 with Special Needs The airline may have polices that dictate the specific safe seat locations for specific aircraft. If an approved CRS, for which a ticket has been purchased, does not fit in a particular seat on the aircraft, the airline is responsible for accommodating the CRS in another seat in the same class of service. This includes placing the CRS in the appropriate forward- or aft-facing direction as indicated on the label for the size of the child. A CRS must be installed in a forward-facing aircraft seat, in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.Always use a CRS when driving to and from the airport.Pack a bag of toys and snacks to keep your child occupied during the flight.Carrying a CRS, a child, and luggage through a busy airport can be challenging. Arrange for your airline to help you if you need help making a connecting flight.If your airline's policy allows this, avoid the busiest days and times to increase the likelihood of finding an empty seat next to you. If you do not buy a ticket for your child, ask if your airline will allow you to use an empty seat.Many airlines have policies that require a CRS to be placed in a window seat. A CRS must not block the escape path in an emergency. Buying a ticket for your child is the only way to guarantee that you will be able to use a CRS. Ask your airline for a discounted fare.It should fit in most airplane seats if it is no wider than 16 inches. Make sure your CRS or device is approved for use on airplanes.Installing a CARES Child Safety Device on an Airplane If you're using a CARES child safety device, make sure it has " FAA Approved in Accordance with 14 CFR 21.8(d), Approved for Aircraft Use Only" or " FAA Approved in Accordance with 14 CFR 21.305(d), Amd 21.50 6-9-1980, Approved for Aircraft Use Only" on it.
The CARES Child Safety Device is not approved for use in motor vehicles. This type of device provides an alternative to using a hard-backed seat and is approved only for use on aircraft. The CARES Child Safety Device is the only FAA-approved harness-type restraint for children weighing between 22 and 44 pounds. Check with your airline.īack to Top FAA-Approved Child Harness Device ( CARES)
While there is no regulatory prohibition from using a booster seat or harness vest (or other non-approved devices) for a lap child during the cruise portion of the flight only, airlines have policies which may or may not allow the use of those devices. The FAA encourages parents to make the best safety choice by using an approved CRS during all phases of flight. However, the FAA prohibits passengers from using these types of restraints and belly belts during ground movement, take-off and landing because they do not provide the best protection. This includes placing the CRS in the appropriate forward- or aft-facing direction as indicated on the label for the size of the child.īooster seats and harness vests enhance safety in vehicles. A CRS must be installed in a forward-facing aircraft seat, in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.