In companion to the post regarding traveling with a carseat on the plane, I found some additional sources to help parents who have chosen to bring their carseat along {or are curious about the FAA’s stance}. Check out the Federal Aviation Administration’s site and their helps for “Child Safety on Airplanes.”
The FAA has clear recommendations for the safest way for children to fly, based on their size and weight:
- Less than 20 pounds use a rear-facing CRS
- From 20 to 40 pounds use a forward-facing CRS
- More than 40 pounds use an airplane seat belt
- A child may also use an alternative, such as a a harness-type restraint, if it is approved by FAA. FAA has approved one restraint appropriate for children weighing between 22 and 44 pounds. This type of restraint is not safe for use in motor vehicles.
A CRS refers to a government approved child-restraint system.
The site also includes two videos, one highlights proper seat installation on a plane, while the other demonstrates the correct way to install a CARES safety device. Look for a brochure that details flying with children and their carseats.
Check out my previous post regarding TSA’s guidelines for flying with children for other flying tips from the US Government.
