While the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) does not require that children use special restraints during flights, the agency recommends the use of approved children restraint systems (CRS). According to their website, the FAA feels an approved CRS provides the safest way for children to fly, calling it "the smart and right thing to do." Using a CRS for your child means purchasing a ticket rather than letting him sit on your lap, but the FAA advises that many airlines offer discounts for young children.
The FAA defines a CRS as a "hard-backed child safety seat" and they require it to have government approval for use in airplanes. All manufacturers label each approved CRS for use in both cars and planes. The FAA warns that some airlines may check a seat not labeled for use on airplanes as luggage.
An airplane-approved CRS is 16 inches or less in width so it does not obstruct neighboring seats. The correct position for a CRS is in the seat closest to the window. Placing a CRS near the isle creates an obstruction for passengers in the same row, causing a safety hazard.
Be sure to ask for help from someone at the airline, especially if you have a connecting flight. A CRS is usually big and bulky, and can be difficult to carry along with a child and luggage.
Although users should always follow manufacturer's instructions when sizing a child for a CRS, the FAA has its own recommendations. The FAA recommends children weighing 20 pounds and under use a rear-facing CRS, and children weighing 40 pounds and under use a front-facing CRS. Children over 40 pounds can use the airplane seat with the provided seat belt, according to the FAA.
The FAA has approved a harness restraint for any child weighing between 22 and 44 pounds. A harness follows the same labeling guidelines as a CRS. All manufacturers of airplane-approved harnesses must clearly label each harness. Airplane harnesses are not for use in motor vehicles, according to the FAA. The FAA does not approve the use of booster seats and harness vests, widely used in motor vehicles, for air travel.
