I'm flying with my two-year-old daughter in a few weeks and was wondering if she had to be in a car seat?

Question

i flew with her last year and she sat on my lap, but now she has her own seat. I just don't know if I need to bring her carseat or not. Please answer only of you know for sure. This question is directed at flight attendants and airline employees. I'm flying continental express on one of the small planes if that makes a difference.

Also, please list your source, like what your job title is.,

Answer 1

No you don't need a car seat. She'll be sitting on her own seat but you do need to purchase that seat.

Answer 2

She is not required to use a car seat, but you can bring one if you feel more comfortable. Just make sure you check, there should be a label on the seat stating if it is certified for aircraft use. Most 5-point harness seats are, booster seats are not (they provide no restraint). There is also a restraint system called CARES that is made specifically for aircraft. It's a lot easier to lug it around the airport than a car seat.

http://www.flyingwithkids.com/safety.htm

Answer 3

I'm not a flight attendant or airline employee, however, I've done extensive research on car seats and child safety. She does need a car seat installed on the plane for her own safety and the comfort of other passengers. Do airlines require it? NO, but they do prefer it. Actually, having a lap baby is never recommended, either. Airlines offer it as an option b/c they think it will get parents of babies to fly more. But it is not safe at all.

Here's a link to great info provided by an ex flight attendant who answered this question on Answers: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;...

Contrary to what one poster said - More than 9/10 car seats are FAA approved - in fact, it would be amuch shorter list to list the ones that aren't. Um...Britax Regent. There, that's about it. :) Its not difficult to install, either, and you can request they let you board first so you can get the seat situated without feeling rushed. Buy a cheap luggage cart from Walmart or Target and strap your car seat on it with bungee cords. The child can then sit in the seat, on the cart, as you wheel it through the airport, providing more convenience.

Here's another answer by the same poster lister previously, with even more great info-  I whole heartedly agree with everyhing she says, but figure it means more to you coming from a former flight attendant: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;...

Answer 4

I'm pretty sure she doesn't have to have a carseat.  Contact your airline to make sure.  Different airlines have different rules.

Answer 5

No, I don't think so. Happy flying!

Answer 6

seat

Answer 7

If you purchased a ticket for the child, then take the car seat to let them sit in. Car seats are considered "free allowance" for airlines. so it wont count as a checked piece if your taking it on the plane, it would however be considered "personal item" for the child, but if you purchased a ticket for child then it shouldnt be big deal. Next time you should go through a travel agent and they will advise you.

Answer 8

Yes, you should definately... i  have a 3 y.o brother and we went on a plane together last year. it helps, because babys can get out of the normal seat belt easily + its uncomfortable for them. if you're daughter is used to the car seat, she should feel more secure.

Answer 9

It depends on the weight and height of your child. Try going to the doctor or something to see What they say. If I were you I would bring it just in case.

Call the airline, every airline has different rules.

Have a good trip

Answer 10

they will actually not allow you to use a seat unless it is FAA approved - which, to my understanding, 9/10 car seats are not.  

she is fine in the seat.