Airplane Car Seat Policy: What Parents Need to Know
When you’re flying with a young child, the airplane car seat policy, the set of rules airlines and aviation authorities follow for securing children during flight. Also known as FAA car seat guidelines, it’s not just about comfort—it’s about safety. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) doesn’t require you to use a car seat on a plane, but if you do, it must be FAA-approved and installed correctly. Many parents assume their stroller or infant carrier is enough, but those won’t protect your child during turbulence or an emergency stop. Only a certified child restraint system (CRS) does that.
Not all car seats are allowed. You need to look for a label that says "This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft". If it doesn’t have that, it’s not legal to use on a flight—even if it’s the same seat you use in the car. Airlines like Delta, American, and United all follow the same FAA rules, so there’s no difference between carriers. The seat must fit in the airplane seat without blocking the aisle or other passengers, and it should be installed in a window or middle seat, never in an exit row. Most infant seats and convertible seats work fine, but booster seats? Those are useless on a plane because they need a lap-shoulder belt, and most airplane seats only have lap belts.
Some parents wonder if they should buy a separate seat for their baby under two. The FAA says you can hold them on your lap for free, but that’s risky. In a crash or sudden drop, you can’t hold on tight enough. Using a car seat gives your child their own secure space. And if you do buy a seat, you can often get a discounted fare for toddlers. Just remember: you’ll need to bring the seat to the gate, and not all planes have the same seat width. A narrow seat on a regional jet might not fit your bulky car seat. That’s why many families choose a lightweight, FAA-approved model like the RideSafer or the Cosco Scenera NEXT—they fold up small and still meet every safety standard.
What about stroller wagons, baby carriers, or sling seats? None of those count as approved restraints. Even if they’re marketed as "travel-friendly," they’re not tested for aviation use. If you’re flying with a newborn, a car seat that doubles as a carrier is your best bet. For toddlers, a convertible seat with a five-point harness gives you the most protection. And if you’re unsure whether your seat is approved, check the manufacturer’s website or call the airline ahead of time. Don’t wait until check-in to find out it won’t fit.
There’s no magic age when you stop needing a car seat on a plane. It’s about weight and height limits. Most FAA-approved seats work up to 40 pounds and 40 inches tall. After that, your child can use the regular seatbelt, but only if they’re big enough for it to fit properly across the shoulder and hips—not up near the neck. If the belt rides too high, it’s not safe. That’s why some parents keep using a booster even after two, even though it’s not required. The truth? You’re not required to use anything. But if you care about safety, you’ll want to.
Below, you’ll find real-world advice from parents who’ve flown with car seats, expert tips on which models actually fit in economy, and what to do when airline staff say your seat isn’t allowed—even when it is. Whether you’re flying for the first time with a baby or you’re a seasoned traveler with a toddler in tow, these guides will help you avoid last-minute stress and keep your child secure from takeoff to landing.
