Boarding plane with kids

[Missy29]

I have never brought a car seat with us on a plane before so never had to worry about strapping in a car seat, but my question is do they let you board first if you have to strap in a car seat?

 

[LilyWDW]

I have never brought a car seat with us on a plane before so never had to worry about strapping in a car seat, but my question is do they let you board first if you have to strap in a car seat?

What airline?

IF they allow family boarding, it is often after medical preboards and those with special status. However, it depends on the airline.

 

[IhrkeFamily]

Not sure the policy, but there are advantages to boarding last. The kids have more room to move in the airport versus stapped into a seat on the plane. And there always seems to be plenty of time to get settled even if you are one of the last. Biggest downside is finding overhead storage if you need.

 

[OKW Lover]

As others have indicated - it depends on the airline.

You should also check to be sure your car seat is approved for airline use - many are not. If it isn't approved you won't be able to use it on board.

 

[Missy29]

We are flying Delta.

 

[HomerHog]

When we have flown Delta, we have been allowed to pre-board after those with medical issues.

When we traveled with car seats, we would split up. DW would board early with carry-ons and car seat to get settled in the plane. I would take the kids to the restroom one more time, let them move around, etc. Then board at the last minute to reduce the time they were sitting there on the plane.

Now that both kids are mobile and can carry their own backpacks, we prefer to board as late as possible.

 

[Missy29]

Thank you for the info

 

[seashoreCM]

When traveling with children and car seats, you would do the airline and the other passengers a favor if you try not to board too late. If your boarding pass suggests a late boarding, at least ask if you can board sooner.

This way it will be easier to get settled.

 

[tjmw2727]

When we have flown Delta, we have been allowed to pre-board after those with medical issues.

When we traveled with car seats, we would split up. DW would board early with carry-ons and car seat to get settled in the plane. I would take the kids to the restroom one more time, let them move around, etc. Then board at the last minute to reduce the time they were sitting there on the plane.

Now that both kids are mobile and can carry their own backpacks, we prefer to board as late as possible.

This -

and there really isn't a need to pre-board, just send one parent on first to install the carseat - I could do it without blocking the asile. Then have the other parent/kids wait and by the time they board they can sit an not block others from boarding.

 

[maxiesmom]

Another thing to keep in mind is that the car seat must go in a window seat. That way, it won't block anyone from leaving the row in case of emergency.