car seat on plane

[shortie4615]

I will be traveling with family and my 2yr old niece. My sister-in-law bought her a seat on the plane. My niece has never flown before. Should my sister use the car seat on the plane? And how do you know if its FAA approved? Any tips on keeping her happy during take-off and landing would be great too!!! Thank you!!!

 

[jrc-elpaso]

I would think she would be more comfortable in her car seat - I imagine she's used to riding in it in the car so it's familiar. It's been a long time since I've had to have a car seat (sons are 35 and 36) but I think there's a label somewhere on newer ones that says FAA approved. I would take some little toys (new ones that she's never seen before). And snacks and something to drink on take-off and landing to equalize the pressure in her ears.

 

[kaytieeldr]

I think there's a label somewhere on newer ones that says FAA approved.

And if there's no label - the car seat can't be used on the plane.

 

[tjmw2727]

A carseat is not required but recommended by the TSA, NTSB, FAA and American Acacemy of Pediatrics. Most parents find that despite the small inconvenience of carrying it through the airport its well worth it because the child will be safe and also comfortable in the familiar seat.

Most carseats a 2yo would be using are certified for use in aircraft, the sticker is on the back or side of the seat. Just to clarify it says nothing about the FAA - the sticker will read:

"This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft"

For take off and landing a sippie cup or age appropriate chewey snack will help. A mix of familiar and new toys like color wonder, books and hopefully a nap should keep her happy!

TJ

 

[NotUrsula]

Re: the carseat, see this thread:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=33014462&posted=1#post33014462

 

[QueenGoblin]

We used our carseat when we flew with our DD when she was 2. I would definitely suggest doing so. Since my DD was used to being buckled into it, we just left her in the seat for the duration of the flight, as though we were riding in a car. That might not work for a longer flight, but this was just a 2-3 hour flight and saved us from chasing her up and down the aisle. Plus she was safer.

If you have a portable dvd player, some snacks, some coloring books, etc. she should be fine for a shorter flight.