Lap baby question....

[dis-happy]

Okay, it's been awhile since I had to travel with a baby/infant, but we had a little surprise at age 44! I know that in the past I was able to sling my child and keep her in the sling during the flight (great for nursing and napping!). But I'm not sure if this is still allowed....think I remember it mentioned here that you're not allowed to have a lap baby attached to you during take-off/landing? Could someone confirm or clarify what the rules are for me? TIA!

 

[Oh Kay!]

Did someone call me?

First, congratulation on the new addition!

I flew to MCO twice with a sling--this past Spring, and the Fall before. On all 4 legs of flight, DS fell asleep by the time plane pushed off the gate. I just loosened the sling a little, and covered DS with a blanket, and none of FAs made any comments. I was prepared to take off the sling entirely if they had asked, but I think they didn't want to wake a sleeping baby. DS slept through all 4 flights. Good luck with you trip!

 

[tjmw2727]

They are not allowed - if the FA is doing his/her job you will not be able to use a sling or snugly onboard.

Check your carrier but here is the info from AA, SWA and Delta have the same restrictions posted on their websites.

https://www.aa.com/aa/i18nForward.d...ce/childrenTraveling.jsp#Seating Restrictions

Child Held By An Adult ("Lap Child")
Infants under 2 years of age may be held in an adult's lap at no charge when traveling within the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. However, for the safety of your child, American recommends purchasing a seat and using an approved child safety seat.

FAA Non-Approved Infant Seat or Child Restraint Devices
The following may not be used:
Any device without an approval label
Booster seats or shoulder harness
Belt extensions that attach to the parent or the parent's restraint
Any device that positions a child on the lap or chest of an adult

TJ

 

[alyssa810]

When I have my son on my lap, do I have to have him under the seatbelt as well? We're of course hoping that our flight has empty seats so we'll be able to use his carrier seat, but just in case....

 

[dudspizza]

When I have my son on my lap, do I have to have him under the seatbelt as well? We're of course hoping that our flight has empty seats so we'll be able to use his carrier seat, but just in case....

No, your son is not under the seat belt with you. Also, if you want to find a seat for the carseat, I suggest buying one. If you don't have a paid seat, you will have to check the carseat as luggage. Some airlines "may" allow you to gate check it, but your mileage may vary.

Duds

 

[tjmw2727]

When I have my son on my lap, do I have to have him under the seatbelt as well? We're of course hoping that our flight has empty seats so we'll be able to use his carrier seat, but just in case....

No, having the child inthe seatbelt with you will cause them to act as your "airbag" in case of turbulance etc. This is also why slings and or snugli's are not allowed. If you want a seat for your child its best to purchase it. Many airlines will not let you bring your carseat onboard if your child isn't ticketed. This is to avoid having you cart it back off and gate check it if a seat isn't available.

TJ

 

[Not so Dumbo]

Last December I flew both ways with DD in an attached front carrier. I was also wondering if I was going to be told that I couldn't have her in there but the flight attendants only commented on how cute she was and never about the carrier situation on either flight.