Traveling with infants has become more common as parents take advantage of affordable airfares and vacation deals. However, ensuring the safety of these young travelers is a challenge that requires attention to detail and adherence to regulations. While children under the age of two can legally fly on an adult's lap without a restraint, safety experts and regulatory bodies strongly recommend securing them in their own seats with appropriate child restraint systems (CRS). This article delves into the complexities and considerations parents must navigate when flying with infants, backed by the latest data and expert recommendations.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), and other organizations unanimously agree that children are significantly safer when restrained in their own airplane seats. According to the FAA, the safest place for a child on an airplane is in a government-approved child safety restraint system (CRS), not on a parent's lap. The FAA's policy aligns with data indicating that the use of CRS can greatly reduce the risk of injury to children in the event of turbulence or an aviation accident.
A recent incident involving a California mother and her infant on a United Airlines flight highlights the challenges parents face. The mother was removed from the flight following a dispute about her infant carrier, which did not fit the assigned seat. The FAA mandates that if a CRS does not fit in the assigned seat, the airline must find another seat in the same class of service to accommodate the system. This regulation is in place to ensure that safety is not compromised due to seating configurations.
One of the hurdles for traveling parents is identifying FAA-approved CRS. These systems are marked with a label stating, "This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft." However, not all child restraints are suitable for both cars and planes. For instance, the harness-style Child Aviation Restraint System (CARES) is approved for aircraft use but not for cars. The FAA does not provide a list of approved CRS makes and models, which can make the purchasing process challenging for parents.
When planning to fly with an infant, parents should:
Flying with infants requires careful planning and awareness of safety regulations. Parents must ensure they use FAA-approved CRS and that airlines comply with regulations to accommodate these systems. By doing so, they can help ensure the safest possible journey for their youngest travelers.
For more information on child safety during air travel, visit the FAA's website or consult the American Academy of Pediatrics.
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