CHILDREN flyers could be kept safe by ‘car seat’ rule – but parents must make sure to follow airline rules.
The Federal Aviation Administration has revealed the safest way for your child under two to fly.
The FAA advises parents to use a rear-facing seat for children under two[/caption]
Car seats must be suitable for airline travel, as specified on the label[/caption]
According to the FAA, the best place to seat your child under two is in an approved child car seat or device based on the child’s weight.
Parents have been advised to make sure they purchase a suitable car seat to ensure their child’s safety.
In order to comply with airline rules, parents must check the label on the car seat.
It should read: “This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.”
However, the FAA reminded parents that baby carrier, booster seats and backless child restraints are not allowed during ground movement, take-off or landing.
The FAA explain that holding a child in your lap is not an effective safety measure, particularly in case of turbulence.
They said: “Unrestrained lap children are prone to in-flight injuries, particularly during meal service or turbulence.”
Instead, parents are advised to secure their young children in an approved car seat for the flight’s duration.
Parents can consult manufacturer instructions, or the FAA’s how-to videos, to ensure the seat is secured in place.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends that car seats be placed facing rearwards during the flight.
Children should continue to use these safety measures until they are above the height or weight limit of the car seat – as specified by the manufacturer.
The FAA recommends the AmSafe Child Aviation Restraint System for children under two.
This particular model is FAA-certified for children up to 40 inches tall who weigh between 22 and 44 pounds.
It is designed to fit most airline seats, and is suitable throughout the entirety of the flight.
The FAA reminds parents to “check with your airline before your flight to make sure your family is seated together and that your car seat is suitable for air travel.”
When booking seats, there are certain restrictions parents should consider.
Car seats generally should be installed in a window seat, cannot be placed in an exit row and must not block an escape path in an emergency.
Parents should ensure that their chosen car seat is eligible before boarding to reduce delays.
The FAA offers a range of advice to parents, ensuring the smoothest travel experience possible.
Their website also contains a helpful how-to video demonstrating how to install car seats.
These regulations can be airline-dependent so the FAA advises parents to check with their chosen company for specific restrictions.
The FAA offers a range of advice to parents, including how-to videos[/caption]
