Picture this: You’re finally ready for that dream vacation, tickets booked, bags packed. Then reality hits – how will your little one travel safely on the plane? Choosing the right car seat for air travel can feel like navigating a maze. You worry if it’s safe, if it fits the airline seat, and honestly, if it’s worth lugging through the airport!
The rules change when you leave the car for the sky, and that uncertainty is stressful for any parent. You want peace of mind knowing your child is secure, but sorting through FAA approvals and airline policies can feel overwhelming. It’s a big decision that impacts comfort and safety during your entire flight.
Don’t stress! This guide cuts through the confusion. We’ll break down exactly what you need to know about using your car seat on a plane. You will learn which seats are approved, how to install them correctly in the air, and tips to make the whole process smoother.
Ready to take the guesswork out of flying safely with your child? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about car seats for airplanes.
Top Car Seats For Airplane Recommendations
- To keep little ones safe, returned car seats with open boxes must be destroyed (per industry standards). So, before you unbox your Pico, please make sure it's the exact item you intended to purchase and wanted for your on-the-go needs. Thanks for doing your part to keep car seats out of landfills and on to new adventures with your family!
- ANYWHERE YOU GO: Pico travel car seat is ideal for kids ages 2+ and within the range of 22-50 lbs. and 30-45 inches. Whether you’re ridesharing or road-tripping, Pico’s 5-point safety harness has you and your little ones covered. Each bundle comes with a Carry Bag where Pico can be stored and carried as a backpack, with the carrying handle, or slipped on the handle of rolling luggage.
- DESIGNED FOR SAFETY: Pico meets all U.S. safety standards regulated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Federal Aviation Administration, so it’s ready for road or air travel. FAA approved sticker is located on the bottom of the seat (see image for detail).
- LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN: Weighing just 8 pounds, the Pico travel car seat makes it easy to travel light. Our AeroWing aerospace-grade aluminum frame offers lightweight strength, and the AstroKnit performance wool/polyester mesh fabric cover keeps kids cool and comfortable. The Pico Carry Bag is responsibly made with 100% bluesign certified recycled polyester; no PU, EVA, or EPS foams
- FOLD & GO: Pico is easy to carry and stow! Folding down to a compact 11.6" L x 14.5" W x 18.9" H, the Pico car seat can fit into overhead bins and is easily carried while walking through the airport or to-and-from the car
- MADE TO BE WITH YOU FOR YEARS The Safety 1st Ellaris Convertible Car Seat adapts to your growing little one with 3 modes of use, making this car seat a key piece of your family for years to come.
- 3 WAYS TO USE The Safety 1st Ellaris Convertible Car Seat offers extended use for your little one with Rear-Facing Infant (5–30 lbs.), Rear-Facing Toddler (30–40 lbs.), and Forward-Facing (30–65 lbs.) positions.
- COMFORT AND FLEXIBILITY The convertible car seat’s slim design fits 3 across the back seat of most vehicles. With an easily adjustable 5-position headrest and harness, it provides a comfortable ride no matter how fast your little one grows.
- FEDERAL SAFETY AND SIDE IMPACT STANDARDS This convertible car seat was engineered and tested to meet or exceed federal safety standards. It also meets the federal Side Impact standard.
- ADDITIONAL FEATURES YOU’LL LOVE Machine-washable and dryer-safe seat pad. 2 removable, dishwasher-safe cup holders. Hook-style LATCH for easy installation. Airplane ready, its compact design makes for a better travel experience from the airport to the flight.
- With two modes of use, this extra-comfortable LATCH-equipped Cosco Kids car seat accommodates infants from 5 pounds up to toddlers weighing 40 pounds in rear-facing mode and kids up to 65 pounds in forward-facing mode.
- The five-point harness adjusts easily from the front of the seat and features five heights and three buckle locations.
- Built-in side-impact protection keeps your little one extra secure. Designed to be just the right size, the seat takes up less space while rear-facing so parents can have more leg room.
- Three of these seats can fit side-by-side in the back seat of most cars, perfect for growing families.
- With plush padding and premium fabric, this seat gives your child an extra-comfy ride. Easy to clean, the fabric car seat cover is machine-washable and dryer-safe.
- ✈USAGE INSTRUCTIONS: In addition to the car seat cart, two straps and two ratchet straps are also included. It is recommended to use all of them to secure the car seat. Use one ratchet strap to fasten around the base, and the other to secure the backrest. If the backrest of the car seat is reclined/slanted, lift the latch, rotate the tow bar, and then fasten the strap.
- ✈ TRAVEL HELPER: When compatible, this car seat dolly allows parents to roll heavy car seats through airports instead of carrying them. Ideal for air travel, layovers, and long terminal walks.also luagge cart. Once on the plane, it is best to detach the car seat first to avoid it getting stuck in the aisle.
- ✈LIFE HELPER: This folding hand truck is not only great for travel but also helps with everyday tasks, such as carrying grocery bags, books, cardboard boxes, water bottles, musical instruments, and other parcels or household items. It’s ideal for transporting items from your car to your home after shopping. You can also use it as a car seat cart for airport or car seat carrier for airport.
- ⚠️The bottom of the car seat should be flat,Designed for car seats with a base width within 45cm and sufficient bottom clearance for straps. Car seats outside this range will NOT fit. Measuring before purchase is strongly recommended.And check if the bottom of the car seat is flat,If you are not sure whether your car seat will fit, contact us!
- ⚠️NOTE PlEASE: 1.please make sure no one is sitting on the seat When using car seat dolly to roll the car seat, 2.when using the foldable trolley, you must use the two ratchet straps. They are essential for securing the car seat. 3,If the backrest of the car seat is reclined, lift the latch, rotate the tow bar, and then fasten the straps.
- 10 Years One Car Seat - from Birth to Booster (5 - 120 lb) it's all you will need. Grows with your child, ultimate protection on every road trip. 4 modes in 1 seat!
- Rear Facing for Longer - lovingly engineered to keep your child rear-facing up to 50 lb.
- Fits 3-Across - our famous slim-fit design with zero compromises to safety, space, or comfort.
- Mechanically engineered from reinforced automotive grade high-strength steel, our unique core shell shields and protects your child.
- High-quality ComfortPlus Memory Foam, always included.
- MADE TO BE WITH YOU FOR YEARS The Safety 1st Ellaris Convertible Car Seat adapts to your growing little one with 3 modes of use, making this car seat a key piece of your family for years to come.
- 3 WAYS TO USE The Safety 1st Ellaris Convertible Car Seat offers extended use for your little one with Rear-Facing Infant (5–30 lbs.), Rear-Facing Toddler (30–40 lbs.), and Forward-Facing (30–65 lbs.) positions.
- COMFORT AND FLEXIBILITY The convertible car seat’s slim design fits 3 across the back seat of most vehicles. With an easily adjustable 5-position headrest and harness, it provides a comfortable ride no matter how fast your little one grows.
- FEDERAL SAFETY AND SIDE IMPACT STANDARDS This convertible car seat was engineered and tested to meet or exceed federal safety standards. It also meets the federal Side Impact standard.
- ADDITIONAL FEATURES YOU’LL LOVE Machine-washable and dryer-safe seat pad. 2 removable, dishwasher-safe cup holders. Hook-style LATCH for easy installation. Airplane ready, its compact design makes for a better travel experience from the airport to the flight.
- IT IS UNCONVENTIONAL and INNOVATIVE. This is a vest type Child Restraint System and uses a revolutionary technology to increase safety for the little traveler by optimizing the adult seat belt to fit 2 and 3-year-olds.
- IT IS SAFE AND LEGAL. This is certified for use in motor vehicles, meets or exceeds all applicable FMVSS 213 requirements so is legal to use in all states and territories of the U.S.
- IT IS COMPACT, ULTRA-LIGHTWEIGHT, AND PORTABLE. This is perfect for a family travel, fits 3-children in the same row of a vehicle with comfort and ease; ridesharing, taxi, or rental car. Great for grandparents and caregivers because it’s lightweight and easy to install and use.
- IT CAN BE USED WITH OR WITHOUT TETHER. This is to use with a vehicle lap belt and top tether by securing the vest with a top tether anchor in the vehicle. Also, this can be used with a lap and shoulder belt with or without a tether strap.
- WHO CAN USE IT? The Extra Small (XS) size is recommended for children about 2 years and older, weighing 26.5–40 lb and measuring 30–45 in tall. Note: Some pre–Dec 5, 2024 units list a 22 lb minimum. Both versions are safe, tested, and compliant — the difference reflects a regulatory change, not a design or safety issue.
- Secure & Safe for Toddler (NOT FAA Certified) - Crafted from premium, eco-friendly polyester belt and button, our airplane harness enhances your child’s safety and security while providing comfort and convenience. Our child safety always comes first. NOTICE: To avoid any inconvenience, please check with the Airlines for approval before purchasing
- Easy to Install - This cares harness for airplane is very easy to install over the airplane seat, it only takes a minute. Plus, we provide a storage pouch for your convenience. You can effortlessly fit it into your diaper bag, handbag, or stroller for hassle-free storage
- Universal – This toddler airplane harness is specifically designed for children 1-5 years old, older up to 40 inch and weight 22-44pounds. It ensures a secure and peaceful flight for kids. The adjustable harness fits most airplane seats, providing convenience and comfort during travel.
- Designed Exclusively for Airplane Travel - This travel safety harness is purpose-built for airplane journeys and is not intended for use in cars or any other motor vehicles. You no longer have to drag your bulky car seat through the airport and onto the plane
- Customer Service - Customer satisfaction is our utmost concern. Should you encounter any issues with our child airplane safety harness, please feel free to reach out to us. We assure you of our prompt response within the next 24 hours
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Car Seat for Your Flight
Flying with a young child requires careful planning. A car seat can make the flight much safer and more comfortable for your little one. This guide helps you pick the right one.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for an FAA-approved car seat for an airplane, focus on these important features:
- FAA Approval Sticker: This is the most important thing. The seat *must* have a sticker or stamp that says it meets Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) standards. This means it is safe for use on airplanes.
- Slim Profile: Airplane seats are narrow. Look for seats that are not too wide. A narrow seat fits better and leaves more room for you or the person next to you.
- Lightweight Design: You have to carry this seat through the airport. A lighter seat saves your back and energy.
- Easy Installation (LATCH vs. Seatbelt): Check how the seat installs. Some seats work better with the airplane’s lap belt than others. Avoid seats that rely heavily on LATCH connectors, as planes do not have them.
Important Materials and Durability
The materials used affect safety, comfort, and how long the seat lasts.
Safety Shell and Padding
The outer shell needs to be strong. Most good seats use high-density plastics or metals for the main structure. This protects your child in case of turbulence or an emergency.
Look for thick, comfortable padding. Kids sit for a long time on planes. Soft, breathable fabric keeps them happy. Avoid materials that get too hot easily.
Harness System
The harness keeps your child secure. It should be easy for you to adjust but impossible for your child to open. Five-point harnesses (two shoulders, two hips, one crotch strap) offer the best security.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality is about more than just the brand name. Think about how the seat performs in real-world travel situations.
Improving Quality
- Ease of Recline: If the seat has a slight recline option, it helps sleeping toddlers stay comfortable without their heads slumping forward.
- Clear Instructions: Seats that come with very clear, simple instructions for airline installation are high quality. You do not want to read a complicated manual during boarding.
- Durability on the Go: A high-quality seat handles being carried, checked (though we advise against checking), and wiped down well.
Reducing Quality (What to Avoid)
- Bulky Bases: Seats with very large, fixed bases often do not fit well across the airplane seat.
- Complicated Buckles: If the buckle takes three hands to fasten, it reduces the quality of your experience, especially when trying to hurry.
- Seats Not Certified for Aircraft Use: Never use a seat without the FAA sticker. These seats are a major safety risk on a plane.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use the seat matters greatly.
Use Case 1: Infants (Rear-Facing Only)
If your baby is small and you need rear-facing, options are limited. Many convertible seats are too large. You might look for a lightweight, FAA-approved infant carrier that installs easily with the lap belt. This provides great head and neck support.
Use Case 2: Toddlers (Forward-Facing)
Most travelers use lightweight, forward-facing booster seats or harnessed seats for toddlers (ages 2+). These seats offer the necessary five-point harness and fit better in the plane seat. They allow the child to stay buckled during turbulence, which is much safer than holding them.
User Tip
Always install the seat *before* the flight attendant tells you to. Practice at home! A smooth installation reduces stress when you are boarding.
10 FAQs About Car Seats for Airplanes
Q: Do I have to buy a ticket for my child if I bring a car seat?
A: Yes, if your child is over the age of two, you must purchase a separate seat for them to use the car seat. Children under two can fly as lap infants, but using a purchased seat with an FAA-approved car seat is much safer.
Q: What does “FAA Approved” actually mean for my car seat?
A: It means the manufacturer tested the seat and proved it meets strict US government safety standards for use during airplane travel. Look for the specific label!
Q: Can I use the LATCH system (ISOFIX) on the airplane?
A: No. Airplane seats do not have LATCH connectors. You must install the car seat using the airplane’s standard lap belt.
Q: Are bulky convertible seats okay for planes?
A: Usually, they are not. Many large convertible seats are too wide for the airplane seat, making them impossible to install correctly or infringing on the space of other passengers.
Q: Should I check my car seat instead of bringing it on board?
A: It is strongly recommended that you do not check your car seat. Checked bags often get damaged. If the seat is damaged, it is no longer safe for your child.
Q: Which type of seat is easiest to use on a plane?
A: Lightweight, forward-facing combination seats or simple, FAA-approved harness seats are generally the easiest to carry and install with the airplane belt.
Q: How do I know if my seat is too wide?
A: Standard economy seats are usually about 17 to 18 inches wide. Measure your car seat base. If it is wider than 17 inches, it might not fit well.
Q: What if I forget my car seat installation manual?
A: Look up the manual online before you leave! Most major brands post PDF versions of their manuals on their websites. This is a lifesaver at the gate.
Q: Are booster seats allowed on planes?
A: Some lightweight, backless boosters are allowed, but they do not offer the necessary harness protection. It is safer to use a five-point harness seat if your child qualifies for it.
Q: What is the best time to install the car seat on the plane?
A: Install it right after you sit down, before the flight attendant makes the final safety announcement. This gives you time to adjust it without rushing.