With school out, the family trips have begun. Some destinations require an airpline trip to get there. So here are some airline safety facts and tips to keep children as safe as possible.
Fact: The safest place for a child regardless of age is in a Child Restraint System (CRS) or carseat. Both the FAA and the Academy of Pediatrics recommend that children travel in an FAA approved CRS until they weigh 40 pounds.
Fact: We have all heard the stories of planes with holes in the roof in flight or severe turbulence that that occur without warning and led to near miss problems with landings. For this reason, it is NOT a good idea to travel with an infant less than 2 years old on your lap. Most car seats are tested to hold a child securely in an event such as this.
Fact: Using the carseat on board prevents it from being lost or delayed in checked luggage.
Getting Ready to Fly!
· Make sure the carseat has a sticker that says it is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.
· Purchase your child a ticket to ensure they have a seat where the carseat can be installed. If not purchasing a ticket, try to fly off peak and ask the airline if there is an empty seat if you would be allowed to use one for the carseat to restrain your child. Remember in these days of full flights, this is an unlikely scenario.
· Install the carseat in the window seat the same as you would in your vehicle.
o Less than 20 pounds, use a rear facing infant carseat.
o 20-40 pounds, use a forward facing carseat.
o More than 40 pounds, this child can use the airline seatbelt and you need to check your carseat.
· Raising the armrest gives the seat more space.
· If your child is awake on take off and landing, have them suck on something or drink a beverage. This helps their ears pop easily and reduces discomfort.
· Have some small toys or snacks in your diaper bag to amuse them during flight.
· After the trip, your carseat is now with you to install in the vehicle you are using at your destination. You do not need to rent one that may be very old and doesn’t fit your child well.
Have a safe summer trip!
