Comprehensive Guide to Car Seat Policies of North America’s 15 Major Airlines

1. Introduction

In North America, children under age two are permitted to fly for free on their parents’ lap. Nevertheless, safety experts recommend purchasing a separate seat for infants. Importantly, the chosen car seat must be approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for air travel.

2. Car Seat Policies by Airline

Understanding the car seat regulations of various airlines is crucial for safe air travel. Here are the policies for the top carriers in North America:

1. Aeromexico: Requires a forward-facing, FAA-approved car seat that can be fastened securely to the aircraft seat.
2. Air Canada: Car seats must conform to Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
3. Alaska Airlines: Only certified car seats can be used, and they are not allowed in aisle seats or emergency exit rows.
4. Allegiant Air: Permits car seats for ticketed children if they are FAA-approved.
5. American Airlines: Requires car seats with solid backs and specific safety labels. Restricts use in exit rows.
6. Delta Air Lines: Prefers window seats for approved car seats, with restrictions on aisle and emergency exit rows.
7. Frontier Airlines: Approved car seats are required for infants in purchased seats, and window seats are recommended.
8. Hawaiian Airlines: Similar car seat restrictions as other airlines apply, without aisle placements.
9. InterJet: Requires an approved restraint device for children under two in paid seats.
10. JetBlue: Designates window or middle seats for car seats, ensuring they don’t obstruct pathways.
11. Southwest Airlines: Car seats are not permitted in aisle or emergency exit row seats.
12. Spirit Airlines: FAA-approved car seats are allowed when purchasing a seat, with restrictions on inflatable seatbelt-equipped seats.
13. United Airlines: Allows FAA-approved car seats in designated rows, with limits on placement beside exit rows.
14. Volaris: Permits FAA-approved car seats for children under two with a purchased ticket.
15. WestJet: Allows car seats without a base, ensuring they meet safety standards.

3. Tips for Using a Car Seat During a Flight

• Ensure the car seat has a label stating: “This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.”
• Check the car seat width as the FAA recommends a maximum width of 16 inches for compatibility with standard airline seats.
• While many airlines offer discounted fares for infants occupying seats, this is not universally applicable.
• If a seat for the infant under two is not purchased, an empty seat is not guaranteed. To improve chances of having an additional seat, opt for mid-week flights during non-peak hours.