Can You Bring A Car Seat On United Airlines?

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If you’re planning a family vacation and need to fly, one of the most important things to consider is how to keep your little ones safe during the flight. As a parent, you may be wondering if you can bring a car seat on United Airlines to ensure your child’s safety.

The good news is that United Airlines allows passengers to bring car seats on board their flights, but there are certain rules and regulations that you need to be aware of. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at United Airlines’ policy on car seats and provide you with all the information you need to know to ensure a stress-free and safe flight for your family.

Can You Bring a Car Seat on United Airlines?

H2: Can You Bring a Car Seat on United Airlines?

Traveling with children can be a daunting experience, and one of the biggest concerns for parents is ensuring that their child is safe during the flight. If you are planning to fly with United Airlines and are wondering if you can bring a car seat on board, this article will provide you with all the information you need.

H3: United Airlines Policy on Car Seats

United Airlines allows passengers to bring a car seat on board as long as it meets the airline’s requirements. The car seat must be approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and must be labeled as such. Additionally, the car seat must be used in a forward-facing position and must be secured to the aircraft seat with a lap belt.

It’s important to note that United Airlines does not allow the use of rear-facing car seats on board their flights. This is because rear-facing car seats cannot be secured to the aircraft seat with the lap belt, which could pose a safety risk during turbulence or an emergency landing.

If you are planning to bring a car seat on board, you will need to purchase a separate seat for your child. United Airlines does not allow lap infants on their flights, so your child will need to be secured in their car seat for the duration of the flight.

H3: Benefits of Bringing a Car Seat on United Airlines

Bringing a car seat on board United Airlines can provide a number of benefits for parents traveling with young children. First and foremost, it ensures that your child is safe and secure during the flight. The car seat provides added protection in the event of turbulence or an emergency landing, giving parents peace of mind.

In addition to safety, bringing a car seat on board can also provide added comfort for your child. The car seat is designed to provide support and cushioning, which can help your child relax and sleep during the flight. This can make the entire travel experience more enjoyable for both you and your child.

H3: How to Bring a Car Seat on United Airlines

If you are planning to bring a car seat on board United Airlines, there are a few things you will need to do to prepare. First, make sure that your car seat is approved by the FAA and is labeled as such. You can check the FAA website for a list of approved car seats.

Next, you will need to purchase a separate seat for your child. You can do this online or by calling United Airlines’ customer service. Be sure to let them know that you will be bringing a car seat on board so they can make the necessary arrangements.

When you arrive at the airport, you will need to check in your car seat at the ticket counter. United Airlines will provide you with a gate check tag, which you will need to attach to your car seat. You can then take your car seat through security and to the gate, where you will be able to board the aircraft early to install the car seat.

H3: Car Seat Vs. Airline Provided Child Restraint Systems

While United Airlines allows passengers to bring a car seat on board, they also provide their own child restraint systems for passengers to use. These systems are designed to be used in conjunction with the aircraft seat belt and provide added protection for children during the flight.

However, there are some key differences between using a car seat and an airline-provided child restraint system. Car seats are typically more comfortable and provide better support for children, while airline-provided systems are designed to be more lightweight and compact for ease of use.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to bring your own car seat or use an airline-provided system will depend on your personal preferences and the needs of your child. It’s important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each option before making a decision.

H3: Conclusion

In conclusion, United Airlines allows passengers to bring a car seat on board as long as it meets the airline’s requirements. Bringing a car seat on board can provide added safety and comfort for your child, and can make the entire travel experience more enjoyable for both you and your child.

If you are planning to bring a car seat on board, be sure to check the FAA website for a list of approved car seats and purchase a separate seat for your child. When you arrive at the airport, check in your car seat at the ticket counter and attach the gate check tag provided by United Airlines.

Whether you choose to bring your own car seat or use an airline-provided child restraint system, the most important thing is to ensure that your child is safe and secure during the flight. With a little preparation and planning, you can make your next flight with United Airlines a stress-free and enjoyable experience for the whole family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people have regarding bringing car seats on United Airlines.

Are car seats allowed on United Airlines?

Yes, United Airlines allows passengers to bring car seats on board their flights. However, there are some guidelines that must be followed. The car seat must be FAA-approved and labeled as such. It must also fit within the dimensions allowed for carry-on bags, which are 9 inches x 10 inches x 17 inches.

If the car seat is too large to fit as a carry-on, it can be checked as baggage. United Airlines does not charge a fee for checking car seats, strollers, or other infant equipment.

Do car seats count as a carry-on item on United Airlines?

No, car seats do not count as a carry-on item on United Airlines. Passengers are allowed to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag, in addition to the car seat.

It is important to note that if the car seat is too large to fit within the dimensions of a carry-on bag, it must be checked as baggage.

Can car seats be used on United Airlines flights?

Yes, car seats can be used on United Airlines flights. If a passenger has purchased a seat for their child, they can bring a car seat on board to use during the flight. The car seat must be FAA-approved and labeled as such. It must also fit within the dimensions allowed for carry-on bags, which are 9 inches x 10 inches x 17 inches.

It is important to note that the car seat must be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and must be properly secured to the airplane seat. Flight attendants are not responsible for installing the car seat.

Do car seats need to be checked in at the United Airlines gate?

No, car seats do not need to be checked in at the United Airlines gate. If the car seat is small enough to fit within the dimensions allowed for carry-on bags, it can be brought on board the plane and stored in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of the passenger.

If the car seat is too large to fit as a carry-on, it can be checked as baggage at the ticket counter or baggage drop-off location.

What is the fee for checking a car seat on United Airlines?

There is no fee for checking a car seat on United Airlines. Passengers are allowed to check one car seat, stroller, or other infant equipment free of charge in addition to their regular checked baggage allowance.

It is important to properly label the car seat with the passenger’s name and contact information in case it becomes separated from the rest of the luggage during transit.

5 Tips for Flying with Car Seats


In conclusion, United Airlines does allow passengers to bring car seats on their flights. However, it is important to remember that there are certain guidelines and regulations that must be followed in order to ensure safety and compliance with airline policies.

First and foremost, the car seat must be a FAA-approved child restraint system. Additionally, it must be properly labeled and secured in its own seat on the plane. Finally, it is recommended that passengers notify the airline in advance of their intention to bring a car seat on board.

Overall, bringing a car seat on a United Airlines flight is a great option for parents traveling with young children. By following the guidelines and regulations set forth by the airline, passengers can ensure a safe and comfortable flight for their little ones.

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