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If you’re planning a trip with a young child, you might be wondering if you can bring a car seat on your American Airlines flight. The good news is that American Airlines does allow car seats on their flights, but there are certain rules and guidelines you’ll need to follow to ensure a smooth and safe journey for your little one.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about bringing a car seat on American Airlines, including the types of car seats allowed, how to install them on the plane, and tips for making your travel experience as stress-free as possible. Let’s get started!
Contents
- Can You Take Car Seats on American Airlines?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the policy for taking car seats on American Airlines?
- Do car seats count as a carry-on item on American Airlines?
- Can you check a car seat with American Airlines?
- Can a lap infant use a car seat on American Airlines?
- What is the weight limit for a car seat on American Airlines?
- 5 Tips for Flying with Car Seats
- How To Print A Boarding Pass For United Airlines?
- Are American Airline Tickets Cheaper At The Airport?
- How To Sign Up For American Airlines Frequent Flyer?
Can You Take Car Seats on American Airlines?
Traveling with children can be a daunting task, especially if you need to bring a car seat along. If you’re planning to fly with American Airlines, you might be wondering if you can bring your car seat on board. The good news is that American Airlines allows car seats on their flights, but there are some important rules and regulations you need to know.
Types of Car Seats Allowed on American Airlines
Before you pack your car seat for your American Airlines flight, it’s important to know which types of car seats are allowed. American Airlines allows both forward-facing and rear-facing car seats, as well as booster seats and harness vests. However, the car seat must be certified for airplane use and must have a label stating that it is certified for use on aircraft.
If you’re not sure whether your car seat is approved for airline use, you can check with the manufacturer or look for the label on the seat itself. It’s also important to note that American Airlines does not allow car seats that are more than 18 inches wide to be used on their flights.
How to Bring a Car Seat on American Airlines
If you’re planning to bring a car seat on your American Airlines flight, you have a few options. You can either check the car seat as baggage or use it on the plane. If you choose to check the car seat, it will count as one of your checked bags, and you will need to pay any applicable baggage fees.
If you choose to use the car seat on the plane, you will need to purchase a seat for your child. The car seat must be placed in a window seat, and it cannot obstruct the exit row or any passengers’ access to the aisle. It’s important to note that if the flight is full, American Airlines may ask you to check the car seat as baggage.
Benefits of Bringing a Car Seat on American Airlines
Bringing a car seat on your American Airlines flight can offer a number of benefits. For one, it can help keep your child safe during the flight. Additionally, using a car seat on the plane can help your child feel more comfortable and secure, which can make the flight easier for both them and you.
Another benefit of bringing a car seat on your American Airlines flight is that it can be used at your destination. If you’re planning to rent a car or use a taxi or ride-sharing service, having a car seat with you can make those activities safer and more convenient.
Car Seat vs. Lap Infant
One question many parents have is whether they should bring a car seat or simply hold their child on their lap during the flight. While holding a child on your lap is allowed on American Airlines flights, it’s important to note that the safest option is to use a car seat.
In fact, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) strongly recommends that all children under the age of 2 use a car seat on airplanes. This is because turbulence can cause children to become injured or even ejected from their seat if they’re not properly restrained.
| Car Seat | Lap Infant |
|---|---|
| Offers enhanced safety and comfort for your child | Less safe and comfortable for your child |
| Allows your child to be secured during the flight | Your child is not secured during the flight |
| Can be used at your destination | N/A |
| May require an additional seat purchase | No additional cost |
Conclusion
If you’re traveling with a child and need to bring a car seat, American Airlines allows it on their flights. However, it’s important to make sure that your car seat is certified for airline use and that it meets American Airlines’ size requirements. Additionally, you’ll need to decide whether to check the car seat as baggage or use it on the plane. Ultimately, bringing a car seat on your American Airlines flight can offer enhanced safety and comfort for your child, as well as added convenience at your destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions and answers regarding taking car seats on American Airlines.
What is the policy for taking car seats on American Airlines?
American Airlines allows passengers to bring one FAA-approved child restraint system per ticketed child as carry-on baggage free of charge. This can be a car seat, booster seat, or harness. If there is not enough space on the plane, the airline will check the item at no additional cost.
It is important to note that the car seat must meet FAA standards and be labeled as such. Additionally, the car seat must fit in the airplane seat and the child must be able to sit upright and use the seatbelt properly without assistance.
Do car seats count as a carry-on item on American Airlines?
No, car seats do not count as a carry-on item on American Airlines. Passengers are allowed to bring one FAA-approved child restraint system per ticketed child in addition to their carry-on baggage allowance.
However, if a passenger brings a stroller and a car seat, the car seat will count as one of the carry-on items.
Can you check a car seat with American Airlines?
Yes, passengers can check a car seat with American Airlines free of charge. If there is not enough space on the plane, the airline will check the item at the gate or at check-in.
It is recommended that passengers gate-check their car seat to ensure it is not damaged during transit. The car seat should be placed in a protective bag or case to prevent damage.
Can a lap infant use a car seat on American Airlines?
Yes, a lap infant can use a car seat on American Airlines if the car seat is FAA-approved and the child has a ticketed seat.
If the child is under 2 years old and is traveling on a lap, they are not required to have their own seat or car seat. However, American Airlines encourages parents to purchase a seat for their child and use an FAA-approved car seat for safety reasons.
What is the weight limit for a car seat on American Airlines?
American Airlines does not have a weight limit for car seats. However, the car seat must fit in the airplane seat and the child must be able to sit upright and use the seatbelt properly without assistance.
It is important to check the dimensions of the airplane seat and the car seat before traveling to ensure a proper fit.
5 Tips for Flying with Car Seats
In conclusion, American Airlines allows the use of car seats on their flights. However, it is important to keep in mind the guidelines and regulations set forth by the airline to ensure a safe and comfortable flight for both you and your child.
When traveling with a car seat, it is recommended to book a separate seat for your child to ensure that they are properly secured. American Airlines also offers a complimentary gate check for car seats, allowing you to bring your car seat all the way to the gate before it is checked in with the rest of your luggage.
Overall, traveling with a car seat on American Airlines is a convenient and safe option for parents. Just remember to make the necessary arrangements and follow the guidelines set forth by the airline to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable flight for you and your child.
