Although it is legal to carry children under two on your lap, the FAA strongly recommends that all children who fly, regardless of their age, be protected by an approved child restraint system (CRS) that is appropriate to the child’s size and weight. Proper use of an approved child restraint system enhances child safety in the event of an accident. A CRS also provides protection for a child during turbulence.

Banned Child Restraint Systems The FAA on June 4, 1996 issued a rule to ban the use of booster seats as well as harness and vest-type child restraint systems aboard all U.S. air carriers. Previously, the use of supplemental lap restraints (belly belts) was banned from use in aircraft.

Approved Child Restraint SystemsThe National highway Traffic Safety Administration, which is responsible for approving child restraint systems for automobiles and aircraft issued a companion rule that would label approved child restraint systems as certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft. Based on test performed by the FAA‘s Civil Aeromedical Institute, the FAA recommends that:

• Children under 20 pounds (9.1 kilos) should be restrained in an approved rear facing CRS
• Children weighing 20 to 40 pounds (9.1 to 18.1 kilos) should be restrained in an approved forward facing CRS
• Children weighing over 40 pounds (18.1 kilos) should use the standard lap belt that is attached to all airline seats.