How the FAA Approves Car Seats for Airplane Use
The Federal Aviation Administration does not issue its own approval label for car seats. Instead, the FAA allows car seats that meet specific safety standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — the same standards that govern car seats on the road. A car seat is permitted on a plane if it displays a label stating it meets NHTSA Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213.
This means almost any modern car seat you already own for your car will work on an airplane, as long as it has the required label. The label is usually found on the back or side of the seat and lists the NHTSA standard number. If you cannot find the label, check the instruction manual or the manufacturer's website — they can confirm whether your specific model meets the standard.
You will need to purchase a separate ticket for your child if you want to bring a car seat on the plane. The seat occupies a regular passenger seat, so it counts as one fare. Some airlines offer discounts for children's fares, but the car seat itself requires its own seat assignment.
Key Takeaways
- Any car seat labeled as meeting NHTSA Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 is permitted on commercial flights — the FAA does not issue separate airplane-specific approval.
- You must purchase a separate airline ticket for the seat your child will occupy with the car seat installed.
- The car seat must be installed in a window seat, never in an aisle or middle seat, and your child must remain in it during taxi, takeoff, and landing.
- Some airlines have specific rules about which car seat models work with their seats, so contact your airline before traveling to confirm compatibility.
- Booster seats and harness-only seats are not permitted on planes — only forward-facing or rear-facing car seats with a full shell.
Which Car Seats Are Allowed on Planes
The FAA permits forward-facing car seats, rear-facing car seats, and combination seats (which convert from rear-facing to forward-facing) as long as they display the NHTSA label. The seat must have a full shell structure — it cannot be a booster seat, a harness-only seat, or a seat belt positioning booster. If your car seat is designed to work only with a vehicle's seat belt and does not have its own structural frame, it will not work on an airplane.
Portable car seats and travel-specific models are also permitted if they meet the NHTSA standard. Some families purchase a lightweight travel car seat specifically for flying to avoid checking their regular seat or carrying a heavy model through the airport. These travel seats are typically smaller and weigh less than standard car seats, though they still require the NHTSA label.
Check your airline's website or call their customer service line before your flight. Some airlines maintain lists of car seat models they have tested and approved for use with their specific seat configurations. While most NHTSA-labeled seats will fit, a few models may not work well with certain airline seats due to width or attachment point differences.
How to Install a Car Seat on an Airplane Seat
Car seats on planes are installed using the airplane seat belt, not the LATCH system you use in your car. Thread the airplane seat belt through the car seat's belt path exactly as you would in a vehicle, then fasten it. The process is the same whether you are using a rear-facing or forward-facing seat.
The car seat must be placed in a window seat only — never in an aisle seat or middle seat. This is an FAA safety rule. The window seat placement keeps the car seat from blocking the aisle in case of an emergency evacuation. Request a window seat when you book your flight or at check-in, and let the airline know you will be bringing a car seat.
Your child must remain in the car seat during taxi, takeoff, and landing. Once the plane reaches cruising altitude and the seat belt sign is turned off, your child can be removed from the seat if you wish, though many parents keep them in it for the entire flight. The car seat provides the same protection during turbulence that it does in a car.
What to Do at the Airport With a Car Seat
You have three options for your car seat at the airport: check it as baggage, gate-check it, or carry it onto the plane. If you carry it onto the plane, you must have a separate paid ticket for your child — the seat cannot occupy a lap. Many families check the car seat to avoid the hassle of carrying it through the airport, especially if they have other luggage or young children.
If you check the car seat, place it in a protective travel bag designed for car seats. These bags have handles and wheels, cost between $30 and $80, and protect the seat from damage during baggage handling. Without a protective bag, your car seat may arrive damaged and unusable. Some airlines charge a checked baggage fee for the car seat; others do not. Confirm your airline's policy when you book.
Gate-checking means you carry the seat to the airplane door, hand it to a gate agent, and it is loaded into the cargo hold just before takeoff. You retrieve it when you land. This option works well if you want to use the seat on the plane but do not want to carry it through the airport. Not all airlines offer gate-checking, so ask at the ticket counter.
Car Seats for Different Age Groups and Flight Lengths
Infants under 2 years old can sit in your lap during flight without a car seat, though the FAA recommends using one. If you choose to use a car seat for an infant, a rear-facing infant car seat or a convertible seat in rear-facing mode is appropriate. Toddlers and older children who have outgrown the rear-facing stage can use forward-facing car seats or combination seats.
For short flights, some parents choose not to bring a car seat and instead hold their child or use the airline's lap-child policy. For longer flights, a car seat provides a familiar, safe space for your child to sleep and gives you a break from holding them. There is no rule requiring a car seat on any flight — it is your choice as a parent.
If you are renting a car at your destination, you may want to check the car seat at your origin airport and rent a car seat from the rental company instead. This avoids carrying the seat through multiple airports. Rental car seats cost $10 to $15 per day and are available from most major rental agencies, though you must reserve one in advance.
Common Problems and How to Avoid Them
The most common issue is arriving at the airport without confirming that your car seat meets NHTSA standards. Check the label before you travel. If you cannot find it or your seat does not have one, contact the manufacturer — they can tell you whether your model is compliant. Do not assume an older car seat meets current standards; safety requirements have changed over time.
Another frequent problem is not requesting a window seat in advance. If you arrive at the airport without a window seat assignment, you may not be able to use your car seat on that flight. Airlines cannot move other passengers to accommodate a car seat, so book your window seat early or call ahead to request one.
Some parents also underestimate the time needed to install a car seat on an airplane. If you are carrying the seat onto the plane, arrive early enough to install it before boarding closes. Installation usually takes 5 to 10 minutes, but if you are unfamiliar with the process, it may take longer. Watch a video tutorial before your flight or practice at home.
Traveling Internationally With a Car Seat
International airlines have different rules about car seats. Some international carriers do not permit car seats on their planes at all, while others allow them with advance notice. If you are flying internationally, contact your airline at least two weeks before your flight to confirm their car seat policy. Do not assume that a rule that applies to domestic flights applies to international flights.
Some countries have different car seat standards than the United States. If you are traveling to another country and plan to rent a car, research that country's car seat laws before you travel. You may need to rent a car seat that meets local standards rather than bringing your own. Many rental agencies in Europe, Canada, and Australia have car seats available, though you must reserve one in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a booster seat on an airplane?
No. The FAA only permits car seats with a full shell structure. Booster seats and harness-only seats are not allowed. Your child must use a forward-facing or rear-facing car seat with a complete frame.
What if my car seat does not fit in the airplane seat?
Some car seats are too wide for certain airplane seats. If your seat does not fit, contact your airline before your flight — they can tell you whether your model is compatible. If it is not compatible, you will need to check the seat or use a different model.
Do I have to buy a ticket for my child if I bring a car seat?
Yes. The car seat occupies a passenger seat, so you must purchase a ticket for your child. Infants under 2 can sit in your lap without a ticket, but if you want to use a car seat for an infant, you must buy a ticket.
Can I install the car seat in the middle seat instead of the window seat?
No. FAA rules require car seats to be in window seats only. This is a safety rule that applies to all flights. If you cannot get a window seat, you cannot use the car seat on that flight.
What happens if I check my car seat and it arrives damaged?
If your car seat is damaged during baggage handling, contact the airline when ready. Most airlines will compensate you for damage to checked baggage, though the amount may be limited. Use a protective travel bag to reduce the risk of damage.