Flying Without a Car Seat: FAA‑Approved Alternatives

• Last updated May 4, 2025

Hauling a full‑size car seat through the airport can be a major hassle—and some families prefer lighter options without sacrificing safety. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved select harness‑style and booster‑style devices as legal alternatives to traditional child restraint systems on airplanes. In this guide, you’ll learn about the FAA‑certified CARES harness, how to install it step‑by‑step, when it’s not recommended, and other FAA‑approved restraint alternatives to keep your child safe at 30,000 feet.

The CARES Harness: What It Is

The Child Aviation Restraint System (CARES) is the only FAA‑approved harness‑style device designed specifically for air travel. Weighing under one pound and fitting in your carry‑on, CARES attaches to the airplane seatbelt and provides an extra torso restraint that mimics a car seat’s five‑point harness.

FAA Certification for CARES

AmSafe’s CARES device is FAA‑certified under Advisory Circular AC 120‑87C. It is approved for use during all phases of flight—taxi, takeoff, landing, and turbulence—as long as the child occupies their own seat. To qualify, the device must bear the label:

“FAA Approved in Accordance with 14 CFR § 21.305(d) (Type III restraint). Approved for aircraft use only.”

The system has passed rigorous dynamic testing to demonstrate an Equivalent Level of Safety (ELOS) compared to traditional car seats :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.

Eligible Ages, Heights, and Weights

The FAA limits CARES use to children who can sit upright unassisted. The official eligibility ranges are:

Parameter	Range
Weight	22–44 lbs (10–20 kg)
Height	Up to 40 inches (101 cm)
Age	Typically 1–4 years old, depending on child’s size

Using CARES on an Airplane

Installation Steps and Demo

Installing CARES takes under a minute:

1. Unfold the harness and ensure all straps are untangled.
2. Place upper torso straps over the child’s shoulders.
3. Buckle the red loop around the airplane lap belt.
4. Tighten the lap belt and harness straps until snug—no more than 1″ of movement at the child’s torso.

Watch: How to Install a CARES Harness on an Airplane Seat

When NOT to Use CARES

• If your child is under 22 lbs or over 44 lbs, or taller than 40 inches.
• In side‑facing seats (only forward‑facing seats are tested and approved).
• If the child cannot sit upright unassisted for the duration of the flight.
• When traveling in motor vehicles—CARES is approved only for aircraft use.

Other Restraint Alternatives

Beyond CARES, the FAA permits certain booster‑style and harness‑style devices that meet 14 CFR 21.8 or 21.305(d) requirements.

Booster Seats and Harnesses

Some lightweight booster seats and harness vests carry FAA certification and are approved for use in aircraft where they bear the correct FAA label. These devices offer lap‑belt positioning and torso support similar to CARES but may include a crotch strap or integrated pad for comfort.

Comparing Safety and Convenience

• Convenience: CARES wins on portability—fits in a pocket and installs quickly.
• Safety: A full FAA‑approved booster or vest with hard‑shell backing may provide enhanced side‑impact protection over a harness‑only device.
• Cost: Harness devices like CARES start around $85, while compact boosters can range $100–$150.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Do I still need to buy a seat for my child?

A: Yes—FAA‑approved devices require the child occupy their own purchased seat.

Q: Can I use CARES in a taxi or rental car?

A: No—CARES is only certified for aircraft. Use a proper car seat or booster in ground vehicles.

Conclusion

For families seeking lightweight, space‑saving alternatives to bulky car seats on airplanes, the FAA‑approved CARES harness and select lightweight boosters offer certified safety without the hassle. Always verify the device bears the proper FAA label, stay within weight/height limits, and follow installation steps carefully. Safe travels at every altitude!

References

• FAA Flying with Children – Approved Child Aviation Restraint System (CARES): faa.gov :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
• YouTube: How to install a CARES Harness on an airplane's seat: turn0search1 :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
• FAA Advisory Circular AC 120‑87C – Use of Child Restraint Systems on Aircraft