Traveling with car seat on Delta – free?

Delta Airlines Car Seat Policy Overview

Delta Airlines is committed to passenger safety, including young travelers. Car seats are allowed on flights, but there are rules based on child age, seat type, and whether the child has a purchased seat.

• Infants Without a Seat: Lap infants traveling without a purchased seat may not require a car seat onboard.

• Children With a Seat: Children under 40 pounds should use a FAA-approved car seat in their assigned seat.

• Types of Car Seats Allowed: Convertible, rear-facing, forward-facing, and booster seats that are FAA-approved are permitted.

Parents should check for FAA approval on car seats. The label is usually on the side or bottom, stating: “This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.”

Is Bringing a Car Seat Free on Delta?

Delta generally allows one car seat per child for free, but there are nuances depending on the type of ticket and whether the car seat is checked or carried onboard.

1. Carry-On Car Seats

• If your child has a purchased seat, you may bring the car seat onboard for free.

• It must fit in the aircraft seat and be properly secured using the airplane seat belt.

2. Checked Car Seats

• Delta allows car seats to be checked at the gate or ticket counter at no extra charge.

• Checking a car seat can reduce the hassle of navigating the airport with heavy or bulky seats.

• Some parents prefer checking larger convertible seats to avoid carrying them through security and boarding.

3. Strollers vs. Car Seats

• Delta allows one stroller per child for free. Many parents bring a travel system stroller that accommodates a car seat.

• Both the stroller and car seat can often be checked together without fees.

4. Exceptions

• Special circumstances, such as certain international flights or connecting airlines, may impose fees or restrictions. Always confirm with Delta before flying.

How to Use a Car Seat Onboard Delta

Using a car seat on the plane requires careful attention to safety guidelines. The FAA recommends securing children in approved restraint systems during the flight.

Steps to Follow:

1. Purchase a Seat for Your Child

   • For children over 2 years old or under 40 pounds, purchasing a seat ensures the car seat can be used.

   • FAA-approved car seats can then be securely installed on the airplane seat.

2. Install Correctly

   • Position the car seat rear-facing for infants and forward-facing for older children, following FAA guidelines.

   • Use the airplane seat belt to secure the car seat.

   • Avoid using the LATCH system in flight; airplane seats only support seat belts.

3. Secure Loose Items

   • Remove toys or accessories that could become projectiles during turbulence.

   • Buckle your child properly inside the seat.

4. Check Delta Regulations

   • Delta staff may verify the car seat type and installation during boarding.

   • Some flight attendants can assist with installation if needed.

Car Seat Types Accepted by Delta

Delta Airlines requires that all car seats used onboard must be FAA-approved. Acceptable types include:

• Infant Car Seats: Rear-facing for children under 1 year.

• Convertible Car Seats: Can be rear- or forward-facing.

• Combination Seats: Forward-facing with harness, then converts to booster.

• Booster Seats: Only allowed for older children who meet minimum size and weight requirements.

Car seats NOT allowed:

• Car beds

• Inflatable or non-rigid travel devices

• Seats without FAA approval

Checking a Car Seat on Delta

Many families choose to check their car seat to simplify travel. Delta allows:

• Gate Check: Drop off the car seat at the aircraft door. It will be returned at the gate upon arrival.

• Ticket Counter Check: Check the car seat with luggage. Delta provides protective tags but no additional fee.

Tips for Gate Checking:

• Use a padded bag to protect your car seat.

• Label the seat clearly with your name and flight information.

• Remove detachable toys or covers to avoid damage.

Traveling with a Car Seat Internationally

International travel requires additional planning:

• Check Local Regulations: Some countries have specific rules for child restraint systems.

• Confirm FAA Approval: International flights may enforce FAA standards strictly.

• Connecting Flights: If flying with partner airlines, confirm whether the car seat can be used on their planes.

Benefits of Using a Car Seat on Flights

Traveling with a car seat offers multiple advantages:

• Enhanced Safety: Car seats are the safest way for young children to travel.

• Familiar Environment: Children feel secure in their familiar car seat.

• Ease of Handling: Helps manage child behavior during takeoff and landing.

Tips for Stress-Free Car Seat Travel on Delta

1. Book Early: Reserve seats for your child to ensure space for the car seat.

2. Choose Aisle or Window Seats: Consider safety and convenience.

3. Bring Accessories: Bring a blanket or comfort toy to keep your child calm.

4. Travel Light: Minimize luggage to manage both your child and the car seat easily.

5. Check for Upgrades: Some Delta flights may allow extra space or bulkhead seating for car seats.

Delta Car Seat and Stroller Combo

Delta allows families to bring both a stroller and car seat. Tips for combining:

• Use Travel System: A stroller with a detachable car seat simplifies boarding and deplaning.

• Gate Check Stroller: Drop off the stroller at the gate for free.

• Coordinate Timing: Arrive early to ensure smooth gate check and installation.

Car Seat Safety Tips

The FAA emphasizes that car seats must:

• Be FAA-approved for air travel

• Be installed using airplane seat belts only

• Have the child strapped securely at all times

• Avoid positioning near exit rows or restricted areas

Parents should read the car seat manual and Delta guidelines before flying to avoid complications.

FAQs: Traveling with Car Seat on Delta

Q1: Can I bring more than one car seat?
A: Delta allows one car seat per child for free. Extra seats may require additional arrangements.

Q2: Is it free to check a car seat?
A: Yes, checking or gate-checking a car seat is free on Delta.

Q3: Can I use the LATCH system onboard?
A: No, airplane seats only allow seat belt installation.

Q4: Are booster seats allowed?
A: Yes, FAA-approved booster seats are allowed for older children.

Q5: Can I bring a car seat for a lap infant?
A: If the infant is flying on your lap without a purchased seat, a car seat is not required, but you may still use it if you purchase a seat.

Conclusion

Traveling with a car seat on Delta Airlines is straightforward if you understand the rules. Car seats can be used onboard or checked for free, and FAA-approved models ensure child safety.

Parents and caregivers should:

• Verify FAA approval

• Plan seating in advance

• Check gate and ticket counter options

• Follow installation guidelines

With proper planning, traveling with children and their car seats can be stress-free, safe, and comfortable. Delta Airlines accommodates families by allowing car seats and strollers free of charge, making air travel with children manageable and convenient.