Before you fly...

• Buy a ticket for your child of any age and get seat assignments ahead of time. Ask airlines if they have discounts for young children.
• Know that the FAA requires airlines to allow the use of a certified car seat if the child has a ticket. The FAA strongly recommends, but does not require, that children under age 2 ride in a car seat. Check out the FAA website for their recommendations.
• Make sure your child's car seat is allowed on airplanes.
• Car seats are allowed only in window seats in non-exit rows. Check with the airline if traveling with two children in car seats. They may have to sit in separate rows.
• Ask for bulkhead seats if you will be using a rear-facing convertible car seat, which would needs extra space.
• If you choose not to buy a ticket for your child under 2:
  • You are more likely to get a free seat if you fly at off-peak times. Check with the airline ticket agent.
  • Check with the ticket agent to make sure the airline will allow you to use an empty seat for your young child.