[krisvage]

I think that it is reasonable to expect the woman to check in the car seat and at least one of the carry-ons as baggage. I also think it is reasonable for the flight attendant and other passengers to expect the airline to enforce their rules on this, although maybe with more leniency now, but do not then expect extra service for breaking common curtesy.

[owenmarshall]

Lots of people have stopped flying infant in arms because it’s far safer for babies to be properly secured. The FAA is rather clear on that.

That means the car seat wouldn’t be checked: it would be strapped down to a seat and the baby strapped in that.

In this case, it’s very possible - even likely, because airlines like selling seats - that baby was a revenue passenger entitled to a carry-on bag of its own.

[krisvage]

Ok, thanks for the explanation, in that case my perception is completely changed, and I think it is reasonable to expect help from the flight attendant. In my mind the car seat was just an extra piece stowed and to be used at destination, but I can see that is a dumb assumption.

[ianlevesque]

Entirely this. As someone who has flown with multiple children and/or infants (I apologize to everyone who hates screaming children on planes), most of the time now you buy a separate ticket for your baby and have them in a carseat that is strapped into the plane seat. It's a logistical nightmare.

[gvjddbnvdrbv]

I've never seen a car seat on a plane. We flew multiple times with ours on our laps.

[ianlevesque]

Sure, you can also not wear seatbelts or bike helmets. It’s a free country.

[gvjddbnvdrbv]

Actually seat belts are a legal requirement here.

A child seat on a plane is an illusion of safety. If the plane crashes it won't help. The only reason to bring one into the cabin (and it is a good reason) is if you need one where you are going.

[owenmarshall]

https://www.faa.gov/travelers/fly_children/

> Did you know that the safest place for your child on an airplane is in a government-approved child safety restraint system (CRS) or device, not on your lap? Your arms aren't capable of holding your child securely, especially during unexpected turbulence.

> The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) strongly urges you to secure your child in a CRS or device for the duration of your flight

[ianlevesque]

It prevents your child from turning into a projectile during heavy turbulence.

[antiterra]

In addition to other comments about the car seat actually being used on the flight:

Checking (at bag drop) a car seat risks invisibly compromising the protection it affords. Gate checking is likely better.