Any tricks/tips for installing a RA on an airplane?

[karisaf]

We're flying to Hawaii tomorrow and I'll be installing a car seat for the first time on an airplane. It's a RA. Any tricks/tips to make it super easy for me?? :)

[An Aurora]

If you're installing FF, you'll want a belt extender. Otherwise, removing the seat can be a real PITA.

If you're installing RF, route the belt over the cover instead of under like normal, and it's a snap to install.

[karisaf]

I am installing FF, so thanks for telling me about getting the belt extender! :)

I also thought I had read something about twisting the seatbelt once so that it's easier to unclip....??

[An Aurora]

Yes, that can help. I've done it that way but it's still really hard to get unbuckled. If you can't get a belt extender, definitely flip the buckle. But getting the extender really helps :)

[karisaf]

I'm confused as to how that helps? Can you try to explain it?

[An Aurora]

Sure :)

If you are installing without the extender, the buckle winds up in the middle of the belt path. When you go to uninstall the seat, the weird way that airplane belts unbuckle (you know, lifting the metal part and all) combined with the confined space in the belt path makes it really hard to get it unbuckled. Flipping it over changes the angle and helps you get it unbuckled, because instead of lifting up you're pushing down, if that makes sense. If you get a belt extender, the buckle is outside of the beltpath and it's a snap to unbuckle.

[karisaf]

Thanks, now I understand perfectly! :)