Size to fit airplane seatbelt?

Ninetales · Dec 29, 2013

I know I've seen stats on this before but can't find it when I search.

What size does a child have to be, generally, to fit safely in the seatbelt on a plane?

jjordan · Dec 29, 2013

I've heard that 40 pounds is generally safe, and that is the weight up to which the FAA recommends child restraint use on aircraft. Last January when ds was 4.5 and probably about 37 pounds, we flew without a CR for him and the belt seemed to fit fine.

Ninetales · Dec 29, 2013

This kid is 4.5, over 50 lbs, and at least 43 inches. I appreciate the help, as I'm no plane expert.

kaharris83 · Dec 29, 2013

My 33lb 3.5yo fit it fine last month. Though he behaves so much better when in a car seat.

xursusmaritimusx · Dec 31, 2013

My daughter fit okay at 40lbs and 40". She was 4.
Just have to make sure they sit with their backs against the seat and don't slump down.

ketchupqueen · Jan 2, 2014

It very much depends on the build of the child...

My skinny, willowy (lots of height in arms and legs, thin bone structure) eldest did NOT fit the belt properly at age 7 1/2 and about 46 lbs.

On the same flight, both her 5 1/2 year old, about 47 lb., wide-framed (she got my build, which came from both my grandfathers- both linebackers in high school/college) sister fit fine, AND so did her 3 1/2 year old, 35 lbs. sister (with similar build to the 5 1/2 year old.)

It may also depend on the airline- some go very, very small and some do not.

Ninetales · Jan 5, 2014

It's Southwest, if that makes a difference. And definitely built like a linebacker, very solid.

Size to fit airplane seatbelt?

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