Safety of Infants and Children

Approval and Use of Child Restraint Systems

The safest way to secure an infant or child on board an aircraft is in a State-approved child restraint system (CRS), in a dedicated seat, and appropriate for that infant or child. The use of CRS provides an equivalent level of safety to infants and children as that afforded to adult passengers wearing seat belts.

Proper use of occupant restraints is one of the most basic and important factors in surviving an accident. It is not possible for a parent to physically restrain an infant or child, especially during sudden accelerations and/or decelerations, unanticipated or severe turbulence or during impact.

Research on CRS shows that infants and children are at higher risk of sustaining injuries, if they are not properly secured in a suitable device that has been approved for use on board the aircraft. The use of certain types of devices, not specifically designed for use with an aircraft seat, is detrimental to an infant or child’s safety. Studies have demonstrated that such devices do not provide the same level of safety as CRS approved for use on board aircraft, or that provided to other passengers who occupy their own seats.

The Manual on the Approval and Use of Child Restraint Systems (Doc 10049) contains guidance for States to develop regulations and approval processes enabling the use of CRS. It also provides guidance for airlines regarding the use of CRS on board their aircraft. It addresses:

• Types of CRS suitable for use on board aircraft
• Regulatory considerations, including model regulations on CRS
• Recommended operator policy and procedures
• Training on CRS, including detailed content of the cabin crew training programme
• Information to passengers regarding CRS use on board aircraft
• Post-implementation activities related to CRS, including surveillance by the States.

To obtain a copy of the Manual on the Approval and Use of Child Restraint Systems, please visit here.