Are Baby Car Seats Allowed on Emirates and Qatar Airways Flights?

Are Baby Car Seats Allowed on Emirates and Qatar Airways Flights?

When travelling with a baby, parents have to think about a lot of things, but most importantly, their comfort and safety, especially when flying. Air travel is considered one of the safest modes of travel, but it is not always smooth. Sometimes, turbulence can happen without warning, and this can cause people to get hurt, especially if they are not strapped in properly.

This means even more safety measures for babies and young kids. Most airlines provide special seat belts for babies sitting on an adult's lap. But some parents prefer using their own baby car seats because they believe it is safer and more comfortable for their little one. 

However, the big question is, are you allowed to bring a baby car seat on a flight? Let's take a look at the guidelines regarding this on Emirates and Qatar Airways.

Image: A photo of a baby in a grey safety car seat with a pacifier in his mouth, looking cosy and content.

Baby Car Seats on Emirates Flights

Emirates does allow baby car seats on board, but under certain conditions as follows:

• Your baby must have their own paid seat if you want to use a car seat. 
• The car seat has to be approved for use in aircraft. Usually, it will have a label saying something like “Approved for use in aircraft” or a similar certification from your country’s safety authority.
• The car seat must be forward-facing for take-off and landing. Rear-facing seats can be used only if they fit safely in the aircraft seat without blocking the recline of the seat in front.
• The car seat must fit within the size of the aircraft seat. Big, bulky ones might not be allowed.

If you don’t bring a car seat, Emirates provides a special infant seat belt. They also offer bassinets for babies under a certain weight and height, but these are only for use when the seatbelt sign is off.

Baby Car Seats on Qatar Airways Flights

Here are some guidelines to bring a baby car seat on a Qatar Airways flight:

• Your baby needs their own booked seat.
• The car seat must have official safety approval for aircraft use.
• The seat must fit properly in the aircraft seat without blocking access to other passengers or causing safety risks.
• Rear-facing seats are allowed only if they fit without blocking the recline or space of other seats.
• Qatar Airways also offers bassinets for small babies, which can be more comfortable for naps. However, like with Emirates, bassinets can’t be used during turbulence or when the seatbelt sign is on.

Tips if You Are Planning to Use a Baby Car Seat

Book early - This will allow you to choose seats that give you more space and time to check with the airline about the guidelines for car seats.

Check size and approval - Make sure your car seat is the right size and has an aircraft approval label.

Tell the airline in advance - Let Emirates or Qatar Airways know early that you are bringing a car seat so they can note it in your booking.

Arrive early at the airport - You will need extra time for security checks and installing the seat.

Conclusion

Yes, both Emirates and Qatar Airways allow baby car seats on their flights, but you have to follow specific guidelines and meet all safety requirements. While it is an extra cost to pay for your baby’s seat, the safety and comfort it brings are worth it.

A car seat helps keep your baby secure, giving you one less thing to worry about during your journey. It means your hands are mostly free, so you can enjoy other things like comfortably eating your meal, holding your drinks, using your phone, and even resting, all while keeping an eye on your child.