Traveling with a car seat on an airplane can be challenging. We researched and compared seven top models based on FAA approval, weight, width, ease of installation, and owner feedback. Our evaluation focuses on finding a seat that is safe for both car and plane, lightweight enough to carry through an airport, and narrow enough to fit in an airplane seat. Here is our buying guide.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
|
🚗
|
Cosco Scenera NEXT Best Overall Weight: 7.3 lbs | Width: 17.5 in | FAA approved |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Evenflo Maestro Sport Best for Toddlers Weight: 10.5 lbs | Width: 19 in | FAA approved |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Britax Marathon ClickTight Best Safety Weight: 19.5 lbs | Width: 19.5 in | FAA approved |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
Chicco KeyFit 30 Best Infant Seat Weight: 9.5 lbs (base not needed on plane) | Width: 17 in | FAA approved |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Graco Contender 65 Best Value Weight: 11.5 lbs | Width: 20 in | FAA approved |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Diono Radian 3RXT Best Narrow Weight: 22 lbs | Width: 17 in | FAA approved |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Safety 1st Grow and Go Best Budget Weight: 12.5 lbs | Width: 19.5 in | FAA approved |
7.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Cosco Scenera NEXT: Best Overall
The Cosco Scenera NEXT is a top pick for air travel due to its light weight and narrow profile. In our evaluation, it stands out as one of the lightest car seats available, making it easy to carry through terminals and install on an airplane. Owner feedback confirms that it fits well in most economy seats without requiring a seat belt extender. It is FAA approved for use on aircraft, which is a must for any travel seat.
However, the Scenera NEXT has minimal padding, which may be less comfortable for a sleeping child on long flights. Parents looking for more plush seating may want to consider other options. It also lacks some convenience features like cup holders or recline adjustment. This seat is best for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize weight and width over luxury.
- Lightweight at just over 7 pounds, easy to carry through airports
- Narrow width fits most airplane seats without issue
- Simple installation with seat belt or LATCH in cars
Pros: Very affordable and lightweight; Fits easily in overhead bin or under seat
Cons: Padding is minimal, less comfortable for long flights
2. Evenflo Maestro Sport: Best for Toddlers
The Evenflo Maestro Sport is a solid choice for toddlers who have outgrown infant seats. We researched its dual functionality as a harness car seat and a belt-positioning booster, which extends its useful life. Owner feedback highlights its comfort features, including cup holders and padded armrests, which keep children happy during flights. It is FAA approved and fits most airplane seats, though its 19-inch width may be tight in some narrow economy rows.
On the downside, at 10.5 pounds it is heavier than the Scenera NEXT, making it less ideal for parents who need to carry the seat long distances. It also lacks a carry strap, which can be a hassle through the airport. This seat is best for families with toddlers who want a comfortable, long-lasting seat that works well on planes and in cars.
- Harness booster mode suitable for toddlers up to 50 lbs
- Cup holders and padded armrests for comfort
- Simple LATCH installation in car
Pros: Durable and well-padded for comfort; Converts to belt-positioning booster
Cons: Heavier than some airline-only seats
3. Britax Marathon ClickTight: Best Safety
The Britax Marathon ClickTight is a premium car seat with top-tier safety features. In our evaluation, it excels in crash protection with a steel frame and energy-absorbing foam. The ClickTight system makes car installation nearly foolproof, a significant advantage for parents who frequently move the seat between vehicles. It is FAA approved for aircraft use, but its weight of nearly 20 pounds makes it a burden for air travel.
This seat is not recommended for frequent flyers or those who need to carry the seat through airports. Its width can also be tight on some airplane seats. The Marathon is best for parents who prioritize maximum safety and drive a lot, but only occasionally fly. For dedicated air travel, a lighter seat is more practical.
- ClickTight installation system for error-free car installation
- Steel frame and energy-absorbing foam for crash protection
- Multiple recline positions for comfort
Pros: Excellent safety ratings and build quality; Easy to install correctly in a car
Cons: Very heavy, not ideal for air travel
4. Chicco KeyFit 30: Best Infant Seat
The Chicco KeyFit 30 is a popular infant car seat that transitions well to air travel. We compared its specifications and owner feedback, finding that it is FAA approved and can be installed on an airplane without the heavy base, using just the seat belt. At 9.5 pounds for the carrier, it is manageable to carry, especially when clicked into a compatible stroller. Its narrow width fits most airplane seats comfortably.
However, this seat is only for infants and will be outgrown quickly. It also requires the base for car use, adding bulk if you need to bring both. Parents with older babies or toddlers should look at convertible seats. The KeyFit 30 is best for families with newborns who want a convenient travel system that works on planes.
- Infant carrier with removable base for car use
- Can be installed on plane without base using seat belt
- Superior side-impact protection
Pros: Lightweight carrier works without base on plane; Easy to click into stroller for travel systems
Cons: Only suitable for infants up to 30 inches and 30 lbs
5. Graco Contender 65: Best Value
The Graco Contender 65 is an affordable convertible car seat that can be used on airplanes. In our evaluation, it offers good value for parents who need a seat for both car and plane. It is FAA approved and has a simple harness adjustment. Owner feedback notes that it is comfortable for children and easy to clean with a removable, machine-washable cover.
However, its 20-inch width is on the larger side and may not fit in some airplane seats, especially in budget airlines with narrower seats. It is also heavier at 11.5 pounds, which can be cumbersome. This seat is best for families on a budget who drive a larger car and only occasionally fly, and who can confirm their airline seat width beforehand.
- Convertible seat rear and forward facing up to 65 lbs
- Easy-to-adjust harness and buckle
- Machine washable seat pad
Pros: Good value for a convertible seat; Washable cover for easy cleaning
Cons: Wider than some airplane seats, may not fit in all rows
6. Diono Radian 3RXT: Best Narrow
The Diono Radian 3RXT is a narrow car seat that is ideal for fitting in tight spaces, both in cars and on airplanes. We researched its specifications and found that its 17-inch width makes it one of the slimmest options, ensuring it will fit in almost any airplane seat without needing an extender. It also folds flat, which is convenient for storage. Its steel frame provides excellent durability and safety.
However, its weight of 22 pounds is a major drawback for air travel. Carrying it through an airport can be exhausting. Installation can also be tricky, especially without LATCH on a plane. This seat is best for families who need a narrow seat for multiple children in a car and are willing to deal with the weight for occasional flights. For frequent flyers, a lighter seat is recommended.
- Narrow 17-inch width fits three across in many cars
- Steel alloy frame for durability
- Folds flat for storage and travel
Pros: Very narrow, fits almost any airplane seat; Folds flat for easy transport
Cons: Heavy at 22 pounds, difficult to carry
7. Safety 1st Grow and Go: Best Budget
The Safety 1st Grow and Go is a budget-friendly 3-in-1 car seat that can be used on airplanes. In our evaluation, it offers good value for parents who want a single seat that grows with their child. It is FAA approved and has level indicators to help with installation. Owner feedback appreciates its affordability and easy-to-clean cover.
However, its 19.5-inch width and 12.5-pound weight make it less than ideal for air travel. It may not fit in narrow airplane seats, and carrying it through an airport is cumbersome. The build quality is adequate but not premium. This seat is best for families on a tight budget who drive a larger vehicle and fly infrequently. For regular air travel, a lighter, narrower seat is a better investment.
- 3-in-1 seat: rear-facing, forward-facing, booster
- Easy-to-read level indicators for installation
- Machine washable seat pad
Pros: Very affordable 3-in-1 seat; Washable cover
Cons: Bulkier and heavier than dedicated travel seats
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all car seats FAA approved for airplane use?
No, not all car seats are FAA approved. Look for a label stating ‘This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.’ Most convertible and infant seats have this approval, but booster seats without a harness are not allowed. Always check the seat’s approval before flying.
Can I use a car seat on an airplane without a base?
Yes, for infant seats like the Chicco KeyFit 30, you can install the carrier on the airplane without the base by routing the airplane seat belt through the belt path. For convertible seats, you use the same method. Never use a base on the plane as it is not certified for aircraft use.
What is the best car seat width for an airplane seat?
Airplane seats are typically 17 to 18 inches wide. A car seat under 18 inches wide is ideal. Most narrow seats like the Cosco Scenera NEXT (17.5 in) or Diono Radian (17 in) fit well. Wider seats may require a seat belt extender or may not fit.
How do I install a car seat on an airplane?
Place the car seat in the airplane seat facing forward. Thread the airplane seat belt through the car seat’s belt path and buckle it. Pull the belt tight to secure the seat. The car seat should not move more than one inch side to side. Do not use LATCH on a plane.
Can I check my car seat as baggage instead of using it on the plane?
Yes, you can check a car seat at the gate or with regular luggage, but it may get damaged. Airlines often recommend using it on the plane for safety and to protect the seat. If you check it, use a padded bag. Note that checked car seats do not count toward your carry-on allowance on most airlines.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing these seven car seats, the Cosco Scenera NEXT is our top pick for airplane travel due to its light weight, narrow width, and affordability. For toddlers who need more comfort, the Evenflo Maestro Sport is a strong runner up with added features like cup holders and a booster mode. Choose based on your child’s age, your travel frequency, and your budget.
