Car Seat on Spirit Airlines: Guidelines and Restrictions

Traveling with children can be a daunting task, especially regarding air travel. One of the parents’ biggest concerns is safely transporting their children on a plane. Spirit Airlines recognizes this concern and allows parents to bring their child’s car seat and stroller onboard at no extra cost.

However, parents must follow some guidelines and safety procedures when traveling with a car seat on Spirit Airlines. For example, a car seat may not be used in any middle equipped with an inflatable seat belt. Additionally, rear-facing child restraint systems may not be accommodated if the height exceeds 25 inches. Parents are encouraged to review the guidelines and safety procedures before traveling with a car seat on Spirit Airlines.

Overall, Spirit Airlines’ car seat policy allows parents to ensure the safety and comfort of their children while traveling. By following the guidelines and safety procedures, parents can have peace of mind knowing that their child’s car seat is allowed onboard and that they comply with all regulations.

Spirit Airlines: An Overview

Spirit Airlines is a low-cost carrier that operates flights to over 60 destinations in the United States, the Caribbean, and Latin America. The airline is known for offering affordable fares. Still, passengers should be aware that many of the services that are typically included in the cost of a ticket on other airlines, such as seat selection and carry-on baggage, are available for an additional fee on Spirit Airlines.

Passengers traveling with infants or young children should note that Spirit Airlines allows car seats and strollers to be brought on board, but some restrictions exist. Rear-facing child restraint systems may not be accommodated if the height exceeds 25 inches. Car seats may not be used in any center equipped with an inflatable seat belt.

Spirit Airlines does not charge a fee for passengers traveling with a lap child, a child under the age of two who does not occupy a seat. Still, there are additional requirements that must be followed. Passengers may choose to purchase a chair for their infant if they prefer.

Overall, Spirit Airlines is a good option for budget-conscious travelers willing to forego some of the amenities typically included in the cost of a ticket on other airlines. However, passengers should know the additional fees for seat selection and carry-on baggage services. They should carefully review the restrictions on bringing car seats and strollers on board before traveling with young children.

Understanding Spirit Airlines’ Baggage Policy

When flying with Spirit Airlines, it is vital to understand their baggage policy, especially when traveling with children and car seats. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Spirit Airlines charges for all checked and carry-on bags, including strollers and car seats.
• Guests traveling with children under two years old are allowed to bring a diaper bag on board in addition to their personal items and carry-on bag.
• Spirit Airlines allows one stroller and car seat per child to be checked for free at the ticket counter. Double strollers can also be checked for free.
• Car seats may only sometimes fit in specific Spirit Airlines aircraft seats. They may not be accommodated in any heart equipped with an inflatable seat belt. They may not be secured in an exit seat or the row before or after the exit seats.

It is important to note that Spirit Airlines’ baggage fees can change frequently, so it is recommended to check their website for the most up-to-date information. Additionally, guests can save money by purchasing checked and carry-on bags in advance rather than at the airport.

Car Seat Regulations on Spirit Airlines

Age and Weight Restrictions

According to Spirit Airlines, children under the age of 2 can travel on the lap of an adult passenger. However, parents can purchase a seat for their child and bring an FAA-approved car seat on board. The car seat must be appropriate for the child’s age and weight.

Installation Guidelines

When bringing a car seat on board, parents must ensure it is installed correctly. The car seat must be secured tightly to the aircraft seat using the seat belt. The aircraft seat belt must be latched over the car seat and tightened securely.

Onboard Placement

Car seats may not be accommodated in any center equipped with an inflatable seat belt. Additionally, car seats may not be secured in an exit seat or the row before or after the exit seats. Parents should also ensure the car seat does not block another passenger from exiting in an emergency.

Spirit Airlines recommends that parents check the dimensions of their car seat before bringing it on board. The regular seats on most of their planes are between 15.5 and 18.5 inches wide. In terms of height, the car seat must be less than 25 inches tall.

Parents who plan to bring a car seat on board should notify Spirit Airlines when booking. It is also recommended to arrive at the airport early to allow enough time for installation and securing the car seat correctly.

Overall, Spirit Airlines has specific regulations for bringing car seats on board to ensure the safety of all passengers. Parents should review these regulations carefully and follow them to ensure a smooth and safe flight for their children.

Additional Charges for Car Seats

When traveling with a child on Spirit Airlines, passengers can bring a car seat onboard or check it in with their luggage. However, there are some additional charges that passengers should be aware of if they choose to bring a car seat onboard.

Passengers who wish to bring a car seat onboard must purchase an additional stool for the child. The car seat must be FAA-approved and fit within the dimensions of a standard airplane seat. The cost of the other heart will vary depending on the flight and destination.

It is important to note that the cost of the additional seat for the car seat is not included in the price of the original ticket. Passengers must purchase the other seat at the time of booking or check-in. Please purchase an additional seat for the car seat to avoid the passenger being denied boarding.

Passengers who choose to check their car seat in with their luggage will not be charged any additional fees as long as the car seat is checked in as part of the passenger’s baggage allowance. Spirit Airlines allows passengers to check one stroller and car seat per child for no extra cost at the ticket counter. If passengers travel with two children, they are more than welcome to check a double stroller instead.

In summary, passengers who wish to bring a car seat onboard with Spirit Airlines must purchase an additional seat for the child. The cost of the extra seat will vary depending on the flight and destination. Alternatively, passengers can check their car seat with their luggage for no additional charge as long as it is part of their baggage allowance.

Alternatives to Car Seats

While car seats are popular for parents traveling with young children on Spirit Airlines, other options are available. Here are a few alternatives to consider:

Lap Belt

Children under the age of two can sit on an adult’s lap during the flight and use the lap belt provided by the airline. This option is not recommended for safety reasons but is allowed by the FAA and Spirit Airlines.

CARES Harness

The CARES (Child Aviation Restraint System) harness is a lightweight and portable alternative to a car seat that can be used on Spirit Airlines. It is designed for children between 22 and 44 pounds and attaches to the airplane seat using the lap belt. The CARES harness is FAA-approved and can be purchased online or at some retail stores.

Inflatable Booster Seat

An inflatable booster seat is a compact and lightweight option for children who have outgrown their car seat. It can be inflated and deflated quickly and easily, making it convenient for travel. However, ensuring that the booster seat is FAA-approved and meets all safety requirements is important.

Sit ‘n’ Stroll

The Sit ‘n’ Stroll is a combination stroller and car seat that can be used on Spirit Airlines. It is designed for children weighing up to 40 pounds and can be converted from a stroller to a car seat in seconds. The Sit ‘n’ Stroll is FAA-approved and can be purchased online or at some retail stores.

Overall, parents can consider several alternatives to car seats when traveling with young children on Spirit Airlines. Researching and choosing an option that is safe and meets all FAA and airline regulations is vital.

Tips for Traveling with a Car Seat

When traveling with a car seat on Spirit Airlines, remember a few things to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Firstly, checking the airline’s policy on car seats before booking a flight is essential. As per Spirit Airlines’ guidelines, FAA-approved car seats are allowed on board, but they may only sometimes fit in specific aircraft seats. Car seats cannot be accommodated in any heart equipped with an inflatable seat belt, and they may not be secured in an exit seat or the row before or after the exit seats.

Ensuring the car seat is correctly installed on the aircraft seat is also important. The FAA recommends using a seat belt to secure the car seat to the aircraft seat rather than relying on the aircraft’s built-in LATCH system. This is because the LATCH system may not be compatible with the aircraft seat and may not provide the same level of protection as a seat belt.

Another tip for traveling with a car seat on Spirit Airlines is to label the car seat with the child’s name and contact information in case it gets separated from the family during the flight. It is also a good idea to bring a car seat cover or a plastic bag to protect the car seat during transport and storage.

Finally, parents should consider bringing a stroller compatible with the car seat, as this can make it easier to transport the car seat through the airport and to the aircraft. Some car seats have built-in wheels and stroller handles, which can be convenient for parents traveling with young children.

By following these tips, parents can ensure a safe and stress-free travel experience when flying with a car seat on Spirit Airlines.

Contacting Spirit Airlines for Assistance

Passengers needing assistance modifying or canceling their reservation, using a reservation credit or travel voucher, or having other general inquiries can contact Spirit Sales and Guest Services directly. The airline offers several ways to get in touch with its customer service team:

• Toll-Free Number: Passengers can call 1-855-SAVE-555 (1-855-728-3555) to speak with a representative. The line is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
• Text Message: Passengers can text Spirit Airlines at 48763 for assistance.
• WhatsApp: Passengers can use WhatsApp to contact Spirit Airlines at 855-728-3555.
• Online Contact Form: Passengers can fill out an online contact form on the airline’s website to receive assistance.

It is recommended that passengers contact Spirit Airlines as soon as possible if they require assistance. Waiting until the last minute may result in longer wait times or limited availability of options.

Passengers who require special assistance due to a disability or medical condition can contact Spirit Airlines’ Disability Services department at least 48 hours before their flight. The airline provides various services to accommodate passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair assistance, oxygen service, and more.

Spirit Airlines strives to provide excellent customer service to all passengers and is dedicated to ensuring a smooth travel experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Spirit Airlines allows passengers to bring their child’s car seat and stroller onboard. However, it is essential to remember that a separate seat must be purchased for the child if they use a car seat.

Passengers must ensure that the car seat they bring onboard is FAA-approved and installed in a forward-facing position. They should also secure the car seat with the airplane seat belt and may need a special harness or strap to attach it to the airplane seat.

It is important to note that car seats cannot block another passenger from exiting in an emergency and cannot be used in an exit row or in front of/behind one. Additionally, inflatable seat belts are not allowed.

For lap children (children aged seven days to 23 months), a paid seat is not required. However, passengers may purchase a center for the infant if they prefer. Additional requirements for traveling with a lap child can be found on the Spirit Airlines website.

By following these guidelines, passengers can ensure a safe and comfortable journey for their child on Spirit Airlines.

Frequently Asked Questions