Policy Guidelines for Promoting the Use of Approved Car Seats for Infants to Enhance Safety and Service Quality on Commercial Flights in Thailand

Abstract

            The use of an approved car seat is a key approach to enhancing safety for infant passengers, defined by the International Civil Aviation Organization (International Civil Aviation Organization, 2015) as those under two years of age. Generally, airlines allow infants to be seated on their parents' laps throughout the journey. Although children aged 7–9 months and older can usually sit independently according to developmental milestones (Siriraj Piyamaharajkarun Hospital, 2023), using standard seat belts installed in regular passenger seats may not be suitable for the size of an infant’s body. The absence of appropriate safety equipment poses a significant risk of injury to infants. In addition, it reduces parental comfort, as they are required to hold the infant throughout the entire flight, particularly on long-haul journeys. This article is a documentary research study that reviews literature, aviation regulatory guidelines, and commercial airline practices. Its objective is to propose policy directions for promoting the use of approved car seats for infants traveling by air. The findings indicate that using such seats can reduce the risk of injury and increase passenger confidence in airline safety standards. The article recommends that aviation authorities and airlines recognize the importance of this safety equipment and consider offering it as a standard service for infant passengers on all flights.