Should Airlines Change the ‘Lap Child’ Policy?

Travel Blog  •  Eva Holland  •  10.09.09 | 1:35 PM ET

Beth Blair of The Vacation Gals thinks so. Her call for a ban is pretty convincing.


Eva Holland is co-editor of World Hum. She is a former associate editor at Up Here and Up Here Business magazines, and a contributor to Vela. She's based in Canada's Yukon territory.


4 Comments for Should Airlines Change the ‘Lap Child’ Policy?

Sara 10.09.09 | 4:44 PM ET

I agree with Beth.

Love2SeeNewThings 10.09.09 | 8:04 PM ET

When I saw the title of this piece, I was completely confused.  I thought to myself:  “What the hell is a lap child…don’t tell me some kid actually rides in his/her mother or father’s lap during the whole flight!”  Well, after reading the article the answer is yes.  So, here is my new question:

If the plane crashes, the child dies and so does other passengers because the child literally becomes a loose canon ball - who gets sued first?  The FAA for not banning the practise.  The airline for allowing the practise.  And/or the recently grieving parent that held the child.

Or - let me guess…no lawsuit at all because someone somewhere will think it is too barbaric to sue and set precedent to avoid future catastrophes.

Grizzly Bear Mom 10.10.09 | 12:41 PM ET

If parents were chiefly concerned with their children’s safety they would purchase a seat for the child regardless of the cost.  If you are too poor to fly safely, don’t.

Alexandra 10.11.09 | 5:08 PM ET

The age limit is under 2 and the child is in a harness that is hooked on to the adult traveling seat belt.  Its safe - not especially comfortable.

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