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The Ultimate Guide to the CARES Child Aviation Restraint System

CARES Harness: Safer, Easier Flights with Kids

Flying with little travellers doesn’t have to be stressful. The CARES Child Aviation Restraint System by AmSafe gives you car-seat-style upper-body support on the plane—without lugging a bulky seat through the terminal.

Child secured in a CARES aviation restraint harness on an airline seat

Why Parents Choose CARES (Quick Benefits)

  • Real in-flight restraint: Creates a 4-point shoulder harness using the aircraft’s lap belt for better upper-body control in turbulence.
  • Tiny pack-down: Folds into a small pouch—no dragging a car seat through security.
  • Fast install: Fits most standard economy seats in minutes (not for exit rows or airbag-belt seats).
  • Recognised by regulators: Accepted by many airlines and recognised by aviation authorities (always check your specific airline’s policy).

Shop CARES now  |  See Special Needs version

Who It’s For (Size & Limits)

Best for children who’ve outgrown a baby seat but still need extra upper-body support.

  • Weight: 10–20 kg (22–44 lb)
  • Height: Up to 102 cm (40 in)
  • Seat: Forward-facing airline seat only
  • Not for cars: CARES is aircraft-only and must not be used in motor vehicles.

Airline Compatibility & Seating Notes

Badge indicating aviation authority recognition

CARES is widely accepted, but seat designs and policies vary. To avoid surprises:

  • Check your airline’s policy before you fly (aircraft and seat layouts differ).
  • Avoid exit rows and seats with inflatable (airbag) lap belts.
  • Some rows (e.g., bulkhead) may have specific rules—confirm at booking or during seat selection.

How It Installs (2-Minute Setup)

  1. Place the CARES red loop around the seat-back and position the shoulder straps at your child’s shoulder height.
  2. Snug the top strap so the harness lies flat against the seat.
  3. Thread the aircraft’s lap belt through the lower CARES loops and buckle as normal.
  4. Sit your child down, place the shoulder straps and chest clip, then tighten so it’s firm but comfortable.

Special Needs Considerations

CARES harness layout showing shoulder straps and seat-back loop

For travellers who benefit from additional postural support, speak with your clinician (OT/physio) to confirm suitability and any extra positioning aids you use. Many families choose the CARES Special Needs model for enhanced stability. If your child is outside the standard size limits, contact your airline’s accessibility team early to discuss seating and approval.

What’s in the Box & Quick Specs

  • CARES harness with adjustable top strap, twin shoulder straps, and lower loops
  • Compact carry pouch + quick-start instructions
  • Weight/Size: Lightweight; packs smaller than a lunch box
  • Use case: Aircraft only; forward-facing seats

Ready to Fly Safer?

Give yourself hands-free peace of mind and your child a secure, comfy seat.  Shop CARES for Special Needs

Friendly Notes (Before You Go)

  • Bring the printed instructions or save them on your phone for quick setup.
  • Arrive a little earlier to fit the harness before boarding completes.
  • Cabin crew are there to help—let them know you’re using CARES during settling.
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