Children Under 18 with Special Needs

Many companies manufacture CRSs approved for use on aircraft that are specifically designed for larger children with physical challenges and who need the support and security of a CRS or device so they can travel safely on an airplane. 

Airlines must allow a child who is under the age of 18 to use an approved CRS that is properly labeled and is appropriate for the child’s weight, when the child is properly secured in the CRS.

Adults with Special Needs

Adults (18 years or older) who have physical challenges that require the support and security of a CRS or device in order to travel safely on an airplane may request an exemption to the FAA's regulations that require each passenger to be properly secured by a safety belt. This request may also be made by an airline on the passenger's behalf. Several companies manufacture restraint systems for adults with physical challenges.

How to Submit a Petition for Exemption

1. Go to regulations.gov: Instructions on Filing a Submission to the FAA
2. Select the "Comment Now!" button
3. Enter your comment
4. Complete required fields
   1. Provide contact information
   2. Select category (i.e., to submit a comment on a Docket, choose "Public Comments(s)")
5. To attach files/documentation (as part of your submission), select the "Choose file(s)" button. Once desired file(s) are uploaded, select the "Continue" button
6. Select the "Continue" button
7. Now you will see the "Your Preview" screen. This shows you how your comment will appear on Regulations.gov
8. Read and agree to the disclaimer. To submit your petition/comment, check the disclaimer box for "I read and understand the statement above"
9. Select the "Submit Comment" button

To review previously granted exemptions on special needs travel, go to the FAA Dynamic Regulatory System and type "7831", "8264" or "9834" in the "Exemption Number" field and hit "enter" and click on "Apply". Click to view the exemption from the result list.