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Can You Bring an Inflatable Bed or Footrest on a Plane?
Inflatable airplane footrest cushions and ride-on toddler beds (like Stokke JetKids BedBox, Fly-Tot, and Plane Pal) transform airplane seats into flat sleeping beds for toddlers on long flights. However, airline acceptance policies vary widely based on aviation safety regulations.
Updated August 2026
Quick answer
It depends on the airline. Inflatable airplane beds and footrests are permitted by many international carriers (Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Virgin Atlantic, KLM, ANA, Etihad), but are officially banned in flight by most major US and Canadian carriers (United, Delta, American, Air Canada). When permitted, they can only be used in window seats or center seats of the middle row, and must remain stowed during taxi, takeoff, and landing.
At a glance
- Seating Rule:
- Window or center-middle seats ONLY
- Approved Airlines:
- Singapore, Emirates, Virgin Atlantic, KLM, Etihad
- Banned Airlines:
- United, Delta, American, Air Canada, BA, Qantas
- Safety Fastening:
- Child seatbelt must remain fastened across torso
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Rules and best practices for airplane toddler beds
- •Airline policy divide: Full approval: Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Virgin Atlantic, KLM, EVA Air, Cathay Pacific, Etihad. Strictly prohibited during flight: United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, Air Canada, British Airways, Qantas.
- •Approved seating placement: When allowed, inflatable beds can ONLY be installed in window seats or the center seat of the middle section (e.g., middle seat of 3-3-3 widebody). They are strictly banned in aisle seats or emergency exit rows where they could block evacuation.
- •In-flight use rules: Toddler beds can only be inflated after the seatbelt sign is turned off after takeoff, and must be deflated and stowed prior to landing.
- •Seatbelt safety rule: The child's seatbelt must remain fastened around their waist or under their armpits at all times while resting on the bed cushion.
- •Compact hand pump: Bring a mini dual-action manual hand pump or foot pump. Using electric pumps is prohibited on aircraft due to noise and battery limits.
- •Always have a backup sleep plan: Even on approved airlines, individual flight attendants hold ultimate safety discretion. Carry a soft baby wrap or travel blanket as a backup.
Common inflatable airplane bed mistakes
- •Inflating the bed in an aisle seat and being forced by flight attendants to immediately deflate it.
- •Trying to use the footrest during taxi, takeoff, or descent.
- •Assuming all flight crews know every brand policy; save a screenshot of your airline's official device acceptance webpage on your phone to show crew if questioned.
- •Packing the pump in checked luggage where you cannot access it in flight.
FAQ
Why do some airlines ban the JetKids BedBox or Fly-Tot?
Airlines that ban these devices cite evacuation safety concerns (blocking egress in an emergency) and potential damage to aircraft seat tracking mechanisms.
Can I use an inflatable footrest for myself as an adult?
On airlines that permit footrests, adults may use them to elevate feet for circulation, provided they sit in a window seat and the device does not obstruct others.
What is the best alternative if my airline bans inflatable beds?
Book a bulkhead bassinet seat (for infants under 20 lbs), bring a certified car seat (which is FAA-approved on all US carriers), or pack a soft inflatable neck pillow for your child.
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