You make a good point JSRom.

I just got the lap child pouch. The straps are made of the same material as my rock climbing slings FWIW. I would say that it is pretty good quality and sturdy yet made of a comfortable cotton (filled with polyester padding). It has a loop in the back that one would put the adulkt seat belt through and it is long enough that you could turn the infant around (about 4 inches).

As far as FAA approval, it says the following on the vest itself:

"The Baby B'Air garmet is designed and approved for lap children under the age of two years DURING FLIGHT ONLY. The FAA does not approve use during take-off, taxi and landing. The Baby B'Air is tested to meet or exceed FAA stress lest levels for aircraft seats. Not for use in Automobiles."

So I guess what they are really saying is that it is not FAA approved at all but you can use it when airlines would let you use it anyway during flight. I am glad that I bought it (though after shipping it was $45.95, a little steep) and it will complement the use of a flight seat nicely for when my daughter is on my lap on those transat flights. Bottom line:if turbulence hit hard your little one would not go flying using this product.