Dictionary For Dads

If your child is flying alone they are considered Unaccompanied Minors. Airlines have designated the term Unaccompanied Minors due to the influx in children traveling solo. These children/unaccompanied minors are usually from boarding schools, divorced families and fly solo to spend time with parents, grandparents or extended family. We feel it is important to provide you with some information on Unaccompanied Minors as well as providing parents some tips for a smooth travel day for the unaccompanied minor.

Millions of children fly without an adult, both within the United states and overseas every year.

• There are no Department of Transportation rules about kids flying alone. Each airline has its own rules, guidelines and fees charged to oversee Unaccompanied Minors with different procedures, so it’s best to check with the airline when you book the ticket.

• Children under 5 years of age can not fly unaccompanied. Most Airlines will accept children between five and twelve years old as Unaccompanied Minors only if parents or guardians accept the "unaccompanied" procedures. This includes completing the required paperwork and paying a fee, which varies among carriers but is generally between $40 and $100 each way. Some airlines allow only non-stop flights, or through flights where the plane has a stop but no change of plane is required.

• Kids 12 years and older are usually not require by the airlines to follow the "Unaccompanied" procedures but carriers will implement procedures at the request of parents and payment of the fee. However, if the parent refuses UM services, the airline expects that the child will be responsible for making his own alternative plans if the plane is delayed, diverted, or the flight canceled.

• International airlines have specific guidelines and programs for Children traveling Unaccompanied. Even though kids between 12 and 17 are considered young adults, many airlines insist on UM coverage for travel outside the U.S. Also,  when kids are traveling alone and  leaving another country they are often required to have a letter of consent, sometimes notarized, by the parent or guardian.

• The rule of thumb is, the simpler the itinerary the less chance for problems. So, book non-stop, early morning flights, and be prepared for delays due to weather, technical problems or cancellations. Avoid connecting flights with different airlines even though they may offer the cheapest fare.

• Make sure your child and the pick up person have complete information. This includes flight numbers, dates, times, and airports of origin and arrival, proof of age of your child, and an airline emergency number to call in case of delays or changes. Always check whether you need a gate pass and photo ID to accompany your child to the gate and for the pick up at the other end.

• On the day of flight, allow plenty of time to get to the airport to avoid the stress of rushing and cutting things tight. Stay at the gate area until the flight is in the air….sometimes planes are delayed, canceled or have to return to the gate.

• Make sure your child has books, puzzles and games to pass the time in flight because attendants will not act as babysitters although they are very helpful.

• Check with your carrier about electronic toys and music players.

• Pack a light snack and be aware of liquid limits.

• Explain to your child how important it is to listen to instructions and obey the attendants rules.

• Give your child enough cash to buy a meal in case of a delay.

• Label your childrens clothes and the back pack they are carrying. 

• Airline personnel are not allowed to administer medications so make sure your child knows what to do with required medications

• Caution your child never to leave the airport by himself or with a stranger

• Explain the trip and what to expect, and if your child is anxious or hasn’t flown before, visit the airport beforehand and do a walk- through.

• Look forward to hearing about all the fun your child has on his flying adventure to see family or friends.