Unaccompanied minors international flights

International travel by solo minors frequently requires special accommodations to ensure their safety and comfort. Airlines have specific policies regarding unaccompanied minors, which depend upon the age of the child, the destination, and the guidelines followed by the carrier. Here's an in-depth look at what you ought to know about unaccompanied minors flying internationally.

 Can Unaccompanied Minors Fly Internationally?

Yes, unaccompanied minors can fly internationally, but there is very little information on it. All commercial airlines accept children between the ages of 5 to 17 years, but each airline has its rules and age requirements. The truth is that most airlines have Unaccompanied Minor service, accompanying the child from check-in to arrival at the destination. Children under the age of 5 cannot be carried as unaccompanied minors.

The Unaccompanied Minor service typically includes assistance at transits, pre-boarding, as well as monitoring by the airline's staff. Depending on the airline, it may further require that the child is taken to the airport by another adult who waits until the flight departs and that a person must be identified who will retrieve the child upon arrival.

 How Much Is the Unaccompanied Minor Fee for International Flights?

The Unaccompanied Minor fee varies between airlines and routes. For international travel, this fee ranges between $100 to $200 per leg. For instance,

*   On Delta Airlines, $150 one-way on international flights

*   American Airlines charges $150; you can have up to two unaccompanied minors on the same reservation.

*   United Airlines charges $150 each way.

These fees are additional to the ticket charges. Normally, a care service would entail escorting the child through an airport, providing assistance during layovers, and ensuring the child reaches the destination safely.

 Can A 17-Year-Old Fly Alone Internationally From India?

Yes, typically a 17-year-old may fly solo abroad from India. Most airlines see the minimum age to be an adult traveler as being 12 or older. Most airlines will not place them on the Unaccompanied Minor Service. However, on a few airlines, 17-year-olds can request and be placed on the service provided the parents ask that they travel using the service. Keep in mind, it's always best to check with your flying carrier for their policy on traveling internationally out of India.

For documentation purposes, the minor will need a valid passport, visa as may be needed for the country of destination, and all other entry documents applicable for the destination of travel. Some airlines still insist that the child carry a letter of consent from the parent or guardian as it is a case of solo traveling.

 Can a 17-Year-Old Travel Alone Internationally with Emirates?

Yes, an Emirates 17-year-old can fly internationally unaccompanied without Emirates' Unaccompanied Minor service. Emirates considers the child aged between 12 to 17 years as an adult and does not want the service for them, but the parent or guardian can take on the service known as the Young Traveler service should they need it.

Emirates offers the Unaccompanied Minor service for children aged 5 to 11 years old. This will ensure that the child gets accompanied at each step of the flight. The child will be escorted by staff from Emirates, and the child will not be permitted to leave with any other person except the authorized adult at arrival.

End

- 5-11 yrs: Most airlines use their Unaccompanied Minor service for international travel when a child travels without an accompanying adult.

- 12-17 yrs: Usually allowed to travel alone; however, most airlines offer the service whereby parents can pay for it and just have peace of mind.

- Cost Range: $100-$200 per leg on international flights.

It's also recommended to call the specific airline in advance to learn more about any specific rules or fees that may be within a departure country or country of arrival. While most countries do not require special documentation for children, in some destinations and at certain ages, a letter of consent or entry permits may be required.

International travel as an unaccompanied minor is very stressful and needs much preparation; however, with the necessary and proper planning, it may be a safe and smooth experience not only for the child but also for the guardians.