Solo Teen Travel: Airplanes And Autonomy

Many airlines allow 16-year-olds to travel alone, but they are often considered unaccompanied minors and may need to use an unaccompanied minor service. This service usually includes early boarding, an airport escort, and flight attendant supervision. Some airlines require 16-year-olds to use this service, while others make it optional. The fee for this service typically ranges from $50 to $150 each way, in addition to the ticket price. It's important to note that each airline has its own rules and requirements for minors travelling alone, so it's recommended to contact the specific airline or refer to their website for detailed information.

Unaccompanied minor services

Many airlines offer unaccompanied minor services for children travelling without their parents or guardians. This service is typically available for children aged 5-14, with some airlines offering it up to 17 years of age. The service includes various benefits such as early boarding, kids-only lounges, and an airport escort for connections and arrival.

American Airlines

American Airlines' unaccompanied minor service costs $150 each way, plus applicable taxes, in addition to the ticket price. This fee covers additional siblings on the same flight. The service includes early boarding, kids-only lounges in hub cities, an airport escort for connections, and escorting the child to the authorised adult picking them up. They also offer special safety briefings and a snack kit for travellers up to 10 years old.

Delta Air Lines

Delta's unaccompanied minor service costs $150 each way for up to four children. The service includes priority boarding, kids-only lounges, and an airport escort. Only children aged 8 and older can travel on itineraries with connections; younger children must be booked on nonstop flights. Minors receive a trackable wristband and access to the Sky Zone lounge for kids.

United Airlines

United Airlines charges $150 each way for every two children using their unaccompanied minor service. The service is available for children aged 5-14 and includes early boarding, a free snack after takeoff, and special bag tags. Teens aged 15-17 can opt into the service or travel alone on any United or United Express flight.

JetBlue

JetBlue allows unaccompanied minors between 5 and 14 years old to travel alone, with a fee of $150 per person each way. There is a limit of three unaccompanied minors per flight, and they are assigned specific seats for easy assistance. Only nonstop flights can be booked, with some international flights included. A photo ID and completed Unaccompanied Minor Form are required at drop-off, and the guardian listed on the form must be present at pick-up.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest offers unaccompanied minor services for children aged 5-11, with a $100 fee each way. Children 12 and over can use the Young Travelers service for no fee. Unaccompanied minors can only fly on nonstop or direct domestic flights, and parents or guardians must provide proper identification during drop-off and pickup.

Other Airlines

Other airlines, such as Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Spirit Airlines, also offer unaccompanied minor services with various age restrictions and fees. It is important to check with the specific airline for their policies and procedures.

Booking and check-in procedures

Booking:

• Contact the airline directly by phone to book the flight for your 16-year-old. Some airlines, such as American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, require reservations for unaccompanied minors to be made over the phone.
• Provide the necessary information, including the minor's name, age, and any special requests or services required.
• Be prepared to pay an additional unaccompanied minor fee, which typically ranges from $100 to $150 each way. This fee is mandatory for children under 15 and may be optional for 16-year-olds, depending on the airline.
• Ask about any specific requirements, restrictions, or services offered by the airline for unaccompanied minors. Some airlines may have restrictions on international travel or layover times.

Check-in:

• Arrive at the airport early, at least two hours before the scheduled departure time.
• Proceed to the check-in counter to complete the necessary documentation. You will need to fill out an unaccompanied minor form and provide the minor's birth certificate or passport as proof of age. Some airlines may also require customs and immigration documents.
• Provide your government-issued photo ID with your current address and a phone number where you can be reached during the flight.
• Provide the name, address, and contact information of the adult who will be meeting the minor at their destination.
• Once check-in is complete, you will be given a security pass to accompany your child to the gate.
• Remind your child about the trip, including any connections or layovers, and assure them that the airline staff is there to help.
• Pack snacks, entertainment, and a small carry-on bag for your child. Include an ID card with contact information attached to their carry-on or jacket.
• Ensure any electronic devices are fully charged, and pack chargers and headphones.
• Remind your child to wait for a staff member to escort them off the plane upon arrival.
• If your child has any prescription medication, ensure they have it with them and know how to take it.

Please note that these are general guidelines, and it is always best to check with the specific airline for their detailed booking and check-in procedures for unaccompanied minors.

In-flight and layover supervision

In-Flight Supervision

In-flight supervision for unaccompanied minors can vary depending on the airline and the age of the child. Some airlines, such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines, offer in-flight monitoring services for an additional fee. This typically includes early boarding, an introduction to the flight crew, and periodic check-ins by flight attendants. However, it is important to note that flight attendants may not be able to continuously monitor your child throughout the entire flight.

For 16-year-olds, who are often considered young adults by airlines, the in-flight supervision services may be optional. This means that while they can request assistance if needed, they may not receive the same level of monitoring as younger children. It is always a good idea to remind your child to notify a flight attendant if they require any assistance or experience any discomfort during the flight.

Layover Supervision

Layover supervision is particularly important for unaccompanied minors, especially if they have to change planes or connect to another flight. Most airlines will provide supervision for unaccompanied minors during layovers, ensuring they are safely escorted to their next flight. This may include dedicated lounges for unaccompanied minors, where they can wait for their next flight under the supervision of airline staff.

Some airlines, like Delta Air Lines, provide wristbands for unaccompanied minors, allowing them to be easily identified and tracked during their journey. It is important to note that not all airlines allow unaccompanied minors on connecting flights, so be sure to check the specific policies of your chosen airline. Additionally, some airlines have restrictions on the types of connections permitted, such as overnight flights or connections to other airlines.

When booking travel for a 16-year-old, be sure to inform the airline of their age and request any necessary supervision services. It is also a good idea to remind your child to stay within designated areas and follow the instructions provided by the airline staff during layovers.

Arrival and pick-up protocols

Arrival Protocols:

• Check-in and Required Documents: When checking in an unaccompanied minor, it is typically required to arrive at the airport at least two hours before the scheduled departure time. Check-in must be done in person at the ticket counter, and unaccompanied minors are generally not allowed to check in online or at a kiosk. The person checking in the minor will need to provide necessary documentation, including the child's birth certificate or passport as proof of age, the adult's government-issued photo ID with their current address, contact phone numbers, and the name, address, and phone number of the authorised adult who will be meeting the child at their destination. An "unaccompanied minor form" and any necessary customs and immigration documents must also be completed.
• Boarding and Takeoff: An adult must accompany the unaccompanied minor to the departure gate and remain there until the flight is airborne. It is important to inform the gate agent about the unaccompanied minor travelling on the flight. The minor will usually be allowed to board early to meet the flight crew, get settled, and learn about safety features.
• In-flight Experience: Flight attendants will check on unaccompanied minors as their duties allow, but they may not be able to continuously monitor them. It is recommended to remind the child to follow safety instructions, such as wearing their seatbelt, and to ask for assistance from a flight attendant if needed.
• Flight Delays and Cancellations: In case of flight delays or cancellations, the airline will typically contact the authorised adults listed on the unaccompanied minor form. Alternate flight arrangements will be made, and accommodations and supervision will be provided if an overnight stay is required.

Pick-up Protocols:

• Identification and Authorisation: The authorised adult meeting the child at their destination must present a valid government-issued photo ID. Some airlines may require a signature from this person as well. The airline will not release the child to anyone other than the person named during check-in without prior notification and verification.
• Early Arrival Recommendation: It is recommended that the authorised adult arrive at the airport at least two hours before the child's scheduled arrival to ensure a seamless pick-up process and allow enough time for security checks and procedures.
• Pick-up Location: The pick-up location may vary depending on the airport and airline. In some cases, the authorised adult may be directed to a specific area, such as the local baggage service office or the arrival gate, to meet the unaccompanied minor.
• Flight Status Notifications: It is essential for the authorised adult to stay connected and receive flight status notifications to be aware of any delays or changes in the child's itinerary.

These protocols are designed to ensure the safety and well-being of unaccompanied minors during their travel. It is important to review the specific guidelines and requirements of the particular airline being used, as there may be slight variations in their arrival and pick-up procedures.

International travel regulations

Age Requirements:

Most airlines consider individuals under the age of 15 as minors and those 15 and above as adults. However, some airlines have different age thresholds, with a few considering 16 as the minimum age for unaccompanied travel. It is important to check with your specific airline about their policies.

Booking and Reservation:

Booking procedures differ among airlines. Some airlines require advanced reservations and completed forms, while others allow online booking. It is recommended to book by phone to ensure compliance with all requirements.

Check-in and Documentation:

When checking in, minors may need to provide specific documentation, such as a birth certificate or passport, to prove their age. Accompanying adults will also need to present a government-issued photo ID and relevant contact information. Certain countries may have additional requirements, such as a letter of consent or travel authorisation signed by both parents.

Fees and Charges:

Airlines typically charge a fee for their unaccompanied minor services, which can range from $50 to $150 each way, in addition to the ticket price. This fee often includes priority boarding, lounge access, escorts, and in-flight supervision.

Gate Procedures:

Accompanying adults are usually required to stay with the minor at the departure gate until the flight takes off. At the destination airport, the authorised adult picking up the minor will need to provide valid identification and, in some cases, a signature to release the child.

International Travel:

International travel for unaccompanied minors comes with its own set of regulations. Specific countries may have unique requirements, such as the need for notarised travel authorisation or a declaration of temporary guardianship. It is crucial to research the rules of the countries involved in the travel itinerary.

In-flight and Connection Services:

During the flight, flight attendants will periodically check on the minors as their duties allow. For connections, certain airlines provide designated lounges with entertainment and refreshments for unaccompanied minors. These areas are supervised by airline representatives, ensuring the safety and comfort of the children.

Delays, Cancellations, and Accommodations:

In the event of flight delays or cancellations, airlines will rebook the minor on the next available flight and notify the designated contacts. If an overnight stay is necessary, the airline will arrange accommodations, meals, and supervision.

Preparation and Recommendations:

It is essential to prepare the minor for solo travel, including reminding them to seek assistance only from uniformed staff members. Packing games, books, snacks, and a charged electronic device is advised. Additionally, attaching an ID card and contact information to the minor's carry-on bag or jacket is recommended.

Frequently asked questions