1-{860}-(374)-{7569}What are the rules for unaccompanied minors? (KLM Unaccompanied Minor Policy)

For children flying alone, airlines typically offer an "unaccompanied minor" service, with age requirements and procedures varying by airline. Generally, children aged 5-14 are eligible, but some airlines extend this to 15 or 16, requiring parents to book this service and pay a fee.

Here's a more detailed breakdown of unaccompanied minor rules:

Age Requirements and Service:

• General Age Range:

  Most airlines require children between 5 and 14 years old to travel as unaccompanied minors.

• Variations by Airline:

  Some airlines extend the unaccompanied minor service up to age 15 or 16, while others may not offer it for children 12 and older.

• Mandatory vs. Optional:

  While some airlines make the service mandatory for certain age ranges, others allow parents to request it for older children as well.

• Under 5:

  Children under 5 generally cannot fly alone and must be accompanied by an adult at least 12 (or 18 on some airlines) years old.

• 15 and Older:

  Some airlines consider children 15 and older as young adults and don't require the unaccompanied minor service, but parents can still request it.

Booking and Procedures:

• Booking:

  You'll likely need to book the unaccompanied minor service by calling the airline, as it's not always available online.

• Fees:

  Airlines charge a fee for the unaccompanied minor service, which can vary based on the airline and flight duration.

• Escort:

  Airlines typically escort unaccompanied minors to and from their flights, and may provide supervision at the airport and during the flight.

• Check-in:

  Unaccompanied minors must check in at a ticket counter and cannot check in online or at a kiosk.

• Onboard:

  A flight attendant will check on the child periodically, and the child is expected to follow instructions and be able to request help.

• International Travel:

  For international travel, you may need a letter of consent from the other custodial parent, depending on the destination country.

Important Considerations:

• Airline-Specific Policies:

  Always check the specific unaccompanied minor policy of the airline you plan to use, as requirements and procedures can vary.

• Flight Type:

  Some airlines may have restrictions on connecting flights for unaccompanied minors, so it's best to book nonstop flights whenever possible.

• Contact Information:

  Ensure you and the parent/guardian picking up the child are available to answer phone calls during the flight time in case of any issues.

• Identification:

  Minors under 18 do not have to present identification for domestic U.S. travel, but airlines will accept identification from the responsible adult on behalf of the minor(s). For international travel, minors under 18 must present the same travel documents as the adult.

• Flight attendants will check on the child periodically, as duties allow, but will not continuously monitor the child throughout the flight