13 Tips For Preparing Your Child to Fly Alone
Sometimes us parents have no choice but to let our child fly a lone. We may not like it, but it is totally safe, and in reality, has been happening for many years. The airlines are well prepared and equipped to have children fly alone and they can ensure that your child gets to his/her destination safely. All airlines have their own procedures to follow and most of them are pretty similar. So, the bottom line is that the airlines are prepared for your child's solo flight, now all you need to do is get you and your child prepared to fly alone. To do so, there are a few things you can do ahead of time.
- If your child has not flown alone before, you should visit the airport, before departure day, to familiarize him or her with the airport, its layout and what or where to do or go Also, you should point out places where assistance is available if your child would need it.
- When it comes time for the actual flight, your child should dress for both the outbound and return flights in comfortable clothes that are easy for him or her to manage. Also, put the child's first initial and last name in any article of clothing that might perhaps get forgotten and left behind after the flight.
- Many airlines do not permit their employees to administer medication to passengers. If your child requires medication that he or she cannot take unassisted, and would normally be necessary during the time of the flight, consult your doctor about any alternatives that can be offered.
- Just remember that while airlines try to do everything possible to make your child's trip safe and comfortable, your child cannot be under constant supervision for all the entire time. This means that there may be short periods of time when the child has to be by him or herself. This same thing applies to entertainment. The flight attendants cannot entertain your child the entire time. Your child should bring something along to keep him/herself occupied.
At the airport
- On the day of the flight it is important to get to the airport early – at least one or two hours early. During your planning, allow time for traffic delays and long lines at the check-in counter or security area. You may also need time to fill out special unaccompanied-minor forms. All this must be done so you can get your child to the gate in time for pre-boarding. Don't plan to simply drop off your child at the airport entrance or the ticket counter. Lastly, make sure the person who is putting your child on the return flight also knows all of this too.
- When you come to the airport, don't forget to bring along the name, address and phone numbers of the person meeting your child on the other end of the flight. The airline will need this information, along with your name and phone numbers, to contact you (and the other person) in case there is a scheduling delay or problem.
- Some airlines may give your child a special badge to wear. Make sure your child knows that this badge should not be removed until he/she is picked up by the person at their destination.
- If your child is using a paper ticket, have him or her keep it in a pocket or carry-on bag. Instruct you child to not put it in on a seat or in the seat pocket in front of him or her.
- Have your child use a bathroom before getting on the plane.
- When it comes time to board the plane, your unaccompanied child will be taken on the plane by an airline person and will pass your child off to another airline person. Your child should never be left alone during this time. The same applies on the return trip, except this time the person who is picking up the child may have to show some ID before the child will be given to him/her. (This also applies to parents picking up their children, i.e. identification may need to be shown)
- After the child has boarded the plane it is best to stay in the gate area until the flight has taken off. This is just playing it safe in case the airplane has to come back to the gate. Occasionally the plane may be delayed on the taxiway for unknown periods of time. You can check with an airline attendant and they can tell you when the plane has finally taken off.
Proof of age
- Sometimes a child may look older or younger than he/she actually is. In instances like this it is good to have the child's birth certificate as proof. This will eliminate possible delays and problems.
Fees
- Obviously with all the extra attention you child will receive, the privilege to fly unaccompanied will come with a cost. Most airlines charge a fee of $50 to $100 each way. These fees are in addition to the regular airfare. The fee can sometimes be higher on international flights. It is best to check with the airline on these fees since they vary by airline and policy.
In short, if you follow these tips you can rest assured that your child will have a safe and enjoyable flight. It only takes a little advance preparation and scheduling, but the end result is certainly worth it.
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