The Most Common Problems Unaccompanied Minors Face At The Airport

Having to let your kiddo fly anywhere by themselves can be a distressful situation, but it can often be unavoidable. While your child may be basking in the feeling of independence, you, as their parent or guardian, are worried sick about their well-being. To ensure that everything goes smoothly, you should make yourself aware of the common problems that come up when your child is flying as an unaccompanied minor.

The first issue you may run into is one that you'll have to deal with even before the child embarks on their journey: forgetting to submit the proper paperwork for an unaccompanied minor. Paperwork needs to be filled out beforehand, and your kid can miss their flight if it's not done. Contact the airline before the flight, either online or by phone, and request the unaccompanied minor service. You will then need to fill out a form and provide flight details, contact information, and the information of the person picking up your child.

You will also be asked to pay a fee of around $150, depending on the airline, for the unaccompanied minor service. The service includes assisting your child at the ticket counter, walking them through security, taking them to their gate, and taking care of their needs while on the plane. Some airlines will give your child a wristband or lanyard. On some domestic flights, the child's guardians will be granted permission to walk the minor right to their gate for departure, and also to meet them there upon arrival. Just keep in mind that not all airports allow this, so it's best to prepare your child for embarking on their journey without you.

It is integral that your child knows what to expect from this solo trip, especially if they have never flown before. This will help ease their worry, as well as your own. Walk them through the whole process, from arriving at the airport to meeting with whomever is picking them up. Be patient and answer all of their questions and concerns in as much detail as you can. This also includes going over a plan in case your child's flight is delayed or canceled.

When it comes to their itinerary, make it as simple as possible. This means booking direct flights whenever you can, so you can avoid the added stress of your child locating and making their connecting flight. Further prepare them with cash or a credit card in case they need to buy food, and equip them with a phone (and charger!) or other device that allows them to keep in constant contact with you. It will also help to book them a seat near the cabin crew to give you and your child the ease of knowing that a trusted adult is nearby. These seats are usually located at the very front or the very back of the plane. Additionally, make sure you have arranged in advance for a trusted adult — one who is at least 18 years old — to greet your child once they touch down. You'd be surprised at how many parents overlook this part, and airlines won't let your child fly if this hasn't already been done. With proper research and preparation, your child will be in for a smooth journey, and you will have fewer reasons to worry.