age to travel alone ryanair

Ryanair: Children Flying Alone

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Does Ryanair have an unaccompanied minor service?

No, Ryanair does not provide escorts or special facilities for minors.

What age does my child have to travel unaccompanied?

Passengers over the age of 16 may travel without an adult. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

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How old do you have to be to fly alone with Ryanair - Air Travel Forum

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My daughter is 16 and my son is 14, does my daughter count as an adult and can they fly alone together?

As long as one passenger is over 16 then they will both be OK to travel on Ryanair.

https://www.ryanair.com/gb/en/useful-info/help-centre/faq-overview/Travelling-with-children/T&C-does-Ryanair-carry-unaccompanied-minors

where are they flying to? there may be some immigration rule at their destination, and your daughter may be asked for proof of travel being given by the parents.

16 can count as an adult for some things, like flying with Ryan air, but for most others you are still a a child.

Just to clarify, the link posted by Sunmagic doesn't actually mean what it says when it states: "Children under the age of 16 years must always be accompanied by a passenger over 16 years."

They mean a passenger 16 years or older (not 17 or older), as is clear when you go to book and need to choose the type of passenger.

So yes, your kids will be fine. And you know them better than any of us and I am sure that you have thought about the potential issues. I was flying alone transatlantic from the age of 10 (and never officially did the UM thing) including dealing with delays, cancellations, an emergency landing and people forgetting when I was coming and not being there to meet me! Everyone is different but age alone doesn't mean they can't cope with air travel.

Who said they couldn't cope with air travel full stop, never mind because of their age?

You also said "but for most others you are still a a child." which say to me that you were definitely asking those questions because of their age.

Would you have asked those questions in that way if it had been an adult travelling?

>>You also said "but for most others you are still a a child." which say to me that you were definitely asking those questions because of their age. Would you have asked those questions in that way if it had been an adult travelling?

Eh? An adult can check into a hotel if there is a diversion, an adult can authorise medical attention. A minor cannot with out the right authorities given.

There is no suggestion they can't cope with air travel, that's ridiculous. However s fact of life is legally you are a minor and the parent needs to think through what may be required for travel in worst case scenario. Sod all to do with coping with air travel. It's about the legalities.

I see what you are saying, but if a disaster should happen then there are procedures in most places for unaccompanied minors to be taken care of. I was always told to find the nearest policeman.

to be honest, i wasnt too clear. what i really meant was that the 16 yo may need to have a letter from her parents confirming that the 14 you was permitted to be with a person other than his parents, when flying or trying to enter a country. but yes, there could be a problem with the daughter too if there was a specific rule in the destination country about young people travelling.

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Kids on planes: What you should know before booking a flight for unaccompanied minors

In many families, parents or grandparents occasionally have to send kids from one family group to another , creating situations in which kids fly alone. Airline standards about the minimum travel age for children flying alone vary, though, and policies for unaccompanied minors on flights is one area where the big U.S. airlines do not march in lockstep.

How old do you have to be to fly alone?

The minimum age for children to travel alone as adults paying adult fares varies: Kids have to be 12 years old to fly alone on domestic flights with Hawaiian, Southwest, Air Canada, and WestJet; 13 years old on Alaska; 14 years old to fly as an adult on JetBlue; and 15 years old on Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier, Spirit and United.

International age limits also vary by airline, and some airlines don’t allow unaccompanied minors on international flights.

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Can kids younger than 5 years old fly as unaccompanied minors?

For a variety of reasons, including the fact that flying with kids can be difficult even under the best conditions, children younger than 5 years old cannot travel as unaccompanied minors under any circumstances. For children between 5 years old and whatever the minimum adult age is on their chosen airline, most airlines provide special unaccompanied minor service for a fee.

Of the 12 large North American airlines, only Allegiant and Frontier do not offer unaccompanied minors the option to fly. Many airlines also offer unaccompanied minor service for children a few years over the minimum adult age, which can be a good fit for families nervous about teenagers traveling alone.

Unaccompanied minor services and fees

Unaccompanied minors are carefully controlled and monitored by airline personnel throughout the boarding, flight, and arrival phases of the trip. Airlines require that unaccompanied minors be delivered to the airline by adults with the proper documentation and retrieved at their destination by other documented adults.

Typically, airlines avoid booking unaccompanied minors on the last flight of the day or on flights likely to be disrupted by weather or other factors . Also, bookings on code-shared flights are not allowed. Most airlines limit unaccompanied minor service to nonstop or direct flights. Alaska, American, and Delta allow unaccompanied minor bookings on some connecting flights for kids ages eight and older, with various schedule and route limitations.

The big U.S. airlines charge a base fee of $150 each way (though sometimes the fee covers multiple children traveling together) plus the applicable adult fare; other airlines charge the same or less. On the airlines that allow unaccompanied minors on international bookings, conditions around children flying alone on those flights are even more stringent. Most big international airlines offer similar services, though specifics vary by airline and country.

Parents of responsible tweens and young teens would do well to compare flights and airlines , since the minimum age at which children can travel unaccompanied ranges so widely. Also, with unaccompanied minor fees in the range of $150 each way, having a family member buy a round-trip ticket to accompany kids one way on a short trip may actually be less expensive.

Minimum age to travel alone: Taking the train

Thinking about sending your child on the train instead? The minimum age to travel on Amtrak without an adult is 16 on most routes. However, Amtrak offers unaccompanied minor service between staffed stations on some trains for children between the ages of 13 and 15.

Which Airlines Allow Unaccompanied Minors to Fly Alone?

Featured On Board Travel Tips

In the airline industry, any passenger under the age of 16 is considered a child. Depending on the airline, there are different rules regarding how old your child can be to travel alone . Some airlines offer an escort or chaperone service, whilst others allow older children to fly independently. Below are some of the most popular airlines in their UK, and their policies on unaccompanied minors flying alone.

Unaccompanied minors – rules by airline

Depending on the age of the minor, Aer lingus allows minors to travel unaccompanied, but they may require special permission.

Minimum age for flying alone: 12 years old.

Children between 12-15 years old can travel unaccompanied. However, an adult must sign the Form of Indemnity the day of flight departure at the airport check-in desk. If the form is not completed, the child will not be able to fly.
Children under the age of 12 m ust be accompanied by an adult 16 years or older.

✗ Escort service : Not available

British Airways

Minimum age for flying alone: British Airways permits children of 14 years of age to fly without being accompanied by an adult. Young flyers aged under 16 travelling alone must complete a parental consent form.

✗ Escort Service: Not available anymore.

More information .

Minimum age for flying alone: easyJet does not allow children under the age of 14 to fly alone. Children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a person 16 years or older to fly with the airline.

✗ Escort service : Not available

Minimum age for flying alone: Flybe allows children of 12-16 to travel unaccompanied as adults but they have to book in advance as there is limited space on-board Flybe flights for unaccompanied minors.

✗ Escort Service: Not available since 3rd May 2018.

More information.

Minimum age to fly unaccompanied: Children aged 5 years old up to 14 years old may travel alone if the unaccompanied minor service is reserved. Children aged 15 and over can fly alone with KLM . For children between the ages of 15 and 17, an escort service is optional.

✓ Escort Service :

Minimum age to fly without a parent: Children between 5 and 11 years of age are only allowed to fly by themselves if they use the Lufthansa service or travel together with a person who is at least 12 years of age. At the parents’ request, however, also children traveling alone between 12 and 17 years old can be escorted by airline staff.

✓ Escort Service : Within Europe: € 60; Intercontinental: € 100

Norwegian Air

Minimum age for flying unaccompanied by an adult: Children between 5-15 years old can travel on Norwegian Air as an unaccompanied minor. Children under 5 must travel with an adult.

✓ Escort service : For children between 5-11 years old, the escort service is mandatory. Children between 12-15 can choose to travel independently.

Minimum age for flying alone: Ryanair does not allow children under the age of 16 to fly alone.

✗ Escort service : Not available

Virgin Atlantic

Minimum age for flying alone: Virgin Atlantic allows children between the ages of 5-12 years to travel alone if they fill out the Unaccompanied minors form and have it signed by their parents or legal guardians. Children under 5 years old cannot fly alone, they must be accompanied by someone 16 years or older.

To inform Virgin Atlantic of the Unaccompanied Minor service, the adult making the booking must speak directly to the reservations team during booking. This must be done in advance and can only be booked over the telephone. The adult must complete and sign the Declaration of Indemnity form that will be provided by the airline. Part of the form must be turned in ahead of time, and the second part must be presented by the adult at airport check-in. All minors must be accompanied until check-in by the responsible adult or they will not be allowed to fly alone.

✓ Escort Service: No extra charge but his/her flight ticket will be charged with an adult fare.

Minimum age for flying alone: Wizz Air allows children of 14 and over to fly alone but they can’t be responsible for another child under the age of 14. Therefore, children under 14 must travel with an adult (at least 16 years old) and both should be booked under the same reservation.

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109 responses to “ Which Airlines Allow Unaccompanied Minors to Fly Alone? ”

Hi I’m 12 and I want to book a flight with the cheapest airline from Chicago to The island of Kauai to go see my friend do you know of the cheapest airline that would allow me to fly by myself?

Good afternoon, I have a daughter of 12 y.o. who wanted to go to boarding school in the UK (Manchester), we leave abroad and our only direct flight to the UK (it’s a B.A.) goes to Gatwick, it looks like there are no flights from Gatwick to Manchester (or Newcastle which is another option), therefore she would need to change airport and go to Heathrow or South London, I would be able to go with her the first time but not each time she needs to come home for the school breaks, are there any options for her to be “escorted” from a B.A. representative or else during the transfer until she gets to Gatwick onto her destination flight?

Hi….I’m 15yrs old and want to travel alone (without parents and siblings) to South Korea……. Can I travel alone….? And which flight should you prefer….?

I am 16 years old flying with Thomas Cook from Scotland to Orlando, will I need to bring a note from my parents to the airport and birth certificate, I know I have to bring my passport.

Hi, We are Canadians. My son is 16 years old and will visit alone a friend in Italy this summer.He will fly with KLN from Calgary to Rome via Amsterdam. What documents he will need aside the passaport ? Thank you.

Carla, my 16 year old son and my 13 year old son are scheduled to fly from Lisbon, where they live, to Madrid (with TAP) and on to Mexico City where I live and will receive them (with Aeromexico) There is no code share between TAP and Aeromexico. They have dual EU/Mexican nationality. Aside from the permit to leave the country, required by Portuguese immigration, will they require any other other documents? TAP have no unaccompanied minor requirements for their age group. Aeromexico do for the 13 year old , who will turn 14 before the return trip. My main concern is immigration and check in for Aeromexico in Madrid without a parent. Is that possible? Many thanks in advance for your help. Hugo vB

Hi my daughter is 16 and her friend is 15, they are traveling from Gatwick to Tenerife to visit the friends mum. Will her friend need an unaccompanied child form filled out or is it ok as my daughter is over 16. If she needs the form can I sign it at the airport or does it need to be her dad if so where can west a form as I am bringing them to the airport so would have to have it filled out before.

hi…im 16 years old and im going in india 22 from london….. i wanted to ask if i can travel alone without any problem or i need some document…my Arline is Qatar airways and British airways…thanks

Hello I am 13 and I am going to pairis but I’m bringing my cousin who lives in Tennessee and she is 11 what air line would work best for us cause we are flying alone ? I also need it to be cheap because then I could get to pairis with no issues

Hello, I am 16 years old and want to travel to korea, to meet my girlfriend. can i do that without any parental consent?

Hello, I am 17 from the UK and I am flying to Iowa to spend christmas with my girlfriend and her family. Can I do this?

Hello!! So me and my brother are flying to the UK from the US alone, but he’s 12 and im 16, were flying with Thomas Cook, without an adult, would they let us go??

Is it possible for someone age 16 to travel from UK to NY, USA alone?

I want to travel to NY from UK alone and I’m 16, is that possible ?

I want to travel with my newphew of 5 years old his mom nd dad ia not here with him from spain to italy throught easyjet is there any prblm?plz help

Hello my son is 15 flying alone on Norwegian Air, from the US to England. My husband will be dropping him off and I will be picking him up. What does my husband need to give the airline to allow him on the plane. I know there is some weird rule about two parent need to be present when a child is flying. Thank you for your help.

i am 15 years old looking to fly with virign atlantic to NY. Do i need to sign an Unaccompanied minor form? And would that require me having someone actually accompanying me or is a form sufficient? i will have someone taking and picking me up at both ends

Hello, I’m 16 years old and I want to travel from London to Greece with one of my parents.Do I need any declaration from the other parent? With Rayner or EasyJet. Thank you

Hello, My name is Marie and next week I’m travelling with my brothers to Italy by Ryanair. I’m 18 and my brothers are 6 and 15 years old. I know I need an authorisation from my dad because of my youngest brother, because a don’t have the same surname. Do I need something else? Thank you.

The senario is :

Child just under 16 to travel with friends who are 16 to Jerez Spain.

We have establish that they can travel with Ryanair because of the other 16 year olds but need to make sure they have the right documents. it is very hard to establish how the Spanish authorities view this and want to make sure there are no problems.

Trying to contact the Spanish embassy is impossible.

Can anyone give me some detailed advice please

Hi, I’m 17 travelling with my 21 year old brother to spain with easy jet. I read there rules and I’m considered an adult but I’m wondering if there will be any problems like do my parents have to sign anything ?

Hello I am 15 years old and i want to fly in Zurich, Switzerland with EasyJet by my own It will work? please help me

Pingback: Letter Of Consent To Travel Unaccompanied Minor | Europe Canada USA Travel

Hi, i’m 15 and i’m travelling alone from uk to italy with jet2. What documents do i need to bring with me?

Hi I am 14 almost 15 in a couple of weeks, I am just checking if it’s alright if I can travel with my 22 year old sister ? If so can I just travel with her without any documents or do I need documents ? If I need documents what documents do I need ? Thanks

Hi!, is it possible if I a 15 year old and my friend who is 16 can travel together alone to japan? Much thanks!

Hello, I’m 16 and I’m planning of traveling on my own to America(Hawaii) Possibly through the route of : UK airport —> Canada/America —> Hawaii Will I be able to do so ? Thanks for a reply in advance Xx

Hi, we are taking our son’s friend on holiday who is 15 years old to Cyprus next week, we fly with BA and return with EasyJet. I have spoken with BA 3 times and had conflicting answers, two says no letter of authorisation is needed, but one said I just need copies of the parents passports? will she be ok to travel or do I need a letter ? thanks in advance.

hi, my boyfriend is 16and he is flying alone from maryland to california, his parents cant drop him off, so hes takinig a bus to the airport. He is flying through Delta airline, do his parents need to fill out anything at the airport, for him to be able to fly alone?

Hi, I am booked on Virgin Atlantic from LHR – JFK – LHR. I am an unaccompanied minor (15). My parents will be in Honolulu whilst I depart and return is my sibling or brother in law allowed to sign the form of indeminity on their behalf? Benjamin

Hi, I am turning 15 in September, and next year, about july-september, my mother planned that I can go to the philippines, can I travel alone? Or maybe with a friend who has same age as me.? (But her birthday is in august.) Btw, travelling with qatar airways from barcelona. 🙂

Hi, I am 14 years old and I want to travel with my friend (also 14 years old) from Bristol to Amsterdam with EasyJet just for a day trip. We would catch the early morning flight at around 7:00am and then get a train into the city centre of Amsterdam and then we would get the train back to the airport for the 7:00pm flight back. Would we be allowed to do this? I have been to Amsterdam before and I know my way around Schiphol airport. We wouldn’t be picked up from the airport because we would get a train from Schiphol Station (underneath the airport) to Amsterdam Centre. We wouldn’t be carrying any luggage. Is it possible to do this with just our Passports (and NHS health cards) without having to sign any forms and what is the policy in the Netherlands for letting children in unaccompanied? Many Thanks

Hi would my 14 year old daughter be allowed to fly from Frankfurt to London with Lufthansa by herself?

Hi My Daughters friend who is over 16 will be travelling with my family to Malaysia from Birmingham with Emirates. Do we need a Notorized Travel Consent form for any of this trip ?

hi my son is 14 years old and he planned to fly from London to Hong Kong with Virgin Atlantic. If he uses the um service, is it possible to check in by himself without guardian/parent?

Hi I’m 14 and I’m thinking of travelling alone from England To America but with help like escorts and that?is that possible ?

Hi, it depends on the airline you’ll be flying with. Some allow 14 year olds to travel alone. Hope this helps! 😉

Hey, I am 16 and I was wondering if I could travel from Germany to England alone. (I would go to Germany with parents but return alone){Go + Return ticket} and if so, will I need any forms to be signed? [Ryanair]

Hi Luna, as mentioned in the blog post, if you’re 16 and over, you can fly alone without any forms.

Hi, as stated in the blog post, 16 year olds are allowed to fly alone. Thanks!

Hello, my daughter is 14 years old will be flying with Wizzair from London Luton, UK to Vilnius, Lithuania. Do I need to sign any forms what so ever so she could fly by her own or any other reasons?

Hi Lily, Passengers of 14 and 15 years of age may travel unaccompanied but cannot be responsible for any passenger under 14 years old.

My brother (18 years old) and I (15 years old) are going to make a daytrip to London from Bratislava with Ryanair, do we need any documents or just the passport? Can I travel alone just with him without our parents?

hi im stayin in france and can i book the airline tickets in the uk website because the cost is less comparing to the france website…

i am 13 and my dad lives in malaga spain and i have premition with my gaudians for me to fly alone i would be dropped at my gate and picked up from my gate what forms would my gaudians have to fill out for this to be possible with easyjet or and airline from luton london?

Hi Jb, unfortunately, children aged 13 years or younger cannot travel with easyJet unless they are accompanied by an adult who is at least 16 years old and who will take full responsibility for them. Hope this helps!

Hello, our 12 year old niece is coming to visit us in the UK and will fly in and out of Heathrow from the US. My question is when we take her to Heathrow, how far can I stay and accompany her? Can I go pass security and to the gate to see her off? Her mum is worried if I wouldn’t be able to accompany her to the gate in Heathrow.

Hi @disqus_pH64sIAcID:disqus, security most probably won’t allow you to accompany the minor to the final gate. Can you please give us the airline she’ll be flying with? Thanks!

Hi my daughter’s friend who is 15 wants to fly from alicante to UK with jet2 I know the airline allows this but is anything else needed?

Hi, I want my 14 year old daughter to fly by herself internationally with EasyJet. The problem is I dont know how to book the flight and dont know what I am supposed to do at the airport so my daughter can safely depart. Thank You

Hi @disqus_W6dz8wCZER:disqus, you can book the flight online just like any other flight ticket. easyJet allows children aged 14 to 15 to travel on their own provided that they are not travelling with children aged 13 years or younger. Unfortunately, they don’t offer any official extra assistance however their ground and cabin crew will be on hand to answer any questions you may have and will try to help make her journey as easy as possible.

Hello ! My brother is 15 and I’m thinking about book a flight from Berlin (SXF) to London Gatwick (LGW), but I can’t meet him at the airport. He’s portuguese. Does he need any document besides my mum’s authorization and his ID? Do I need to pick him up at the airport or he can take the bus by himself ? Regards

Hi @disqus_SbgzOfIlke:disqus, it depends on the airline you’re planning to book with. Can you please give us this information? Thanks!

Hello I’m travelling with a friend this month from Alicante to London. We’re both 16 (and Spanish, we’ve got a spanish passport) and we’re travelling alone, without our parents. Our airline is fine with us, we don’t have any problem but I’m concerned about if we will have any problem there in the UK because we’re travelling alone. Do our parents need to fill something? Does the british law require any document for unaccompained minors? What do we need to travel alone?

Hi, as long as the airline is fine with you flying alone, you won’t experience any problems with entering the country. Just don’t do anything that you’re not allowed to do by law! 😉

Hi, my name is Catherine, and I am wondering if I can fly alone (without parents consent) if I’m 16 years old? And even if i’m not leaving the UK?

Hi Catherine, it depends on the airline you’re flying with. With which airline are you flying? Thanks.

Hi ! I would like to know; as i actually get diffrent contradictory information; if my son, 9 years who is an SAS (ScandinavianID-passenger , can fly as an ID- passenger together with his older sister that is 17 years old with Vueling. The sister is a regular passenger. Thank you for any answer i can get

Hi Jansson, you’re son will be able to travel with his older sister. Thank you for contacting us! 😉

My 13 year old is booked with the unaccompanied minors assistance on a vueling flight from Rome to London. My sister in law will take her to check in and I, her mother will meet her at Gatwick, a part from her british passport, what documents are needed?

Hi Sal, your child needs 3 copies of the unaccompanied minor form signed you or any legal guardian. The person accompanying the child on departure (in this case, your sister in law), must be the same as stated on the form and must present the following documentation at check-in: ID(passport/DNI), Photocopy of the passport belonging to the legal guardian/your passport, passport of your daughter, and the 3 copies of the form. She will have to wait at the airport until the plane takes off.

You will have to present proof of identity (passport or ID) and sign 2 copies of the form in order to pick up your daughter.

Thanks for contacting us!

Hello, I am 15 years old and I am travelling from Hong Kong to Edinburgh through Virgin Atlantic but the connecting flight back to Edinburgh is through aer lingus am I allowed to fly alone without filling out any forms or using their special service for minors

Hi Tiffany, you’ll have to inform Virgin Atlantic that you’ll be flying alone and fill out their unaccompanied minors form. For your flight with Aer Lingus, your parent will have to sign the Form of Indemnity. Please contact Aer lingus and ask them to send you the form so you can bring it with you on the day of your flight.

Thank you for contacting us!

hi , i am Nikos and i want to ask if i can fly alone to Greece from the gatwick airport 😀

Hi Nikos, how old are you and what airline are you flying with? Thanks!

My 15 year old niece is travelling from Malaga to Spain with Easy Jet. I know the airline are fine with that but will the airport/passport control have any problems or need extra docs? I know sometimes when people take their friends kids on holiday they need a letter from the parent to say they had permission

Hi Michelle! Your niece will be able to travel alone without signing any form. Passport control doesn’t need any extra documents because the airline allows her to travel on her own. Hope this helps!

Hi, Next week me (age 17) and my little sister (age 7) will be flying to moscow on british airways, because i am over 16 years she can be accompanied by me right?? Also does my mum have to write a permission letter allowing me and my sister to travel alone (we both have different surnames) so i know i will need to bring our birth certificates but will i need this letter in moscow?

Hi Zarine, both of you will be able to fly with all the documents you’ve just mentioned. Hope this helps!

hi. I’m 16,romanian and I live in the uk. I want to go back to Romania for summer holiday and I want go on my own. Do I need any declaration from parents? I know I need some papers when I’m coming back but I don’t know if I need anything else apart of my passport?? Pls help me with an answer

Hi Andrea, it depends on the airline you’re flying with. With which airline are you flying? Thanks.

Ryanair, 16 years old, going to Romania next week by myself. There shouldn’t be any problem right? Thanks ✋

No problem at all!

I can’t do online check in for my first child, because there is a different definition of adult/children’s age between Opodo and Ryan Air. I book my tickets through Opodo website, but then I found it difficult to do online check in through Ryan Air website. Anyone can help me?

Hi! Please send us a private message on Facebook and/or Twitter with your booking number and email address. Our CS agents will look into your case. Thanks and sorry for the inconveniences!

I booked 4 tickets for a Ryan Air flight from Birmingham to Dublin. When I registered through Opodo, I put my first child (13) as an adult, because the website says that children are only 2-11. Meanwhile Ryan Air requires us to do online check in though its website/application prior to the departure. Unfortunately I can’t input my first child’s birthday due to the different definition of adult/children’s age between opted and Ryan Air. It’s locked. What should I do? This is not my fault at all.

Her airlines is malaysian airlines, she also change the date of her flight after the visa was released. She is 17 already and i was wondering if you could help us with the matter, thank you

Hi my sister is traveling to UK this july she is just 17 and her visa type is type C accompanied. Can we appeal to the uk embassy to change her visa type to unaccompied??? What are the documents needed? Thank you

My daughter is 15 years old and will be flying with cousin 16 years on Korean Airlines? I’m worried she won’t be allowed to fly. Can someone give me an idea. Thanks.

Hi! Children ages 12-17 may use the Unaccompanied Minor service on international flights but they can travel on their own. Hope this helps 🙂

Hi, I am 15. I would like to know can I flight on my own from Poland to England, by British Airways? Do I need any other documents than a passpotr? Do I need to inform the airlaines earlier, that I am not 18 yet? Or is it ok and they will let me into the plane without any troubles or problems?

Hi Shanon, You can fly alone or hire the British airways Skyflyer Solo service. You don’t need any other documents to fly. Hope that was helpful 😉

Hi! I’m a 15 year old girl. I bought my tickets from Finnair, but my flight is operated by British Airways. A 15 year old cannot fly alone to USA from Finland without an Unaccompanied Minor -reservation, but with British Airways it is possible. So, my question is, am I allowed to fly on my one, even if Finnair doesn’t allow me but British Airways does?

Hi, although your flight is operated by British Airways, your booking is with Finnair. Thus, you’ll have to follow Finnair’s rules. Therefore, you’ll have to book an unaccompanied minor reservation. Please contact our Customer Service ( Facebook / Twitter ) to book this service. Hope this was helpful! 😉

Hello, can you help, please? I’ve booked a flight to London with Lufthansa for my daughter who’s 15. I know that she’s allowed to fly unaccompanied with Lufthansa, but does she need to be picked up at Heathrow or can she simply proceed to the Underground? She’ll be staying with friends of mine who probably won’t be able to pick her up that day. Thank you so much for an answer!

Hi Diana, children aged from 12 up to a maximum of 17 years old, who are travelling alone, can be looked after by Lufthansa at the request of their parents and has an extra charge of 50-80€. Regardless, she can simply proceed to the underground. Hope this helps! 🙂

Hello, my daughter ( 14 year) is going to Istanbul on her own from Dusseldorf (germany) with Turkish Airlines and I can’y accompany her when she is checkin in, my question is does she need me to be with her during checking in, do I need to fill a form or something?

Hi, your daughter can fly on her own and you won’t have to fill in the unaccompanied minor declaration form because she’s above 12. Hope this helps 🙂

Can i travel alone on jet2 or easy jet, im 15 and will be flying to Dalaman airport in Turkey from Manchester airport. Will i need any forms or to be signed off by anyone? i will be meeting my dad there for a holiday because there is no space on his flight. i have to travel to Dalama airport alone and catch the plane alone home but he will meet me when i get off the plane at dalaman on the way there. Thanks in advance

Hi, yes, you’ll be allowed to travel alone with Jet2 and Easyjet and you won’t have to fill in any forms to do so. Hope this helps! 😉

Hello my daughter ıs,16 ıs she allowed to travel alone on turkısh airlines??

Hi, yes, she is allowed to travel alone and she doesn’t have to fill an “unaccompanied minor declaration” form. Thanks!

My Niece and her friend both 15 want to visit me on thursday. My sister must have accidentally booked the 2 as adults with RYAN AIR and only realised when checking in with the date of birth the error. Is there anyway Ryanair would allow them on the flight. I will pick them up in London.

Hi Murat. Thanks for reaching out to us. Ryanair policy states the following on their site, for unaccompanied minors: Ryanair does not carry unaccompanied minors under 16 years. Children under the age of 16 years must always be accompanied by a passenger over 16 years. We recommend contacting the airline directly for further instruction on this matter. We wish you the best of luck!

Hello, Can you help me? I have two 15 year old french girls who want to fly alone to France . I can’t accompany them to the airport the day they want to travel . This is with Flybe. Will they be ok to travel?

Hi Bill. Thank you for writing to us in regards to unaccompanied minors rule for Flybe flights. Children between the ages of 12-16 are allowed to fly without an adult. You may however, request for a child between the ages of 12 and 16 years to be carried as an Unaccompanied Minor, in which case, you would have to telephone Flybe’s Customer Call Centre to reserve. We hope that was helpful. Thanks!

But what about Turkish Airlines?? Me (12) and my big sister (will be 17 then) need to fly out together in 2 months. Is it allowed on that airline?

Hi, Ozaz. Children between 7 and 12 years old can travel alone on Turkish Airlines. They must be however, accompanied by an adult (your big sister for example) and an Unaccompanied Minor Declaration Forms is required to be filled out and signed by a parent or guardian at the time of check in, at least 2 hours prior to boarding the flight. Thanks!

My son is 17 years old travelling with British Airways to Canada from UK.Does he allow to travel on his own?

Hi, George. Thank you for reaching out. Yes, your son is allowed to fly alone on British Airways. Thanks!

My son is 13, his sister 10 and the plan is for an unaccompanied flight UK to CH – if on BA he qualifies to travel alone, does it mean the 10 year old can travel alone with him ie he qualifies as the ‘escort’?

We appreciate your reaching out to us with your question. You are right abot your son being able to fly alone, but your daughter, because she is 10, must be accompanied by someone 16 years or older in order to qualify as an escort for her. We hope that was helpful. Thanks!

i have 13 years old son is going to UK with a family friends my question is do i need easy jet form or any other document for minors . PS. flying from Morocco. USA. passport. thank you .

Hi, Hammond. Thank you for your inquiry. easyJet requires your son be accompanied by an adult, of at least 16 years of age. Your son must also have his valid passport with him prior to boarding, but no form is required beforehand. Thanks!

THIS IS WRONG – Easyjet allows children over 14 to fly alone

Thank you @Janice we will update it!

Can a child of 15 years travel ALONE and UNACCOMPANIED??

Hi, Katie. Thanks for reaching out. Depending on the airline, a 15-year-old may be able to fly alone. With British Airways, children 12-18 years old can fly either alone or with an escort service. With Aer Lingus, children 12-15 years old may travel unaccompanied, however, an adult must sign the Form of Indemnity the day of flight departure at the airport check-in desk. If flying with Flybe, children 12-16 years old may travel unaccompanied as adults, but it must be booked in advance as there is limited space on-board Flybe flights for unaccompanied minors. And lastly, Virgin Atlantic allows children between the ages of 5-15 years to travel alone. We hope that was helpful.

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Hi,my son is 15. If he can fly alone from Israel to Germany?

https://www.ryanair.com/us/en/useful-info/help-centre/faq-overview/Travelling-with-children/T&C-does-Ryanair-carry-unaccompanied-minors

You wouldn’t even be able to buy a single ticket for a fifteen year old.

>> #2 is wrong, <<

Book them as an adult and pretend they are 16 and they will be denied boarding when they turn up with a passport that shows they are not.

Ignore #3, they don't know what they are talking about.

#3 is just living in the past.

There was also a time when Ryanair allowed 14 and 15-year-olds to fly unaccompanied - I know this for sure as I organised a Ryanair flight for a 15-year-old in 2001.

There are no laws that say that 15-year-olds cannot fly unaccompanied. It's a question of airline policy. If the OP wants to organise a solo trip for her 15-year-old she will need to find an airline that will allow this.

You are going to have to find an alternative airline if you want him to fly on his own

#3 often posts incorrect information. As already stated, not allowed on Ryanair. Must be 16.

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Ryanair minors flying alone

Is there a service offered by ryanair for children traveling alone.

No, Ryanair does not carry unaccompanied minors under 16 years . Children up to the age of 16 years must always be accompanied by an adult passenger. Special facilities like escort services and others are NOT available.

Can a passenger under 16 years be added to an existing reservation?

Although it is not possible to add a passenger under 16 years to an existing flight reservation, you can make a new separate reservation . The passenger under 16 would need to be booked online as an adult, and after completing the booking, you can link it, via live chat or call center, to the existing reservation . Linking the bookings can be done up to 4 hours before departure and is free if the time between making the bookings is less than 24 hours. If the time between making the bookings exceeds 24 hours, you must pay a €/£ 30 booking fee.

Children traveling on a separate booking cannot use Online Check-in and must check in at the airport desk in the presence of the adult traveling on the linked booking.

More information here >>

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How Old Do You Have to Be to Fly Alone?

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Parents typically want to travel with their children, but that isn't always possible. Your children may have to travel by themselves for a variety of reasons.

So, that leads parents to ask, "Can minors fly alone?" And, "How old do you have to be?"

The answer depends on the airline and the type of flight you want to purchase. Learn about the rules for each airline, how much they charge and what restrictions govern unaccompanied minor flights.

Why do children fly by themselves?

Here are a few of the reasons why your child may need to fly alone.

Financial . Plane tickets can be expensive, and some families may not be able to afford enough tickets for parents and children.

Divorced parents

Time off work . Parents may have difficulty getting time off work to travel with their children. Whether the child is off to camp, going to see family or other reasons, they may need to travel alone.

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Which airlines allow unaccompanied minors to fly?

Flying as an unaccompanied minor is available on major carriers Alaska, American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit and United Airlines.

At what age can you fly alone?

The minimum age to travel alone varies among airlines. While there are no specific federal laws on how old a child must be to fly alone, no major U.S. airline allows children under the age of 5 to fly by themselves.

Unaccompanied minors may also travel internationally if they have a passport and meet the airline's requirements.

Depending on which airline your child is flying and their age, the airline may require them to fly nonstop or on a direct flight that doesn't require a plane change. As they get older, some airlines allow them to take connecting flights.

Once a child turns 15, most airlines allow them to fly alone without unaccompanied minor rules and fees. Some airlines allow children as young as 12 to travel without these procedures.

Child travel policies by airline

The travel policies for unaccompanied minors vary significantly by airline. Depending on your child's age and circumstances, your child may not be able to fly on your preferred airline.

» Learn more: How to navigate the airport

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines' Junior Jetsetters program is an unaccompanied minor service for young fliers aged 5 to 17 on domestic and international flights. It costs $150 each way per flight.

The service is optional for young adults ages 13 through 17 years old.

American Airlines

American Airlines’ unaccompanied minor service is required for children ages 5 to 14 traveling alone. Children ages 2 to 14 can travel as unaccompanied minors with someone who is 16 years and older.

The American Airlines unaccompanied minor fee is $150 each way (plus taxes) and must be booked over the phone. The fee also covers additional siblings on the same flight. It includes early boarding, kids-only lounges in hub cities, an airport escort and more.

There are different levels of restrictions based on your child's age:

0 to 4 years: Cannot travel alone.

5 to 7 years : Nonstop flights only.

8 to 14 years : Nonstop flights and connecting flights through select hub cities.

15 to 17 years : Unaccompanied minor service is optional.

You cannot use this service on code-share or partner-operated flights, the last flight of the day or overnight connecting flights.

Delta Air Lines

For a Delta unaccompanied minor fee of $150 each way, up to four children ages 5 to 14 can travel together as unaccompanied minors. Minors between the ages of 15 and 17 can also use this service, but it is not required. With this service, Delta provides an employee escort and special amenities for children during their trip.

At select airports, children also have access to the Delta Sky Zone. This kids-only lounge featuring video games and snacks is a secure area for children to relax between flights.

Unaccompanied minors receive a bar-coded wristband that tracks their journey. Parents are allowed to accompany their children through airport security to the gate area until their departure.

Frontier Airlines

Frontier Airlines eliminated unaccompanied minor travel for children under the age of 15 in 2018. All children under 15 must travel with an accompanying adult to fly with Frontier Airlines.

Children ages 15 and older are treated as adults when flying Frontier. They do not receive special accommodations or airline escorts like those available with other airlines.

JetBlue Airways

Travelers between the ages of 5 and 13 are considered unaccompanied minors with JetBlue. Under the JetBlue unaccompanied minor rules, they can take only nonstop flights.

Additionally, there can be a maximum of three unaccompanied minors on each flight. So, you may not be able to pick certain flights if there are already too many unaccompanied minors on that flight. There is a fee of $150 each way for each child for this service.

Once children reach their 14th birthday, JetBlue allows them to travel alone without restrictions.

Southwest Airlines

Children ages 5 to 11 are required to book an unaccompanied minor ticket on Southwest. Parents can book these tickets online, over the phone or at the airport ticket counter.

The Southwest unaccompanied minor fee is $100 each way per child and due at booking. These fees are refundable if the minor does not travel or if they're later joined by an accompanying passenger age 12 or older.

Parents can get a gate pass from the Southwest ticket counter to bring their children through security and deliver them to their departure gate. At the gate, the child receives an unaccompanied minor lanyard that holds their paperwork and must be worn throughout the duration of their flight.

Unaccompanied minors cannot travel on connecting flights. They must fly nonstop or on a flight that does not require a change of planes. These travelers also cannot travel on flights that require an overnight connection.

Passengers 12 and older are able to travel as "Young Travelers" on Southwest. While Southwest allows these younger passengers to travel alone, parents should consider whether their child is capable of navigating the airport by themselves, dealing with flight disruptions and other scenarios they may face.

Spirit Airlines

The Spirit unaccompanied minor fee is $150 and its policy is as follows:

4 Years and Younger Children must travel with another guest at least 15 years of age.

5-14 Years children can fly on direct flights only and require booking the unaccompanied minor service.

15 Years and older guests are not required to have Unaccompanied Minor service, but it is an option.

Young fliers are offered a snack and drink as part of the service.

United Airlines

On United Airlines, unaccompanied minor service is required for children ages 5 to 14 and is optional for passengers ages 15 to 17. These tickets can be purchased online, over the phone or at the airport.

At the airport, you'll check your child in at the airport ticket counter, where they'll receive a special wristband and envelope for their travel documents. Parents can get a gate pass at U.S. airports to walk their children to the gate.

To use the unaccompanied minor service, children must be booked on a nonstop United or United Express flight. The fee is $150 each way for up to two kids, $300 for up to four kids and $450 for up to six kids.

Comparison of unaccompanied minor fees by airline

This chart summarizes the ages and fees for unaccompanied minor travelers.

The bottom line

Even if you cannot travel with your child, it is still possible for them to travel alone. If you're considering allowing your child to travel without you, you may wonder, "How old do you have to be to fly alone?"

While no major U.S. airline allows children under the age of 5 to travel solo, the rules and fees vary considerably for children ages 5 to 17. In some cases, children as young as 12 years can fly without any restrictions.

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From what age are children allowed to travel alone? Explainer

From what age are children allowed to travel alone?

Comparing airlines

From what age can your child fly alone?

There can be various situations in which it is not convenient or possible for you to accompany your child for a trip. For example, if you are divorced and your ex-partner lives abroad. Or perhaps the grandparents have emigrated and your child wants to spend a school vacation with them. Just going back and forth to accompany your child can cost a lot of time and money. Can and should they travel on their own? What are the rules? What about a chaperone?

The rules for children traveling alone (2023)

Legally, children as young as 12 are allowed to fly alone. But the rules vary per airline. The main difference per airline are:

Age from which your child may fly alone
Unaccompanied minor service
The cost of supervision

We have listed the rules of a number of airlines for you. Useful if you still need to book your flight.

British Airways – between 5 – 12 years old

Children under 14 years old are not allowed to fly alone. They must be accompanied by someone 16 or older.
British Airways offers an unaccompanied minor service for children from 5 to 12 years old which is mandatory for this age group.
Flights within UK and Europe: £35/€40.
Flights to/from Russia/CIS, Middle East, Africa and Saudi Arabia: £70/€80.

Lufthansa – 5 years and up

Children aged between 5 and 11 may only fly unaccompanied if they are using the unaccompanied minor service, or travel with someone 12 years or older.
The service can also be used for passengers between 12 and 17.
Costs vary between €85 and €150.

Transavia – from 5 years old

Children from 5 to 11 years old may only travel with Transavia accompaniment.
Between the ages of 12 and 18, you may also fly your child without additional supervision.
The cost for accompaniment is €55 per child per one-way trip.

Ryanair – not under 16 years of age

Children under the age of 16 are not allowed to fly alone.
Children under 16 are required to be accompanied by someone at least 16 years old.
Ryanair does not offer chaperones.

easyJet – not under 16 years of age

Children under 16 are not allowed to fly alone.
Children under 16 are required to be accompanied by someone over 16.
easyJet does not offer a companion.

TUI – as of 5 years old

TUI has an unaccompanied minor service for children from 5 to 12 years which is mandatory for this age group.
From 12 to 18 years old, children may travel unaccompanied (excluding the Antilles). Chaperones can be booked as an optional extra.
When you book online, a custodian costs €60 per child for a single trip, on all short/medium flights. If you pay at the airport, a chaperone costs €75.
The service costs €120 per child for a single long-haul flight. If you pay at the airport, it’s €135 for a single trip.

Emirates – from 5 years old and up

Emirates also offers the Unaccompanied minor service for children 5 to 12 years old.
From 12 to 18 years old, the option can be booked, but it is not mandatory.
Emirates also accompanies children with transfers, if they do not exceed 4 hours for non-Emirates flights and 8 hours for Emirates flights.
The cost is $50 per flight. So if it includes a layover, you will pay $100 per child.

Qatar Airways – starts at 5 years old

Children between 2 and 4 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
Children between the ages of 5 and 15 years old may travel alone with the airline’s Unaccompanied Minor service.
Qatar Airways provides dedicated staff to accompany the child throughout the trip. The parent or legal guardian will be required to pay for a return ticket for the airline employee who will be accompanying the child.

KLM – from 5 years old

The unaccompanied minor service is available for children between 5 and 14 years old.
For children between 14 and 18 years old, the unaccompanied minor service is not required. If you decide not to book this service, your child will fly the same way as an adult.
The cost per one-way flight is €100 to €150. If there is a transfer in between, you pay an extra charge of €200 to €300.

Turkish Airlines – from 2 years old and up

Turkish Airlines has different rules than the other airlines.

As early as 2 years old you can let your child fly alone
Between 2 and 7 years, the unaccompanied minor service is mandatory
From 7 years your child may fly unaccompanied.
Turkish Airlines does not charge for the unaccompanied minor service.

What does unaccompanied minor service entail?

The unaccompanied minor service (also called UM) means that your child will be accompanied from the time you drop your child off at check-in until he or she is transferred to the authorized person at destination.

After all paperwork is checked at check-in, your child will be taken to boarding by airline ground staff. At boarding, children are usually allowed to board first and are supported by the cabin crew.

The cabin crew helps your child finding his or her seat and is there for your child if there is anything during the flight. Some services include an additional drink.

When the plane lands, your child will be guided by the local ground staff. They will also make sure the luggage is picked up and they will escort your child to the authorized person.

Your child is flying alone and the flight is delayed

If your child’s flight is delayed, the attendant will also make sure that your child passes the time and provides guidance while waiting.

Your child is flying alone on a connecting flight

Is your child flying alone and has a transfer along the way? Most airlines also offer supervision when the time between the two flights is up to 4 hours. The rules concerning this point differ per airline. To be sure, check with the airline before booking a flight with a transfer.

Children’s lounges

At several airports there are special children’s lounges to pass the time. Some children’s lounges are minimalistic, but there are also children’s lounges with entire indoor playgrounds, Play Stations and snacks. This depends on the airport.

It can be nerve wracking, of course, when your child flies without you. Here’s a list of things to keep in mind when flying alone or with the UM service.

Be at the airport at least 2.5 hours before departure (this varies per airline, but be there on time).
As a parent or guardian, wait until the plane has taken off in case the flight is cancelled last-minute.
Make advance arrangements at home for parental consents indicating your permission for your child to fly alone. It must also indicate who will pick up your child.

Copies of passports are required, as are signatures.

Provide identification for your child.
Identification of the person picking up your child from the airport. If this person cannot provide identification or the authorizations are not correct, your child will be put on the next flight home.
Want to use an unaccompanied minor service? Book at least 24 hours in advance.
If your child is accompanied by a teenager and you are not using the unaccompanied minor service, pay attention to the rules per airline. Sometimes a 16-year-old companion is allowed, sometimes the companion must be at least 18.

What if you are a teenager who wants to travel without your parents?

Are you 15 years old and would like to go on vacation or a city trip with friends and without your parents? Then pay attention to where you book your trip! Ryanair and easyJet do not allow you to fly without parents or a companion who is at least 16 years. So find a friend to accompany you if you are the only one under 16.

Are you under 16 and would like to fly without your parents? Always check with the airline first. If you are still nervous about flying alone, many airlines offer the unaccompanied minor service described above.

Conclusion: age restrictions differs from airline to airline

Airlines have different rules. While one airline may not allow passengers under the age of 16 to board unaccompanied, Turkish Airlines allows your child to travel alone at the age of 2.

The cost for this also differs per airline, but is not unreasonably high. Sometimes it’s even cheaper to arrange a chaperone, than to book an extra seat!

From the moment you hand over your child to personel, they are taken care of. Some airports have even created special lounges where your child can spend their time, under supervision of course.

Compensation in case of delay or cancellation

Will your child be flying alone soon? Then you simply pay for a seat and, in addition, possibly the cost of supervision. If there is an issue with the flight your child has rights in accordance with Regulation 261/2004. This means you can claim and receive compensation of up to €600 per passenger. In the event of a flight cancellation, you will also be reimbursed for the cost of the unaccompanied minor service.

Compensation for flight problems

Cancelling your flight because you have a cold is not a valid reason for compensation. Are you going to fly anyway, but your flight is cancelled or delayed ? You may be entitled to compensation.

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Flying with a baby? Rules for Ryanair and Aer Lingus and other travel restrictions

What to pack, the age restrictions for flying and other handy tips to make flying with children less stressful than it needs to be

11:10, 13 MAY 2021
Updated 11:12, 13 MAY 2021

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As coronavirus vaccines are being rolled out and countries are opening, it's time to start thinking about getting away for a holiday and for many people, travelling to see loved ones overseas.

As an adult, it's generally quite easy to book that flight, pack your bag and sit and relax.

What happens when a baby is now joining you on these trips? What do you need to know?

We've pulled together a handy guide to help make that experience less stressful.

If you're pregnant and want to book a flight for you and baby ahead of time, can I do that?

Yes. Aer Lingus and Ryanair both allow this and the name can be changed free of charge ahead of your flight, so there is no need to stress at the time of booking, just remember to change their name.

What age can my baby travel at?

This is an interesting one, as Aer Lingus states it doesn't "have a restriction on a minimum age that the infant should be, however we do recommend that you clear with your doctor that it's okay for an infant up to the age of two weeks to travel".

Ryanair on the other hand states "infants aged seven days and under cannot be accepted for travel on Ryanair flights".

So it is best to check with your individual airline ahead of booking your flight.

Can I travel with two kids under two alone?

Aer Lingus permits you to travel with two children aged under two, providing one of the infants is over six months old "and accommodated in a car type safety seat" and must be certified, whereas Ryanair only permits one infant per adult, so that's a child up to the age of two.

What can I bring with me?

Baggage allowance: Without a seat booking for your infant, their allowance is included in your allowance, so that means no extra on both Aer Lingus and Ryanair - but with Ryanair you're allowed a baby changing bag.

You are able to bring your stroller per infant/child and one of the following: "Car seat, booster seat or travel cot".

We spoke with Aoife Lee, from ParentSupport.ie, to get her top tips for flying with a baby as a parent, and as a parenting expert.

Aisle seats

Although most airlines allow families to board first, it’s a good idea to pre-book aisle seats, mostly for easy access to allow small children move around during the flight and take trips to the toilet or for the parent or carer to walk with a small baby if needed.

Feeding during take-off and landing

Whether you bottle or breastfeed, allowing your child to feed on take-off and landing is a very comforting way to help their ears pop or adjust to the change in air pressure. For older children, you might like to have a supply of chewing sweets or a lollipop or sports cap bottle, the sucking effect which will help relieve any discomfort for their ears.

For the toilet-trained toddler, try to bring them to the toilet about 30 minutes before landing, to avoid the need to go as the plane is about to land.

Slings and buggies

A lightweight carry-on buggy which can be taken on the plane free of charge is a must have item of luggage to bring with you, especially when there is a lot of walking to do at the airport. You will most likely need it as soon as you arrive at your destination as well.

In my own experience using a sling can be a great comfort for your baby as well as being very practical. The buggy doesn't always land at the arrivals gate - even though they promise it! Having your baby in a sling or baby-backpack will also give you two free arms to wheel your cases, hold hands or push the luggage trolley.

Snacks and drinks

Again, preparation of food ahead of time is key to saving time and money. Prepare some pots of fresh and dried fruit, crackers, batons of cheese and veg, pouches of fruit. Pre-cooked meals that can be enjoyed cold, like pasta, vegetables and sandwiches are always a winner while enroute.

Sports cap bottles are one of the best travel companions as they not only quench the thirst, but most are spill proof – so no mess! The snacks and drinks not only fill our little one’s tummies, but they love small portions to nibble & graze on while enjoying the journey.

Carry-on luggage

Many parents find packing the toys, snacks, nappies & wipes into an adult rucksack a great help. It’s also easier to store this bag (instead of the usual roller carry-on Suitcase) under the airplane seat in front of you so that you’ve got easy access to grab the essentials when you need them during the flight.

Top tip: Make sure to bring your baby's naptime essentials - comforter, soother and blanket - to make it as easy and familiar as possible to doze off.

Sunshine holidays - what do I need to know?

For babies under 12 months, according to HSE.ie, "it is best to keep them out of direct sunlight. For example, by providing shade when they are outdoors and wearing protective clothing and hats".

For babies under six months old "it's better to protect babies from sunlight rather than use sunscreen". The reason being for this is that their skin doesn't absorb the sunscreen as well compared to an older child. This is definitely something that you should consider when looking to book a sun holiday, and as with the old age advice, stay out of the sun between the hours of 11am and 3pm.

There are plenty of UV protective suits (Labelled UPF) that can be purchased as well as some cute sunglasses for your little one- Choose sunglasses that meet the I.S. EN 1836 standard.

The HSE has further advice on what works clothes-wise, saying: "Linen, cotton and hemp let fewer UV rays through. Dark clothes block more UV rays than light-coloured clothes."

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Drinking water - is there anything I need to know?

Here in Ireland we can boil the water that comes straight from the tap, let it cool and use it, but what about the likes of the Canary Islands etc?

The thing you need to keep an eye out for when buying water to use for baby bottles is a baby bottle mark on the bottle itself. It'll sometimes have a baby on the front, but not always. This is the best water to use due to the mineral contents of others.

When travelling within Europe, do not forget to get your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

Remember to check with an individual airline if you have any questions. And whenever you decide to head away, enjoy the experience!

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Guide to Unaccompanied Minor Policies for U.S. Airlines [2023]

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Guide to Unaccompanied Minor Policies for U.S. Airlines [2023]

Unaccompanied minor basics, unaccompanied minor policies, tips for unaccompanied minor flights, final thoughts.

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Sending your child on a flight alone can be an exciting (and nerve-wracking) experience.

Whether they’ve been flying with you since babyhood or are just getting their travel legs now, you and your child need to be prepared for travel as an unaccompanied minor.

In the U.S., airlines have a wide array of rules and costs when it comes to young flyers traveling alone. Let’s look at each airline’s policy for exactly what you need to know before your big kid takes to the skies on their own.

For countless reasons, you may find that sending your child on a flight alone makes sense for you and your family.

Whether they are going to meet up with their other parent, grandparents, friends, family, school, or summer camp, being prepared will help ensure a safe and comfortable trip.

Although rules vary by airline, in most cases, an unaccompanied minor can be a child between the ages of 5 and 14. You can expect to pay up to $150 for an unaccompanied service from the airline to help with the travel logistics.

Below is a chart to take a quick view of policies, followed by a more in-depth breakdown of each airline.

*Prices shown are for one-way flights and are in addition to the price of the ticket

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines has Junior Jetsetters, an unaccompanied minor service for kids 5 to 17 on domestic and international flights.

When flying with Alaska, Junior Jetsetters receive a lanyard and a wristband so staff and crew can easily identify them. Kids will receive early boarding and a special safety briefing to make sure they are familiar with the emergency protocols.

Your child will be supervised for their entire journey for $50 on nonstop flights. Kids ages 8 to 17 can fly a more complex itinerary with connections for $75.

Junior Jetsetters who have attained MVP, MVP Gold, Gold 75K, or Gold 100K Mileage Plan status have these fees waived.

Parents or guardians can escort the child all the way to the gate as long as they have obtained an escort pass at the ticket counter.

To book a ticket for an unaccompanied minor on Alaska Airlines, call 800-252-7522.

Hot Tip: Some Alaska Airlines routes may not allow unaccompanied minors, including for seasonal severe weather.

Allegiant Air

Allegiant Air does not allow unaccompanied minors.

The airline considers anyone 15 and older an adult. Anyone under 15 must be accompanied by an adult ticketed on the same reservation.

American Airlines

American Airlines provides an unaccompanied minor service for children ages 5 to 14. It’s optional for teens ages 15 to 17. The cost is $150, which covers the cost of siblings, as well.

The AA unaccompanied minor service includes early boarding to get comfortable and meet the flight attendants, kids-only lounge access (in select cities), Kids’ Kits from Quaker with snacks and activities (for ages 5 to 10 in hub cities), and an escort for connecting and arriving flights.

If your child has a connecting flight, they will have access to an unaccompanied minor lounge in the following airports:

Charlotte (CLT)
Chicago (ORD)
Dallas (DFW)
Los Angeles (LAX)
Miami (MIA)
New York (JFK and LGA)
Philadelphia (PHL)
Phoenix (PHX)
Washington, D.C. (DCA)

Rules vary by age and destination for international flights and can be found on AA.com .

To book a ticket for an unaccompanied minor on American Airlines, call 800-433-7300.

Breeze Airways

Breeze Airways does not provide an unaccompanied minor service. The airline allows children 13 and older to fly by themselves without an accompanying adult on all nonstop flights. On multiple-segment flights (including BreezeThrus and connecting flights), an adult must accompany any guest younger than 18.

Children ages 13 to 17 must provide government documentation stating their age.

Delta Air Lines

Delta has an unaccompanied minor program for domestic and international travel for kids ages 5 to 14. It’s optional for teens from 15 to 17. The service costs $150 each way for up to 4 children.

Only children 8 and older can travel on itineraries with connections. Younger children must be booked on nonstop flights.

Minors traveling with the unaccompanied minor program receive a trackable wristband, access to the Sky Zone lounge for kids, and a personal escort throughout their travel day.

Sky Zones are children-only areas where children who are flying alone can use the complimentary phones to call their parents, wait for connections, play with toys and video games, and have the support of Delta representatives.

Delta Sky Zones are available in the following airports:

Atlanta (ATL)
Cincinnati (CVG)
Detroit (DTW)
Memphis (MEM)
Minneapolis-Saint Paul (MSP)
New York (JFK)
Salt Lake City (SLC)
Seattle-Tacoma (SEA)

After check-in, a parent or designated accompanying adult must take the unaccompanied minor to the departure gate and remain until the flight has taken off. The person meeting the child at the other airport must be registered and provide an ID and signature.

To book a ticket for an unaccompanied minor on Delta Air Lines, you must call 800-325-8847.

Frontier Airlines

Frontier Airlines does not allow unaccompanied minors.

The airline allows anyone 15 and older to fly by themselves. Anyone under 15 must be accompanied by an adult ticketed on the same reservation.

Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines offers Unaccompanied Minor Service Assistance, but the requirements vary based on age and final destination. The service costs $35 per flight segment on flights between the Hawaiian islands and $100 per flight segment on flights between Hawaii and continental North America for up to 2 children from the same family.

Children ages 5 to 11 are considered unaccompanied minors and must pay for the Unaccompanied Minor Service Assistance. The service is optional for kids 12 to 17. Unaccompanied minors are not allowed on international flights.

A child aged 5 to 11 can travel with a passenger 15 or older without Unaccompanied Minor Service Assistance.

At drop-off, the parent or responsible adult must submit a completed Request For Unaccompanied Minor form and inform the airline who will be picking up the child at the arrival airport. Pickup locations vary by airport and can be found on the Hawaiian Airlines website .

To book a ticket for an unaccompanied minor on Hawaiian Airlines, call 800-367-5320.

JetBlue allows for unaccompanied minors between the ages of 5 and 14 years old to travel on their own. Tickets can be booked online and carry a fee of $150 per person each way.

There is a limit of 3 unaccompanied minors per flight, and they cannot occupy Mint or Even More Space seats. Seats A, B, and C in the plane’s last row are reserved for unaccompanied minors so that the crew can easily assist if needed.

Only nonstop flights can be booked for unaccompanied minors , with some international flights included. Service for the U.K. and Europe is not available at the moment. Unaccompanied minors, even on Blue Basic Fares, can bring a carry-on at no extra charge.

A photo ID and 3 copies of a completed Unaccompanied Minor Form are required at drop-off. Gate passes may be available at the discretion of the TSA.

At pick-up, the guardian listed on the Unaccompanied Minor Form must be at least 18 years old and present an ID.

To book a ticket for an unaccompanied minor on JetBlue, go to jetblue.com or call 800-538-2583.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest allows Unaccompanied Minors ages 5 to 11 to travel independently on domestic flights. There is a $100 fee each way.

Children 12 and over can use the Young Travelers service for no fee.

Parents cannot accompany their child all the way to the gate.

Unaccompanied minors can only fly on nonstop or direct flights in the U.S., and parents or guardians must provide proper identification during drop-off and pickup.

To book a ticket for an unaccompanied minor on Southwest, you can go to southwest.com , book at the ticket counter, or call 800-435-9792

Spirit Airlines

Spirit Airlines allows unaccompanied minors ages 5 to 14 on select flights for a fee of $150 each way.

Flights must be domestic, nonstop flights. Unaccompanied minors receive a lanyard with their information on it and a snack, and drinks during their travels.

The drop-off parent or guardian must provide a valid ID and escort the child all the way to the gate (with a gate pass) and wait for 15 minutes after the flight takes off. The child will be preboarded and introduced to the flight crew.

The pick-up parent or guardian should request a gate pass at the ticket counter with a valid ID and be waiting at the arrival gate so that the flight attendant can release the child to the adult listed on their Unaccompanied Minor form.

To book a ticket for an unaccompanied minor on Spirit Airlines, you can go to spirit.com or call 855-728-3555.

Sun Country

Sun Country does not have an unaccompanied minor service and, therefore, doesn’t allow children under 14 to travel alone.

On domestic flights, kids ages 15 to 17 can accompany 1 child between the ages of 5 to 14. Children under 5 must be accompanied by an adult ticketed on the same reservation.

United Airlines

United Airlines has an unaccompanied minor service for children ages 5 to 14. There is a fee of $150 each way for every 2 children using the service.

Unaccompanied minors can travel on both domestic and international flights, as long as they are nonstop on United or United Express. Teens ages 15 to 17 can travel alone on any United or United Express flight or opt into the unaccompanied minor service.

The young flyers receive a wristband, special bag tags, and an envelope with their unaccompanied minor forms. They also receive early boarding to get settled and a free snack after takeoff.

The drop-off parent or guardian can accompany the child to the gate if the airport allows it.

The pick-up parent or guardian can wait by the arrival gate if gate passes are available. A United representative will meet the child at the plane and bring them to the designated pick-up person.

To book a ticket for an unaccompanied minor on United Airlines, use united.com or call 800-864-8331.

Girl watching iPad on Delta A350-900 economy

You’ve made the decision to send your little one on their first big adventure by themselves and confirmed that the airline will assist them, but there are still some things you can do to help set them up for a successful journey.

Here are tips from fellow parents and directly from the airlines to help your child fly as an unaccompanied minor.

Explain the Process

You are likely nervous. Your child probably is, too. Making sure that they are emotionally and mentally prepared will be extremely important.

Going over exactly what the trip will entail, what is expected of them, who they can rely on, and what to do in an emergency can be calming and helpful.

Remind them that the flight crew is there to help them and that someone will be waiting for them at the other end of the flight.

Charge the Gadgets

For kids, nothing is worse than their favorite piece of technology running out of battery.

Let them indulge in screen time and ensure their phones, tablets, and other devices are all charged up for the trip. And don’t forget the chargers!

This will also ensure they can stay in touch with you if needed.

Use an AirTag

Apple AirTags have exploded in popularity to keep track of checked luggage.

Well, there is no more precious cargo than your child. Toss an AirTag in their backpack (Apple sells a single AirTag for $29 , or a pack of 4 AirTags for $99 ), or, better yet, use an AirTag bracelet .

With an AirTag, you can see almost exactly where they are, which can be handy during pick-up.

Write Down Emergency Contacts

Yes, there will be cell phones and proper documentation from the airline, but you never know.

It can’t hurt to have a list of emergency contacts and phone numbers on a piece of paper, if needed.

Pack Snacks

We all function better when we aren’t hungry, right?

Even though some unaccompanied minor services offer snacks, it’s a good idea to make sure your kid is well-fed before their flight and has a bag full of snacks to munch on during their journey.

You’ve packed snacks, and the airline will likely provide some as well, but it’s a good idea to give your kid some spending money just in case of a long delay.

Whether they’re waiting to board or on the plane for longer than planned, having a little cash or a credit card can come in handy if they need to buy something.

Minimize Carry-Ons

This goes for all travelers, but the less you board with, the less likely it will get left behind.

A backpack is probably the easiest for smaller travelers, so they don’t have to deal with reaching into overhead bins.

Track the Flight

Being able to track the flight will help calm a parent or guardian’s nerves and keep the person picking up the unaccompanied minor informed if there are any delays.

Whether using the airline’s app or a third-party app such as FlightAware , a little bit of technology in your pocket is nice.

Girl walking through airport with Away bag in Rio de Janeiro airport GIG

Sending your little one on a flight by themselves is a huge moment filled with a plethora of feelings with everything from excitement to fear. But with the right preparation, your unaccompanied minor could make their first successful trip of many to come.

Many airlines will make sure that your child has a safe and enjoyable flight, and if they are flying Alaska Airlines and have elite status, they won’t even charge you!

Many factors go into whether or not you and your family are comfortable enough with this type of travel. Hopefully, the information you found here will help with your decision.

Safe travels!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i board the aircraft with my child.

No, but in some cases, the parent or guardian can get a gate pass and stay with the child until they have boarded at the gate.

Can unaccompanied minors travel internationally?

Depending on the airline and destination, yes. You will need to check directly with your carrier.

How much does it cost for my child to fly alone?

Prices vary depending on the airline and itinerary, often around $50 to $150 each way. This is in addition to the cost of the ticket.

Can my 13-year-old fly alone?

On many U.S. airlines, yes. You will likely need to pay an unaccompanied minor fee, as well.

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About Chris Hassan

Chris holds a B.S. in Hospitality and Tourism Management and managed social media for all Marriott properties in South America, making him a perfect fit for UP and its social media channels. He has a passion for making content catered toward family travelers.

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Can you fly alone at 16 with Ryanair?

Can You Fly Alone at 16 with Ryanair?

Ryanair is one of Europe’s largest low-cost airlines, and many people wonder if it allows minors to travel alone. If you are 16 years old, you are legally allowed to travel alone on Ryanair. However, there are certain rules and regulations that need to be followed.

When flying alone at the age of 16 with Ryanair, it is important to keep in mind that you will be considered an unaccompanied minor. This means that you will need to follow specific procedures and guidelines set by the airline. For example, you will need to have a completed and signed declaration form that acknowledges the terms and conditions of your travel as an unaccompanied minor. In addition, you will be required to pay an extra fee for the service provided to unaccompanied minors.

Furthermore, it is advisable to arrive at the airport well in advance to complete the necessary paperwork and procedures. The airline staff will take responsibility for your well-being during the flight and ensure that you are safely handed over to the designated person at your destination.

1. Can a 16-year-old fly alone with Ryanair?

2. what is the minimum age to fly alone with ryanair, 3. is there a fee for unaccompanied minors traveling with ryanair, 4. what documents are required for a 16-year-old to fly alone with ryanair, 5. can unaccompanied minors travel on all flights with ryanair, 6. what level of assistance is provided to unaccompanied minors on ryanair flights, 7. can unaccompanied minors have a layover when flying with ryanair, 8. are there any restrictions on baggage for unaccompanied minors on ryanair flights, 9. what happens if there is a flight delay or cancellation for unaccompanied minors on ryanair, 10. can unaccompanied minors choose their seats on ryanair flights, 11. what are the responsibilities of the designated guardian or parent when a minor is flying alone with ryanair, 12. can unaccompanied minors request special assistance on ryanair flights, faqs about flying alone at 16 with ryanair.

Yes, a 16-year-old can fly alone with Ryanair. However, there are specific procedures and guidelines that need to be followed, such as completing a declaration form and paying an extra fee for the service provided to unaccompanied minors.

The minimum age to fly alone with Ryanair is 16 years old. Anyone younger than 16 will need to be accompanied by an adult or an approved guardian.

Yes, there is an extra fee for unaccompanied minors traveling with Ryanair. This fee covers the service provided to ensure the safety and well-being of minors traveling alone.

A 16-year-old flying alone with Ryanair will need to have a completed and signed declaration form that acknowledges the terms and conditions of their travel as an unaccompanied minor. It is important to have all necessary documents in place before the day of travel to avoid any complications at the airport.

Unaccompanied minors can travel on most flights with Ryanair, but there may be certain restrictions and limitations on specific routes or destinations. It is recommended to check with the airline prior to booking the flight to ensure that the desired route permits unaccompanied minors.

Ryanair provides a level of assistance to unaccompanied minors to ensure their safety and well-being during the flight. The airline staff will take responsibility for the minor and ensure a smooth and comfortable travel experience.

Unaccompanied minors can have a layover when flying with Ryanair, but it is essential to communicate this with the airline when making the booking. There may be additional procedures and guidelines to follow for layovers, so it is important to plan ahead and coordinate with the airline.

There may be specific restrictions on baggage for unaccompanied minors traveling on Ryanair flights. It is advisable to check the airline’s policies regarding baggage allowances and any additional requirements for minors traveling alone.

If there is a flight delay or cancellation for unaccompanied minors on a Ryanair flight, the airline will take the necessary steps to ensure the safety and well-being of the minors. The airline staff will communicate with the designated guardian or parent to provide updates and arrange for any alternative travel arrangements if needed.

Unaccompanied minors may have limited options for choosing their seats on Ryanair flights, as the airline will prioritize their safety and ensure they are seated in suitable areas of the aircraft. It is important to consider this when booking the flight and communicate any preferences or concerns with the airline staff.

The designated guardian or parent of a minor flying alone with Ryanair is responsible for ensuring that all necessary documents are in place and that the minor is well-prepared for the journey. It is important to communicate with the airline and have a clear understanding of the procedures and requirements for unaccompanied minors.

Unaccompanied minors can request special assistance on Ryanair flights if they have specific needs or requirements. It is advisable to communicate these requests with the airline when making the booking to ensure that the necessary arrangements are in place for a comfortable and safe travel experience.

About The Author

Bradley Evans

Travel Advice: Children flying alone

Some airlines will not take unaccompanied minors and others have age limits and fees.

Transatlantic services with US carriers do allow children from five-14 or 15 to travel alone for a fee. Photograph: Istock

The capacity to send children unaccompanied on flights has reduced a lot in recent years. Some airlines will not take unaccompanied minors (UMs) and others have age limits and charges.

From Ireland Aer Lingus will accept unaccompanied children from 12-15 inclusive but will not provide special assistance. A Form of Indemnity must be signed by a parent or guardian at the airport. The person signing the form must have a passport or driving licence.

Children under 12 must be accompanied by someone over 16. Children travelling on partner airline JetBlue must be 14 or over and on United must be 16. Ryanair does not carry unaccompanied children under the age of 16.

British Airways is ending its Skyflyer Solo service on January 31st 2017 but bookings already made will be honoured. Air France, via its Kids Solo service, will accept unaccompanied minors from five on direct AF flights. The cost is from €50-€80 each. Children will be supervised by Air France staff.

Iberia will accept children from five-11 on flights it operates. Prices are from €65 each way.

Transatlantic services with US carriers do allow children from five-14 or 15 to travel alone for a fee. United charges $125 (€111) each way, American charges €150 each way and Delta charges $150 each way but does allow for some connecting services for eight-14 year olds.

Etihad and Emirates allow UMs from five-12 years old and Etihad allows some connections within its own network. Etihad charges $60-$100 each way and Emirates charges children the adult price.

If children are travelling on the same aircraft in a different class to you they must be booked as UMs. It is important to have all the paperwork, some airlines require numerous copies of the indemnity form. [email protected]

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COMMENTS

What documents are required for travelling with a ...
Each country has specific requirements for minors travelling without their parents or legal guardians and what documentation is required. It is each passenger's responsibility to ensure that these specific document requirements are fully met.
Travelling With Children
Infants aged up to 7 days cannot be accepted for travel on any Ryanair flights. Infants (aged 8 days to 23 months inclusive) travelling with Ryanair must be accompanied by an adult aged 16 or over (one infant per adult). ... Adults are over 16 years of age, teens are between 12 and 15 years of age, children are between 2-11 years of age, and ...
How old do you have to be to fly alone with Ryanair
#3 is just living in the past. There was a time when most - if not all - airlines offered an Unaccompanied Minor service. There was also a time when Ryanair allowed 14 and 15-year-olds to fly unaccompanied - I know this for sure as I organised a Ryanair flight for a 15-year-old in 2001.. There are no laws that say that 15-year-olds cannot fly unaccompanied.
Ryanair: Children Flying Alone
What age does my child have to travel unaccompanied? Passengers over the age of 16 may travel without an adult. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. When providing arrangements for your unaccompanied minor on Ryanair flights, our guide will inform you on all the restrictions and services available to your child.
General terms & conditions
Family Plus fares are available on all flights for bookings of up to six passengers with at least one child or teen. All Family Plus fares are non-refundable, except where clause 4.2, 10.2, 10.3 or 10.4 of our general terms and conditions of carriage apply. The following services are included in Family Plus fares:
What is the youngest you can fly alone on Ryanair?
To fly alone on Ryanair, the minimum age requirement is 16 years old. This means that passengers under the age of 16 will not be allowed to travel alone on Ryanair flights. However, Ryanair offers an unaccompanied minor service for children between the ages of 16 and 18 who may require some assistance during their journey.
How do I add a minor (< 16 years) to a booking?
To link the bookings, go to the original adult booking and select "Add minors" from the left-hand menu. Select, or retrieve, the new adult booking you created, enter the date of birth for each minor, and then both bookings will be linked with the passenger types updated. You should check-in online for both bookings, otherwise you will be ...
What age can you fly alone with Ryanair?
Can children under the age of 16 travel alone on Ryanair's flights during the COVID-19 pandemic? Ryanair has implemented various safety measures and protocols in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. While children under the age of 16 can still travel alone, it is important to stay updated with the latest travel advisories and guidelines issued ...
PDF Children Travelling Alone Factsheet
Children Travelling Alone Factsheet With a long summer holiday ahead of us some of you may be thinking about your children spending time ... Children over 12 (15 for some airlines) can travel alone but the Unaccompanied Minor Service is available for an extra charge. Other points to note:
At what age can I fly alone with Ryanair?
If you're wondering at what age you can fly alone with Ryanair, the answer is pretty straightforward. Children aged 16 and over can travel alone on Ryanair flights without requiring an adult to accompany them. However, children aged 12-15 can also travel alone as part of Ryanair's unaccompanied minor service, but there are some guidelines ...
How old do you have to be to fly alone with Ryanair
8 years ago. Just to clarify, the link posted by Sunmagic doesn't actually mean what it says when it states: "Children under the age of 16 years must always be accompanied by a passenger over 16 years." They mean a passenger 16 years or older (not 17 or older), as is clear when you go to book and need to choose the type of passenger.
Can kids fly alone? Rules, fees vary by airlines
The minimum age for children to travel alone as adults paying adult fares varies: Kids have to be 12 years old to fly alone on domestic flights with Hawaiian, Southwest, Air Canada, and WestJet ...
Which Airlines Allow Unaccompanied Minors to Fly Alone?
Minimum age for flying alone: Ryanair does not allow children under the age of 16 to fly alone. Escort service: Not available. Virgin Atlantic. Minimum age for flying alone: Virgin Atlantic allows children between the ages of 5-12 years to travel alone if they fill out the Unaccompanied minors form and have it signed by their parents or legal ...
How old do you have to be to fly alone with Ryanair
26 reviews. 47 helpful votes. 11. Re: How old do you have to be to fly alone with Ryanair. 7 years ago. So your advice is pop your 16 year old on the plane with her 14 year old brother and don't be concerned if the plane is diverted because of a tech issue or a medical emergency or even a bomb threat and can't get out for 24 hours.
How old do you have to be to fly alone with Ryanair
5. Re: How old do you have to be to fly alone with Ryanair. >> #2 is wrong, <<. look at the official airline link in post 1. It does not matter who buys a ticket...under 16 need to travel with an adult Go to Ryanair site and see if you can book a ticket for an under 16 without an associated adult - you can't.
Ryanair minors flying alone
Ryanair minors flying alone Is there a service offered by Ryanair for children traveling alone? No, Ryanair does not carry unaccompanied minors under 16 years. Children up to the age of 16 years must always be accompanied by an adult passenger. Special facilities like escort services and others are NOT available.
Can you fly alone under 18 years of age?
1. Age limits. Children travelling alone are treated differently; depending on their age. For most airlines, the minimum age for an unaccompanied child is five years while the maximum age is twelve years. If the child is younger than the minimum age, they should travel with an adult. Before you go to the airport, ensure that you carry all the ...
How Old Do You Have to Be to Fly Alone?
There are different levels of restrictions based on your child's age: 0 to 4 years: Cannot travel alone. 5 to 7 years: Nonstop flights only. 8 to 14 years: Nonstop flights and connecting flights ...
From what age are children allowed to travel alone? Explainer
Children from 5 to 11 years old may only travel with Transavia accompaniment. Between the ages of 12 and 18, you may also fly your child without additional supervision. The cost for accompaniment is €55 per child per one-way trip. Ryanair - not under 16 years of age. Children under the age of 16 are not allowed to fly alone.
Flying with a baby? Rules for Ryanair and Aer Lingus and other travel
Ryanair on the other hand states "infants aged seven days and under cannot be accepted for travel on Ryanair flights". So it is best to check with your individual airline ahead of booking your flight.
Unaccompanied Minors: A Guide to Every U.S Airline's Policy
United Airlines. United Airlines has an unaccompanied minor service for children ages 5 to 14. There is a fee of $150 each way for every 2 children using the service. Unaccompanied minors can travel on both domestic and international flights, as long as they are nonstop on United or United Express.
Can you fly alone at 16 with Ryanair?
If you are 16 years old, you are legally allowed to travel alone on Ryanair. However, there are certain rules and regulations that need to be followed. When flying alone at the age of 16 with Ryanair, it is important to keep in mind that you will be considered an unaccompanied minor.
Travel Advice: Children flying alone
Transatlantic services with US carriers do allow children from five-14 or 15 to travel alone for a fee. United charges $125 (€111) each way, American charges €150 each way and Delta charges ...

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From what age are children allowed to travel alone?

From what age can your child fly alone?

The rules for children traveling alone (2023)

British Airways – between 5 – 12 years old

Lufthansa – 5 years and up

Transavia – from 5 years old

Ryanair – not under 16 years of age

easyJet – not under 16 years of age

TUI – as of 5 years old

Emirates – from 5 years old and up

Qatar Airways – starts at 5 years old

KLM – from 5 years old

Turkish Airlines – from 2 years old and up

What does unaccompanied minor service entail?

Your child is flying alone and the flight is delayed

Your child is flying alone on a connecting flight

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Conclusion: age restrictions differs from airline to airline

Compensation in case of delay or cancellation

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