How to prepare your child for their first solo flight

nevertheless air travel with small children You can’t take a walk in the park—especially when you yourself are afraid to fly—At least, you can keep your little one in sight for the entire trip. As an unaccompanied minor, what are your travel scenarios when you need to take your child on the plane alone?

My mom and I remember our first solo flight a little differently. I remember being a preteen excited about my new found independence. Whether you think you’re nervous or not, here are some tips to help you and your child prepare for their first flight.

know what to expect

All airlines have proven unaccompanied minor protocols. Your child may be flying without you, but he or she will never be completely alone. Check out our resources. Major brands such as American Airlines, Delta, and United have most of the same details. A few basics to remember:

• Children must be between the ages of 5-14.
• There is an additional charge of $150 to book as an unaccompanied minor.

• at the airport, Your child will receive a wristband to wear on board, of The chaperone knows that he is an unaccompanied minor.
• You will be issued a gate pass to take your child to the departure flight. Children are never left alone to go through security.
• At check-in, you or an accompanying adult must Photo ID, proof of address, contact phone number, contact details When an adult meets an unaccompanied minor at a destination.
• Allow at least 30 minutes extra time at the airport on the day your child travels, in addition to check-in and airport formalities.

No matter which airline you choose, on its website you’ll find specific checklists and tips on what to expect for you and your child.

Do multiple run-throughs

This is for your child, and it is for you. Talk with your child about what they’ll experience at the airport, including going through security, finding the gate, and boarding the plane, so you know what to expect.

Your child will be boarded prior to normal boarding for our flight attendants to identify and board your child. Before or after a flight, older children may feel like they can make their way through the airport on their own, but most airlines’ unaccompanied minor services require an attendant to wait. Make sure your child knows to wait for uniformed personnel to board and disembark the plane.

Please have a designated adult ready to meet your child at your destination. You will be required to show identification and sign a consent form acknowledging custody of your child.

Unaccompanied Minor Checklist

As noted above, airlines must provide a list of tips and reminders for sending unaccompanied minors on flights.

• Write down your child’s phone number in case they need to call you or another adult.
• pack pPlenty of in-flight entertainment and snacks.
• Make sure your electronics are fully charged and don’t forget to bring your charger and headphones.
• use Single small carry-on (like that Backpack) For games, books, money, snacks and more.
• Attach an ID card and contact information to your child’s carry-on bag or jacket.
• Include a special envelope to safely and conveniently store important travel documents during your trip, such as boarding passes, unaccompanied minor documents, passports, baggage claim tickets, and receipts.
• Point out the airline uniform at the airport. Tell your child to seek help only from her uniformed team members.

Consider whether your child is personally ready

Airlines provide for the carriage of unaccompanied minors. It is your responsibility to consider factors such as your child’s age, maturity level and comfort level before booking your child’s unaccompanied flight.

Give your child space to honestly express their concerns by asking open-ended questions. Some questions to consider:

• Do you think your child will ask for help when needed? How shy are they around strangers?
• Are your children too trusting? Do you understand that you cannot go with adults who are not in uniform?
• Has your child flown before? Do they generally know what to expect at the airport?
• Are children responsible for personal items such as carry-on backpacks?
• How does your child tend to react to anxiety?

Ultimately, your decision comes down to balancing your child’s independence and safety.hold their faith They’ll be fine without you, but at the same time, make sure they know they can always put the brakes on if they decide they’re not ready.