Traveling alone can be a thrilling experience, especially for young adventurers. To ensure their safety and provide peace of mind for parents and guardians, airlines like Delta Air Lines have established comprehensive policies for unaccompanied minors (UMs). In this blog post, we will delve into Delta Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy, outlining the guidelines, procedures, and essential information for parents and guardians considering sending their young travelers on Delta flights.
Defining Unaccompanied Minors
Delta Airlines categorizes unaccompanied minors (UMs) as children between the ages of 5 and 14 years old who are traveling alone without a parent, legal guardian, or responsible adult aged 18 or older on the same flight. While teenagers aged 15 to 17 can travel as unaccompanied minors upon request, it is not mandatory.
Booking Your Unaccompanied Minor’s Flight
When booking a flight for an unaccompanied minor, there are some important considerations to keep in mind:
Contact Delta: It’s crucial to contact Delta Airlines directly to inform them that your child will be traveling as an unaccompanied minor. This can usually be done during the booking process or by calling Delta’s customer service.
Special Services Fee: Delta typically charges a Special Services Fee for unaccompanied minors. This fee covers the additional assistance and supervision provided to ensure their safety during the journey.
Direct Flights: Whenever possible, it’s advisable to book nonstop or direct flights for unaccompanied minors to minimize layovers and potential disruptions.
Check-In and Arrival at the Airport
On the day of travel, here’s what to expect:
Early Arrival: Delta Airlines recommends arriving at the airport well in advance. Typically, unaccompanied minors need to be at the airport at least 2 hours before their flight’s departure time.
Required Documentation: Ensure that you have all the necessary documentation, including the child’s birth certificate or passport, proof of identification for the adult dropping off the child, and a completed Unaccompanied Minor form.
Escorting Your Child to the Gate
Escort Pass: An authorized adult must obtain an escort pass to accompany the unaccompanied minor through security and to the departure gate. This adult should remain at the airport until the flight has departed.
Security Screening: Be prepared for the child and accompanying adult to go through security screening. Follow the TSA guidelines for traveling with children to streamline the process.
Onboard and In-Flight Services
Special Attention: Delta Airlines’ staff takes special care of unaccompanied minors during the flight. They’ll ensure that the child is seated comfortably and assist with any needs throughout the journey.
In-Flight Entertainment: Delta offers a range of age-appropriate entertainment options to keep young travelers engaged and comfortable during the flight.
Arrival and Pick-Up at the Destination
Meet and Greet: Upon arrival at the destination, Delta staff will escort the unaccompanied minor from the aircraft to the arrival area, where they can be picked up by the designated adult.
Identification: The adult picking up the child must have proper identification and be listed as an authorized pick-up person on the Unaccompanied Minor form.
Conclusion
Delta Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy is designed to prioritize the safety and well-being of young travelers while ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey. By understanding and following these guidelines, parents and guardians can have confidence in their child’s solo travel experience with Delta Airlines. So, whether it’s a visit to relatives, a school trip, or a grand adventure, Delta is committed to providing safe skies for unaccompanied minors.