Planning a trip for your child to fly solo can feel daunting, but with the right information, you can ensure their journey is smooth and safe. Children, especially teenagers who wish to travel alone, have to be classified differently while traveling on Spirit Airlines. So, Spirit Airlines has defined specific policies for unaccompanied minors, and understanding these plays a key role in leading to a stress-free travel experience. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about sending your young traveler off with Spirit Airlines via these Spirit Airlines unaccompanied minor policies.
Who Qualifies as an Unaccompanied Minor?
Before we even begin, this question arises in many minds- “Does spirit allow unaccompanied minors?”. So the answer is yes i,t does. On Spirit Airlines, children ages 5 through 14 traveling without a companion aged 15 or older are considered unaccompanied minors. Here’s the breakdown of the Spirit Airlines minor policy:
- Children Under 5 Years Old: Cannot travel alone under any circumstances.
- Ages 5-14: Must use the Unaccompanied Minor Service if traveling without someone at least 15 years old.
- Ages 15 and Up: Considered young adults and can travel independently without the Unaccompanied Minor Service.
Booking the Unaccompanied Minor Service
To arrange for your child to fly as an unaccompanied minor, you’ll need to contact Spirit Airlines directly. This service cannot be booked online. When you call:
- Provide Detailed Information: You’ll need to give the airline your child’s full name, age, and any special needs or medical conditions.
- Designate Guardians: You’ll be asked to provide the names and contact information of the individuals dropping off and picking up your child.
Unaccompanied Minor Service Fee
For using the Unaccompanied minor service you will have to pay Spirit unaccompanied minor fee of $100 each way per child. This fee covers:
- Dedicated Assistance: Airline staff will supervise your child from departure to arrival.
- Priority Boarding: Your child will board the plane before other passengers.
- In-Flight Care: Flight attendants will check on your child periodically during the flight.
Flight Restrictions for Unaccompanied Minors
For safety reasons, Spirit Airlines imposes certain restrictions for Spirit Airlines unaccompanied minors:
- Non-Stop Flights Only: Unaccompanied minors can only travel on direct, non-stop flights. Connecting flights are not permitted.
- Domestic Flights: The service is available for domestic flights within the United States, including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
- Time of Day: There may be restrictions on flights departing late at night or arriving early in the morning.
Preparing for the Journey
To ensure everything goes smoothly, here’s what you need to do before the flight:
Check-In Process
In the check-in process, there are various Spirit Airlines ID requirements for minors-
- Arrive Early: Get to the airport at least two hours before the scheduled departure.
- Documentation: Bring the child’s passport or birth certificate to verify their age, along with your own photo ID.
- Unaccompanied Minor Form: Fill out the necessary paperwork provided by the airline at check-in.
At the Airport
- Security Pass: As the guardian, you’ll receive a gate pass to accompany your child through security to the gate.
- Waiting at the Gate: Stay with your child until they board the plane. Don’t leave the airport until the flight is airborne.
- Introduce Your Child: Make sure your child is introduced to the flight attendant who will be looking after them during the flight.
During the Flight
While on board, the Spirit unaccompanied minor will be:
- Assigned Seating: Your child will be seated where flight attendants can easily monitor them.
- Meals and Snacks: Spirit Airlines doesn’t provide complimentary snacks or meals. Pack some favorite snacks in your child’s carry-on.
- Entertainment: Encourage your child to bring books, games, or electronic devices (with headphones) to keep them occupied.
Arrival and Pick-Up
At the destination:
- Authorized Pickup: The designated guardian must present a valid photo ID matching the information provided during booking.
- Meet at the Gate: With a gate pass from the airline’s ticket counter, the guardian can meet the child at the arrival gate.
- Delays and Changes: Ensure the pickup guardian arrives early in case the flight lands ahead of schedule.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Emergency Contacts: Provide your child with a list of contact numbers, including yours and the pickup guardian’s.
- Health and Comfort: If your child has any medical needs, discuss them with the airline in advance and ensure they have the necessary medications.
- Practice Run: If it’s your child’s first time flying alone, talk through the process with them beforehand to ease any anxieties.
Final Thoughts
Sending your child off on a solo adventure doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding Spirit Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy and preparing accordingly, you can rest assured that your child is in good hands. The key is clear communication, thorough preparation, and staying informed every step of the way. So make sure to prepare your child for the long flight according to the norms. And this will help you make the most of your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can I track my child’s flight?
Yes, you can track the flight status on Spirit Airlines’ website or app using the flight number to stay updated on any delays or changes.
Q2. Does Spirit Airlines require a birth certificate for minors?
Yes, if a minor is traveling on Spirit Airlines, they will have to bring a birth certificate as proof of age.
Q3. Are there any items my child can’t bring?
Ensure your child doesn’t pack any prohibited items in their carry-on, such as liquids over 3.4 ounces, sharp objects, or flammable materials.
