As a parent, sending your child on their first solo flight can bring a mix of excitement and anxiety. Whether they’re traveling to visit family, going on a school trip, or simply embarking on an adventure, the thought of them flying alone can raise a lot of questions. If you’re considering booking a flight with Spirit Airlines for your unaccompanied minor, it’s important to understand their Unaccompanied Minor Policy to ensure the journey is smooth, safe, and stress-free.
At Tours N Travel Pro, we specialize in guiding families through the travel process, and we’re here to break down everything you need to know about Spirit Airlines’ policies for unaccompanied minors. This way, you can make informed decisions and send your child off with peace of mind.
Who Can Travel as an Unaccompanied Minor with Spirit Airlines?
Spirit Airlines allows children between the ages of 5 and 14 years old to travel alone as unaccompanied minors. However, there are specific requirements to ensure your child's safety and comfort during the journey. Children under 5 cannot travel alone and must be accompanied by an adult, while children aged 15 and older are considered adults and are not subject to the unaccompanied minor service.
This means that if your child is between the ages of 5 and 14, they are eligible for the Spirit Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy and can fly solo with the airline’s assistance.
The Service Fee: What You Need to Know
One of the main components of the Spirit Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy is the service fee. Spirit Airlines charges a $100 fee each way for unaccompanied minors. This fee is in addition to the cost of the child’s flight ticket. The service fee covers the special care and supervision that the airline provides to the child throughout the entire journey, including check-in, security, in-flight, and arrival assistance.
It’s important to note that the $100 service fee applies per child, per direction. So, if your child is flying round-trip, you will be charged $100 each way. This fee helps ensure that Spirit Airlines staff provide constant supervision, care, and assistance to your child throughout the flight experience.
Non-Stop Flights: A Key Rule for Unaccompanied Minors
One of the critical rules of the Spirit Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy is that unaccompanied minors are only allowed to fly on non-stop flights. This policy is in place to make sure that the child’s journey is as straightforward as possible. Connecting flights involve layovers and plane changes, which can be confusing and stressful for a young traveler. Non-stop flights minimize the risk of delays or complications, ensuring your child is under the constant supervision of Spirit staff from start to finish.
Before booking your child’s flight with Spirit Airlines, double-check that the flight is non-stop. If connecting flights are required, Spirit Airlines will not allow the unaccompanied minor service to be applied to the ticket.
Booking an Unaccompanied Minor Flight with Spirit Airlines
When booking a flight for an unaccompanied minor, it’s essential to go through Spirit Airlines’ official website or customer service. Third-party booking sites don’t offer the option to include the unaccompanied minor service, so always book directly with the airline.
During the booking process, you’ll need to provide:
- Your child’s full name and birthdate.
- The name and contact information of the person picking up the child at the destination.
- Emergency contact information in case of any issues during the flight.
Once the booking is complete, Spirit Airlines will apply the unaccompanied minor service to the ticket, and you’ll receive confirmation.
Check-In and Airport Procedures for Unaccompanied Minors
On the day of travel, it’s essential to arrive early at the airport. Spirit recommends arriving at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours for international flights. This allows ample time for check-in and ensuring all procedures are in place for your child’s safe travel.
When you arrive at the airport, you’ll need to check in at the Spirit Airlines counter. At check-in, you’ll sign a form acknowledging the unaccompanied minor service, and your child will receive a special wristband to help identify them as an unaccompanied minor. Spirit staff will escort your child through security and take them to the gate for boarding.
Parents will be able to say goodbye at the gate, but Spirit Airlines will take over from there. Your child will be supervised by airline staff throughout the airport and during the flight.
Pick-Up and Arrival Procedures
When your child arrives at their destination, they will be handed over to the person designated on the booking form. It’s important to note that only the person listed as the pick-up contact can retrieve your child. The pick-up person will need to show valid photo identification to ensure that the correct person is authorized to take the child.
If there are any flight delays, it’s crucial to stay in touch with the person picking up your child to keep them informed and adjust plans as necessary.
Tips for Parents Traveling with Unaccompanied Minors
Talk to Your Child Before the Flight: Prepare your child for the experience by explaining what to expect at the airport, on the plane, and when they arrive at their destination. Encourage them to ask for help if needed and assure them that they will be well taken care of.
Pack Smart: Ensure your child has everything they need during the flight. Pack snacks, a tablet or books for entertainment, and any necessary medication. Comfort items like a stuffed animal or blanket can also help ease anxiety during the journey.
Track the Flight: Spirit Airlines offers flight tracking services so you can stay informed about your child’s flight status. This can help you monitor any delays or changes to the schedule.
Arrive Early: Give yourself enough time to check in and ensure the unaccompanied minor service is properly applied. This extra time will also give you peace of mind as you prepare to send your child off.
Why Choose Spirit Airlines?
While Spirit Airlines is known for its budget-friendly fares, it also offers reliable services for unaccompanied minors. The Spirit Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy is designed to provide children with the safety and care they need during their journey, while keeping costs affordable for families.
At Tours N Travel Pro, we understand how important it is to ensure your child’s travel experience is as smooth and secure as possible. We’re here to help you navigate the Spirit Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy and offer expert advice on booking flights, preparing your child for their trip, and managing every step of the process.
