At Tours N Travel Pro, we understand that flying with children can come with its own set of challenges, and when it comes to unaccompanied minors, the concerns only increase. If you’re planning to send your child on their first solo flight with Spirit Airlines, it’s crucial to understand their Unaccompanied Minor Policy. Knowing the ins and outs of this policy will ensure that your child’s travel experience is safe, smooth, and stress-free. In this blog, we’ll break down everything parents need to know about Spirit Airlines’ unaccompanied minor rules, including age requirements, fees, flight restrictions, and more.
What is an Unaccompanied Minor?
An unaccompanied minor (UM) is a child flying alone without an accompanying adult or guardian. Most airlines, including Spirit Airlines, offer special services for these young travelers to ensure their safety and well-being throughout the flight. While the experience can be exciting for children, it can be a stressful situation for parents who want to make sure everything goes smoothly. That’s where understanding the Spirit Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy comes in.
Age Requirements for Unaccompanied Minors on Spirit Airlines
Spirit Airlines has specific age requirements for children flying as unaccompanied minors. Children between the ages of 5 and 14 years old are eligible to fly alone with Spirit Airlines, as long as they meet certain criteria. If your child is under the age of 5, they are not allowed to travel alone and must be accompanied by an adult. Once your child reaches 15 years old, they are considered an adult by Spirit Airlines and no longer require special services or supervision during the flight.
Unaccompanied Minor Service Fee
One important aspect of the Spirit Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy is the service fee. Spirit Airlines charges a fee of $100 each way for unaccompanied minors, which is added on top of the cost of the child’s ticket. This fee is designed to cover the additional care and supervision the airline provides for the child throughout the travel process, including check-in, security screening, boarding, in-flight supervision, and arrival at the destination.
While $100 may seem like a steep price, it ensures that your child will receive the proper attention and care they need during their journey. This fee applies per child, per flight leg, so if your child has a round-trip flight, the fee will be charged both ways.
Non-Stop Flights Only for Unaccompanied Minors
Spirit Airlines has a strict rule when it comes to unaccompanied minors: they only allow unaccompanied minors on non-stop flights. This is a key part of the Spirit Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy, as the airline wants to minimize the risk of any issues during layovers or connecting flights. Connecting flights can add a layer of complexity and increase the chances of missed connections or delays, so Spirit restricts unaccompanied minors to direct flights only.
Before booking your child’s flight, ensure that the route is non-stop. If you were planning on booking a connecting flight, you will need to adjust your travel plans accordingly.
Booking a Flight for an Unaccompanied Minor with Spirit Airlines
To book a flight for an unaccompanied minor, you will need to go directly through Spirit Airlines, either online or by calling their customer service. Booking through third-party travel websites does not allow you to select the unaccompanied minor service, so it’s essential to book directly with Spirit.
During the booking process, you will be asked to provide the following information:
- Your child’s full name and date of birth.
- The name and contact information of the person picking up the child at the destination.
- Emergency contact information in case there are any issues during the flight.
It’s important to double-check that the unaccompanied minor service is applied to your child’s ticket. If not, Spirit Airlines may not provide the extra assistance needed.
Airport Check-In and Security
On the day of the flight, it’s important to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare. Spirit Airlines recommends arriving at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours for international flights when traveling with an unaccompanied minor. This ensures that there is enough time to check in, go over the details of the flight with the airline staff, and make sure everything is in order.
During check-in, you will need to sign a form confirming that you are aware of Spirit’s unaccompanied minor policies. The airline will also provide a special wristband for your child to wear, which helps staff identify them as an unaccompanied minor. From there, Spirit Airlines staff will escort your child through security and take them to the gate for boarding. You’ll be able to say goodbye at the gate, but once they board the plane, Spirit’s team takes over the responsibility of ensuring your child’s safety throughout the flight.
Pick-Up at the Destination
When the flight arrives at its destination, the person picking up the child will need to present valid photo identification and be listed as the designated contact person in the booking. Spirit Airlines will not release the child to anyone who is not on the approved list, so it’s important to make sure the person picking up your child is aware of this requirement.
If there are any delays or changes to the flight, it’s important to keep in touch with the person picking up the child so they can adjust their plans accordingly.
Tips for Parents Traveling with Unaccompanied Minors
Prepare Your Child: Before the flight, talk to your child about what to expect. Explain the process in a way that makes them feel confident and comfortable. Let them know who they can approach if they need help during the journey.
Pack Essentials: Make sure your child has everything they need for the flight, including snacks, entertainment (tablet, books, or games), a comfort item like a stuffed animal, and any medications they may need.
Stay in Touch: Track the flight’s status and keep in touch with the person picking up your child at the destination. Spirit Airlines provides flight tracking tools that can help you stay updated.
Arrive Early: Arriving early at the airport will give you plenty of time to go over the details with Spirit Airlines staff and make sure everything is in place.
Why Choose Spirit Airlines?
While Spirit Airlines is known for its budget-friendly fares, their Unaccompanied Minor Policy ensures that children traveling alone receive the attention and care they need throughout the journey. With non-stop flights, a clear and reasonable service fee, and easy-to-follow procedures, Spirit Airlines is a great option for parents looking to send their child on a solo trip.
At Tours N Travel Pro, we’re here to help you plan the best possible trip for your child, whether they’re traveling solo or with you. If you have any questions about Spirit Airlines’ Unaccompanied Minor Policy, or if you need help booking a flight, contact us today. We’re here to make your travel experience as easy and stress-free as possible!
