Accompanying a child on an airplane. The cost of the service of accompanying a child on an airplane Application for the carriage of an unaccompanied child s7

In this article, we will debunk the myths, misunderstandings and misconceptions associated with transporting children on an airplane. Using the example of the two largest airlines in Russia, we will give answers to the questions that passengers ask online.

Until what age can a child ticket be purchased?

A child ticket can be purchased for a child under 12 years of age. In some cases, to purchase such a ticket, you need to call the call center of the carrier.
If your child is between 0 and 2 years old, it is considered an infant. A ticket is bought both without providing a seat, and by reserving an adjacent seat for a child.

Children from 2 to 12 years old can buy a ticket only with a separate seat.

In order for the child to be next to you during the flight, Aeroflot recommends informing about the transportation of a minor in advance to secure a seat.

If you are traveling with two or more children under the age of 2, the rules of carriage are slightly different.

For the first baby, you buy a ticket without a separate seat, i.e. he will be in his arms. The second and third child must take tickets with a separate seat for each.
Accordingly, the cost of tickets for children will be different.

In accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations (hereinafter FAR), which are mandatory for all Russian airlines, the age of the child is determined on the date of transportation from the point of departure (Section VIII, clause 103).

Example:
You are flying with a child for a week to Barcelona. At the time of departure to Spain, he is still 11 years old. He will celebrate his birthday in the capital of Catalonia. At the time of returning to Russia, the child is already 12 full years old.
In this case, two separate tickets must be purchased. Children's Moscow - Barcelona and adult Barcelona - Moscow.

If at the time of departure the child is already 12 years old, he belongs to the “adult” category. He needs to buy a ticket on a general basis.

Important!
Because at the age of 12, a person does not yet have a passport, when issuing a ticket on a website, for example, S7 Airlines, select the “Other” document type and enter the number of the birth certificate in the field.

Airplane ticket price

Depending on the age of the child, a plane ticket will be free or with significant discounts.

A ticket for a child under 2 years old without a separate seat is issued free of charge when flying within Russia. When flying abroad, the discount will be 90% of the fare.
A ticket for a child under 2 years old with a separate seat will cost up to 50% discount. In the absence of special conditions for the use of the tariff.
Other children under 2 years old traveling with an adult passenger are transported at a discount of up to 50% of the fare.
Children from 2 to 12 years old are also transported at a discount of up to 50%. (FAR, paragraph 106)

Keep in mind that on long flights, the airline may require you to purchase a ticket for a child with a separate seat.

If you need to change the date of departure (reschedule the flight), the child's ticket is reissued in accordance with the age of the child on the date of the (new) departure.

We emphasize:

Despite the fact that a child under 2 years old is transported without a separate seat free of charge, a ticket is required for him. Those. you cannot buy a ticket only for yourself and come to check-in with your child. In this case, the airline will refuse to transport you, because. transportation rules will be violated.

Luggage per child

Depending on the airline, the free baggage allowance for a child may vary.
In most airlines, a child traveling without a separate seat is assigned 10 kg of free baggage.
When buying a ticket with a separate seat, the free baggage allowance corresponds to the fare.

For example, in Aeroflot, these are:

Without providing a seat: 1 piece weighing up to 10 kg and not more than 115 cm in size with the sum of three dimensions.
When providing a seat, depending on the class of service and fare rules.

In addition to the free baggage allowance, airlines allow you to carry a stroller or cradle for free. The stroller must not be in its original packaging.

Cradle in an airplane for a child

If you need a bassinet to transport your child, we recommend that you call the airline in advance and clarify the provision or possibility of attaching a bassinet to the aircraft.

S7 Airlines does not provide cradles for small passengers.
Aeroflot Airlines has the possibility of placing cradles in the cabin.
As a rule, there are devices for attaching the cradle in the first rows, which have a solid partition.
In Aeroflot, such seats on the plane are only in business class cabins.

Accompanying a child on a plane without parents

In accordance with the FAR (paragraph 104), a child from 2 to 12 years old can fly without parents under the supervision of a carrier. If such a service is provided by the airline.

There are several nuances that the passenger needs to know.

For the most part, airlines offer the service "Carriage under the supervision of the airline" to children from 5 to 16 years old.

Registration of such a service for children under 12 years of age is mandatory. From 12 to 16 years old - at the discretion of parents or legal representatives.
Because this service requires the personal presence of a legal representative and filling out documents; you can buy a ticket for a child accompanied by an airline representative only at the representative offices of the carrier or its agents.

Some airlines charge for this service. Depending on the direction, in Aeroflot, the cost of escort is from 40 euros.

Important!
An adult needs to arrive at the airport with a child and go to the check-in desk. Stay at the airport until the plane takes off.

Please also note that each airline has its own requirements for this service.

In S7 Airlines, children without adults can fly only on direct flights and only on flights under the airline code.
Aeroflot can accompany children on connecting flights and flights with transfers. In this case, parents need to pay for the child's food. The cost of meals for docking up to 3 hours or more is indicated on the official website of the airline.

How is follow-up done:
After check-in for the flight, the airline employee escorts the child on board the ship, where he hands him over to the flight attendant. Parents are informed by contact phone that the child is on the plane.

All documents of the child are put into the tablet (document pocket). When transferring a child to an airline employee, this tablet is put on the child's neck and remains there for the entire duration of the flight.

Upon arrival at the destination, the flight attendant hands the child over to the airport employee. He passes the child to the meeting person.

If the person who is supposed to meet the child is not in place, and it will not be possible to contact him, the parents will be notified about this. If the situation cannot be resolved on the spot, the child will be sent back to the point of departure, accompanied by an airline representative.
The person meeting the child at the airport of arrival must have a photo ID.

What documents does the child need

Flights
Completed forms and applications with the data of the seeing off and meeting persons (name, address, telephone)
Receipt of payment for the service (if it is paid)
Child's birth certificate
Accompanying person's identity card
For international flights: passport, visa and other documents for the destination country
Power of attorney for the departure of the child.

Important information for sending a child abroad!
Before traveling, consult the embassy or consulate of the host country regarding the travel of a child without parents.

In some countries there are legal restrictions on the movement of minors unaccompanied by legal representatives.
Restrictions may apply to hotel accommodation in the event of a failed connection or flight delay.
The airline may refuse carriage to countries with legal restrictions on the basis of the FAP, paragraph 107.

Text: (c) Oleg Koloshin
Photos: AZAL, SWISS

Thanks to the service of accompanying children on an airplane, you don’t have to worry about how to send a child to study, to a grandmother or just acquaintances in another city or country. Before deciding to send a child on a trip in this way, familiarize yourself with the nuances of the service.

Who can use the service

As a rule, the option is available for ordering a ticket for children from 5 to 12 years old. Some airlines allow these tickets to be issued to teenagers aged 16 to the age of majority.

How to get an accompaniment

Registration is allowed to the official representatives of the child: guardians, trustees, parents and adoptive parents.

Note! Registration by brothers or sisters, grandparents is not allowed.

Before ordering tickets, check if this airline provides the service, as not everyone supports this feature. Tickets must be booked no later than 36 hours before the departure time.. This is due to the fact that the company allocates places for children in advance. As a rule, four to six places are arranged for these needs. Also, when buying, immediately indicate that you intend to use escort.

It is also important to choose direct flights without transfers. If you need to go to the next point of departure, the carrier refuses to provide the service. The service will be provided if the transfer is carried out at the same airport.

What if you want to send your child abroad? Accompaniment can only be issued if the parent submits an application that stipulates his permission to fly in relation to the child. The document is presented to the airport in the original and must be certified by a notary.

Required documents

If you wish to organize a flight for your child, you must provide the following documents:

metric certificate;
internal passport;
foreigner for flights to other countries;
the itinerary receipt can be provided both in printed form and electronically;
when traveling abroad, medical insurance is also attached;
visa;
an extract from the disease card or a prescription from the attending physician if the child is taking medication with him.

Note! If you issue a ticket accompanied by employees of the company, then a ticket is purchased at full cost, regardless of the age of the child. Benefits excluded.

During the registration of the service, the parent also fills out a number of papers provided by the airline. This includes data:

About parents and their child;
Contacts for communication;
Information about who will meet the child.

Employees of the airline can help in filling out the documents.

Service cost

The ticket will cost 100% of the cost of the adult fare. This pricing policy is supported by most Russian and foreign airlines. Not so long ago, the rules of the S7 carrier changed. Since 2016, the company has been charging an additional fee for the service provided.

Now they will charge 3,000 rubles for Russian flights and 50 EUR for foreign trips. Accordingly, sending a child to a grandmother in Russia will cost 6,000 rubles round-trip, and abroad - 100 EUR.

For example, UTair does not charge additional money for transportation; Aeroflot has had such fees for several years.

What is included in the service

Accompanying a child on an airplane includes supervising him during the entire flight, landing and arrival at the destination. Let's dwell on each stage in more detail.

Departure

The first stage is accompanied by the execution of an accompanying sheet in the airport building. The document contains information about the flight attendant who will supervise the young traveler. Data about the employee who will meet the child at the destination is also entered there.

Each child is given a handbag, which will contain an accompanying sheet. According to the airline's rules, it should be hung around the neck and kept until the end of the flight.

At the airport, an accompanying person - an employee of the airline helps the child go through all the stages of registration. He checks in luggage and escorts you on board. At the same time, children are escorted to the cabin for boarding earlier than other passengers.

In airplane

For the duration of the entire flight, the flight attendant is fully responsible for the safety of the child. Her duties include helping to buckle up, explaining the rules of behavior on the plane. Employees are trained to communicate with young children, answer their questions and provide play sets for the kids. If necessary, the employee will guide the child to the toilet.

When the plane comes in for landing, and the passengers are getting ready to leave, the flight attendant takes the children out of the cabin last.

Additionally, you can include baby food. This will save time on fees, and you can also avoid putting liquid in hand luggage for your son or daughter. Fresh and healthy meals for children are provided on board.

Arrival

Upon arrival at the destination airfield, the representative of the airline is obliged to verify the identity of the person meeting. The child will be handed over only after being convinced that the host is the person who was declared upon departure.

There are situations when the child does not come to meet. In this case, the airline contacts the parents and clarifies how to proceed in the future. If the picker is delayed, staff will stay with the child until the picker reaches the airport.

Flights with transfers assume that a company employee will be assigned to the child at each stage of the trip. While waiting between flights, the child will be taken to the game room or VIP lounge, where he can relax or have a snack.

Accompanying children on different airlines

Depending on the airline, the conditions of escort and the cost of air travel may change. Consider several popular carriers and the nuances of providing the service.

S7

Maintenance features in S7:

After boarding small passengers on board, an S7 employee notifies parents about this.
In situations where it is not possible to contact the meeting person or the parents/guardians/custodians of the child, the last resort is to send him to the airport of departure under the supervision of airport staff.
The list of documents is identical to those given in the "required documents" section. You can make an application and process it at S7 offices or at the Contact Center.
The application for transportation, which is made in offices or at the airport, must be signed by the parents.
For international flights, in a notarized consent from both parents for departure, it is necessary to indicate the dates for the child's departure from the country, as well as the destination - the country to which the child is sent.
In S7, the service can be issued to children from 5 to 16 years old. It is not available to teenagers aged 17 and 18.

Important! The company provides the service only on direct flights without transfers.

Russia

In the company Russia, the age limits are even tougher. Children from five to 12 years old are accepted. However, at the request of the representatives of the child, the company can provide travel accompanied by children under 16 years of age. Who can apply for transportation?

parents;
guardians;
adoptive parents;
trustees.

Remember! The service is only available on flights numbered SU 6001-6999.

In "Russia" escort is also subject to an additional fee. In this case, a ticket for a child must be issued at 100% payment, without benefits.

Children are accepted on board and can provide a confirmed pre-booked ticket, as well as a receipt for payment of the escort service.

In the Rossiya company, you can check in a child for an escorted flight only at the check-in counter, unlike other air carriers, where the service can be issued at various offices and branches.

Important! The representative of the child accompanying him to the airport building must be there until the actual departure of the aircraft from the airport.

Aeroflot

The company accepts children for transportation with a flight attendant aged 5 to 16. The airline strongly requires, in case of a trip abroad, to clarify the requirements and current legislation in the official representative office of the country. Perhaps there are some restrictions and nuances. For example, providing additional documents.

Aeroflot draws attention to the fact that it cooperates with a number of companies to provide the service. This means that, by agreement, the following airlines can carry children with the current Aeroflot regulations. However, age limits in partner companies may change. This information should be specified on the website. Partners:

"Russia" (flights SU5950-SU6999);
Adria Airways;
Bulgaria Air;
Aurora (flights SU5400 - SU5799);
Air Baltic.

The company's staff undertakes to take responsibility for the registration of the child, being on board, as well as during transfer flights.

For a small passenger, baggage is provided according to the fare plan of the ticket. When accompanied, a ticket is bought as for an adult passenger and 100% is paid. Child discounts do not apply to the service.

How much does the service itself cost? The company has set the following rates:

For flights operated within the cities of the Russian Federation, the fee will be 3,400 rubles;
For international flights, a fee of EUR 40 applies.

Payment in euros is calculated at the current exchange rate of the Central Bank. The company updates the course once a week.

Note! During connecting flights, food and drink can be ordered for the child.

The table shows the prices for additional meals while waiting for the next aircraft:

Discounts do not apply to paying for extra meals while waiting. Payment for international flights is also carried out at the current rate of the Central Bank of Russia.

The person indicated in the application who will meet the child provides an identity document. In this case, it is necessary to have a photograph for verification by the flight attendant of the data.

Unlike other companies in Aeroflot, the child is given not a handbag with an accompanying sheet, but a plastic tablet. It contains the same employee information as other carriers. A tablet with documents is put on the child at the time of registration and is not removed until meeting with a trusted person at the destination.

Due to safety requirements, children are not provided with a seat in a row near the emergency exit.

Accompanying a child to S7 Airlines- a demanded service that "unties the hands" of parents and allows you to send a child to relatives on their own, or rather, under the supervision of the carrier's employees. To receive such a service, it is enough to buy a ticket for the required flight and fulfill the basic requirements of the airline. But more about everything.

Who are unaccompanied children?

According to the rules of S7 Airlines, an unaccompanied child is between 5 and 11 years old. In some cases, this category includes children under 16 years of age (at the separate request of the guardians or parents). The essence of the service is that the parents transfer the child to the carrier at the point of departure, provided that another parent (guardian, guardian) will be waiting for him at the final point.

The service of accompanying a child on S7 aircraft is provided only on scheduled (transit and direct) flights. As for transfer flights, this option is not available for them. This possibility is also "closed" for disabled people under the age of 12 who need separate care.

Features of buying a ticket

Transportation of unaccompanied children in S7 aircraft requires prior purchase of a travel document. So, at the age of 5 to 11 years, registration is carried out according to tariffs, taking into account the child discount and the rules of the carrier. Age is taken into account on the day of departure from the point of departure. If it is from 12 to 16 years old, in this case, the discount for children does not apply.

Features of payment and price of the service

Cost of accompanying a child in S7 aircraft depends on the rate, which can be found in the booking system. Registration is possible through the offices of the airline or with the help of a contact center operator. The price of the S7 support service (for 2017) is:

For flights within the Russian Federation- 3000 r.
For international flights- 50 euros.

In both cases, the cost is written on the basis of a one-way flight.

The option is available only after making the full payment for the transportation, as well as confirming the booking.

What documents are required?

The flight of children unaccompanied by their parents in S7 airlines requires prior documentation. Here you will need:

Air ticket.
Paper (receipt) confirming payment.
A document confirming the identity of the baby.
Application for the use of the service of accompanying a child on an airplane. This document is issued at the representative office of the carrier, at the registration desk or at any of the sales offices. It must be signed by the parents. Also, the application must indicate the age, gender, name of the child, flight number, date and time of departure, information about the accompanying and meeting person. An example of a statement is shown below.

Parental consent issued by a notary. It must be on hand if the child is a citizen of the Russian Federation. The document must indicate the date of departure, as well as the country of arrival.

How is the escort process organized at the airport and on the plane?

The algorithm of actions at the airport of departure is as follows:

Receiving a passenger at the airport and checking documents.
Signature of the responsible officer for the adoption of the child.
Escort from parents to the plane, including the passage of various types of control (border, customs, aviation and others). At the same time, children must independently answer the questions of authorized employees.
Transfer to the responsible officer of the aircraft crew.

Unaccompanied minors on S7 aircraft receive the following services:

Supervision by a designated crew member throughout the flight.
Assistance with accommodation.
Storage of documents.
Provision of food and beverages based on the standard diet.
Assistance in finding a restroom.
Issuance of napkins, a blanket and a hygienic bag.

Upon arrival of the aircraft,:

Transfer of the child to an employee who is appointed by the carrier.
Escort to the arrivals hall, as well as assistance in passing all control zones.
Transfer to the meeting person indicated in the application.

Accompanying a child to S7 - duties of representatives

Representatives also have certain obligations. They must bring the child 1.5 hours before departure (no later), check in for the flight and check in the luggage. The following is an application for support. You must have a ticket and all necessary papers on hand, including a passport, insurance policies, birth certificate, as well as other documents confirming the possibility of entry and exit.

It is allowed to take a small bag with you on board the aircraft, which can contain warm clothes, a phone, documents, toys and medicines (if necessary).

In another city to rest with your grandmother, but your parents are not allowed to leave work? Or does your daughter need to fly to England to go to college? Or maybe the child needs to be urgently sent for treatment to Israel?

No problem! Now most airlines around the world have such a service as the transportation of children unaccompanied by relatives.

For the trip to be successful, you need to know the rules for accompanying children on an airplane.

Who can use the service?

The service "Accompanying a child on an airplane" is necessarily provided to children aged 5-12 years, if desired, it can be ordered for teenagers up to 16-18 years old (depending on the company).

How to get a service?

The service “Accompanying a child on an airplane” is ordered only by parents or guardians.

The service "Accompanying children on the plane" is not offered by all carriers. This must be clarified before buying tickets.

When buying or booking a ticket, you must immediately inform that the child will fly unaccompanied.

It is advisable to choose direct flights, without transfers.

Children are not accepted for transportation if at the transfer point you need to move to another airport.

Service cost

The service "Accompanying a child on an airplane" is provided on a paid basis.

The cost depends on the following points:

Places to buy tickets.
Type of flight (domestic or international).
Flight range.
The age of the minor passenger.

Ticket price for ordered escort service

The ticket price for an unaccompanied child is 100% of the adult fare (no discounts) and must be purchased in advance.

What documents are required?

The exact set of documents depends on what kind of flight it is - domestic or abroad. You may need:

Birth certificate.
International passport.
Ticket.
Consent from both parents for the travel of children under 18 years of age, accompanied by a representative of the airline, indicating the country and dates (signed by a notary).
Insurance policy.
Visa.
A prescription with an extract from the medical history, if the child has medication with him.

At the departure airport

Check-in for unaccompanied children is carried out only at the airport terminal, so it is necessary to arrive in advance.

Children must be accompanied by one of the parents or another “own” adult representative. The accompanying person must have a photo ID to prove their identity.

An adult checks in a child for a flight, fills out special documents: an application and an accompanying sheet.

The application contains all the necessary information (selectively, depending on which flight it is - domestic or international):

Name of the child.
Age.
The language the child speaks.
Country of Residence.
Name, address and telephone number of the representative sending the child.
Route.
Departure day.
Flight number.
Name, address and telephone number of the representative meeting the child.

The accompanying sheet contains information about the representative of the airline and the stewardess - that is, about those who will accompany the child.

When flying unaccompanied children, baggage is accepted in accordance with applicable regulations. A special label should be attached to it, on which contact details are indicated.

It is advisable that the child takes a minimum of things with him to the salon.

Children are given a special bag with documents and the inscription "Unaccompanied child" and it is explained that it must not be lost, you must always have it with you.

Set of documents:

Ticket.
Boarding ticket.
Baggage receipt.
Escort service application.
Accompanying sheet.
Birth certificate.
International passport.

At the airport, parents hand over their children to the representative of the airline indicated on the accompanying sheet. This employee goes through all the checks with each child. Then he escorts him to the plane and passes him from hand to hand to the flight attendant indicated on the accompanying sheet.

Parents must be at the airport until the plane takes off.

During the flight

The child is put on the plane first, before the other passengers board, in a convenient and safe place.

During the entire flight, the children are constantly looked after by flight attendants who undergo special training, where they are taught the rules of communication with children and ways to solve all their problems.

Flight attendants accompany them to the toilet, answer all questions and even entertain them (the airline usually gives each child a play set).

At the airport of arrival

After landing, the child is the last to be taken out of the plane, and the stewardess hands him over to the employee at the destination airport.

If the flight is with a transfer, then a representative of the company accompanies the children to the entrance to the airliner. While the transfer is expected, they will be offered soft drinks, juices, tea (already paid for when ordering escort services).

The child is under the supervision of a representative until the meeting person indicated in the application arrives (he must have a document confirming his identity with him), even if this person is late.

If he never arrived at the airport, then the airline staff will call the parents and do as they say (they will deliver the accompanied child to the specified address or send him home on the next flight). In this case, you will have to pay additional costs.

Accompanying a child. Aeroflot

The service "Accompanying children on the plane" is provided only on own flight.
The service of accompanying a child on an Aeroflot plane is paid: its price is 40 euros one way.
When ordering the service, the ticket price is 100% of the fare, without a discount.
Sheremetyevo Airport at Terminal D has rooms for unaccompanied children, which are open 24 hours a day. Here the child can play on the computer and watch cartoons while waiting to board the flight.
A child who needs special meals due to medical indications or other reasons, you can order it for free when buying a ticket, but no later than one and a half days before the flight.
While the transplant is pending, the children will be offered a refreshing drink, juices, tea (if the transplant time is before 3 hours) and a hot meal (if the transplant is before 6 hours). All this is paid when ordering the escort service, if transfers are provided (respectively, 5 and 20 euros).

What do those who used such a service as escorting children on an Aeroflot plane think? The reviews of people who have used this service are overwhelmingly positive, expressing gratitude to the airline staff for their attentive attitude towards the child.

It is very convenient that a bag (or file) with documents is hung around the neck of children, where each representative of the company notes in the accompanying sheet: from whom he received the child, to whom he handed it over.

It is noted that often an underage traveler from an economy class is even transplanted into a business.

Accompanying a child on an Aeroflot plane is organized in such a way that small passengers feel comfortable. During the entire flight, flight attendants constantly approach the children, asking if they want to drink or go to the toilet, if they are cold, if something hurts. If the child is bored, read a book to him or tell him stories.

The company usually gives gifts to children, such as a tin suitcase containing crayons, stickers, coloring books, etc., which gives the children an opportunity to play an exciting game - and the flight time flies by!

The case that occurred in 2012 is widely known when two brothers nine and five years old flew unaccompanied from Moscow to New York. During the flight, the eldest of them had a severe stomach ache, the temperature rose - there was a suspicion of acute appendicitis. An unforeseen emergency landing was made in Reykjavik. Flight attendant Mikhail accompanied both brothers to the hospital, where the sick boy was carefully examined. Fortunately, everything worked out. The guys, accompanied by Mikhail, arrived in New York, where they were met by a tearful but smiling mother.

Sometimes people write that flight attendants during the entire flight do not pay attention to juvenile travelers, putting their work on the passengers sitting next to them. But there are very few such negative reviews.

Accompanying children on S7 aircraft (Siberia)

According to the agreement with Siberia Airlines OJSC:

You can order an escort service for children 5-12 years old, and, if desired, for teenagers up to 16 years old.
Only parents or guardians can purchase the service and ticket directly at the company's sales office or at the airport ticket office by filling out and signing a commitment statement.
For international transportation, consent from both parents (guardians) for the child's travel (signed by a notary) is required.
The service "Accompanying a child on the plane" is allowed on own direct flights, as well as on flights operated jointly with the Globus company.
Ticket price - 100% of the fare, without discount.
The child is allocated a comfortable and safe seat on the plane.
Baggage is carried free of charge according to the weight norms.

Accompanying children on the plane "Russia"

This airline is one of the subsidiaries of the holding - the Aeroflot group.

The service "Accompanying children on the plane" is performed only on own flight.
It is available to children from five to twelve years old, if desired - and to teenagers up to sixteen years old.
The service of accompanying a child on an airplane is paid. The cost can be found in the office or on the company's website.
When ordering the service, the ticket price is 100% of the fare, without a discount.
When buying and booking a ticket, you must inform that the child is flying alone.
To receive the service, fill out a special application and an application for support.
The accompanying person remains at the terminal until the departure of the airliner.
While the transfer is waiting, the children will be offered a refreshing drink, juices, tea or a hot meal (depending on the length of their stay at the airport). All this is paid when ordering the escort service, if transfers are provided.

Your little one is about to travel by air and you can't keep him company? Do not rush to make changes to the schedule: solve the problem by ordering an escort of the child on the plane. And to save yourself from worries, study the nuances in advance.

What does "unaccompanied minors" mean?

If the baby makes a flight without adult relatives or acquaintances, he falls into the category of unaccompanied. In this case, buy him an economy class ticket (some companies offer business class).

Carriers allow no more than 4 unaccompanied babies on board, because otherwise the crew members will not be able to provide enough attention to the wards. If there are passengers with disabilities on board, the number of babies flying under the supervision of flight attendants is reduced.

What is an escort service on an airplane

Millions of minors around the world travel without adult companions, and in most cases the flights are smooth. You just need to ensure the safety of the baby and make sure that he gets a positive experience. Airlines are moving forward by offering the following:

Whenever possible, small passengers are provided with seats in the bow, where they are less bothered by turbulence.
They are served special meals designed taking into account age characteristics.
Children are among the first passengers on board the aircraft, which makes it possible to get used to the new environment.

But this does not mean that you can simply arrive at the airport and send your son or daughter to boarding. You will need to order an escort so that the child on the plane, unaccompanied by the elder, is under the supervision of the crew members. The carrier is responsible for his well-being: employees will monitor your baby at all stages, from check-in to meeting with an adult relative at the point of arrival.

When you can fly without adults: allowed age

Features of the escort service vary depending on the airline. In general, carriers adhere to the following rules:

Children under the age of 5 can only fly if accompanied by an adult.
Young passengers 5-7 years old are allowed on board provided that the flight is direct.
If the traveler is 8-11 years old, some carriers will allow the transfer option. At the intermediate point, the baby will be accompanied by a representative of the company. When a passenger is 12 years of age or older, they can change seats on their own. Check the conditions in advance, as the service is not always provided on transfer flights.
On some airlines, a 12-year-old passenger may travel unaccompanied.

Find out the details in advance: some foreign companies require the presence of an adult or a pre-ordered service for teenagers under 16-18 years old.

Do I have to pay for a child on an airplane and from what age?

If a child is flying alone, you will purchase a ticket for 100% of the adult fare (sometimes there are discounts). You will also pay extra for escort at the carrier's tariff:

3 400 rub. for flights within the country and 40 € in companies Aeroflot and Russia;
3 000 rub. and 50 € in S7;
3 000 rub. when traveling with a carrier "Victory";
3 000 rub. for flights within the Russian Federation and 50 € on international flights "Ural Airlines".

The cost is for one-way flights, and you need to book a ticket and make payment in advance.

Features of buying a plane ticket: how to order and pay for escort

Before ordering escort, check the conditions with the company, because some carriers do not allow ordering the service remotely. Lufthansa requires you to contact the service center or the airport ticket office; You can also use the services of a travel agency. Some firms allow online booking, but in most cases a personal presence is required.

It is necessary to appear in person so that the carrier is convinced of your right to send a minor by air. To do this, grab your identity documents and birth certificate. At the service center, you fill out an application and an application.

When your son or daughter has to fly on a transfer flight, consider additional services:

if the wait at the airport is less than 3 hours, order soft drinks or tea;
for a period of more than 3 hours, take care of hot meals.

Payment for additional services varies between 400-1700 rubles. depending on the route.

Sample application for accompaniment of a minor on an airplane

Also check the waiting time at the transfer airport as companies impose restrictions on escorts. An employee who has to look after a child cannot spend more than 4-8 hours with him. Children under 16 are not allowed to spend the night at the airport for a subsequent transfer. If such a need arises, make sure that the baby is met by an adult.

The personal presence of the parents ensures that the minor does not make the purchase himself. Without this measure, teens with access to their parents' credit cards purchased tickets online and traveled without the knowledge of their elders.

Medical indications

In the presence of serious illnesses in toddlers or teenagers, traveling by plane without parents is not a good idea. If the child has no contraindications, but he will have medication, give him a prescription and an extract from the medical history. Since crew members are not responsible for taking medication, make sure the child takes the pills on time.

Children in wheelchairs are not allowed on board without an adult companion.

What documents are needed

When going to the airport, prepare the following documents:

air tickets and payment receipt;
completed applications;
compulsory medical insurance policy;
birth certificate;
a document confirming your identity.

If the baby has to fly abroad, you will also need a passport with a visa and a certified permission to leave the Russian Federation.

How is the flight

So that the little traveler does not feel discomfort on the plane, tell him about the stages of the flight. If this is your first time traveling by air, take him to the airport so he can get used to the environment. Show him where he can get advice if needed.

At the departure airport

On the appointed day, the young passenger must arrive at the airport accompanied by an escort. Check-in for a flight of a child who flies without a relative is not carried out via the Internet or using mobile applications. In order for the procedure to go without complications, it is advisable to arrive 2 hours before, even if the baby is traveling within the country. Do not expect to leave him at the airport and go about your business: the person who sees you is obliged to wait for the flight.

Accompanying minors: an airport employee will escort them to the gate

How to order and register? Present the documents listed above at the appropriate counter; after their registration, a small passenger will be given a boarding pass, as well as a special bracelet or badge. It is needed so that crew members immediately recognize a child flying without relatives. Please advise that the bracelet or badge must not be removed until meeting the designated person at the point of arrival. However, some companies do without this accessory.

Babies must be given a handbag or a bag with the inscription "Unaccompanied child", where they put copies of documents. Explain that the thing needs to be carefully monitored.

Before boarding, make sure that the small passenger has used the toilet. Then you will hand over the ward to a company employee who will go through checks with him. After that, the flight attendant will look after the baby.

The escort must make sure that the plane has taken off: the flight can be rescheduled or canceled.

During the flight

When boarding an aircraft, children are the first to board the aircraft, and they take seats in the front rows. Crew members accompany them to the toilet and entertain them as needed. The child also receives baby food.

Do not be afraid that the little ward will be left unattended when he needs support. Accompanying means that the flight attendant will pay special attention to:

personally greet the baby;
introduce the little passenger to the pilots;
escort him to the place, explain the safety rules;
show where the toilets are located.

If possible, do not send babies unaccompanied on long flights. If you're a frequent traveler, you know that even a baby cared for by parents can be a nuisance to others. When flying on your own, the flight attendant monitors the behavior, but she will not be able to spend the entire flight with him. To keep your child from getting bored, put his favorite toys, books, and treats in your hand luggage.

The escort service on the plane includes the provision of a children's menu

The stewardess should not replace the nanny, because her duty is to serve all passengers and take care of safety. If a child is not able to spend several hours in a seat without turning the flight into a nightmare for travelers, he should fly accompanied by his parents.

At the destination

After the plane lands, the stewardess helps the young passenger to get off and passes it to the airport employee. The child remains under his supervision until the arrival of the person indicated when filling out the application. The greeter must present a document to confirm the identity.

If he did not arrive at the airport, company representatives will contact you by phone. According to the instructions received, the young passenger will be sent to the point of departure on the next flight or delivered to a specific address; parents will have to pay additional costs.

Are you about to meet a baby? Consider the rules:

Be constantly in touch.
Do not have someone else pick up your child from the airport. Employees of the company will hand it over only to the person specified in the application.
If there are several airports in the city, check the place of arrival in advance.
Did the child travel with transfers? Take a printout of his itinerary with you.
Planes often arrive before the appointed time. So that the child does not worry, do not come at the last moment.
When you meet a small passenger, notify his parents.

Follow these rules and your escort experience will be positive.

Hand luggage and baggage

Free carriage of hand luggage and luggage on the plane is carried out according to the standard norms for the purchased ticket. It is important that the child is able to independently carry the bag that he will take to the salon. Take a look at its content:

So that the little passenger does not get bored, give books, games without small details, coloring books, pencils, albums with stickers on the road. Prepare a couple of pleasant surprises. If your child will be playing video games on board, make sure the devices are muted. Teenagers who bring gadgets into the salon will need headphones to listen to music.
Radio-controlled toys may be banned: some airlines do not allow them to be brought on board so as not to jeopardize the adequate operation of aircraft systems. You can't bring toy guns with you. Do not forget to explain to the baby that the flight attendant will ask you to turn off electronic devices during takeoff and landing; show how to do it.
Assemble the package, where you put a copy of the route with the indicated flight numbers, dates, airline names, aircraft arrival and departure times. Indicate the phone numbers of parents, as well as meeting people. Make sure your child knows where the bag is and what it is for. The carrier's representatives will give him a similar bag at the airport, but extra precautions won't hurt.
Grab a small snack as flights may be delayed. Don't forget about fluid limits!
Put everything your child will need in case the luggage is delayed or lost. It can be medicines, spare glasses, a change of clothes - take into account the needs of the baby.
In the warm season, give the baby a sweater, because it can be cool in the cabin.
Put wet wipes, motion sickness medication, nasal drops in your hand luggage.

Make sure that the child has a mobile phone where you have entered the required numbers. The baby will also need a small amount of money so that in case of an unplanned delay in departure, he will buy food.

Responsibilities of Representatives

What are airline representatives responsible for when ordering escort on an airplane? From the moment you hand your child over to an employee at the airport, he ensures his safety. Before meeting with the person who should pick up the baby at the point of arrival, the staff closely monitors the ward. At some airports, there are even separate counters for babies traveling without parents.

Sometimes children have entire playrooms at their disposal. If the baby leaves from Frankfurt or Munich, he will be taken to a room with game consoles, drawing supplies, monitors for watching movies.

In the cabin, a flight attendant looks after the baby: she makes sure that the baby does not run along the aisles (he can hurt himself or get injured if the plane gets into a turbulence zone), warms up food, escorts him to the toilet.

Accompaniment on board the aircraft: the stewardess looks after an independent passenger

As for food, the children's menu is provided free of charge. You just need to order it 24 hours before departure.

A child without parents on a transit or transfer aircraft

When ordering the corresponding service, a small passenger can fly on a transfer flight. Not all airlines offer the option, so check the conditions in advance. If the carrier provides such an opportunity, the baby will also be looked after at the transfer airport.

Frequently asked Questions

If your child will be flying alone on an airplane, you probably have a lot of questions. Examine the list of typical situations that put parents in difficulty:

Can I buy a ticket to the premium sector of the aircraft? Yes, if you wish, you will provide the young traveler with an increased level of comfort. Check the conditions with the carrier, because not all companies offer this option.
Are children allowed to take pets on the plane? When traveling unaccompanied by adults, pets are not allowed on the plane.
Is it possible for a parent to come on board with a child, so that he feels calmer? For safety reasons, only passengers flying on this flight are allowed on the aircraft.
The person whose details are given in the application will not meet the baby at the point of arrival. How to specify another person? Contact the airline representative by phone and explain the situation.
Children travel together, the eldest is 15-17, and the youngest is 5-14 years old. Do I need to order a special service? Although most airlines allow children aged 15 and over to fly alone, the younger passenger is considered unaccompanied. After all, he is not accompanied by an adult person. In order not to change plans at the last moment, order the appropriate service in advance.

Consider the nuances, and save yourself and your baby from unpleasant surprises.

Features of escort on airlines

Since the rules of carriers may differ, check the conditions in advance. Study the reviews on the forums, as the information in the advertisement and the impressions of people who have used the escort service often differ.

Aeroflot: what you need to know about escort on the plane

When contacting Aeroflot, consider the following:

An escort order is available on the company's own flights. It is mandatory for passengers aged 5-12 flying without parents. Upon request, you can also order the service for teenagers under 16 years old.
If the baby has a transfer, then when waiting for the flight until 3 hours, he will be offered juices and drinks. For a period of more than 6 hours, hot meals are organized. You can check the prices on the company's website.
At Sheremetyevo, your child will go to the playroom, where they will spend time waiting for the flight.

If you read the reviews, you will find out that not everything is so rosy. Although some of the young air passengers are satisfied with the service, there are enough negative reviews. According to the information on the forums, the flight attendant can put the baby in a chair, ask the neighbors to look after him and not come up until the end of the flight. But the main disadvantage is that the wards are not monitored in the departure hall: the child is offered to sit down, after which the employees do other things.

09/21/2017 Lukyanov Valery, review of Aeroflot

Disappointed with the company's services! My daughter flew on a transfer flight on the route Krasnodar-Moscow-Sheremetyevo-Beirut, and I paid 160 € for additional support at all stages. At Sheremetyevo, they forgot about her, and the girl had to get out herself along with the rest of the passengers, find the terminal and board a new plane. I spent 2 hours on the phone finding out where my daughter was. At that time, no one knew that the girl found the gate, went through all the stages of registration and flew to her destination. Neither my wife nor my daughter saw the promised peace and comfort. The flight, for which I paid a tangible amount, turned into unbearable stress.

S7: consider the features

The age limits for small passengers do not differ from those established by Aeroflot. The service is available on transit or direct flights; on transfers, the baby must be accompanied by an adult. The ticket price is affected by age, because for passengers 5-11 years old a discount is provided.

If you compare the service with the service at Aeroflot, then you will notice a difference in the reviews: in the case of S7, there are more positive ones, and parents note the availability of prices. But it was not without drawbacks, since the kids cannot see hospitality.

20/11/2017 Alina, Moscow, review about the company S7

My 5-year-old son Sasha was about to fly from Moscow to Moldova. The boy is independent, and we decided that there would be no problems.

We went to the notary and issued an exit permit. Then we went to the airport, where I paid for the ticket and escort (in total it turned out to be 12,600 rubles). It was required to indicate your contact details and information about the meeting.

On the day of departure, we arrived 2.5 hours in advance, filled out forms, checked in our luggage and received a boarding pass. The airport staff invited us to the counter for children flying unaccompanied. Sasha was tied around his neck with a tie with the inscription "Independent Passenger", which he really liked. We were also given a paper bag, where we then put the necessary documents.

We walked around the airport together and returned to the counter, where we were met by an employee of the company. The three of us reached the first cordon, I showed the boarding pass. The employee put the documents in a paper bag and said goodbye. I kissed my son, and then it began ...

Firstly, the escort gave the package with the documents to Sasha. Should a 5-year-old boy be responsible for the safety of the passport, notarized consent and boarding pass? But it turned out to be worse that the employee turned around and went, not even looking to see if Sasha was keeping up with her. He held out a pen, but the woman did not take it. She was not interested that a 5-year-old could get distracted and get lost!

Fortunately, everything went well, although I was agitated at the sight of such an attitude. But after 4 hours, my mother from Moldova called me and said that she and Sasha were already on their way home. The son was pleased and proud, but I don’t know if they paid attention to him during the flight. According to the stories, on the road he played with a new friend on his tablet. Although in general I am satisfied with the result, the company should work on the level of service.

"Ural Airlines": features of service in aircraft

Ural Airlines provides services for children 5-12 years old (for international flights - 6-12 years old), but at the request of parents, teenagers under 18 years old are also accompanied. They travel in economy class on a full adult fare.

02/14/2018, Oksana Zolotnitskaya, review of Ural Airlines

I sent my 12-year-old daughter to her grandmother for the holidays by buying a ticket online. This function is not available if a child of 5-11 years old will fly: the personal presence of the parent will be required. Then I confirmed the service, and did not hesitate, so that other children without parents would not have time to check in for the flight. After all, flight attendants cannot keep track of everyone, and the number of such passengers is limited.

We were late for the airport and I was worried. I thought that paperwork for unaccompanied children would take longer. But she was mistaken: the daughter was checked in for the flight and issued a boarding pass, after which she was directed to a special counter. There she came under the care of a company employee; We didn't charge extra for the escort.

Although according to the rules, the daughter must fly in economy class, she was seated in a business lounge. After arrival, they took me to the airport by car and handed it over to my grandmother. We have no complaints about Ural Airlines.

Conclusion

The service of accompanying children will help you out if you need to send your child on vacation to relatives, to a summer camp, to study. It is necessary not only to place an order in advance, confirm it and make a payment, but also study reviews about the company. Remember that promises on websites may differ from reality!