When a young traveler embarks on a solo flight or finds themselves in a separate cabin from their parents or guardians, it can raise certain concerns, especially for the elderly. To address these concerns, Emirates Airlines, the national carrier of the UAE, has implemented a dedicated policy for unaccompanied minors.
The primary aim of this policy is to offer comprehensive assistance to minors, starting from their arrival at the airport and continuing until they safely reach their final destination.
Age Groups Covered for Unaccompanied Minors by Emirates
Emirates Airlines’ Unaccompanied Minor Policy caters to a diverse range of age groups among children, with specific rules and regulations that may vary based on a child’s age. For minors aged between 5 and 18 years, this policy can be utilized by following the prescribed guidelines.
The significance of location within a child’s journey is also taken into account, and specific requirements regarding forms, letters, or documents to be carried are determined in alignment with Emirates’ unaccompanied minor age categories.
It’s important to note that Emirates Airlines defines these age groups in accordance with specific location-based terms and regulations, such as those in Italy, Vietnam, Spain, France, and other relevant jurisdictions.
Emirates Airlines’ Guidelines for Unaccompanied Minor Travel
Emirates Airlines’ Unaccompanied Minors Policy encompasses a comprehensive set of terms tailored to accommodate travelers across various age groups and circumstances. These terms are designed to address both typical and extraordinary scenarios when young passengers are flying solo.
This policy extends its services to children falling within the age bracket of 5 to 11 years, affectionately referred to as YP or Young Passengers. It is applicable to children in two primary scenarios:
1. When they are traveling independently.
2. When they are seated in a cabin separate from their parents, guardians, or custodians.
3. When accompanied by another traveler not exceeding 16 years of age.
In certain situations, children aged 12 to 16 years can also utilize Emirates Airlines’ Unaccompanied Minors service, provided a formal request has been submitted. Throughout the entirety of their journey, these minors will be accompanied by an airline representative, ensuring their safety and well-being.
Emirates Airlines’ Unaccompanied Minors Policy for International Flights
Based in Dubai, Emirates Airlines extends its assistance to children traveling on both domestic and international routes. For international journeys, the airline offers its Unaccompanied Minors Policy, which comes with specific and stringent guidelines.
For countries like Canada, Spain, Vietnam, Italy, and France, Emirates has outlined a set of required documents. Parents or guardians of minor travelers are responsible for ensuring that all necessary documents are reviewed and provided as needed.
The formulation of Emirates’ Unaccompanied Minors Policy is largely influenced by the regulations and requirements of specific destinations. Beyond the aforementioned countries, if a Young Passenger (YP) is traveling to any other international location outside their home country, they should reach out to the airline.
It is crucial to inquire about and be prepared to present any documents related to the destination country as requested by Emirates during the travel process.
Emirates Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy - How Does it Work?
Emirates Airlines has meticulously structured its policy into four distinct segments to facilitate the smooth travel of Young Passengers (YP) flying alone. By familiarizing themselves with these components, parents and guardians can gain a comprehensive understanding of how this feature operates and confidently utilize the policy.
Let’s delve into these four segments:
1. Airport Connection: Young travelers are required to visit the unaccompanied minors’ check-in counter. Here, an Emirates representative will establish contact and guide them through the security and check-in procedures.
2. Priority Boarding: Emirates Airlines ensures that unaccompanied minors receive priority boarding. Throughout this boarding process, the dedicated representative will continue to provide assistance and support.
3. In-Flight Support: The minor will receive continuous assistance and the necessary provisions throughout the entire duration of the flight.
4. Destination Handover: In line with the policy’s protocol, upon reaching the destination airport, the designated representative will escort the child to their parent or guardian. Only after this step is completed can the fourth phase be considered fulfilled.
How to Book Unaccompanied Minor Flights with Emirates?
To reserve Emirates’ unaccompanied minor services, you have the choice of three interactive booking options. Whichever option you choose, you will always have an Emirates official assisting you throughout the process.
This ensures a reduced likelihood of errors during the booking, guaranteeing a comfortable journey for your child with the airline.
1st Method: Making Booking Through Phone Call
Emirates Airlines offers various contact numbers based on your location. You can use one of these numbers to reach a team member and submit your request for the “Unaccompanied Minors” service for your child.
Please be aware that calling hours may differ depending on the location. It’s essential to verify the active hours and days for the specific phone number you intend to use.
Keep in mind that the request for booking the Emirates Unaccompanied Minor service should be made at least 12 hours before the scheduled departure of the flight.
| Country | Phone Number | Availability (From a.m. to p.m.) |
| New Zealand | +64508364728 | 11:15 to 18:45 |
| United Kingdom | +443448002777 | 09:00 to 22:00 |
| United States | +18007773999 | 06:55 to 21:25 |
| India | +919167003333 | 09:30 to 18:00 |
| United Arab Emirates | +971600555555 | 08:30 to 18:00 |
2nd Method: Via Regional Office of Emirates Airlines
When sending your child alone for the first time through this airline, it’s advisable to seek in-person assistance. To do so, consider visiting a local branch of the UAE’s national airline.
At this office, you can access Emirates’ Unaccompanied Minor booking service and have an official explain the key terms of the policy to ensure your full understanding.
Alternatively, on the airline’s website, navigate to the “Help” section and click on “Help and Contact.” This will redirect you to another page on the airline’s website. Continue scrolling until you locate the “Contact us Worldwide” panel and click on “Find out More.”
On the following page, you’ll find a location dropdown menu. Select your location, and you will receive details of the local or regional Emirates office, including their business hours.
3rd Method: With Leo featuring Live Chat
To make a reservation utilizing Emirates Airlines’ Unaccompanied Minor Policy, you can take advantage of the live chat option, which connects you to Leo, the airline’s chatbot. This user-friendly feature operates by simply providing basic information such as your name.
Utilize this method to connect with a live representative who will provide comprehensive guidance on booking the unaccompanied minor service for your child aged between 5 to 18 years:
1. Visit the official Emirates website.
2. Navigate to the “Help” section and select “Help and Contact.”
3. Look for the chat box labeled “Ask Emirates.”
4. Click the upward arrow icon to expand the chat.
5. Enter the following details one by one:
– “First Name”
– “Last Name”
– “Email (Only to Send a Copy of this Chat)”
6. Choose the “Start Chat” option.
7. Inform the chatbot, “Leo,” that you are an Emirates customer.
8. You will be presented with multiple options; select the one that connects you to a live representative.
9. Inquire with the representative about the process for booking an unaccompanied minor flight on Emirates Airlines.
10. Follow the instructions provided during the call to complete the booking for your young traveler.
Where to Download Emirates Unaccompanied Minor Form & What Other Documents Are Needed?
In general, it is essential to submit the Declaration of Indemnity form when utilizing Emirates Airlines’ Unaccompanied Minor service. This form, available for download, must be completed accurately and submitted by a parent or guardian. Moreover, the same responsible adult should be present at the departure airport until the flight takes off.
Similarly, the presence of an authorized adult is mandatory at the arrival airport, and they must carry valid identification. Once their identity is verified, the child will be handed over.
When submitting these documents, ensure that all details are up-to-date, especially contact information and addresses. This information may be required in case of Emirates delayed flights, extended waiting periods, or cancellations.
Specific to various countries, Emirates has outlined the following requirements:
For Italian Minors:
– If the minor is 13 years old or younger, an authorization letter from a local police official is necessary, and an airport official’s authorization may not suffice.
– If the minor resides abroad, the letter must come from the Italian Consulate/Embassy.
For Young Flyers to/from Vietnam:
– Minors below or up to 14 years of age can travel with a parent or guardian.
– If not traveling with a parent or guardian, the minor will need a permission letter from a custodian to enter Vietnam.
– A Vietnamese Young Passenger (YP) may not require this document when traveling to Vietnam, but it becomes mandatory for onward journeys. Authorization from the HCM Department of Justice/local police is required.
For Spanish Minors:
– When departing from Spain, a passport is necessary.
– A travel permit with the parent/guardian’s signature is essential.
– All Emirates Airlines unaccompanied minors under 18 years old must comply with these requirements.
– Foreign YPs in Spain can travel with a passport.
For French Young Passengers:
– When departing from France, an authorization document is vital.
– A passport is essential.
– A signed copy of the guardian/parent’s ID proof must be submitted to Emirates Airlines.
Exclusive to Young Passengers Bound for Canada:
– Emirates’ Unaccompanied Minor service is available exclusively for Toronto-bound flights.
– Young Passengers must carry a consent letter from a legal guardian, explicitly stating consent for the trip to Canada. The letter should include destination details, contact information for the responsible adult, and the duration of the stay.
It’s important to note that Emirates Airlines’ Unaccompanied Minor service is applicable only to flights operated by Emirates. If your child has a connecting flight with another airline, additional terms and requirements may apply.
In line with the above information, if you opt for a different flight for your child, be sure to inquire about the specific documents required for the new destination. Emirates’ requirements may also evolve when you change your child’s Emirates flight.
Problems with Emirates Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy?
The Emirates Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy is designed to provide valuable assistance to Young Passengers (YP) in numerous scenarios. However, it is important to be aware of its limitations, as this service may not always be available.
Parents should be cognizant of situations in which this service may not be offered so they can make informed decisions regarding its use.
1. Connecting or Transit Flights: For a child traveling alone, the time between connecting flights should not exceed 4 hours. If it does, unaccompanied minor service may not be available. In the case of flights directed to Dubai, the minimum connecting time should be 8 hours.
2. Overnight Stays: In accordance with the Emirates Unaccompanied Minor Service, overnight stays are not permitted when a minor is flying solo.
3. Airport Transfers: This policy may not apply if a child needs to commute between two different airports to catch a connecting flight.
4. Special Assistance: If a child requires special assistance during an Emirates flight, they must be accompanied by a guardian who is at least 18 years old.
Understanding these limitations is crucial for parents or guardians when considering the Emirates Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Service for their young travelers.
Charges Applicable For Minors on Emirates Flight
Emirates Airlines determines the charges for young solo travelers based on two distinct age groups. These charges can either be included in the ticket prices or paid separately, depending on the specific terms associated with them.
For Children Aged 5-11 Years:
1. Unaccompanied children in this age group have the option to purchase adult flight tickets.
2. In cases where they are traveling with their guardians or parents but are seated in separate cabins, they will need to purchase adult tickets.
For Children Aged 12-15 Years:
1. Children who are 12 years old can purchase adult tickets.
2. Beyond the age of 12, a fee of USD 50 applies for unaccompanied minors, and this fee is applicable to each leg of the flight journey.
Exemptions from Emirates Unaccompanied Minor Charges
On some flights, the cost of airfare for minors, especially those with connecting flights, can be relatively expensive, potentially exceeding standard minor charges. In certain cases, a child may opt to book a journey on an adult ticket, which could prompt individuals to seek waivers as a means to alleviate high expenses.
As of the current policy, Emirates Airlines may not offer waivers for unaccompanied minor charges. However, there are opportunities to reduce these costs by making early reservations or taking advantage of discounted fare options.
Nonetheless, to confirm the availability of fee waivers, it is advisable to reach out to the airline during the ticket booking process.
The Bottom Line
Emirates Airlines upholds its commitment to providing assistance to all passengers, including minors. The airline maintains the integrity of this core value, ensuring that every child receives proper attention and care throughout their journey with the Emirates Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy.
This policy guarantees that no child is left unattended, and it encompasses a range of services, including timely meals and comfort provisions, to ensure that Young Passengers (YP) experience a smooth and hassle-free journey.