What Are the Rules for Spirit Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Travel?

Book cheap flights for unaccompanied minors now! Whether your child is flying solo for the first time or prefers to fly solo frequently, and you are a bit nervous, Spirit Airlines offers a transparent and caring process to ensure that the little traveler is well cared for from takeoff to landing. It will help both of you if you understand the rules that Spirit has established for Unaccompanied Minor (UM) travel. Here we have explained Spirit Airlines unaccompanied minor policy in a parent-friendly language.

Who Qualifies as an Unaccompanied Minor on Spirit?

• Ages 10-14: Children in this age group can fill out a form and fly as a Spirit unaccompanied minor.

• Under 10 years old: Absolutely no exceptions for an unaccompanied journey. They must be accompanied by anyone 15 or older who agrees to take responsibility for the child.

• When 15 and above: Can travel independently and need no UM service; although, if the guardians request one, the standard UM fee shall be charged.

What Flights Are Eligible?

An Unaccompanied minor on flight is only permitted to fly on non-stop flights and to domestic destinations. International travel by unaccompanied minors is not allowed, but they may still take domestic flights, including those to Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

What Does It Cost?

Currently, the Spirit unaccompanied minor fee is $150 each way if a child under 15 is traveling alone. The fee would cover the cost of accompanying the child on the aircraft, including complimentary snacks and drinks.

Required Documents

To verify age and ensure safety, Spirit may request:

• Birth Certificate

• Passport

• Government-issued photo ID

• TSA also requires a REAL ID identification for the adult escorting the child through security.

Before the Flight: Booking & Check-In

When booking the flight, ensure that the box for 'Unaccompanied Minor' is ticked.

At the Airport

• Arrive at the airport at least sixty minutes before the departure time of the aircraft.

• At the ticket counter, the parent or guardian will fill out the Unaccompanied Minor Form.

• This form is placed in a lanyard, which the child must wear throughout the journey.

• Provide full contact details of both the drop-off and pick-up adults (with government-issued photo ID for both).

• Request a gate pass to accompany your youngster to the gate and stay there until 15 minutes after takeoff.

Boarding and In-Flight Experience

When at the gate:

• The parents must introduce their child to the Spirit Gate Agent as a minor.

• Spirit staff will pre-board your child and introduce them to the Flight Attendant.

• If you arrive late, they may board your child last to ensure they are personally introduced to the flight attendant.

During the flight:

• An unaccompanied minor on Spirit Airlines will be offered a snack and drink.

• Flight Attendants will keep an eye on them, but remind your child to:

  1. Keep their lanyard on.

  2. If they are uncomfortable, ask for assistance.

  3. Remain seated and follow the crew's directions.

After the Flight: Pick-Up Procedure

The adult who is responsible for picking up must arrive early and obtain a gate pass by presenting a valid photo ID. According to the Spirit Airline minor policy, a representative will assist your child and will only hand over your child to the person listed on the form as the designated pick-up person.

Conclusion

Spirit Airlines' Unaccompanied Minor Program is designed to help any young traveler fly safely and positively. If the issued guidelines are followed and all necessary arrangements are made, your child may enjoy the pleasant experience of traveling independently. The booking assistance is readily available. Just click on the “Let’s Chat” option on the Spirit site to talk to an agent.

Safe travels to your little flyer!