Prior to Departure
Firstly notify Qantas Telephone Sales that your child is to travel as an Unaccompanied Minor. Let us know of any allergies or special requirements your child might have. Travel documentation and visa requirements should also be checked.
The following rules apply when travelling on our services. Please note: International rules apply when international and domestic flights are combined.
| International Travel | ||
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Under 6 years
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On most flights, children under 6 must be accompanied by a person 15 years or over who is an immediate family member or who has written permission from the child's parent/guardian.
Exception: On Qantas International services a child of 5 years or more can travel unaccompanied provided the child's flying time (not including ground time) does not exceed 6 hours. |
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| 6 to 11 years (inclusive) | Simply complete the Qantas 'Unaccompanied Minor' forms in the red 'Unacompanied Minor' wallet. | |
| 12 to 15 years (inclusive) | Children can travel as Unaccompanied Minors only at the request of their parent or guardian. If no request is made, there will be no special arrangements. However, Qantas staff are, of course, readily available to assist your child. | |
| Domestic Travel | ||
| Under 5 years | Children under 5 must be accompanied by a person 15 years or over who is an immediate family member or who has written permission from the child's parent/guardian. | |
| 5 to 11 years (inclusive) | Simply complete the Qantas "Unaccompanied Minor' form in the red 'Unacompanied Minor' wallet. | |
| 12 to 15 years (inclusive) | Children aged between 12 and 15 years can travel as Unaccompanied Minors only at the request of their parent or guardian. If no request is made, there will be no special arrangements. However, Qantas staff are, of course, readily available to assist your child. | |
Baggage Allowance
Children travelling alone are entitled to the full adult baggage allowance for the class of fare in which they are travelling if they are paying at least 50% of the adult fare.
Special Notes
Encourage your child to take a favourite small toy or doll on the flight, and charge them with the responsibility of looking after it throughout the journey. This will help your child feel more secure and 'at home'.
Travel Documents
On international flights, a child travelling alone must have their own passport and visas. A parent's passport in which they are listed cannot be used. Some countries also have specific limitations regarding the expiry date and other features of a passport.
Duty Free Shopping
It is best to get any duty free shopping out of the way prior to arriving at the airport, not only because time and pre-boarding procedures may preclude airport shopping, but also to keep the experience of travelling as unhurried and uncomplicated as possible for your child. Your child may not be entitled to any dutyfree allowance because of their age.
At the Airport
When you arrive at the airport on the day of travel, make sure all the details on the Unaccompanied Minor wallet have been completed and identify your child to the check in agent as an Unaccompanied Minor.
International Travel
The check in agent will advise you at what time you should meet a Qantas ground staff representative, who will escort your child through customs and immigration to their departure gate.
Domestic Travel
The check in agent will advise you at what time you should meet a Qantas Cabin Crew member at your child's departure gate.
In the Air
The cabin crew will be notified before the flight of your child's name, age and any special requirements they might have. They will regularly check that your child is comfortable and entertained throughout the flight.
Games and activity books for children of all ages are available, as well as inflight movies on our longer flights (modified for airline use) and audio channels - including one specifically for children. A wide selection of soft drinks and juices are served to children. Assorted sweets and portions of Vegemite are usually available.
On Arrival
International Travel
On arrival at the final destination, your child will again be met at the aircraft by Qantas ground staff, who will assist with arrival procedures before leaving your child in the care of the person nominated by you to meet them and who must carry proof of identification.
Domestic Travel
On arrival a Qantas cabin crew member will hand your child over to the person nominated by you to meet them. This person must provide proof of identification before your child is handed over to them.
Transit
At transit stops your child will at all times remain in the care of either cabin crew or ground staff.
Onward/Return Flights
Remember to let Qantas know if your child needs to change their travel plans at any time before or during their trip as restrictions do apply to some tickets. It is important to check that any request for travel as an Unaccompanied Minor or escort provision is transferred to the new flight.
Make your Child Aware
While we will do our best to ensure that your child's experience of travelling is an enjoyable one, there are a few extra things you can do to make it just that bit easier.
Make sure your child knows who is to meet them upon arrival at the final destination. Explain to your child how important their passport and tickets are, and ensure that they can recognise both.
