Traveling alone can be an exciting adventure for children, but it can also be a source of anxiety for parents. Lufthansa Airlines understands these concerns and offers a dedicated service for unaccompanied minors to ensure their safety and comfort throughout the journey. This guide will provide an in-depth look at the Lufthansa Unaccompanied Minor Policy, detailing the process, steps, timing, and other important considerations for parents and guardians.

Understanding Lufthansa Unaccompanied Minor Policy

Lufthansa's Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service is designed to assist children traveling alone. This service ensures that minors are supervised and cared for from the departure airport to their final destination. Here’s what you need to know:

Eligibility and Age Restrictions

1. Age Groups:

• Children aged 5 to 11: Mandatory to use the Lufthansa Unaccompanied Minor service if traveling alone.

• Children aged 12 to 17: Optional UM service is available upon request. Parents can choose whether their child needs the additional supervision.

2. Booking: Reservations for unaccompanied minors must be made through Lufthansa's customer service or a travel agent. This service cannot be booked online to ensure all necessary arrangements are properly handled.

Steps to Arrange Unaccompanied Minor Travel

Step 1: Make a Reservation

When booking a flight for an unaccompanied minor, you must contact Lufthansa directly. Provide detailed information about the child, including age, any special needs, and contact information for guardians at both departure and arrival points.

Step 2: Complete Required Documentation

Parents or guardians need to fill out the Unaccompanied Minor form, which includes essential details about the child’s travel itinerary, emergency contacts, and authorization for the child to travel alone. This form is crucial for ensuring the airline has all necessary information to care for the minor during the journey.

Step 3: Prepare for the Journey

Ensure your child has all required travel documents, including a valid passport, visa (if necessary), and any health certificates. It’s also important to pack a carry-on bag with snacks, entertainment, and any personal items the child may need during the flight.

At the Airport

Check-In Process

1. Arrival: Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure to allow ample time for the check-in process. Lufthansa recommends earlier arrival for international flights.

2. Check-In Desk: Proceed to the Lufthansa check-in desk. Here, you will complete the check-in process and hand over the completed Unaccompanied Minor form. The airline staff will verify all documents and provide a special UM pouch that the child will wear around their neck, containing their travel documents and boarding pass.

3. Security and Boarding: An airline representative will escort the child through security and to the boarding gate. Parents or guardians are usually allowed to accompany their child to the gate, depending on airport regulations.

During the Flight

1. In-Flight Care: Once on board, flight attendants will take special care of the unaccompanied minor, ensuring they are comfortable and have everything they need. They will check on the child periodically throughout the flight.

2. Entertainment and Meals: Lufthansa provides a variety of in-flight entertainment options suitable for children, as well as special meals if requested during booking.

Arrival and Pick-Up

1. Escort to Arrival Area: Upon arrival, an airline representative will escort the unaccompanied minor through immigration and customs, if applicable, and to the designated pick-up area.

2. Handover to Guardian: The person designated to pick up the child must present valid identification and sign a release form to confirm they have taken custody of the minor.

Additional Considerations

Connecting Flights

If the journey includes connecting flights, Lufthansa ensures that the child is supervised during the transfer between flights. This includes escorting the child to the connecting gate and ensuring they board the correct flight.

Emergency Situations

In the event of flight delays or cancellations, Lufthansa takes special measures to ensure the safety and comfort of unaccompanied minors. Parents or guardians will be notified immediately, and alternative arrangements will be made to complete the child's journey as safely and comfortably as possible.

Cost of Service

The Lufthansa Unaccompanied Minor service incurs an additional fee, which varies based on the route and whether the flight is domestic or international. This fee covers the extra care and supervision provided to ensure the child’s safety.

Conclusion

The Lufthansa Unaccompanied Minor Policy is designed to provide peace of mind for parents and a safe, comfortable travel experience for children travelling alone. By following the outlined steps and preparing in advance, you can ensure that your child’s journey is smooth and stress-free. From making a reservation to the final pick-up at the destination, Lufthansa’s dedicated staff will be there every step of the way to care for your young traveller.