Traveling with minors is usually cumbersome, considering additional compliance issues with airline policies and proper documentation. Avianca Airlines introduced minor traveler policies to improve safety and facilitation in the boarding process. Depending on whether you will commence on a domestic or international flight, being informed about the new regulations will help you avoid inconvenient situations during your journey.

In this blog, we include updated Avianca Airlines policies for unaccompanied minors and the complete guide about required documentation for minors. For a hassle-free booking experience, contact Affluence Travels. Our travel experts will assist you in securing the best flight options for your child and ensure all requirements are met.

On May 15, 2024, Avianca Airlines introduced new travel requirements for minors. New requirements were created for safety and the proper supervision of your young travelers. Here is what you need to know-

Accompanying Minors below the Age of 14 Years

On both domestic and international flights, passengers under 14 must be escorted by their parents or any responsible adult above 18. This ensures that all appropriate security and support matters are addressed for such young travelers. In any case, a minor who fails to meet this condition will be declined boarding.

A person who purchased their ticket before the policy takes effect on May 15, 2024, shall be exempted if their child is between 12 and 14 years old. This minor can travel alone but will have to visit the airport counter for the issuance of a boarding pass. This is transitional and has been accommodated by passengers booking their tickets before the policy change announcement.

Minor Traveler Documentation and Authorization

Understanding the documentation required for minors to travel easily is paramount. Most requirements vary by age, flight type, or whether the minors travel accompanied or unaccompanied. The following shall give you an idea about what you need to have prepared-

Domestic Flights in Colombia and Ecuador

• For Minors Aged 0 to 7 Years: Original document of the civil registry or birth certificate. No photocopies, mobile device photos, or loss reports are allowed. This is one way to ensure the identification of the child.
• For Those Between 8 and 17 Years Old: Identification card. This allows the minor to be identified upon boarding.

Eligibility of the Accompany

• Traveling with an Adult: For regulatory and safety reasons, passengers under 14 must travel accompanied by their parents or a responsible adult older than 18. This will apply to all domestic and international flights to ensure the due care of a minor.
• Traveling Without Parents: When a minor is traveling without his or her parents, a photocopy of ID from parents or legal guardians is required. In case one of the parents is deceased, a photocopy of the death certificate or civil registry may also be required to verify the parent's status.

International Flights

• Passport: All minors between 0 and 17 years old must possess a valid passport to depart their country. This is necessary for international travel, and identification and documentation of the minor can be effectively carried out at immigration checkpoints.
• Civil Registry or Birth Certificate: Presentation of a photocopy of the civil registry or birth certificate. It is impossible to accept photocopies, photographs of mobile devices, or reports of loss. It accredits the identity and age of the minor.
• Authorization or Exit Permit: If a minor travels unaccompanied by one or both parents, an exit permit authenticated by the parent or guardian is required. The format and procedure of the permit may depend on the country in question. It would be prudent to check both the requirements in the country of departure and that of the destination.
• Extra Copy: An extra authenticated copy of the exit permit is handy if immigration requires it at connecting or destination airports.

4 Tips for Traveling Minors

1. Always check the travel requirements and necessary documents before your trip from the concerned immigration in your country of departure and destination country to avoid any issues at the last minute.
2. Avianca Airlines does not have an exclusive unaccompanied minor service. Therefore, if the minor does not meet the requirements in age to travel alone, a refund will be requested in those cases where the fare conditions permit. Knowing all these policies in advance can help avoid surprises at the airport.
3. If a flight connection is in the course of your journey and involves changing airlines, note that the unaccompanied minor policies of each airline will take effect. Be sure to find out what each airline requires of you on your journey.
4. Make sure all documents are ready to hand and accessible throughout your trip. The minor needs a passport, civil registry or birth certificate, and any permit or authorization that may be required. Any travel that includes a minor involves a lot of preparation and is subject to special policies for a smooth, secure trip. In the light of new policies proposed by Avianca Airlines, it is preferable that a traveling adult be present with a minor aged 14 years or younger, with requirements in proper documentation both domestically and internationally. Follow these steps and prepare the necessary documents for your child's flight to be hassle-free.

Also, Read Frequently Asked Questions About Avianca Airlines Flights

For further information or assistance with booking an unaccompanied minor flight, Avianca Airlines customer service is available. However, Affluence Travels is your go-to resource for personalized service that takes the stress out of the booking process. Call us for expert guidance and to ensure your child's travel arrangements are handled carefully. Safe flights with Avianca Airlines!