Avianca Airlines UMNR Policy and Procedures for Minor Travelers

Traveling with minors is usually a very cumbersome process, putting into consideration additional compliance issues with airline policies and proper documentation. Avianca Airlines introduced changes in its minor traveller policies to the betterment of safety and facilitation in the boarding process. Depending on whether you are going to commence on a domestic or international flight, being informed about the new regulations will get you out of inconvenient situations in your journey. 

In this blog, we include updated policies put in place by Avianca Airlines for unaccompanied minors and the complete guide about required documentation for minors. For a hassle-free booking experience, contact Affluence Travels at +1-888-829-1141. 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 below the age of 14 years have to be escorted by their parents or any responsible adult above 18 years. This is made so that all appropriate security and support matters are paid ample attention to for such young travelers. In any case where a minor fails to meet this condition, they would be declined the boarding facility.

A person who purchased their ticket before the policy takes effect, on May 15, 2024, shall be exempted if his or her child is between 12 to 14 years. 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 announcement of the policy change.

Minor Traveler Documentation and Authorization

Understanding the documentation that will be required for minors to travel easily is paramount. Most of the requirements do vary by age, flight type, or whether the minors are traveling accompanied or as unaccompanied minors. 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 identification of the child.

For Those Between 8 and 17 Years Old-  Identification card. This allows for the identification of the minor upon boarding.

Eligibility of the Accompany

Traveling with an Adult- For regulatory and safety reasons, passengers below 14 years must travel accompanied by their parents or a responsible adult older than 18 years. This will apply to all domestic and international flights for ensuring the due care of a minor.

Traveling Without Parents- A photocopy of ID from parents or legal guardians is required when the minor is traveling without his or her parents. A photocopy of the death certificate or civil registry may also be required, in case of one of the parents being deceased to verify the parent's status.

International Flights

Passport-  All minors beginning from 0 to 17 years old must be in possession of a valid passport to depart their country. This will be necessary for the purpose of 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 not possible 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, an exit permit authenticated by the parent or the guardian is required. The format and procedure of the permit may be dependent 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- Carrying an extra authenticated copy of the exit permit is quite handy in case immigration requires it at connecting or destination airports.

4 Tips for Traveling Minors

1- Always check the travel requirements and necessary documents required 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 there be a traveling adult present with a minor aged 14 years or younger, with requirements in proper documentation both domestically and internationally. Follow these steps and prepare your necessary documents for your child's flight to be as hassle-free as possible. 

For further information or assistance with booking an unaccompanied minor flight, Avianca Airlines' customer service is available to help. However, Affluence Travels is your go-to resource for personalized service that takes the stress out of the booking process. Call us at +1-888-829-1141 for expert guidance and to ensure your child's travel arrangements are handled carefully. Safe flights with Avianca Airlines!