South African Airways Unaccompanied Minor Policy

South African Airways Unaccompanied Minor Policy

South African Airways (SAA) offers a service to ensure the safety and comfort of unaccompanied minors traveling alone.

Here are the key details of the policy:

Eligibility

Age Group: Children aged 5 to 11 years traveling without a parent or guardian are considered unaccompanied minors.

Optional Service: For children aged 12 to 15 years, the unaccompanied minor service is optional, but it can be requested.

Booking Process

Advance Booking: The unaccompanied minor service must be booked in advance through the SAA Reservations office or your travel agent.

Required Information: Parents or guardians must provide detailed information about the child, including the contact details of the person dropping off and picking up the child.

Drop-off and Pick-up

At Departure: The parent or guardian must remain at the airport until the flight has departed.

At Arrival: The designated guardian must present identification and be at the arrival airport at the specified time to pick up the child.

During the Flight

Special Assistance: SAA cabin crew will provide special assistance to ensure the child’s safety and comfort during the flight.

Seating: Unaccompanied minors are typically seated near the front of the aircraft for easier access by the crew.

Required Documents

Travel Documents: The child must have all necessary travel documents, including a passport, visa (if applicable), and any health-related documents.

Unaccompanied Minor Form: This form must be completed and signed by the parent or guardian.

Fees

Service Fee: An additional fee is charged for the unaccompanied minor service, which varies based on the route.

Additional Information

Connecting Flights: The unaccompanied minor service is not available for itineraries involving overnight connections or long layovers without a guardian.

Restricted Flights: Certain flights or routes may have restrictions or may not accept unaccompanied minors, so it is essential to check with SAA when booking.

It's essential for parents or guardians to familiarize themselves with the specific requirements and procedures of South African Airways's Unaccompanied Minor service. They can find detailed information on South African Airways's official website or by contacting South African Airways's customer service team directly. It's recommended to review the airline's policy well in advance of the child's travel date to ensure compliance with all necessary arrangements and documentation.