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Air travel can be both exciting and nerve-wracking—especially when a child is flying solo. Whether it’s a trip to visit family, return from school holidays, or travel for a special occasion, Virgin Atlantic is here to make the experience safe, smooth, and stress-free for both kids and parents. Through its dedicated Virgin Atlantic Special Assistance services, the airline ensures unaccompanied minors are well cared for every step of the way.

If you’re preparing for your child to fly alone, here’s everything you need to know about Virgin Atlantic’s support for unaccompanied minors, from check-in to arrival.

What Is an Unaccompanied Minor?

An unaccompanied minor (UM) is a child who is traveling alone without a parent, guardian, or responsible adult over the age of 16. While the idea of solo travel might seem daunting, Virgin Atlantic Special Assistance offers a dedicated Unaccompanied Minors service to ensure your child is safe, supervised, and supported from the moment they arrive at the airport until they are handed over to an approved adult at their destination.

Virgin Atlantic's Unaccompanied Minor Policy

Virgin Atlantic’s Unaccompanied Minor service is available for children between:

• 5 and 11 years old – Required to use the Unaccompanied Minor service.

• 12 to 17 years old – May travel independently, but parents can request additional support if needed through Virgin Atlantic Special Assistance.

What’s Included in the Service?

When you book the Unaccompanied Minor service, your child receives personalized, one-on-one attention from trained staff throughout the journey:

🛫 At the Departure Airport

• Dedicated check-in counter for quick and easy processing

• Assistance with baggage check-in and security procedures

• Pre-boarding to help the child settle comfortably on the plane

• A caring member of staff stays with your child until they are safely onboard

✈️ During the Flight

• Virgin Atlantic’s cabin crew provides extra supervision

• In-flight meals tailored to your child’s preferences or dietary needs

• Entertainment system with kid-friendly movies, games, and shows

• Frequent check-ins by staff to ensure your child is happy and comfortable

🧳 Upon Arrival

• Your child is personally escorted off the plane

• Handed over only to the pre-approved guardian listed on the documentation

• Assistance with collecting baggage and passing through immigration/customs

• Real-time communication with parents/guardians for peace of mind

Virgin Atlantic Special Assistance for Older Children

For children aged 12–17, the Unaccompanied Minor service isn’t mandatory, but parents can still request additional Virgin Atlantic Special Assistance if their child:

• Has special needs or requires extra supervision

• Is nervous about flying alone

• Has a medical condition that requires monitoring

• Is new to international travel

This additional support can include early boarding, check-in assistance, and extra attention during the flight.

How to Book the Unaccompanied Minor Service

Booking is simple and should be done well in advance:

1. Call Virgin Atlantic Customer Support to reserve the Unaccompanied Minor service (it cannot be booked online).

2. Provide the required documentation, including:

   • Child’s passport and visa (if applicable)

   • Details of the adult dropping off and picking up the child

   • Contact information for emergencies

3. Complete and sign the Unaccompanied Minor Form (UM Form), which must travel with the child.

It’s recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2.5 to 3 hours before departure to allow plenty of time for check-in and goodbyes.

Travel Tips for Parents

• Pack a small bag with snacks, books, games, or a comfort item

• Label everything clearly, including the child’s bag and clothing

• Provide a written note with important info (e.g., allergies, meds, emergency contacts)

• Keep a copy of the travel documents and UM Form for yourself

• Remind your child that the airline staff are there to help

Why Choose Virgin Atlantic Special Assistance for Unaccompanied Minors?

Virgin Atlantic has earned a reputation for compassionate, professional care—and the same level of service extends to their youngest travelers. With the Virgin Atlantic Special Assistance team, you can rest easy knowing your child is:

• Supervised by trained, background-checked staff

• Comforted and supported throughout the flight

• Kept safe until reunited with a trusted adult

This service isn’t just about logistics—it’s about ensuring that your child feels confident and cared for while flying alone.

Final Thoughts

Sending your child on a solo flight can feel like a big step—but with the help of Virgin Atlantic Special Assistance, it doesn’t have to be stressful. From check-in to landing, your child will be in good hands, with a team committed to safety, communication, and a positive travel experience.

Whether it's their first solo flight or one of many, Virgin Atlantic makes sure every unaccompanied minor feels like a VIP.

Need help arranging an unaccompanied minor flight? I can assist with booking, filling out forms, and coordinating Virgin Atlantic Special Assistance to ensure your child travels confidently and securely. Let’s make it an experience to remember—for all the right reasons.