Commercial airplane flight is one of the most common forms of long-distance travel. This is a guide to the standard procedures, rules, and other basics of traveling by air. For some tips to making your flights safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable, see Tips for flying.
Planning your trip
If all the following information seems terribly complex, the easiest way to deal with it is to get a '''travel agent''' to do it for you. You may pay a small premium, but it may be worth it to avoid the hassle of finding and booking the best tickets for your particular route. Some travel agents can also arrange special requests (meals, baby bassinets, wheelchair assistance, etc) directly with the airline.
Finding cheap tickets
Ticket pricing is a horrendously complex and messy business, with armies of programmers working overtime to extract every last cent from passengers. It all starts to make some kind of sense when you understand the airline's basic motive: '''Make people in a hurry pay.''' To achieve this end, the plane is divided up into '''fare classes''' (or '''buckets'''), some cheap, some expensive. As a rule of thumb, the higher the ticket prices, the less restrictions there are on the ticket. Keep in mind the following:
'''Last-minute flights are expensive'''. Book as early as you can to get the best deals, as the cheap fare classes fill up fast. (Very occasionally, airlines do offload excess inventory at cut-rate prices at the last minute, but it's foolhardy to rely on this.)
'''Quick trips''' are expensive. Many cheap fares require staying at least three nights, and the famous '''Saturday night stay''' requirement — designed to trap businessmen who want to return home for the weekend — is still in force in many places.
'''Monday morning''' and '''Friday evening''' are the most popular times for businessmen to fly, which makes seats hard to find.
'''Holiday seasons''' are bad times to fly, because everybody else is also on the move. Worldwide biggies include late December to early January (Christmas/New Year and southern summer vacations) and July-August (northern summer vacations), but watch out for local holidays as well, such as the Golden Weeks in China and Japan.
'''Direct/non-stop flights''' (see box for the difference) from A to B may be expensive, as some people will pay a premium for the convenience and there is little competition. Transferring at point C is a time-consuming hassle, but it can save you a bundle, as there are many options and airlines compete to undercut each other.
When buying a ticket, it would seem obvious to call up the airline itself, but counter-intuitively this is often the most expensive way to get a ticket. Cheap fare classes are often sold to travel agents in bulk, so the airline has only the expensive ones left for itself. Again, the main exception is for last-minute flights if an agent returns a bunch of unsold seats and the airline decides to sell them off cheaply.
Search engines like Expedia [http://expedia.com/] and Travelocity [http://travelocity.com/] can help you explore your options, but note that these may not show discount airline flights and are rather North America-centric, often showing ridiculously inflated (full-fare) prices for travel outside North America. To find a low-cost/no-frills flight it can be good to check one of the comparison tools [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Travel_search]. For international travel, you can almost always get the best deals by booking from an agent at the starting point. If you are a student, some travel agents are tailored to offering low fares to you and in such a case, you have to present an international student ID card to avail of such services.
''See also'': First and business class travel, Discount airlines, Round the world flights.
Connections
Very often, flying from point A to point B involves a '''connection''' in point C, where you have to disembark, find your connecting flight and climb on board again. If both the A-C and C-B flights are ''on the same ticket'', the airlines are responsible for broken connections and will (try to) get you on the next flight if you miss your flight. However, if you're booking your flights ''separately'', making the connection is '''solely your responsibility''', and in most cases no refund will be provided from either party when one airline's delay makes you late for the next one.
Major airlines may consider a connection as tight as 35 minutes to be valid, and if you don't have to clear Customs or exit and re-enter secure zones between flights, and the arrival and departure gates are near each other, this may be reasonable. However, you can get unpleasant surprises at unfamiliar airports. For example, your gates could be at opposite ends of the building, or even in separate terminals. If you're traveling through an airport you don't know well and travel time is not critical, consider allowing '''at least an hour and a half''' to make each connection, particularly if it involves clearing Customs (in which case two and a half hours is safer). If you are not delayed, you can use this slack time to eat at the airport, where the food is likely better than what you may (or may not!) get in the air.
Many on-line travel arrangers show statistics on how often a given flight arrives on time. Use this information to help you decide whether to risk problems with tight connections, etc. Generally, the last flight of the day into a given destination will be delayed more often than earlier flights, as the airlines use that flight to "sweep" travelers whose inbound connecting flights run late. Of course, the statistics alone won't tell you whether ''your'' particular flight is likely to be delayed, but it's still useful data.
With international connecting flights, check to see if the country you will be making a connection at requires a transit visa to go through their airport. Some countries, such as the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom require all passengers to go pass through customs and immigration even if they are just transferring between international flights. Others, such as Hong Kong and Australia will require certain nationalities to obtain a visa even if they plan to remain in the sterile area. You are responsible for procuring all the necessary visas before you fly; request them as early as possible. For more information about using the U.S. as a transit point as well as alternative transit points, see Avoiding a transit of the United States.
Reservations and ticketing
From the moment you first book your flight to the moment you step on the plane, there's a lot going on in the background. The following may be helpful in understanding what is happening.
The first step is to make a '''reservation''' for your flight. This means that the airline will '''hold''' a seat for you until a given date, typically a week or so before the flight. If you do not pay up before the expiration date, the booking will be canceled and somebody else can grab the seat. Reservations can be changed and canceled freely.
A seat reserved for you will be listed as '''confirmed''' in your reservation, and will not be taken away. You can confirm only a single seat in each direction per ticket.
If a specific flight is fully booked but you want to try to get on it, you can make a '''waitlisted''' reservation. If the waitlist "clears" (somebody else cancels and you get their seat), the waitlisted reservation becomes confirmed and your previously confirmed seats on other flights are canceled. You can usually waitlist multiple flights, but really cheap nonchangeable tickets may not allow any waitlisting at all.
Turning a reservation into an actual ticket is called '''issuing''' the ticket. An issued ticket must be paid for and - depending on ticket type - some or all of following restrictions may now apply:
'''nonchangeable''': you cannot change the flight time and date (at least not without paying a heavy change fee)
'''nonendorsable''': you cannot fly another airline if your airline has problems (for serious cases like flight cancellations this is usually overruled by local legislation)
'''nonrefundable''': you cannot get your money back if you don't fly
'''nonreroutable''': you cannot change to another route, even if the destination is the same
'''nontransferable''': you cannot sell the ticket to somebody
These various restrictions (or lack thereof) play a large role in determining the price of that ticket. As mentioned in the section finding a cheap ticket, a rule of thumb is that higher prices mean fewer restrictions.
If you are still waitlisted for a flight that you would like to board, or if you would like to take an earlier flight than you're booked on, you can try to fly '''standby'''. This means simply showing up at the airport check-in counter and asking to be put on the next flight. If there is plenty of space, you'll be checked in right there. However, if the flight is looking full, you will have to wait until the flight is '''closed''' (typically 30-60 minutes before departure) and the airline can count how many seats it has left.
If you don't check in by closing time, you will be declared a '''no-show'''. Your seat can now be given to somebody on standby and your ticket is forfeited, which depending on the ticket and airline may mean either total loss or, at a minimum, a hefty no-show fee if you try to rebook.
Note that many discount airlines streamline this process considerably so that no reservations are possible, only fully paid and issued tickets. Flight restrictions are typically draconian — some companies even ban standby changes — so you'll have to pay lots to make any change and have no hope of getting a refund.
Paper and electronic ticketing
Throughout the history of air travel, most tickets have been issued as bits of paper. Many airlines still use paper ticketing. If you are issued with a paper ticket you '''must''' present it when checking in for your flight. Look after your ticket; you cannot check in without it. If you lose the ticket, you may be required to buy another ticket for the flight and have to apply for a refund later.
An emerging trend in air travel is the use of '''electronic tickets''' ('''e-tickets'''). An e-ticket is an electronic record of your booking details which is stored in the airline's computers; you will not receive a paper ticket. In most cases, an itinerary receipt containing your flight details is prepared and e-mailed or printed for your reference. The itinerary receipt contains a unique six-character '''Passenger Name Record''' (PNR), which is used to identify your booking.
In theory, an e-ticket allows you to just show a valid ID upon check-in, as your name is all the agent needs to access your flight details. However, for security reasons, some airports require you to show the itinerary receipt as proof of your booking before entering the airport and/or upon check-in. In addition, when travelling to another country, immigration authorities often require proof of onward or return travel. So always bring your itinerary receipt with you for easy reference.
For e-tickets bought over Internet with a credit card, some carriers (like Iberia) require you to show your original credit card upon check-in. Failure to do so may lead to re-issue of the ticket with the same fare, and refund for the original ticket after many weeks or even months.
Health and security concerns
Check official government travel warnings. Whether or not you are a U.S. citizen, you may be interested in the U.S. State Department's [http://travel.state.gov/travel/warnings.html travel warnings]. You can also go to the website of your airline or the airport/s you are departing from for important security advisories.
Airplanes fly at high altitude and cabin pressure is lower than on the ground. This can be particularly uncomfortable if your nose or ears are clogged due to a cold, so if you have to fly when sick, take a decongestant at least an hour before departure. It's a good idea to avoid flying for fifteen days after surgery or breaking a bone, as the low air pressure can cause extremely uncomfortable swelling.
There is a risk of premature labour if pregant women fly when they are over 35 weeks pregnancy or have pregnancy complications. See Tips for women travellers for more information.
Frequent flyers
Many airlines offer a '''frequent flyer''' loyalty program, rewarding patrons who fly regularly with them or who fly long distances. The loyalty schemes work on a '''segments''' or '''miles''' basis: you get rewards after you fly a certain number of trips ('segments') or after the total distance of your flights exceeds a certain amount. Business and first class passengers may receive bonus miles for each journey. If you are not a member of a frequent flyer program, consider joining one - especially if you travel to an intercontinental destination or plan to take additional trips. You may get something out of it, at the price of having your data profiled and used for advertisement. To join a frequent flyer program, brochures are handed out at the airport, an airline's lounge or an airline's ticket office. Submit them to the ground staff and your frequent flyer number becomes effective immediately. You can also join online.
The frequent flyer rewards typically include:
'''Free flights''' and '''Upgrades'''. Once you have earned enough miles/points, you can claim a flight and/or an upgrade award. The mileage cost of the award will vary depending on your itinerary.
If you collect enough points in a year you can become an '''elite member''', which can include additional perks such as check-in at the first/business class counter, early boarding, priority in waitlists, complimentary upgrades, and access to '''airport lounges'''. Lounges are also available to holders of some credit cards: [http://www.dinersclub.com/en/DCIHome/airport.jhtml Diners Club]; GlobeCard Platinum; Master Card; and American Express.
Not all fares are eligible to earn miles so ask at the time of booking. You can usually claim miles for flights up to 12 months after you've taken them, but you will need to keep your boarding pass stubs. It's easier to register your number at the time of booking.
Your airline of choice may be a member of an '''airline alliance''', which allows you to earn and use your miles on other airlines as well. The big three alliances are [http://www.staralliance.com Star Alliance], [http://www.oneworld.com oneworld] and [http://www.skyteam.com SkyTeam].
You may also be able to claim points from '''other sources'''. Credit cards affiliated to a program are particularly useful, as you'll typically get miles every time you use them and this can quickly rack up to a free trip per year, but hotel stays, car rentals and even mobile phone bills may garner you points.
Packing
From the point of view of an airline, there are two types of luggage: checked and carry-on sometimes referred to "hold" and "hand" luggage, respectively. Checked luggage is given to airline staff at check-in time and stored in the hold of the aircraft. Carry-on luggage is taken on board the flight with you. The weight and size limits for carry-on luggage are typically very restrictive; they're designed to let you take on board a few essentials for comfort and anything small and easily damaged. So unless you're travelling very light or for a short period of time, you will check most of your luggage and pack a few essentials for the flight in your carry-on luggage.
If passing through the U.S., you may want to read the Transportation Security Administration's [http://www.tsa.gov/311/311-carry-ons.shtm Prepare for Takeoff] guide.
How much should I pack?
Don't take more luggage than you can carry by yourself. Airports generally have baggage carts for rent, but you have to have local currency (usually coins) to use them. Some airports offer free carts, or have poor collection systems for their return and so can be found lying around, but it is not wise to rely on this.
Don't overpack. It may be tempting to take as much as you are allowed, but you may want to purchase souvenirs, duty-free items, etc. which will add to your burden on the return trip.
Beware of luggage weight limits. The ''usual'' limits are:
* Carry-on luggage anywhere: 1 piece, maximum weight 7 kg, maximum size 20x40x55 cm (9x14x22 in.), some European lowcost airlines don't have the weight limit on it, however.
* Checked luggage on international flights outside the United States: maximum 20 kg (44 lbs)
* Checked luggage on international flights to the United States: 2 pieces, maximum 32 kg (70 lbs) each
* Checked luggage on domestic flights in the United States: 2 pieces, maximum 23 kg (50 lbs) each
:Not all airlines have the same weight and size requirements. Low-cost carriers in particular apply lower limits, while elite members of frequent flyer programs are often allowed more. If in doubt, check with your airline. It is quite possible to get halfway around the world with your two bags and then to discover that they are too heavy/bulky for your next airline to carry them.
:* Carry-on luggage that does not comply with the above requirements will have to be checked-in. Check-in luggage that does not comply with the above requirements will be charged extra.
See also List Of Airline Baggage Limits for comparison of airline limits.
Dealing with overweight
For checked in luggage, every kilo over the limit is typically paid as some percentage of the fare. This can get ''very'' expensive.
Weigh your luggage ''before'' you leave home (or, at least, before you approach the check-in counter). Once your bag hits the check-in belt, some airlines will not allow you to take out stuff, and even if they do, it's an embarrassing hassle.
For carry-on luggage, overweight is checked only at check-in counter, if at all. Once you pass the check-in, there are no other luggage weight checks.
If you know your bags are heavily overweight but you need to take them anyway, it will usually be cheaper to '''ship them as cargo''', also known as '''unaccompanied baggage'''. Every airport has a company that will arrange this for you, and aggregators like xsbaggage [http://www.xsbaggage.com/] can find one for you. The main problem with this is that your bags will be shipped separately (perhaps even on a different flight), so instead of picking them up at the luggage claim, you will have to arrange separate collection or delivery. For international flights, you may also need to do a separate Customs claim for your unaccompanied bags, which can be a hassle.
Carry on vs. checked luggage
Most countries now impose 100ml or 3.4oz limits on '''liquids, gels and pastes''' in carry on baggage. This includes cosmetics, aerosols, toothpaste, all drinks (including water), lens cleaner, etc. All liquids must be in a clear zip lock bag smaller than 20cm x 20cm or 1 Quart. Limits are imposed on the capacity of the container, so a 250ml toothpaste tube with only a small amount of toothpaste left is still not allowed. These restrictions are usually enforced at terminal security checks, and some people have reported being able to take empty bottles through security and filling them with water from airside drinking fountains or bathrooms. Some exceptions are possible for medical or baby care items. Duty free items purchased at the airport may be okay, but be careful of transit stops where you may have to re-check through security. When reentering the US, the same liquid restrictions may be applied even to medical items, such as contact solution. Check with your airline in advance if in doubt. Note that due to new IATA guidelines, the limits on "liquids, aeresols and gels" for carry-on baggage now apply to '''all''' international flights.
Do not have any '''sharp''' or '''weapon-like''' objects in your carry-on baggage because they are highly likely to be confiscated at the airport. This includes pointed scissors, nailscissors, metal nailfiles, pocket knives, Swiss Army knives, large screwdrivers or similar tools, baseball bats, and so on. Go through your manicure kit and take them out, and stow them away in your (check-in) suitcase. Carefully pack them so they don't stab an unsuspecting baggage handler. If passing through the USA, check the list of prohibited items from the TSA [http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm].
Best not to take '''toy weapons''', which tend to make security personnel nervous. "Convincing" looking toy weapons are illegal in some countries anyway.
Pressurized containers, explosives, and hazardous materials are likely to be prohibited in the cabin or entirely. For the USA, see the TSA's guide to Transporting Special Items [http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/assistant/editorial_1169.shtm].
If you are carrying any '''valuables''', put them into your carry-on bag rather than your checked luggage. Your checked luggage will be thrown around in transit: if you have something that wouldn't survive a good solid landing from ten feet, take it in carry on. Note that some travel insurance policies will not cover fragile items in checked luggage. In some airports, security of checked luggage is also an issue, as contents may be stolen by airport personnel while the baggage is in transit to and from your plane.
If you have a bag with an unusual amount of '''electronic equipment''' (for example, a music player, headphones, a power adapter for your laptop, and a power adapter for your cell phone), it is more likely to be opened and manually inspected. (Bombs often have electronic timing devices which your electronics may resemble under X-ray.)
If you carry a '''laptop computer''', make sure the batteries are not completely drained as you might be asked to turn it on. In addition, in many countries, laptop computers are scanned separate from other carry-ons. (You will have to remove it from a bag or pouch.)
If you have a large '''umbrella''' (not the folding kind, which you could store in a carry-on bag), either leave it home or check it. If you do check it, it may be delivered to a special baggage claim area because it will not travel well on the conveyor belt system. Due to the special handling, it may take extra time to arrive. British airlines seem especially wary of umbrellas, perhaps because of the assassination of Georgi Markov [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Georgi_Markov]. Or perhaps just because they are long and potentially sharp. The best idea may be to get a small fold-up umbrella, or buy one at your destination. U.S. regulations allow umbrellas after they have been inspected for concealed items.
Airline gate security may confiscate any carry-on items they feel are "suspicious", often without recourse - you will not have the opportunity to go back and put these items in your checked baggage. These may be objects that are similar to prohibited items, items that could arguably be used as a weapon, etc. When in doubt put the items in checked luggage beforehand.
As I'm packing my bags, any tips?
Pack things in plastic bags inside your check-in luggage. Bags may be exposed to the elements while waiting for the airplane to come in, and for its off-coming luggage to be unloaded. Be sure to press the air out of the plastic bags while packing as it takes up the valuable volume in your luggage.
Use identification on both the outside and inside of your bag. Pertinent information includes: name, address, telephone number, flight number, date you are travelling, point of departure, aircraft changes, final destination airport, and destination hotel or address. Putting this information on a sheet of paper inside your bag (in addition to a tag on the exterior) often helps airlines locate you if your luggage tag falls off (called a "tag off"). If you are packing boxes for use back home, put your name, address and phone numbers in big block letters and numbers on at least 2 opposite sides.
Consider customizing the outside with colored tape, so it doesn't look exactly the same as someone else's bag when you reclaim it at the end of your journey.
Pack items that would be rejected as carry-on in a smaller bag, inserted in a bag you plan to check in. Then if a particular airline is unable to check in the luggage and forces you to treat it as carry-on, you can easily remove and dispose of the items. This has been happening with certain European airlines. Be prepared to either have those items confiscated, or prepare a postal envelope to ship them somewhere before the security check.
Airlines often lose just some of your bags instead of all of them. So distribute your clothes and other necessary things around ''all'' the bags you have, including carry-on luggage. If you're travelling with someone, distribute your stuff across both your bags. Airlines are capable of searching a worldwide database of the contents of bags that have been misdirected; they do not, however, have time to catalogue each item inside a bag, so remembering one unique item in your bag may help the airline search for your bag.
For shampoos as well as other liquids that you will put in your check-in luggage, tape the cap tightly to the rest of the container as well as the opening so that liquids won't spill out.
If the number of check-in bags you have doesn't exceed the limit, pack a smaller, softer sportsbag into one of your big bags so that you can store dirty clothes or other items acquired at your destination that won't fit into your big bags. You can also use this as an extra bag in case you need to check-in items that will make your check-in luggage exceed their allowed weights.
Locking your bags
If traveling in or to the United States, do ''not'' lock your bags when you check them in at the airport. All bags passing through US airports must be either X-rayed or manually inspected. If your bags need to be manually inspected and they are locked, the TSA will break the lock. If you are worried about the security of your baggage enroute to the airport, unlock the case at the counter before you check it in. After inspection and xray, bags are generally 'locked' with a plastic tie so that nobody can tamper with them. However there are locks with universal keying that are available and allowed through TSA's inspection.
Be aware that the main part of your suitcase will be tied shut with an unbreakable plastic tie when you get it back at the other end of your flight. If you're prepared you'll have a pair of nailscissors in the outside pocket of your suitcase so you can get the tie off - they do NOT usually secure this smaller outside pocket.
What to (and not to) carry on
If travel involves the United States, place all liquids in your checked luggage except for prescription medications and any nonprescription medications listed on the current TSA guidelines at http://www.tsa.gov. Plan on discarding all cosmetics and beverages at the TSA checkpoint. Also, expect to be required to discard all liquids, gels, and powders purchased in the airport before boarding the plane. Similar regulations apply for flights involving the United Kingdom and more details and information can be found at the [http://tinyurl.com/y6j6dn Security control section of the official BAA Heathrow (www.baa.com) website].
If travel involves the European Union or any international flights, you may take only limited amounts of liquids (and gels, creams, etc.) in the carry on luggage. All liquids must be placed in containers with a maximum capacity of 100 mL, and all of these containers must be placed in a resealable transparent bag of not more than one liter capacity per passenger. The harmlessness of the liquids must be demonstrated upon request. There are no restrictions for items bought from the duty-free area of the airports.
If local airport or security authorities allow you, take a large bottle of water with you. Airliner cabins are very dry and drinking plenty of water helps to avoid dehydration.
Take nonperishable snacks, especially if you are hypoglycemic, diabetic, or have blood-sugar issues. Don't count on being able to buy it at the airport. If you have a tight connection and have to cross an entire airport, there is no way you'll have time to stop at the cafe as well. If you're traveling to the United States, Australia, or New Zealand, don't bring more fruit than you can eat before you arrive - these countries have strict rules about bringing food in. On longer flights there will probably be a meal or snack served (or offered for purchase), but not necessarily.
If you have an allergy, bring decongestants to avoid discomfort from the change in cabin pressure. Cabin air can also be a problem; for example, in planes going to Australia and New Zealand, the cabin may be sprayed with pesticides.
Keep yourself occupied. Some planes have the latest in-flight entertainment systems, music on tape, and onboard games to keep you amused, but others may not have anything at all. You can go to your airline's website, as well as [http://www.seatguru.com seatguru.com] to determine what inflight entertainment, if any can you look forward to. Twelve or fourteen hours is a very long time to be bored. In case you find out or anticipate that the entertainment options that will be offered to you inflight is inadequate or not to your satisfaction, treat yourself to a good book or two for the flight. Check with the airline regarding what electronic entertainment devices can you bring and use on board.
Take a soft jacket. This can be used as a blanket or pillow if these items are needed but not available. Sometimes the outer edge of the cabin can get rather cold (due to the very low temperature at high altitudes).
Take at least one pair of soft foam earplugs. Even on short flights, the noise of the jet turbines or the small child sitting behind you can be fatiguing. Foam earplugs will reduce the noise level but still allow you to hear instructions in case of an emergency. Noise-cancelling headphones are a more expensive alternative that you might consider if you find the noise of the turbines intolerable.
What to wear
When you travel from a cold country to a warm one, consider leaving your winter wear with friends accompanying you to the airport--this will make your luggage smaller. Conversely, when you are traveling to a cold country, remember to carry at least a jacket in your carry-on bag, as it might be some time before you gain access to your checked baggage. However, be prepared for both warm and cold temperatures inside the cabin. You don't want to be freezing the entirety of a 14 hour flight, but if your plane is stuck on the tarmac for a long period of time (which has occurred many times in the US over the past couple of years) and the interior is hot, you want to be able to take off layers. It is probably best to wear long pants and a t-shirt and carry a jacket or sweater along.
Keep in mind that airplane interior may be cleaned not as frequently as you'd like, especially on discount airlines. Consider wearing what you won't use outside flights--and changing your clothes right after the flight.
Before you fly
Special requests
Once you have confirmed your flights, be sure to let your travel agent know if you have any special requests. Typical examples include:
'''special meals''' (vegetarian, kosher, medical restrictions, allergies, etc)
'''special seats''' (exit row seats for tall people, bulkhead seats for baby bassinets)
'''airport assistance''' (wheelchair or unaccompanied minor)
You can check to see what meals to expect on [http://www.airlinemeals.net Airlinemeals.net].
With some airlines, you need to remind the crew about your special meals order at some point before the meals are served, to save them from browsing the passenger list and finding you in the cabin (or even finding your special order after serving you regular meals). Travel agencies have a tendency to lose track of the many requests they get, so if it's ''really'' important it's wise to contact the airline directly and make sure the message has gotten through. Major airlines support special requests on their web sites.
Reconfirming your flight
In general, it is '''no longer necessary''' to call the airline to reconfirm flights, as reservation systems are fairly reliable. Instead, just check the reservation online (see the next section) and call the airline only if there are problems.
The main exceptions are when you are flying way off the beaten track on an airline that doesn't (or looks like it doesn't!) do computerized reservations, especially when there won't be another flight for a week. Off the beaten track in Indonesia, for example, it's wise to reconfirm not just once but twice — although you may still get bumped off if a VIP and his harem show up at the last minute.
Checking your reservation
It's always good to double-check that your itinerary is still correct before you fly. Not only can you check that everything is order, but also you can see whether any waitlists have cleared, flight times have changed, your special requests are properly recorded, etc. There are a number of online services that allow you to do this; however, you'll have to figure out which reservation system was used to do the booking. This is usually printed at the top of your itinerary, but if all else fails you can always ask the agent.
'''Abacus/Sabre''': http://www.virtuallythere.com
'''Amadeus''': http://www.checkmytrip.com
'''Apollo/Galileo''': http://www.viewtrip.com
'''Worldspan''': http://www.mytripandmore.com
Note that low-cost carrier flights will not show up in these systems.
In cases of terrible weather (e.g. blizzard, fog) or recent airport closures, it is always advisable to get in touch with your airline before you leave home to see if your flight will push through as scheduled or if it is delayed or cancelled. If your flight is cancelled and have been put on the waitlist for a future flight, don't come to the airport until you have received confirmation from the airline that you will be able to fly on the flight which you are waitlisted for.
Travel insurance
Make sure your travel insurance is in order and that it covers the area you are going to. Also study the fine print: many travel insurance schemes will actually pay out in the event of long delays, lost baggage, etc.
Getting to the airport
Especially in cities which are served by more than 1 airport, you must know the name of the airport and the specific terminal within that airport you are departing out of. Keep in mind that if you arrive at the wrong airport, it can take an hour or so to go to the correct airport. Terminals can also be far away from each other so be sure to be at the right terminal too. The name of the airport as well as the terminal you will use are detailed in the itinerary prepared for you by the airline or travel agency.
When asking the taxi driver to take you to the airport, don't just mention the city name and then the word airport (e.g. London Airport), mention the name of the airport and the terminal (e.g. London Heathrow Airport terminal 5). Keep in mind that an airline may operate from more than 1 terminal, particularly if it has domestic and international flights so telling the taxi driver you want to go to the terminal where a particular airline operates may probably not be enough.
If you are asking for airport limousine/shuttle service, giving the flight number is usually all the telephone operator needs as they know which airline flies out of which terminal.
You need to arrive at airports well before your flight as there are a number of procedures you need to complete before boarding: check in, security check, and perhaps immigration control. Airlines will typically have departure boards (displays) indicating a flight's status. The most important status indicators are '''Boarding''' or '''Go to gate''', which is a sign that you should promptly complete check-in and proceed through the security check, and '''Final call''', which means that you should board the flight as quickly as possible.
Checking in
The first thing you will need to do at the airport is '''check in''' for your flight. Present your ticket (if you don't have an electronic ticket) and some form of ID (passport if travelling internationally) to airline staff at your flight's designated check-in counter or at common check-in counter, depending on your airline.
You will typically have to '''queue''' before check-in: on very full flights and very busy days this alone could take more than an hour, particularly for international flights. There are usually separate, and much shorter, check-in lanes for first, business class passengers, upper tier members of the airline's frequent flyer programme (e.g. silver, gold) and sometimes those who checked-in through remote methods (e.g. online check-in). If the queue is long and your flight is leaving within the hour, your flight status is already showing "Go to gate" or you are approaching the check-in deadline for your ticket, let airport staff know as they will often allow you to go to the front of the queue and check in immediately. Sometimes they will specifically ask for passengers for a flight that is about to close to make themselves known so that they can check them in right away, but sometimes they will not. Discount airlines have the strictest check in deadlines and some will not allow you to check in after the deadline even if you made it to the end of the queue in time.
With some airlines you will receive a '''boarding pass''' with a seat assignment, while some do not assign seats. You may need a boarding pass to present to the security staff and later when boarding the flight. At this time, your checked luggage will be weighed, labeled, and handed off to airport staff. Some airports offer curbside check-in, which allows you to check-in your bags before entering the terminal. These are normally available on domestic US flights and do what the standard check-in counters inside do except that they will not issue boarding passes to you. You will have to obtain them inside if you haven't done so from online check-in.
The check-in staff will print a luggage tag once your bags are processed; one copy will be attached to your luggage and another copy will be given to you. Keep this as upon arrival, some airports may require passengers to present these along with their luggage to ensure that the one carrying the luggage is indeed the owner. These luggage tags are also useful if you suspect some of your check-in luggage are missing or similar to other luggage. Before attaching the luggage tags associated with your upcoming flight, be sure to remove any old luggage tags.
An increasing number of airlines are implementing a self-check-in system at certain airports, although in some cases it can be restricted to passengers without checked luggage, and to passengers who do not have a paper/physical ticket. These systems involve small kiosks in which you can enter your booking reference, swipe/insert the credit card used to make the booking or swipe/insert your frequent flyer card (if it has a magnetic strip) to access your record and print out a boarding pass for you and your travelling party. You may have the opportunity to change your seats when checking in; in particular, many airlines do not open the exit rows until the day of the flight.
As mentioned earlier, if you checked-in via kiosk or online, the airline usually provides a special lane for you where the rest of the check-in process will be expedited. At this counter, be ready to provide all information given to you at the end of the online or kiosk check-in process if you were told to do so to facilitate the rest of the check-in process.
If there are several flight "legs" between you and your destination, ask check-in staff if they can check your bags all the way through so that you don't have to pick them up and re-check them at every stop. It's important that you know when you will and won't have to transfer your bags yourself: some countries insist on incoming international passengers retrieving and re-checking all luggage before transferring to another, domestic flight. On the other hand, you don't want to have to wait around for your bags only to find that they were booked through. Similarly, if you are flying several legs, the staff may be able to check you into every flight to your destination and issue boarding passes for all the flights, saving you some time at transit points. However, they usually can't secure special seats such as exit-row seats for anything except the first leg, so for subsequent flights if you want a particular seat assignment you will need to ask staff at the boarding gate to change your boarding pass.
Choosing your seat
At check-in, you'll probably be asked if you want a window or aisle seat. Both have their advantages:
'''Window''' seats are popular with many flyers, as they allow you to look out the window, rest your head against it while sleeping and not be disturbed by other passengers. The major downside is that you'll have to clamber over a seatmate or two to go to the bathroom or access any of your carry-ons in the overhead (although most airlines also allow you to stow baggage under the seat in front of you). You may also have slightly less floor space due to the curvature of the plane.
'''Aisle''' seats are the choice of some road warriors, because they make it easy to get out and off the plane. On long flights, though, it's hard to get sleep with people climbing over you, and you also run an additional risk of being hit by trolleys.
The third possibility is '''middle seats''', which combine the disadvantages of both aisle and window seats without the advantages of either, although taller passengers may still to be able to see the view from the window. There are some special rows too:
'''Exit row''' seats are located next to the emergency exit rows, and have significantly greater legroom than standard seats. You also have easier access to the aisles regardless of whether you are sitting in an exit or the aisle seat. A disadvantage of these seats is that the tray tables are tucked into the armrests and as a result, you can't lift the armrests. This shouldn't be much of a problem when you have occupants beside you, but if there is none you may want all the space to yourself. In addition, all your hand baggage has to go in the overhead compartment if you are in these rows since no other seats are directly in front of you. In theory, passengers in these seats are required to help attendants with the door in an emergency, so you might not be allowed to sit there if you are physically unable to help, if you are deaf or blind, if you are a child or supervising a child or if you are pregnant. Because of the desirability of exit-row seats, some airlines now charge extra for them, using the name "Economy Plus" or similar. If you're very tall you may sometimes get these seats without paying but don't count on it. Ask specifically at check-in and state the reason you want one.
'''Bulkhead''' seats are in the first row of each section and thus have no seat reclining into you. The legroom is different from other seats -- sometimes better but sometimes worse. They're often the only seats that can be outfitted with infant bassinets, so most airlines reserve them for families with small children. You may be able to snag one on check-in (some airlines assign them as regular seats without request) or even at the gate, but then you run the risk of sitting next to a screaming baby for your entire flight. Like exit rows, you have to store all your baggage overhead.
The advantages and disadvantages of various seats on many aircraft can be viewed at SeatGuru -- http://www.seatguru.com
If given the ability to choose a seat within an entire class (i.e. the ability to choose a seat anywhere aboard the plane), it helps to keep a few tips in mind. Additionally, checking a layout of the seat arrangements (usually provided online by most airlines that offer worldwide service) should help, especially since different airlines offer different class arrangements and seat layouts.
Those wishing to avoid the symptoms of airsickness may choose seats over the wings of the aircraft, near the centre of gravity.
Seats closer to the centre of the plane (i.e. aisle row, middle row) tend to feel less turbulence than passengers on window seats.
Passngers who want a bit more elbow room (even in economy class) should choose the last row of window seats on the plane. Due to the curvature of the plane, window seat passengers near the end of the plane will have just a tad more elbow room on the window side(sometimes enough to fit a medium-sized totebag into), and will be conveniently close to the lavatories. However, keep in mind that your "window seat" in the back row may in fact be nothing more than a blank wall (again, due to the curvature of the plane).
Overbooking
'''Overbooking''' is the practice of accepting reservations for a flight from more people than can fit on the plane. Almost all airlines overbook their flights, as statistically some percentage of passengers do not show up for the flight.
It does happen, though, that more people check in than can fit on the plane. When this happens, the airline staff will ask passengers to volunteer, either at the checkout counter or after the plane is full, to remain behind and take another flight. If your travel plans are flexible (such as on the homeward leg of your excursion), you may wish to volunteer, to receive the compensation that airlines usually offer to get out of this predicament. If there are no volunteers, passengers will be chosen by the airline to stay behind (usually the last passengers to arrive). "Bumped" passengers are almost always offered passage to their destination by some other route or on a later flight; it is common for airlines to offer a voucher for a substantial discount on a future flight, or even cash, in compensation for the inconvenience. If an overnight stay is required, the airline will usually pay for a hotel and meals during the delay. Your rights are regulated at the country level; some airlines may offer additional compensation (but their policy on this is rarely published).
Compensation for denied boarding for flights in the European Union is ?250 for distances less than 1500 km, ?400 for distances between 1500 and 3500 km, and ?600 for distances greater than 3500 km (half if the delay is less than 2, 3 or 4 hours, respectively) in addition to an alternative flight or a refund of the ticket [http://ec.europa.eu/transport/air_portal/passenger_rights/index_en.htm]. One way to reduce the risk of being displaced due to overbooking is to check-in very early, either by Internet or by telephone before arriving at the airport. If inquiring by telephone, ask for the current '''load factor,''' which is the ratio of reserved seats to capacity. Anything greater than one indicates an overbooked flight, while your chances of boarding as a stand-by passenger decline as the load factor increases.
Delayed flight
In case of extended delays, keep in mind that onboard meals for return flight are frequently brought in from airline's base airport. Therefore:
you may be served with a breakfast at the dinner time, according to original flight time
worse, the onboard meals may spoil and therefore your choice may be limited to long-life cookies and drinks
Flight cancellation
When a flight is cancelled, the reason given is usually some kind of technical or weather-related problem. Sometimes the real reason is that so few passengers have checked in that it is cheaper for the airline to cancel the flight and rebook the passengers on a later flight, or even on another airline. If a flight is cancelled, the airline is obligated to get you on the next available flight to your destination, but interpretations of "next available" vary and, for some low-cost carriers like Ryanair, this may mean a long wait indeed. Unlike with overbooking, passengers are not legally entitled to any compensation except the unplanned expenses of food and hotels.
Beware that weather can cause the very strange phenomenon of being denied boarding because of weather for a flight that does fly. This is caused by weight limits and takes two forms:
1) Weather is going to make the flight longer or increase the required reserve fuel. Some smaller planes can't take a full load of passengers and full fuel tanks--if they have to fill up the tanks more than expected they might have to leave some people behind.
2) As it gets warmer the takeoff roll increases but the runway doesn't get any longer. If it gets hot enough they have to reduce weight to keep the takeoff roll short enough to get in the air.
Boarding time
Your boarding ticket specifies '''Boarding time''' -- which is when boarding ''starts'' (not when it ends). Usually the boarding starts even after the printed time.
The gate closes (boarding stops) usually only 10-15 minutes before departure so give yourself plenty of time to get to the gate, especially if the airport is large and you are far away from it and you don't know your way around the airport. Better if you contact with your travel agent.
Security check
Aviation security is no laughing matter. Even before the airliner attacks on New York and Washington in 2001, most countries took it very seriously, but since then security regulations have been tightened, and airport security personnel will be very strict in implementing these regulations.
Above all else: ''Always'' keep your luggage with you. Airport security takes unattended items very seriously. If one is found and the owner is not within reach to claim it, this will almost immediately trigger an alert, resulting in the affected area closing down, and inspection of the suspicious piece of luggage by experts. The result will be serious inconvenience for a lot of people, and for you a delay, and maybe even fines or the total loss of your luggage (which might be destroyed if it appears to be a bomb).
Depending on current procedures, you may be more likely to get a supplemental personal security check (being taken aside and examined with a handheld metal detector) at U.S. airports if you are travelling alone, buy a one-way ticket, pay cash, buy your ticket at the last minute, or change destinations on the day of the flight. This might take an additional 15 minutes or so at the security checkpoint.
Be proactive to avoid making unnecessary delays or getting stopped by security. Before you enter the queue for the checkpoint:
* Take off your jacket; it will need to be X-rayed.
* Take out all the metal in your pockets (including phones, keys, change, etc.). Instead of fumbling with the provided plastic bins, put loose metal objects (especially change) in a bag or jacket pocket that will go through the X-ray machine.
* Remove any large objects from your pockets that create a suspicious bulge. They will probably be uncomfortable to keep there on the plane anyway.
* Don't wear a belt with a large metal buckle or other metal ornamentation, or if you do, take it off.
* Shoes that can be easily removed and put back on are a good idea, because you may be asked to remove them for inspection. Don't wear hiking boots or other shoes with large metal loops or steel plates in the soles. American security is especially wary of shoe bombs after the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Reid_(shoe_bomber) Richard Reid] incident.
* If in the US or Canada, get ready to unload your laptop if you're carrying one. It will need to be put through the X-ray machine by itself.
* In the US, you may be required to demonstrate to security that any electronic device functions. If you have any electronic devices (cameras, cell phones, laptops, etc) make sure they have their batter(y/ies) inserted and can turn on.
* When taking flights from a US or UK (or possibly another country's) airport, consume and dispose all liquids in excess of the allowed limit. Large amounts of allowed liquids should be checked-in or thrown-out. Place all liquids within the allowed limit in a small and transparent bag (a ziplock is recommended).
* It is important to note that depending on the country, taking prohibited items to the security checkpoint even by accident may be considered an offence as the items concerned are not just subject to confiscation.
While your bags are being checked through security, keep an eye on them at all times, especially if you have put valuables inside. Security personnel are supposed to allow you to watch the entire inspection process, so even if you or one of your bags is being searched, any other bags you might have should be within sight. Security personnel are focused on keeping the terminal area secure. They won't necessarily notice if a stranger grabs your bag or takes something out of it, especially since they may not notice to whom it really belongs.
Don't make jokes about bombs, weapons, or other security threats. There is no room for humor on this topic; rather than relying on their individual subjective judgment, security personnel are required to take any such joke as a serious statement. You will be checked more thoroughly and/or escorted off the premises in some cases. In addition, it may be treated as a criminal offence and charges may be filed against you.
At some airports, particularly in the United States, you may have to wait in a long queue to pass through security; as much as an hour. If you're stuck in a queue and you don't think you'll make it through security and to the gate in time, or if your flight status changes to "Boarding" and ''particularly'' if your name is paged as being late for the flight, tell airport staff. They will usually allow you to move to the front of the queue and pass through the checkpoint immediately.
Before boarding
After you proceed through security you will reach the departure area. Depending on the airport this may be either bare or full of shopping and entertainment. It helps to go to your departure airport's website before leaving home so that you can expect while waiting for boarding time as well as how to get around the airport. Keep in mind that prices at the airport of certain items and services tend to be more expensive than if purchased elsewhere.
If you are a first or business class passenger or an elite member of your frequent flyer programme, consider going to the lounge associated with your airline. You can find exclusive and complimentary wealth of services such as refreshments, periodicals, internet access or even shower rooms. If you are neither travelling on first or business class or part of the higher tiers of your frequent flyer programme, you can still get lounge access and enjoy the full privileges by paying up front or joining programmes like PriorityPass which offer pay-per-visit and unlimited visit plans.
Your flight will have an associated '''gate number''' where it is boarding. This is indicated in your boarding pass and the overhead monitors. Find the gate where you are boarding: be there no later than 30 minutes before the flight's scheduled departure, and preferably a little earlier. At the gate, airline staff will check your boarding pass and may also want to see photo ID. At this point, you will be registered as being on-board the flight. The departure area may be quite large: some contain up to fifty gates.
Most airlines will attempt to find passengers who are late for boarding, because for security reasons they have to go through the time consuming process of unloading your checked baggage if you do not board. Usually they will page late passengers by name at least twice before closing the flight. If you hear your name paged, either go to the gate immediately if it's nearby or find airport staff and let them know who you are if you are not yet close to the gate. They can usually get you there before you're locked out of the plane. However, delaying a flight will not make you popular with staff or fellow passengers!
On board
Before the flight
Count the number of seat backs between your seat and the emergency exits keeping in mind that your nearest exit may be behind you. If you ever need to evacuate an aircraft in an emergency you may need to do it in a darkened cabin that could be full of thick black smoke. If the aisle is full of people you will at least know the number of seats you need to climb over to get out in that one in a million emergency.
Switch off your mobile phone ''before'' you board the plane. Using a mobile phone on board is a violation of air travel safety laws in some areas, even during boarding when the plane is still on the ground. The crew will ask you to turn off your phone, and if you do not comply you ''will'' be escorted off the plane. Current regulations in the United States allow use while the cabin doors are not secured for flight, but individual carriers may have their own policies. If you need to make a call while the flight is going on, your carrier may provide an inflight telephone but you must consult your inflight magazine for the details on charges as inflight calls normally cost no less than $5/minute even if you are directly above the place you are calling.
Read the emergency instructions and watch the safety briefing even if you rode on the airline before as safety features may vary per aircraft and airline. It may be boring but if an emergency happens you will remember what to do, rather than having to read the safety card then and thereby saving precious time.
There are 2 places your carry-ons belong - the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. Place the luggage containing the items you will use more often under the seat so you can minimise the disturbance caused to people sitting in the aisle seats as well as minimise the obstruction of the aisles.
During the flight
In cases of an open flight in economy class when nobody is beside you, feel free to put-up the armrests (except in exit rows where the armrests can't be lifted) to claim the extra space to yourself.
Wear your seatbelt whenever you are sitting in your seat. While you may not think you need it in smooth level flight, aircraft can make sudden unexpected maneuvers even at cruising altitude. Air turbulence can occur without warning even in clear air and can throw you from your seat. Unexpected turbulence is the most common cause of serious injury in the air.
Drink lots of water, and avoid caffeine and alcohol. Otherwise you will dehydrate at an alarming pace, which worsens jet lag and can induce splitting headaches. Don't hesitate to ask air crew for more water, or to walk up to the galley to request more; this is especially important since water and other liquids are not allowed to be brought in by passengers if departing from certain countries.
Don't sit completely still. The human body isn't designed for sitting completely still for many hours. Try to adjust your seating position as often as possible (you do this in your sleep anyway). Try to stretch, move your toes in circles, anything you can do in your seat. Some airlines will now periodically show video programs you can follow to get some exercise in your seat. You can follow them, or do your own thing (or both). By changing position, and moving around a little, you make sure every part of your body get the circulation it needs. And you'll feel better. Consider walking around the aircraft every now and then during long flights.
Most airlines offer smoke-free flights. Do not smoke, especially in the lavatories. Doing so in the lavatories will set-off the smoke detector alarm and possibly cause a fire. In many countries (and thus aircraft registered to them) it is an offence to smoke anywhere onboard the aircraft. Moreover, an attempt to tamper or disable the smoke detectors is also a criminal offence in most countries.
Ensure you stow any loose items before landing. Put magazines and books in the seat pocket. Do not leave them lying on the empty seat beside you. Under heavy braking on landing, even seemingly light articles can travel the length of the plane--even if you don't care about safety of people around you, it'll be difficult to find under seats, and before you find it it risks damage from the movement of passengers.
Timing of different phases of flight varies, but normally descending and landing takes 20 minutes.
'''Always follow the instructions of the flight attendants''', as well as the lighted and posted signs found around the aircraft as these are for your safety and the safety of your fellow passengers. Flight attendants are not simply waiters, they are responsible for your safety and are trained in the said field. Do not argue with them. Any conflict or object you have to their service should be resolved on the ground. If an "unruly passenger" becomes a serious problem, the captain of the plane ''will'' make an unscheduled landing, and the passenger will be taken off the airplane. In many juristictions, flight attendant instructions are backed up by law; in the US, for example, disobeying a flight attendant is a felony offense!
Using laptop computers is normally allowed after take-off and until landing begins; some airlines ask you to not use CD players or compact printers (no restrictions for standalone CD players, however).
Back at the airport
Making a connection
Check if you have a boarding pass for your next flight. If you don't, you are not considered checked-in for that flight yet so proceed to a transfer desk immediately to obtain a boarding pass for your next flight.
If you came from an international flight and are continuing on to a domestic flight, you will need to clear passport control, possibly claim your luggage (even if they are checked-through to your final destination) and clear customs and eventually check-in your luggage again to ensure its loading into your next flight. If you checked-through your luggage to your final destination, some airports may provide a special lane where you can simply drop-off your luggage instead of doing so at the main departure hall.
If your next flight is located in a different terminal, go to that terminal first and then doing any eating and shopping you have time for. It may take a long time to cross the airport.
If your transit point is a large city (eg. London, Tokyo, Toronto, New York, Shanghai, Taipei etc.), you might need to transfer between different airports. Make sure you give '''plenty''' of time to yourself to make the transfer, and take into account possible traffic jams, especially if you need to make the transfer during peak hours. If you can afford the time, try to book an overnight stay in the city so you don't have to be stressed about making the transfer.
Some budget airlines as well as budget airline terminals do not offer check-through to your final destination. Hence if you want to use a budget airline or in one of the legs of your trip or connect via a budget airline terminal, you will need to clear formalities in your transit point and if necessary for your country, procure the visa in advance, as well as line-up with the rest of the passengers for the usual check-in to commence the next leg of your journey.
Direct flights continuing on to another destination
Depending on the airport or airline, you will have to either stay in the aircraft, wait in a transit or holding area or choose between the aforementioned options.
*If you are asked or choose to stay in the aircraft, remain seated to enable the ground staff to clean the aircraft more quickly.
*If you are asked to stay at the transit area and allowed to explore the airport, please do not stray too far from the gate especially if the terminal is big as you may miss important announcements regarding your flight. Some of these announcements may be broadcasted only at the gate area and not to the entire airport. The ground time of an aircraft is usually less than 2 hours, which may not be enough time to familiarise yourself with a big terminal.
Direct international flights with a domestic leg
In this case, there are 3 main scenarios on when you clear customs and immigration.
In some countries like China and the United States, you will have to get off at your first stop and pass through immigration there before continuing to your final destination (i.e. If you flight is from Los Angeles to Shanghai via Beijing, you will have to get off at Beijing to pass through customs and immigration).
In other countries such as Australia, you pass through customs and immigration only at your final destination (i.e. If your flight is from Hong Kong to Adelaide via Melbourne on one airline, you will disembark only into the sterile/holding area at Melbourne and go through customs and immigration at Adelaide).
For flights with a mere re-fueling stopover (e.g. Philippine Airlines flights from the US west coast to Manila via Guam), you will be asked to stay in the aircraft only and not allowed to disembark.
Make sure you follow instructions carefully and ''ask the ground crew'' if anything is in doubt. If you leave the sterile/holding area when you're not supposed to, it can be very difficult to get back in.
Arriving at the final destination
At baggage claim, many luggage tend to look very similar. Remember to find the marks which distinguish your bag from others and match the tags attached to them to the tags given to you at check-in to ensure that it is indeed your luggage.
In case your luggage didn't emerge at baggage claim, proceed to the designated lost luggage counters immediately. Present the luggage tag which corresponds to the missing luggage given to you at check-in and be ready to describe what your luggage looks like as detailed as possible (include any colours of the tags, nameplates that are tied to the luggage) to the staff at the counter.
If you believe that you left something on board the aircraft you were flying with, please get in touch with your airline or proceed to the designated counter/booth/office at the airport that deals with lost items. Returning to the aircraft yourself is normally not allowed after you enter the terminal.
Unaccompanied minors
Children flying alone, known in airline jargon as '''unaccompanied minors''', are very common these days. Actual rules regarding unaccompanied minors vary by airline, but in general, the following rules apply:
Your child must have had his/her fifth birthday to fly unaccompanied. No child under the age of 5 will be accepted for solo travel.
Children aged 5-7 may travel unaccompanied on nonstop flights or flights that do not require having to change airplanes.
Children aged 8 and above may travel unaccompanied on nonstop or connecting flights. An airline employee will escort your child to the gate of his/her connecting flight.
Children may not fly unaccompanied on flights that require a ground transfer between two airports in the same city (such as from Paris Charles de Gaulle to Paris Orly).