When families book private flights for children flying alone or with someone other than their parents, there’s an important step to keep in mind: minor consent forms. Sometimes called a child travel consent letter, this document authorizes the trip and helps prevent complications at departure, during the flight, or upon arrival. These forms aren’t always top of mind when planning a trip, but they play a crucial role in ensuring safety, legality, and peace of mind for everyone involved.

The FAA doesn’t mandate a standard minor consent form, but most operators and insurers require one. These forms provide important legal protection by preventing disputes over custody, supervision, or medical decisions. They also ensure a smoother travel experience by reducing the risk of last-minute cancellations or delays due to missing paperwork. Just as importantly, they demonstrate professionalism and diligence, reassuring families that every detail has been accounted for. At Jets.com, we see these forms as more than paperwork, they’re a safeguard that keeps everyone on the same page.

This guide explains everything families need to know about minor consent forms for private jet travel with children, the information they should include, why they matter, how requirements differ for domestic versus international flights, and best practices to ensure a smooth experience when arranging travel for unaccompanied minors.

Solo Private Travel for Children: What’s Typically Required

While every operator’s policies may differ, most minor consent forms include:

• Child’s full details: name, date of birth, and ID or passport if traveling internationally.

• Authorization from a parent or legal guardian.
• Both parents’ signatures: often requested to avoid custody disputes.
• Emergency contacts and medical treatment consent: including permission for treatment and details about allergies, medications, or special needs.
• Custody or guardianship documents: required if parents are separated, divorced, or if a legal guardian is involved.
• Responsible adult during travel: if the child isn’t traveling with a parent, the form should specify who will supervise.
• Notarization: verification of signatures and identities to ensure authenticity.

In Depth: Understanding Travel Requirements

Jets.com is committed to making every private flight as seamless, safe, and stress-free as possible, and that includes ensuring the well-being of young travelers. When children fly solo or with someone other than their parents, strict requirements are put in place to protect them and guarantee a smooth journey. To prepare for a flight like this, you may need to prepare:

Child’s full details

Operators need the minor’s legal name, date of birth, and in the case of international flights, passport or visa details. This ensures smooth identification at check-in and across borders.

💡 Tip for Parents of Solo Travelers:

While TSA rules don’t require minors under 18 to show ID for domestic flights, many private operators will still ask for some form of identification, especially if a child is flying alone. A passport, state-issued ID, or even a birth certificate can help avoid delays. If your child already has government-issued ID, it’s always best to bring it along, even if it isn’t strictly required.

Parent/guardian authorization

A parent or legal guardian must formally authorize the minor’s travel. This prevents disputes and establishes clear permission for the operator to transport the child.

Both parents’ signatures

In many cases, both parents are asked to sign. This is especially important in custody-sensitive situations, as it eliminates confusion about parental rights.

Pickup and drop-off authorization

Consent forms often specify who will drop off the child before departure and who will pick them up at the destination. Those adults must show valid ID for verification, ensuring safe custody throughout the journey.

Emergency contacts and medical consent

Forms include permission for medical treatment in case of an emergency. Parents should also provide details about allergies, prescriptions, or special medical needs so crews are prepared.

Custody or guardianship documents

For divorced, separated, or non-parent guardians, official paperwork may be required to confirm custody or guardianship. This ensures operators have a legal foundation if questions arise.

Responsible adult during travel

If the child is below the operator’s minimum age to fly alone, or if they’re traveling with someone other than a parent, the form should identify who will be responsible for them. This could be a family member, nanny, or another trusted adult.

Notarization

Notarizing the consent form confirms the authenticity of signatures. It’s especially valuable for international trips or custody-sensitive cases, as border agents and operators often require it.

Additional Considerations Families Should Know

Beyond the basics, there are a few other key points families should keep in mind:

Minimum Age Requirements

Many private jet operators have policies around the minimum age for unaccompanied minors. Some allow children as young as 7–8 to travel alone, while others may permit it from age 4 with extra oversight. Always notify your Jets.com private aviation advisor early in the booking process so we can confirm requirements with the operator in advance.

International Travel Rules

When minors fly internationally, they must meet the same requirements as adults, including a valid passport, any required visa, and in some cases, proof of vaccinations or health documents. Beyond that, many countries have their own rules for children traveling without both parents. These may include documents in a specific format or language, certified translations, or apostilles.

This is also when a notarized consent letter and, if applicable, proof of custody or guardianship become especially important, as border authorities are much stricter about verifying authorization for minors crossing borders.

Checking the rules of the destination country is essential.

Contingency Planning

Operators may include policies about what happens if a flight is delayed, diverted, or canceled. Knowing who is responsible for supervising the child in those cases helps avoid confusion.

Costs & Operator Variability

Some companies charge additional fees for unaccompanied minor handling, or require longer lead time to process documentation. Policies can vary widely, so getting requirements in writing early is recommended.

Best Practices for Parents & Guardians

To make the process seamless:

• Notify early: Let your Jets.com private aviation advisor know right away if a child may be traveling alone.

• Gather documents in advance: Confirm what the operator requires, and don’t wait until departure week.
• Notarize the consent form: Even when not strictly required, notarization helps prevent challenges at customs or boarding.

• Keep a copy: Both for your own records and with your broker.

Building Confidence in the Journey

Minor consent forms aren’t just a box to check, they’re a vital part of ensuring children’s safety and protecting families legally. By addressing requirements early, anticipating operator policies, and having all paperwork in order, families can focus on what matters most: a safe, comfortable, and stress-free journey.

At Jets.com, our private aviation experts will guide you through the process from start to finish, ensuring every detail is covered. That way, when your child steps onboard, you can feel confident knowing everything has been prepared with care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do minors need ID to fly privately?

For domestic U.S. flights, children under 18 typically do not need government-issued ID. For international travel, a valid passport (and sometimes a visa) is required.

At what age can a child fly alone on a private jet?

Policies vary by operator. Some allow children as young as 7 or 8 to travel alone, while others require at least age 12. Younger children may be allowed if accompanied by a responsible adult.

Why is notarization recommended?

Notarization verifies the authenticity of signatures, which helps avoid challenges from customs officials, border agents, or in custody-sensitive situations.

Can only one parent sign the consent form?

Sometimes, yes. However, many operators request both parents’ signatures to avoid disputes, especially in cases of shared custody.

What happens if a flight is delayed or diverted?

Operators usually require instructions in advance about who will supervise the child in unexpected situations. Families should confirm contingency plans before travel.

Is there an extra cost for minors flying alone?

Some companies charge additional fees for unaccompanied minor handling, which may include extra staffing or oversight.