Is it legal to lie about a unaccompanied minor's age to avoid the paperwork?

Question

My son flies to visit me and didn't have and escort on his last flight. My ex lied about his age so she wouldn't have to fill out the form. I am very upset about this and wanted to find out if there's any law that's been broken or is it just unethical (as well as unsafe).

Answer 1

My understanding is that the age limits for Unaccompanied Minors vary from airline to airline, which would imply that it's not a law, just airline policy.  But check with a few airlines to make sure.

I've been out of the airline business for a while, and worked at headquarters, not at any airport or onboard the planes.  But I think at my airline it went something like:

0-5 Can't fly as UM

6-12: If not accompanied by adult, must fly as UM

13-14: If not accompanied by adult, may fly as UM if parents choose, or may fly as adult

15+: Counts as an adult

So check with your airline to see if your kid is even at an age where he has to be a UM.

Answer 2

Check the airline's policy. I just see now that this was his mother that did this. Most mothers would be worried about their children. Odd.

Answer 3

This is considered child abandomment. You will need to show ID. The Airlines have their rules and parents that do not follow them may be charged under something other than lying.

A child under the age of 8 years and out of sight (in a dwelling, building, enclosure, or motor vehicle) of the person charged with his/her care must be left with a reliable person at least 13 years old.  [FL 5-801(a)]

Violation of this statute is a misdemeanor. An individual found in violation is subject to a fine not exceeding $500.00 or imprisonment not exceeding 30 days, or both. [FL 5-801(b)]

There are also provisions of Maryland’s CINA (children in need of assistance) and child abuse and neglect reporting statutes which address various aspects of leaving children unsupervised.

Answer 4

I am not sure if this is illegal but it is not safe. If there are no unaccompanied minor forms filled out, then the airline is not responsible for your child's safety. I think that it is worth the fee and the time to ensure your child's safety.