Sachin Walls
If you need to escort a friend or family member to their departure gate, you may be able to obtain an escort pass. Escort passes are typically issued by airlines rather than airports and allow non-travellers to assist unaccompanied minors, elderly relatives, people with disabilities, or military service members to their gate. The process for obtaining an escort pass may vary depending on the airline and airport, but generally, you will need to present a valid government-issued photo ID and request a pass at the ticket counter. Some airlines may require you to fill out a form or pay a fee for the pass. It is recommended to call ahead or arrive at the airport early to ensure you have enough time to obtain the pass and escort your loved one to their gate.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who can get an escort pass? | Family members or guardians of unaccompanied minors, elderly people, people with disabilities or special needs, military service members |
| Who can issue an escort pass? | Airlines, not airports. Examples include Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, Southwest, and United. |
| What is the process to get an escort pass? | Present a valid government-issued photo ID at the airline's ticket counter and ask for an escort pass. The agent will complete an airline authorization form and print the pass once your reason is approved. |
| How much does an escort pass cost? | Airlines generally issue escort passes free of charge, but some—such as Delta—bundle the cost into their Unaccompanied Minor service fee (currently $150 each way for up to four children). |
| When to request an escort pass? | Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before the expected time of departure. |
| Where to request an escort pass? | At the ticket counter of the airline your loved one is flying with. |
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What You'll Learn
Escorting minors
Escort passes are available for guardians and family members assisting unaccompanied minors. The process for obtaining an escort pass may vary depending on the airline and airport, but some general steps include:
- Present a government-issued photo ID at the check-in counter: Most airlines require a valid government-issued photo ID to issue an escort pass. This can be done at the check-in counter or ticket counter, depending on the airline.
- Request an escort pass: Inform the check-in agent or ticketing agent that you need an escort pass to accompany a minor. Some airlines may require you to call ahead or make a request in advance, especially if the minor requires special assistance.
- Accompany the minor through security: With the escort pass, you will be allowed to accompany the minor through airport security and to the departure gate. Keep in mind that you will need to comply with the same security regulations as a regular passenger.
- Stay with the minor until departure: It is recommended that guardians or accompanying adults stay with the minor until their flight has departed. This is especially important if the minor is connecting through another city or airport.
It is worth noting that some airlines, like Delta Air Lines, offer unaccompanied minor programs. These programs provide additional services such as trackable wristbands, dedicated lounges, and personal escorts for minors travelling alone. Fees may apply for such services, and they are usually charged per direction of travel, in addition to the ticket price.
Additionally, here are some general tips for escorting minors through the airport:
- Ensure that the minor has all the necessary documentation, including a valid ID and boarding pass.
- Arrive at the airport early, especially if the minor requires special assistance or if it is their first time travelling alone.
- Familiarize the minor with the airport environment and point out important areas, such as check-in counters, gates, and restrooms.
- Provide the minor with a charged cell phone or device with emergency contact information and important phone numbers, including the airline's customer service number.
- Pack snacks, entertainment, and other comfort items for the minor to have during their wait and flight.
- Remind the minor to follow instructions from airport and airline staff and to ask for help when needed.
- If the minor is connecting flights or travelling internationally, ensure they understand the process and accompany them to the departure gate for their connecting flight if possible.
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Escorting elderly relatives
If you need to escort an elderly relative to their departure gate, you can usually obtain an escort pass, also known as a gate pass. Escort passes are typically issued by the airline, so check with the relevant airline to see what their specific policies are. In most cases, you will need to go to the check-in counter and request a pass, presenting your photo ID. Some airlines may require you to call ahead to obtain an escort pass.
It is important to note that escort passes are generally not issued for people meeting passengers on incoming international flights due to customs and immigration regulations. If your relative is arriving on an international flight, you will need to go through the airport security checkpoint and meet them at the arrival gate. You will not be able to enter the Customs and Immigration hall.
If your elderly relative requires wheelchair assistance, be sure to request this service when booking their flight. Wheelchair service is typically free and can provide privileges such as pre-boarding and having an escort at the connection hub. It is also a good idea to request a wheelchair if your relative has difficulty walking long distances or navigating crowded environments.
In some cases, you may need to purchase a fully refundable ticket to accompany your relative to the gate. This option allows you to go through security and escort your relative to their gate, and then cancel your ticket before departure. However, this option may not be ideal as it occupies a seat that could be used by another passenger.
Additionally, consider providing your relative with a pre-programmed cell phone that includes emergency contact numbers, airline ticketing phone numbers, and your contact information. This can help ensure that they can easily seek assistance if needed.
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Escorting people with disabilities
If you need to escort a person with a disability to their departure gate, you can obtain an escort pass. Escort passes are usually issued by the airline, so check with the airline in question to see what their specific requirements are. Generally, you will need to go to the check-in counter and request a pass, presenting your photo ID. Escort passes allow you to go through airport security screening and accompany the person to the departure gate. If you are meeting someone at a domestic arrival gate, you will need to go through the airport security checkpoint first. You will not be able to go into the Customs and Immigration hall if the person you are meeting is arriving from another country.
If the person you are escorting requires wheelchair assistance, be sure to mention this when requesting an escort pass. You can also request a wheelchair when making your reservation, or when you arrive at the airport. If you are travelling with a battery-powered wheelchair, you will need to arrive at the airport 1 hour prior to the normal check-in time. It is important that the person with a disability self-identifies as a passenger requiring assistance when they arrive at the airport. If they have a service animal, airline personnel are required to escort them to the service animal relief area.
Some airlines, such as American Airlines, offer additional services for customers with disabilities. This includes arm assistance, directions, and early boarding. Customers needing constant care or who cannot follow safety instructions must travel with a safety assistant, and a ticket can be purchased for this assistant.
If you are the person with a disability, it is a good idea to arrive at the airport as early as possible to allow time for check-in, security screening, and boarding. Be alert to gate and flight time changes and notify airline personnel of your need to move to a different gate if necessary.
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Escorting military personnel
Escorting a military service member to or from their airport gate is possible. Escort passes are generally issued by the airline, and you can request one at the ticket counter. You will need to present a government-issued photo ID, and the escort pass will allow you to go through airport security screening with the military service member and accompany them to the departure gate.
It is important to note that escort passes are not issued for people meeting passengers on incoming international flights due to customs and immigration regulations. If you are escorting a military service member arriving on an international flight, you will need to go through the airport security checkpoint and meet them at the arrival gate. You will not be able to enter the Customs and Immigration hall.
Additionally, if the military service member requires wheelchair assistance, be sure to arrange this with the airline at least 48 hours in advance. When you arrive at the departure airport, accompany the person to the check-in counter, and ensure that the attendant is there before you leave the terminal.
Escort passes are typically used for escorting minors, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities. However, some airlines may have specific policies regarding escorting military personnel, so it is recommended to contact the airline directly to inquire about any special requirements or procedures.
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Navigating airport security
An escort pass allows you to enter the airport and accompany a friend or family member to their departure gate or meet them at their arrival gate. Escort passes are particularly useful for those escorting or meeting minors, elderly people, or people with disabilities.
Escort passes are issued by individual airlines, so you should contact the airline your friend or family member is travelling with to request a pass. Some airlines may require you to fill out a form and pay a fee. You will also need to present a valid government-issued photo ID. It is recommended that you call ahead to check the requirements for obtaining an escort pass, and arrive at the airport at least two hours in advance to ensure you have enough time to obtain the pass and clear security.
Once you have obtained your escort pass, you will need to clear airport security and comply with the same regulations as a regular airline passenger. This may involve passing through security checkpoints and presenting your pass and ID. After this, you will be able to accompany your friend or family member to their departure gate or meet them at their arrival gate.
Escort passes are generally not issued for people meeting passengers on incoming international flights due to customs and immigration regulations. You will not be able to enter the Customs and Immigration hall with an escort pass, so passengers arriving from another country will need to pass through this area before you can meet them. Additionally, some airlines may have specific policies and requirements for issuing escort passes, so it is important to check with the individual airline in advance.
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Frequently asked questions
Escort passes are available for those escorting elderly relatives. You will need to present a valid government-issued photo ID and request an escort pass at the airline ticket counter. It is recommended that you call ahead or arrive at the airport at least two hours in advance to ensure you have enough time to obtain the pass.
Yes, escort passes are commonly provided for guardians and family members assisting unaccompanied minors. You will need to present a valid government-issued photo ID and request an escort pass at the airline ticket counter. Some airlines, such as Delta, may charge a fee for this service.
Yes, escort passes are available for those assisting travellers with disabilities or special needs. You will need to present a valid government-issued photo ID and request an escort pass at the airline ticket counter. If your friend requires wheelchair assistance, be sure to mention this when requesting the pass.
Yes, family members of active military service members can obtain special passes to escort or meet their loved ones at the airport. You will need to go through the ticket line with the ticketed passenger and request a pass at the ticket counter. A valid photo ID will be required.
