Airport escort pass - not a minor?

[mikehn]

My 18 year old is taking his first solo international flight. Is it possible to accompany him to the gate area? I know you can get special access to accompany minors, but Im wondering if it is possible with an 18 year old? It's his first solo international flight. And he's going to be sitting there at the gate alone for like 2-3 hours. And then another 7.5 hours to London. I never had it that rough. I'll call United in the next couple days, but just wondering.

 

[GoingSince1990]

I was given a gate pass once when with my daughter who was also over 18. Her flight was delayed so I mostly wanted to stay with her in the comfort of the post-security area until we knew it was actually going to take off. The agent was a bit begrudging but eventually agreed, so it is at their discretion and there are no guarantees.

 

[sam_gordon]

My 18 year old is taking his first solo international flight. Is it possible to accompany him to the gate area? I know you can get special access to accompany minors, but Im wondering if it is possible with an 18 year old? It's his first solo international flight. And he's going to be sitting there at the gate alone for like 2-3 hours. And then another 7.5 hours to London. I never had it that rough. I'll call United in the next couple days, but just wondering.

I'm sorry, why can't an 18yo sit by themselves for 2-3 hours?

I remember when I was a freshman in college, flying to meet the family for winter break. The only ride I could get to the airport dropped me off 7 hours before the flight. Had checked luggage, which couldn't be checked until 3 hours before the flight. So sat outside security for four hours with my luggage until I could check it. This was pre-cell phones, internet, streaming, etc. All I had was some paperback books.

 

[sponica]

It's probably at the discretion of the gate agent, but I hate airports and by the time he gets through security, grabs a snack and uses the restroom, it won't be that long as long as he has a book or something to keep him occupied.

 

[EACarlson]

Depends on the airport, the airline and the agent you talk to. PIT offers, or at least used to offer, a pass to go through security to shop at the mall airside.

 

[Woodview]

He is 18 years old ( old enough to drive a car , get married, earn money & pay tax }

He Will be fine

He will have a Smart phone & all other stuff of the year 2023

 

[mikehn]

LOL, I know he's a big boy. I guess this is my empty nest moment more than anything. He probably doesn't want dad to cramp his style and Im sure he'd rather check out the girls anyways.

 

[Best Aunt]

LOL, I know he's a big boy. I guess this is my empty nest moment more than anything. He probably doesn't want dad to cramp his style and Im sure he'd rather check out the girls anyways.

Did you even ask him? He might find it embarrassing to have Daddy sitting with him.

If it's his first solo international flight, it might be better for him to get used to it alone in the U.S. rather than in a foreign country.

 

[piccolopat]

If you're worried, sit in your parked car until his flight leaves. This way you're there if he needs you but not coddling him like a young child. He'll be fine without you sitting with him. Make sure he has a way to charge his phone while waiting and what he can't take thru security. Make sure his paperwork is in order. Let him know that outlets in the airport are often hard to find. After that, let go.

 

[Lewisc]

Did you even ask him? He might find it embarrassing to have Daddy sitting with him.

If it's his first solo international flight, it might be better for him to get used to it alone in the U.S. rather than in a foreign country.

Cellphone lot so you don't have to pay parking.

 

[gottalovepluto]

If it's his first solo international flight, it might be better for him to get used to it alone in the U.S. rather than in a foreign country.

Yes!

Those couple hours waiting for the plane in the US are like a mental adjustment. Paying attention to your own gate, watching your own stuff & noting the announcements because no one else is there to do it for you- it’s all easier in the US. Let him take the first step in the US so he is better prepared for the hustle of a place like Heathrow.