Flying alone at 16?

It will vary between airlines. Check the relevant website.

Yes, I know the airline will allow it, it’s more border control I’m worried about

Although I suppose if the airline allows me to fly with no additional documents, then it must be okay?

Hey everyone!

Next summer after GCSEs I will be 16 and want to fly to Europe by myself. I will stay with a (close) relative who will meet me at the airport, and of course I will be waved off by my parents.

I fly very often within Europe (live in the UK) and feel competent to take this flight.

My question is: what documents are required for unaccompanied minors to fly? I can book my own flight as an adult, but some sites seem to say a letter of parental consent is needed - is this true?

Has anyone done this and has any reassuring words? Just terrified of being denied entry at border control!

TIA x

You'll need to consider both the outward and return parts of the journey.

Airlines have different policies -- so you'll need to check to see what they are.

You'll need to check the rules for minors entering the country you're going to, to see whether they need a letter from your parents. This might need to identify the person you're staying with, and it's possible there would be a requirement that they collect you at the airport.

You'll also need to check whether there would be issues checking in on your trip back to the UK. The country that you're leaving might have its own requirements on under-18 leaving unaccompanied.

If you're not flying direct (e.g. if you're having to change planes en route) there might be more complications.

What country are you planning to fly to, and is it somewhere you can go without needing a visa?