New Avianca Policy Prohibits Children Under 15 from Flying Unaccompanied

In a policy change, Colombian airline Avianca has announced that all passengers younger than 15 years old will now be required to travel with a parent or duly authorized adult over the age of 18.

If that requirement is not met, the child will not be permitted to board, according to the Bogotá-based carrier.

The policy became official on May 15 for domestic and international flights operated by Avianca.

Tickets purchased before this date for children younger than 15 to fly alone, however, will still be honored, and arrangements won’t have to be accommodate the new rule.

“The airline recommends that all its customers confirm the requirements or authorizations necessary for the departure and entry of minors with the corresponding immigration authority of each country,” said Avianca in a statement. “In addition, we reiterate that the service of unaccompanied minors is not provided on any of our routes.”

The airline added that affected customers or others may reference its online help center for more information.