Guidance On International Transportation Of Minors, Illegal Charters

Aero-News learned this week the National Air Transportation Association (NATA) has published two new guidance documents for air charter operators.

The first document, "NATA’s Guide for International Transportation of Minors," provides guidelines to operators who transport minors outside of the United States. The guidance reflects policies in place at major airlines and some on-demand charter operators and is recommended for on-demand charter, Part 91 aircraft management, and Part 91(K) fractional operators.

The publication addresses several scenarios, including transporting minors with only one parent or legal guardian, minors alone or with neither parent or legal guardian, minors with a different last name, and minors with one deceased parent. The association explains that, although some nations do not require documentary evidence of the accompanying adults’ relationship to the minor and/or notarized letters of permission from the parent(s) or legal guardian for entry, and they are not necessarily required for departures from the United States, these guidelines are recommended for all international travel with minors to guard against legal action resulting from the transportation of minors.

"The airline industry has long been following similar guidelines, and on-demand charter operators have indicated a strong desire for industry guidance. Many operators are afraid to ask prominent clients for sensitive information, such as birth certificates or notarized letters. This publication gives companies guidance for establishing their own policy, and can serve as an educational tool when provided to customers," said NATA President James K. Coyne.

The second publication, "Risks of Illegal Charters," outlines the dangers of illegal commercial operations. The association intends for charter operators to distribute this document to potential clients. "Unfortunately, companies illegally offering air charter are not uncommon in much of the U.S., and this document will help legitimate charter operators educate their clients," Coyne explained.

"Risks of Illegal Charters" describes the training, oversight, drug and alcohol testing, and other significant differences between legal charter operators certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and illegal operators. It also advises consumers how to determine if a charter operator is properly certified by the FAA.

Coyne recommends that on-demand charter operators include both publications in welcome information packets for all new charter clients and that they also distribute the documents to existing clients.

FMI: www.nata.aero