Unaccompanied Minors

Sending your children to camp alone

This service is mandatory for campers en route to Wilvaken if there is a stopover with transfer to a connecting flight or if they are younger than age 14.
When the airline company asks for the name of the person that will pick up the camper upon arrival to Montreal, please give "Camp Wilvaken representative".
From the moment they arrive at the airport check-in, until they reach their final destination, the children are escorted and supervised by the airline staff. If the travel itinerary includes a transfer, ground staff will take care of the child and see him/her safely on board the connecting flight. This service also ensures that, in case of a flight delay or cancellation, the young person will receive extra care.

Before the Flight

Register early
The UM service must be requested at the same time the child's flight is booked. You should also request an advanced seat reservation for your child.

Costs
The program cost varies from CAD$ 50 to $100 per trip depending on the airline and whether there is a connecting flight or not. If you paid for the service on the return flight, a proof of purchase must be sent to Wilvaken with the camper to ensure that we are not asked to pay again on the return journey. If you want us to pay for the return service, please send us authorization and cash for the payment.

At the airport

Necessary information
During the check-in formalities you will be asked to complete a form which is attached to an envelope. The form contains:

Child's identification
Flight itinerary
Names of people who will meet your child at and destination ("Wilvaken representative")
Parent's or guardian signature of authorization.

The envelope serves as a document holder for your child's passport, airline ticket, emergency contact number and customs documentation.

Step-by-step procedures

Even though an airline agent has already taken charge of your child, you'll be asked to remain at the airport until the flight has departed.
The agent will accompany your child through the security check and proceed to the gate area.
Once boarding is announced, your child will be escorted onto the aircraft ahead of other passengers. S/he will be greeted by the In-charge Flight Attendant who will guide her/him to an assigned seat.
Throughout the flight, your child will be supervised by crew members.
Upon arrival at your child's destination, the In-charge Flight Attendant will assist with disembarkation, and then hand over responsibility to an airport agent.
The airport agent will assist your child with the passage through Customs and Immigration and then with baggage pick-up.
Then the agent will escort your child to the arrivals section to meet the person designated on the UM envelope.
The person meeting your child will be asked for photo identification and must sign the UM envelope, accepting responsibility for the child.

Tips for a safe and happy trip

Before your child goes on a trip, you can help to prepare for it by explaining the details in advance – it's less stressful for everyone.
Your child should be well rested.
Ensure your child has a carry-on bag containing a snack and some favourite items – just like you, kids need something to read or eat in case of a delay.
Make sure that Wilvaken is aware of all flight details.