FOR THOSE regularly transiting to and from overseas postings, trooper flights appear an attractive proposition and many families have been ‘checking in’ with AFF to enquire about the rules relating to flying ‘military air’. In a bid to avoid any travel turbulence, here are the answers to some of your most frequently asked questions:
WHAT ARE TROOPER FLIGHTS?
Trooper flights are operated by the Ministry of Defence to support Defence activity. Families can sometimes book spare seats on these aircraft through concessionary travel. Seats are often less expensive than civilian airlines, but they’re only confirmed once all duty passengers have checked in.
Adults travelling on concessionary fares cannot be nominated to accompany a child unless the child is also travelling on a concessionary fare.
WHO CAN TRAVEL?
Eligibility is carefully defined. The main groups include:
- Spouses or civil partners – legally recognised partners of service
- Long-term relationship partners – only in specific pilot
- Dependent children – usually under 18.
- Dependent young adults – aged 18–21 and in full-time education.
- Dependent adults with infirmities – over 18, medically certified, living at home.
- Unmarried adult children – over 18, living at home for compassionate reasons such as bereavement or chronic illness.
WHAT ARE THE RULES RELATING TO CHILDREN?
Children can only travel under specific conditions:
- With a parent or guardian – ideally for the whole journey, and the adult must also be entitled to travel.
- With a nominated adult – parents can nominate another entitled adult using an accompanied minor
- Unaccompanied 16 to 17-year-olds – allowed if parents give consent via the unaccompanied minor form.
WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW?
- Applications: You can apply up to three months in advance, but confirmation only comes the day before travel.
- Prioritisation: Seats are allocated based on application date and priority.
- Check-in: Expect longer and earlier check-in times than civilian.
- Baggage: Allowances may differ from commercial carriers.
- Dress codes: Some routes have restrictions on passenger attire.
- Different surnames: Carry proof of relationship (birth/ adoption certificates) if your party’s surnames don’t match.
- Insurance: Ensure nominated adults have cover for escorting children.
Trooper flights can be a helpful way for families to stay connected, but they’re not always straightforward.
You should check eligibility carefully, prepare the right paperwork, and always have a back-up plan in case flights change at short notice.