Airport Lounge Access for Minors in India: A Complete Guide
Traveling with children can be a challenge, but access to airport lounges can make the experience more comfortable. For minors, access to airport lounges in India is possible through specific arrangements such as accompanied entry, paid access, or the use of add-on cards linked to a parent’s credit or debit card.
However, policies regarding lounge access for minors, especially unaccompanied ones, vary significantly across lounges, banks, and card programs. This guide provides a detailed overview of how minors can access airport lounges in India, including options for add-on cards from leading banks that offer lounge benefits.
1. Accompanied Access:
- Parental Cards: Minors can access lounges when accompanied by a parent or guardian holding an eligible credit or debit card that offers lounge access.
- Age-Based Fees: Some lounges allow children below a certain age (e.g., under 5 years) to enter for free, while others may charge a reduced fee for minors.
2. Add-On Cards for Minors:
- Eligibility: Certain banks issue add-on credit or debit cards to minors, typically those aged 12 to 18, linked to the primary cardholder’s account.
- Lounge Access: The lounge access privileges of add-on cards mirror those of the primary card. However, the acceptance of unaccompanied minors varies by lounge.
3. Unaccompanied Minor Access:
- Lounge Policies: Many lounges require minors to be accompanied by an adult, even if they possess an eligible card. Unaccompanied minors may face restrictions due to safety and liability concerns.
- Bank Policies: While some banks issue add-on cards to minors, the accompanying lounge access benefits may not extend to unaccompanied minors.
Specific Banks Offering Add-On Cards to Minors:
Here are some banks in India that provide add-on cards to minors, along with their lounge access policies:
HDFC Bank
Offers add-on credit cards to minors aged 15 and above. Lounge access benefits are aligned with the primary card but may require the minor to be accompanied by the primary cardholder.
ICICI Bank
Provides add-on cards for minors aged 15 and above. Lounge access privileges are similar to the primary card; however, unaccompanied minors may face access restrictions.
State Bank of India (SBI)
Issues add-on cards to minors aged 18 and above. Lounge access benefits are available, but policies regarding unaccompanied minors vary.
Axis Bank
Offers add-on cards to minors aged 15 and above. Lounge access is provided, though unaccompanied minors may need to check specific lounge policies.
SBM Bank India
Provides add-on cards with lounge access benefits. Specific age requirements and policies regarding unaccompanied minors should be confirmed with the bank.
Recommendations:
- Verify Lounge Policies: Before travel, contact the specific lounge to understand their policies regarding unaccompanied minors.
- Consult Your Bank: Speak with your bank to confirm the lounge access privileges associated with add-on cards issued to minors and any accompanying restrictions.
- Supervision Requirements: Be aware that many lounges may require minors to be accompanied by an adult, regardless of card eligibility.
In summary, while some banks offer add-on cards to minors with lounge access benefits, the ability for unaccompanied minors to utilize these lounges depends on the policies of both the issuing bank and the individual lounge. It’s essential to verify these details in advance to ensure a smooth experience.
Information by © The Fin Cafe
