Using Libretto de Familia as ID

[JoGreen]

I was reading the other day that by Spanish aviation law it is legal for children under 16 to fly using just their libretto de familiar as ID (when flying with a parent).

I assume that this is just for domestic flights ?

I also assume that it is used in the same way that a Spanish adult can fly within the EU using just their DNI identity card ?

- Does anyone have any experience of actually doing this ?

[Stacey]

Are you sure that's right ? - I read somewhere recently that Ryanair refused boarding to a Spanish Man and his daughter who wanted to fly using the Libretto as a means of ID.

[Costamum]

Both are right and both are wrong.

- Spanish aviation law states that it is permitted for under 14's to fly just using their Libretto de Famila as ID when flying with a parent who produced their own required Photo ID. However, I understand that this is just for domestic flights.

- The Ryanair issue you are referring to was for a domestic flight, but Ryanair claimed that A) They were not a Spanish Carrier and therefore observed Irish law, which stated that a Passport or other photo ID was required, and that B) It advised the passengers of this when they confirmed and understood the T's & C's.

Basically, European aviation lets each country set their own requirements (for domestic flights), so as far as I can see in this particular case it's 50 / 50 thing. The judge ruled that Ryanair had to abide by Spanish law, but even so, even if you are flying domestically I wouldn't risk the hassle and would take a passport for your child if you have one.

[JoGreen]

I never thought I would ever see myself typing these words, but I actually agree with Ryanair !

- For one, as far as I can see, a Libro does not actually identify the child in question : This doesn't seem very safe - all it confirms is that the passenger is the child of the adult, but surely it could be almost ANY child without any photo ID ?

- Secondly, it does clearly state what ID you can and can not use when booking the ticket

- Thirdly, it's basic common sense, isn't it ?

Although Spanish citizens and flying between Spanish airports, I would have thought that the passengers would have erred on the side of caution when flying with a non-Spanish carrier who might not be familiar with this ruling.

[CGibson]

As a parent I am strongly in favour of any procedure which makes it impossible for my child to be taken out the country without the correct documentation. In my opinion a Libro de Familar is far to easy to fake / reproduce - especially with it not having a photograph. Well done to Ryanair I say.

[Robster]

I wouldn't go as far as saying 'well done Ryanair' - because I honestly think that they only abide by their own rules and regulations and were following those as opposed to any sense of responsibility in preventing child-trafficking - however, I do agree with you entirely that the practice of accepting non-photo ID should be knocked on the head.