To take DD away on her birthday against the wishes of her Dad

[oddsocks9]

I have a DD who will be 16. For a bit of background, me and her Dad separated when she was 4.

Her Dad has always had her 4 overnights and 2 dinners a month. He pays me 150 a month in maintenance. He has never paid for or contributed towards haircuts, school uniform, school trips, school lunches, basically anything she needs above the 150. He has never done dentist, doctors or helped with homework. He has taken her on holiday twice in 11 years. All of this aside, I have always had a fairly amicable relationship with him.

I work full time and have managed to save enough money to take DD to Disneyland (in the US). Her birthday falls during a school holiday and DD has said she would like to go so that we are out there when it is her actual birthday.

I have mentioned this to her Dad who has hit the roof and has said absolutely no way am I to take her away during that period as he wants to see her on her actual birthday.

DD does not seem fussed about seeing her Dad on her birthday, and said she would be fine to see him when we got back (which would be 3 days after her birthday).

AIBU if I was to take her?

I'm just giving you my thoughts on seeing what you have put down. Everyone else has said you're completely in the right and to book it regardless.

You won't convince me any 15 year 100% is the reason you are both going away for her birthday. It may be cheaper, you've made the offer/suggestion at some point. I just don't think you're being completely honest in your intentions.

But lots of people here think you are reasonable, so that's reasurance for you.

@Sometimeswinning

You've said he'll grind her down and she may change her mind. She's not 100% obviously.

Being ground down by her dad doesn't in any way suggest she isn't 100%. It suggests he gets what he wants, regardless.

Selfish bastard.

He's being ridiculous. He's shown absolutely no special regard for birthdays in the past. He can't just decide to be all precious about it now.

It's a cusp issue legally as she is almost 16 and many airlines let kids fly alone from 12-14 years old with specific rules.

At almost 16 she may be able to get through immigration on her own to be honest without being asked for parental permission letter.

My point is there is very little he can do to prevent her at this age unless he does something really stupid like report you for kidnapping.

Oh and he's being a total arse.