If you’re flying unaccompanied with minors, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Airlines each have unique policies regarding minors; here are some tips for making the process as stress-free and comfortable as possible.
Start off by knowing that airlines impose an unaccompanied minor fee, typically between $50 and $150 depending on your airline of choice. This fee will be added onto the total cost of your flight – to find it, enter the child in your booking form and view its payment breakdown.
Airlines require parents or guardians of minors traveling alone to fill out a release form prior to travel, which identifies who will drop off and collect them at the airport. Furthermore, both guardians must present government-issued photo ID; without this document airlines won’t permit children onto flights. It is essential that you obtain this documentation prior to submitting your request for travel.
As well as visiting an airline’s website for further guidance, it is a good idea to familiarise yourself with their requirements regarding forms. Southwest, for instance, requires parents and guardians of children traveling alone with them to complete a parental consent form and has additional requirements when travelling internationally like ensuring both parties are on board the same flight together and possess valid passports.
Delta Air Lines requires children between 5-14 to use its unaccompanied minor program when flying; it’s optional for 15-17 year-olds but costs $150 one way flight. Delta also enforces certain restrictions such as mandating nonstop flights rather than permitting connecting flights for children flying alone.
Keep in mind when booking flights for unaccompanied minors that the earlier option available should always be chosen, to reduce the chance that their flight needs to be rescheduled and they remain stranded overnight. Booking early morning flights is also advised so your child has enough time to get themselves and arrive at their gate prior to their scheduled departure time.
Spirit offers an easy way to filter search results for “Unaccompanied Minor” passengers by selecting “Unaccompanied Minor” as the airline. This will display all available flight options that suit their needs; then when ready, when checking out, their fee will automatically be added onto your total cost.
If you are traveling with an Unaccompanied Minor on United, check-in online or by contacting their contact center. When your UM arrives at the airport, a representative will accompany them through security to their gate before remaining with them until their designated guardian receives them at their destination.
