Exploring Solo: Age Limits For Independent Adventures

The minimum age for children to travel alone varies across different airlines and countries. In general, children under 5 years old cannot travel as unaccompanied minors, while children between 5 and 14 years old often require special unaccompanied minor services offered by airlines for an additional fee. The minimum age for children to travel alone as adults paying adult fares also differs, with some airlines requiring children to be as old as 15. International age limits and regulations also vary, with some airlines not permitting unaccompanied minors on international flights.

Age requirements for flying alone

The age requirements for children flying alone vary depending on the airline. Most U.S. airlines allow children as young as 5 to fly as unaccompanied minors, although some set the minimum age at 12. For example, Southwest Airlines permits children aged 5 to 11 to fly as unaccompanied minors, while Delta Air Lines and American Airlines allow children as young as 5 to fly alone. These airlines typically charge a fee for this service, which is usually around $150 each way.

Children flying as unaccompanied minors are often entitled to additional services and supervision. This can include priority boarding, designated lounges, escorts through the airport, and flight attendant supervision onboard. Some airlines, such as Delta Air Lines, may also provide trackable wristbands for unaccompanied minors.

It is important to note that there may be restrictions on the type of flights that unaccompanied minors can take. For example, some airlines only permit unaccompanied minors on nonstop flights, while others may allow them on connecting flights as well. Additionally, there may be specific requirements for international travel, such as obtaining a letter of consent if the child is travelling without both parents.

For children under the minimum age for flying alone, most airlines allow them to travel as accompanied minors with someone aged 16 or older. In this case, the accompanying adult will typically need to provide necessary documentation and remain with the child until takeoff.

Unaccompanied minor services

Airlines have different policies and procedures in place to ensure the safety and comfort of unaccompanied minors. Here is a detailed overview of the unaccompanied minor services offered by American Airlines and Delta Air Lines:

American Airlines:

American Airlines requires children aged 5–14 travelling alone to use their unaccompanied minor service. This service is optional for 15–17-year-olds, but a fee applies if requested. The fee for this service is $150 each way, plus applicable taxes, in addition to the ticket price. This fee covers additional siblings on the same flight. The service includes early boarding, kids-only lounges in hub cities for flight connections, an airport escort for connections, and escorting the child to the authorised adult picking them up.

American Airlines provides specific instructions for booking, preparing for travel, check-in, boarding, and flight status notifications. They also outline age and flight restrictions, as well as procedures for flight delays and cancellations. The airline recommends that parents or guardians talk to their children about the trip and remind them to only ask for help from uniformed team members. Children should have phone numbers, games, books, money, and snacks with them. An ID card and contact information should be attached to their carry-on bag or jacket.

For check-in, parents or guardians must provide a birth certificate or passport, their own government-issued photo ID, and contact information. They will also need to provide the name, address, and phone number of the adult meeting the child at their destination. A security pass will be provided to the parent or guardian so they can accompany the child to the gate.

Delta Air Lines:

Delta Air Lines offers an unaccompanied minor program for a fee of $150 USD/CAD/EUR each way, which is mandatory for children aged 5–14 and optional for 15–17-year-olds. The fee covers up to four children travelling together. The program includes features such as a trackable wristband, Sky Zone lounges for kids, and a personal escort throughout the travel day.

Delta provides detailed information on booking procedures, including the requirement for an adult to accompany the minor through the check-in process and pick them up at their destination. They also outline the required check-in documents, such as photo ID, address, contact phone number, and details of the adult meeting the child.

For boarding and takeoff, Delta recommends that children be seated at the rear of the aircraft near a flight attendant for safety. A parent or designated adult must accompany the minor to the departure gate and remain until the flight has departed. Delta provides specific instructions for unaccompanied minor connections and pick-up, emphasising the importance of valid ID and signature capture for the person meeting the child.

In the event of flight delays or cancellations, Delta employees will rebook the child on the next available flight, stay with them, and contact the designated contacts. If an overnight stay is required, Delta will provide accommodations, meals, and supervision, and will notify the parents or guardians.

Both airlines have comprehensive procedures in place to ensure the safety and well-being of unaccompanied minors. These services provide peace of mind for parents or guardians and a supportive travel experience for young travellers.

Documents required for unaccompanied minors

The required documents for unaccompanied minors vary depending on the country and airline. Here is a list of some common documents that may be required:

• Birth Certificate: This is required by some airlines, such as American Airlines, to prove the child's age during check-in.
• Passport: A valid passport is essential for international travel and may be required by airlines for proof of age.
• Government-issued Photo ID: The adult dropping off the child may need to provide a government-issued photo ID with their current address.
• Contact Information: The contact phone number of the parent or guardian may be needed during check-in. Additionally, the name, address, and phone number of the adult meeting the child at their destination are typically required.
• Unaccompanied Minor Form: Airlines often require this form to be filled out during check-in and to remain with the child during their journey.
• Letter of Consent or Authorization: This letter confirms that the child has permission to travel alone or with only one parent. It may need to be notarized or signed by the non-accompanying parent(s) and include their address and contact information.
• Custody Documents: If the parents are separated or divorced and share custody, copies of the legal custody documents should be carried. If one parent has sole custody, they should bring a copy of the custody papers.
• Death Certificate: In the unfortunate event of a parent's death, a copy of the death certificate may be required.
• Country-Specific Documents: When travelling to certain countries, additional documents may be required. For example, when travelling to Brazil, a notarized travel authorization from both parents is needed. Italian citizens under 14 need a Dichiarazione di Accompagno (Declaration of Temporary Guardianship for Travel Abroad).

It is important to carefully review the requirements of the specific airline and the countries of departure and destination to ensure all necessary documents are prepared in advance.

Preparing your child for flying alone

Know the Rules and Regulations

Before booking, familiarise yourself with the airline's policies regarding unaccompanied minors (UMs). Each airline has different requirements, age limits, and fees for children travelling without an adult. Some airlines require children to be as old as 15 or 17 to fly alone, while others allow children as young as 12 to do so. Additionally, most airlines charge a fee for UM services, which can vary from $100 to $300 round trip. These fees typically include a meal, but it's a good idea to send your child with extra snacks.

Prepare Your Child Ahead of Time

Talk to your child about what to expect when flying alone. Explain the process, from finding their seat to what happens during takeoff and landing. Discuss any potential issues and how to handle them. For example, explain turbulence and ear pressure, and what to do if they feel sick or have ear pain. You can also do a test run by flying with them and letting them sit away from you to see how they manage. It's important to make sure your child is emotionally ready for the experience and comfortable with the idea of solo travel before booking their ticket.

Pack a Carry-On Bag

Provide your child with a small carry-on bag containing essential items. Include activities and entertainment such as books, magazines, puzzles, colouring books, or electronic devices. Pack snacks, a change of clothes, and any necessary medication. Also, include contact information for the person they will be meeting, preferably on a lanyard or somewhere secure. You may also want to include a comfort item, such as a stuffed animal or a blanket.

Make the Reservation

Most airlines require you to book a direct flight for unaccompanied minors to avoid confusion or the risk of losing a child. They also typically do not allow booking the last flight of the day due to potential cancellations or delays. Be sure to provide the airline with the name of the person picking up your child, and ensure your child knows this information as well.

Arrive Early on the Day of Travel

Arrive at the airport early to complete the necessary paperwork and allow enough time for any unexpected delays. You will need to bring identification and your child's birth certificate. Once the paperwork is done, you will receive a "Gate Pass" to accompany your child to the gate. Introduce your child to the gate agent, and if possible, to the flight attendant who will be assisting them. You will need to stay at the gate until the plane takes off.

During the Flight

While your child is in the air, stay connected by using flight-tracking apps to know their location at all times. Also, maintain communication with the person picking up your child, so you are aware of any changes or delays.

Landing and Arrival

Once your child arrives at their destination, be sure to connect with them via phone to ensure they have arrived safely and to relieve any anxiety you may have.

International travel for unaccompanied minors

Booking and Reservations:

Unaccompanied minors cannot book their travel online and must be booked via phone. When booking, the adult making the reservation will be required to provide specific details and a 4-digit PIN for any itinerary changes. It is important to review the eligibility criteria and ensure the travel is correctly documented.

Check-in and Required Documents:

Arrive early at the airport, preferably two hours before the scheduled departure. At check-in, the adult accompanying the minor will need to provide necessary documents, including photo identification, address, contact information, and details of the authorised adult picking up the child at the destination. A birth certificate or passport to prove the child's age may also be required.

Boarding and Takeoff:

The accompanying adult must take the unaccompanied minor to the departure gate and stay until the flight departs. Early boarding is typically offered to unaccompanied minors to allow them to get settled, meet the flight attendants, and learn about safety features.

In-flight Experience:

Airlines often provide features like trackable wristbands, kids-only lounges, and dedicated escorts for unaccompanied minors. It is recommended to pack snacks, games, books, and other entertainment for the flight.

Flight Delays and Cancellations:

In case of flight delays or cancellations, airlines will attempt to rebook the unaccompanied minor on the next available flight and notify the designated contacts. If an overnight stay is required due to unforeseen circumstances, the airline will arrange accommodations, meals, and supervision.

Pick-up at Destination:

The authorised adult picking up the child at the destination must present valid identification and sign the necessary documents. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours before the child's scheduled arrival. If there are any changes to the pickup person, the airline must be notified in advance.

Country-Specific Regulations:

When travelling internationally, it is essential to be aware of country-specific regulations. For example, some countries, like Brazil, Italy, Mexico, and Spain, require additional documentation, such as travel authorisation letters or declarations of temporary guardianship. Be sure to review the requirements for the specific countries involved in the travel.

Fees and Rules:

Most airlines charge a fee for their unaccompanied minor programs, typically around $150 each way, in addition to the ticketed adult fare. This fee covers services such as early boarding, escorts, and supervision during the minor's travel.

In summary, international travel for unaccompanied minors involves careful planning, adhering to specific requirements, and staying informed about country-specific regulations. It is important to prioritise the safety and comfort of the child throughout the entire travel experience.

Frequently asked questions