KidAero Blog

Expert guides for parents navigating unaccompanied minor travel

Popular

How Old Does a Child Have to Be to Fly Alone?

Complete 2026 guide to minimum ages, airline requirements, UM service, and what parents need to know before booking.

10 min read • Updated Feb 2026
Guide

The Complete Guide to Unaccompanied Minor Flights in 2026

Everything parents need to know about booking, preparing, and managing their child's solo flight — from age requirements to airport procedures.

12 min read • Updated Feb 2026
Comparison

Airline UM Policies Compared: Which is Best for Your Child?

A detailed breakdown of unaccompanied minor policies from American, Delta, United, Southwest, Alaska, and JetBlue. Fees, ages, and connection rules compared.

10 min read • Updated Feb 2026
Tips

What to Pack for Your Child's Unaccompanied Minor Flight

The essential packing list for solo young travelers — from documents and snacks to entertainment and emergency contacts.

6 min read • Updated Feb 2026
FAQ

Unaccompanied Minor FAQ: 25 Questions Parents Ask

Answers to the most common questions about UM travel — Can my 5-year-old fly alone? What happens during connections? Who picks them up?

8 min read • Updated Feb 2026
Tips

First Time Flying Alone? 10 Tips to Prepare Your Child

How to prepare your child emotionally and practically for their first solo flight experience — so they arrive confident, not anxious.

7 min read • Updated Feb 2026
Guide

UM Travel for Divorced Parents: Custody, Documentation & Booking

Special considerations when booking unaccompanied minor flights for custody exchanges — documentation requirements and tips for smooth handoffs.

9 min read • Updated Feb 2026
Delta

Delta Unaccompanied Minor Policy 2026: Complete Guide

Everything about Delta's UM program — ages 5-14 requirements, $150 fee, connection rules at Delta hubs, and step-by-step booking process.

8 min read • Updated Feb 2026
American

American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy 2026

Complete guide to AA's UM program — age requirements, $150-175 fees, approved connection hubs, and what to expect at the airport.

8 min read • Updated Feb 2026
United

United Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy 2026

United's UM rules explained — ages 5-7 nonstop only, 8+ can connect at United hubs, $150 fee, and full booking instructions.

7 min read • Updated Feb 2026
Southwest

Southwest Unaccompanied Minor Policy 2026

Southwest's unique UM program — ages 5-11 only, just $50 fee, but NONSTOP FLIGHTS ONLY. No connections allowed.

6 min read • Updated Feb 2026
Alaska

Alaska Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy 2026

Best value for connections — only $75 for connecting flights. Ages 5-12 mandatory, West Coast route specialist.

7 min read • Updated Feb 2026
JetBlue

JetBlue Unaccompanied Minor Policy 2026

JetBlue UM guide — $150 fee, connections at JFK and Boston, plus free WiFi and seatback entertainment for your child.

6 min read • Updated Feb 2026

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