Quick Answer
Alaska accepts UMs ages 5-12 (mandatory) and 13-17 (optional). Fees are the lowest for connecting flights: $50 nonstop / $75 connecting. Connections allowed at Alaska hubs. Search Alaska UM flights →
Alaska Airlines UM Age Requirements
| Age | UM Required? | Connections? |
|---|---|---|
| 5-7 | Yes, mandatory | Nonstop only |
| 8-12 | Yes, mandatory | Connections allowed |
| 13-17 | Optional | Yes |
Note: Alaska's mandatory UM age ends at 12, while most airlines require it until 14. Teens 13+ can fly as regular passengers.
Alaska Airlines UM Fees (2026)
| Flight Type | Fee (Each Way) |
|---|---|
| Nonstop | $50 |
| Connecting | $75 |
Best Value for Connections
At $75, Alaska has the lowest connecting flight UM fee among major airlines. Compare to $150-175 on American, Delta, and United.
Alaska Airlines Connection Rules
Approved Connection Hubs
- Seattle (SEA) - Main hub
- Portland (PDX)
- Los Angeles (LAX)
- San Francisco (SFO)
- Anchorage (ANC)
Age Restrictions for Connections
- Ages 5-7: Nonstop flights ONLY
- Ages 8-12: Connections allowed at approved hubs
- Maximum layover: 2 hours
- No overnight connections
How to Book Alaska UM Flights
Phone booking required: 1-800-252-7522
Information Needed:
- Child's full legal name
- Date of birth
- Flight details (origin, destination, date)
- Drop-off guardian: name, phone, address, relationship
- Pick-up guardian: name, phone, address, relationship
- Emergency contact
Pro Tip
Use KidAero to find valid Alaska flights first, then call with the flight numbers ready. Saves time on the phone.
Airport Procedures
Departure
- Arrive 2 hours before departure
- Check in at Alaska counter
- Show ID and complete UM form
- Receive gate pass
- Escort child through security to gate
- Hand off to Alaska staff
- Wait until plane departs
Arrival
- Arrive before flight lands
- Get gate pass at Alaska counter
- Go to arrival gate
- Show ID matching reservation
- Sign release form
Best for West Coast Travel
Alaska Airlines has the strongest network on the West Coast. If your child is traveling between western cities, Alaska often offers:
- More nonstop options
- Lower UM fees than competitors
- Convenient connections through Seattle
- Good coverage to Alaska (obviously) and Hawaii
Alaska Airlines UM FAQ
Can my 6-year-old connect through Seattle on Alaska?
No. Children ages 5-7 can only fly nonstop on Alaska Airlines. Connections are available starting at age 8.
Is my 13-year-old required to use UM service?
No. Alaska only requires UM service through age 12. A 13-year-old can fly as a regular passenger, though you can still request UM service if desired.
Does Alaska codeshare with American? Can my UM fly those?
Alaska has partnerships with American, but UM service is only available on Alaska-operated flights. Codeshare flights operated by other airlines follow that airline's UM policy.
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