Quick Answer
Delta accepts unaccompanied minors ages 5-14 (mandatory UM service) and 15-17 (optional). The fee is $150 each way for domestic flights. Connections are allowed at Delta hubs only. Search Delta UM flights →
Delta Unaccompanied Minor Age Requirements
Delta's UM program has two tiers:
Ages 5-14: Mandatory UM Service
Children in this age range MUST be booked as unaccompanied minors. They cannot fly without the UM service, even if a parent tries to book a regular ticket.
Ages 15-17: Optional UM Service
Teens 15-17 can fly as regular passengers OR opt into the UM program for extra supervision. Many parents choose UM service for first-time flyers.
Important: Age is calculated based on the date of travel, not the booking date. If your child turns 15 between booking and flying, they move to the optional tier.
Delta UM Fees (2026)
| Flight Type | Fee (Each Way) |
|---|---|
| Domestic Nonstop | $150 |
| Domestic with Connection | $150 |
| International | $150 |
Fee is per child, per direction. Round trip = $300 per child.
Delta Connection Rules for UMs
Delta allows connections for unaccompanied minors, but with restrictions:
Approved Connection Hubs
- Atlanta (ATL) - Delta's largest hub
- Detroit (DTW)
- Minneapolis (MSP)
- Salt Lake City (SLC)
- Seattle (SEA)
- New York JFK (JFK)
- New York LaGuardia (LGA)
- Los Angeles (LAX)
- Boston (BOS)
Connection Restrictions
- Maximum 4-hour layover during day
- Maximum 2-hour layover for evening connections
- No overnight connections allowed
- Last flight must land before 9:30 PM
How to Book a Delta UM Flight
You must book by phone. Delta does not allow online booking for unaccompanied minors.
Find a Valid Flight
Use KidAero to search for UM-validated Delta flights. We check age rules and connection restrictions automatically.
Call Delta
Call 1-800-221-1212 and select the option for "unaccompanied minor booking."
Provide Required Information
- Child's full legal name (as on ID)
- Child's date of birth
- Drop-off adult: name, phone, address, relationship
- Pick-up adult: name, phone, address, relationship
Complete Payment
Pay for ticket + $150 UM fee. You'll receive confirmation via email.
What to Expect at the Airport
Check-In (Drop-Off Adult)
- Arrive 2 hours early (3 for international)
- Bring government-issued photo ID
- Check in at the counter (not kiosk)
- Complete UM paperwork
- Receive gate pass to escort child through security
- Walk child to gate and meet Delta staff
- Stay until plane takes off
During the Flight
- Flight attendants check on UM regularly
- Child wears UM lanyard for identification
- Child is served meals/snacks first
- Staff escorts child during connections
Arrival (Pick-Up Adult)
- Arrive before flight lands
- Bring government-issued photo ID (must match booking)
- Get gate pass at Delta counter
- Meet child at the gate
- Sign release form
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the pick-up person after booking?
Yes, but you must call Delta at least 24 hours before departure. The new person's ID must match the updated booking.
What if the flight is delayed or canceled?
Delta staff will supervise your child and contact you immediately. They'll rebook on the next available flight and keep your child in a supervised area.
Can my child bring a phone?
Yes, and we recommend it. Make sure it's charged and has your contact info saved.
Does my child need ID?
Children under 18 don't need government ID for domestic flights, but it's helpful. Bring a birth certificate or school ID as backup.
Ready to Book?
Search for Delta flights that are validated for your child's age:
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