Quick Answer
Children can fly alone starting at age 5 on most major US airlines. Ages 5-14 must use the airline's Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service. Ages 15-17 can typically fly as regular passengers. Check if your child can fly →
Minimum Age to Fly Alone by Airline
| Airline | Minimum Age | UM Required Until |
|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | 5 years | Age 14 |
| Delta | 5 years | Age 14 |
| United | 5 years | Age 14 |
| Southwest | 5 years | Age 11 |
| Alaska Airlines | 5 years | Age 12 |
| JetBlue | 5 years | Age 14 |
| Frontier | Does NOT allow unaccompanied minors | |
| Allegiant | Does NOT allow unaccompanied minors | |
Important
Frontier and Allegiant do not allow children to fly alone at any age. If you're considering these budget carriers, an adult must accompany your child.
What is Unaccompanied Minor Service?
Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service is a supervised travel program offered by airlines for children flying without a parent or guardian. Here's what it includes:
- Escort through the airport: Parent walks child to the gate with a special pass
- Supervised boarding: Airline staff board your child and introduce them to flight attendants
- In-flight monitoring: Flight attendants check on your child regularly
- Connection assistance: On connecting flights, staff escort your child between gates
- Supervised pickup: Child is released only to the pre-authorized adult who shows ID
This service is mandatory for younger children (typically under 14-15) and optional for older teens.
Age Tiers Explained
Ages 5-7: Most Restricted
Children 5-7 can fly alone, but with significant restrictions:
- UM service is mandatory
- Most airlines require nonstop flights only
- No connections or layovers allowed
- Must be on the same airline the entire trip
Ages 8-14: More Flexibility
Children 8-14 have more options:
- UM service still mandatory
- Connecting flights allowed (at approved hub airports)
- Layover time limits apply (usually 2-4 hours max)
- More routes available
Ages 15-17: Optional UM
Teenagers 15+ have the most freedom:
- Can fly as regular passengers (no UM required)
- No connection restrictions
- Can book online like any adult
- UM service available if parents want extra supervision
Age Rules for Connecting Flights
This is where it gets complicated. Each airline has different minimum ages for connecting flights:
| Airline | Minimum Age for Connections |
|---|---|
| American Airlines | 8 years old |
| Delta | 8 years old |
| United | 8 years old |
| Southwest | No connections allowed (any age) |
| Alaska Airlines | 8 years old |
| JetBlue | 8 years old |
Pro Tip
Use KidAero to automatically filter flights based on your child's age. We check connection rules so you don't accidentally book a flight your child can't take.
UM Fees by Airline (2026)
| Airline | Nonstop Fee | Connecting Fee |
|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | $150 | $175 |
| Delta | $150 | $150 |
| United | $150 | $150 |
| Southwest | $50 | N/A |
| Alaska Airlines | $50 | $75 |
| JetBlue | $150 | $150 |
Note: Fees are per child, per direction. A round-trip flight means paying the fee twice.
How to Book a Flight for Your Child
Search for Valid Flights
Use KidAero to find flights that work for your child's age. We automatically filter out routes that aren't allowed.
Call the Airline
UM flights must be booked by phone. You cannot book them online. Have your child's info and guardian contacts ready.
Provide Guardian Information
You'll need to give contact details for both the drop-off adult and pick-up adult, including government ID info.
Pay for Ticket + UM Fee
The UM fee is in addition to the ticket price. Confirm the total before completing payment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a 5-year-old really fly alone?
Yes, most major airlines accept 5-year-olds as unaccompanied minors. However, they're restricted to nonstop flights only. The airline provides supervised care from check-in through pickup.
What if there's no nonstop flight for my young child?
If your child is under 8 and needs a connection, you'll need to either: (1) wait until they turn 8, (2) have an adult fly with them, or (3) find an alternate route with nonstop service.
Can my 16-year-old fly without UM service?
Yes. Children 15+ can fly as regular passengers on all major airlines. You can still request UM service if you want the extra supervision, but it's not required.
Do I need to pay the UM fee if my child is 15?
No, the UM fee only applies if you opt into the service. At 15+, your child can book and fly like any adult passenger at no extra charge.
What ID does my child need?
Children under 18 don't need government ID for domestic flights. However, bringing a birth certificate or school ID is helpful for verification.
Can my child fly internationally alone?
Yes, but additional documentation may be required, including a passport and potentially a notarized consent letter from both parents. International UM rules are more complex - call the airline directly.
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