Quick Answer
United accepts UMs ages 5-14 (mandatory service) and 15-17 (optional). Fee is $150 each way. Children 5-7 must fly nonstop; ages 8+ can connect at United hubs. Search United UM flights →
United Airlines UM Age Requirements
| Age | UM Required? | Connections Allowed? |
|---|---|---|
| 5-7 | Yes, mandatory | No - nonstop only |
| 8-14 | Yes, mandatory | Yes, at UA hubs |
| 15-17 | Optional | Yes |
United UM Fees (2026)
- Domestic flights: $150 each way
- International flights: $150 each way
- Fee covers: Up to 5 siblings on same flight
Total for round trip = $300 per child (or per family group of up to 5).
United Airlines Connection Hubs
UMs age 8+ can connect at these United hub airports:
- Chicago O'Hare (ORD) - Largest United hub
- Denver (DEN)
- Houston (IAH)
- Los Angeles (LAX)
- Newark (EWR)
- San Francisco (SFO)
- Washington Dulles (IAD)
Connection Restrictions
- Ages 5-7: NO connections (nonstop flights only)
- Maximum layover: 2 hours
- Must connect at United hub (not partner airlines)
- Last flight must arrive before 9:00 PM
How to Book
Call United: 1-800-864-8331
Have This Ready:
- Child's legal name and date of birth
- Flight details (use KidAero to find valid flights first)
- Drop-off adult info: name, phone, address, relationship
- Pick-up adult info: name, phone, address, relationship
- Emergency contact information
- Payment method
Airport Procedures
Departure
- Arrive 2+ hours early
- Check in at United counter (not kiosk)
- Show ID and complete UM paperwork
- Get gate pass to escort child
- Go through security together
- Hand off child to United representative at gate
- Wait until plane departs
Arrival
- Arrive before flight lands
- Get gate pass from United counter (show ID)
- Go to arrival gate
- Show ID and sign release form
- Collect your child
United UM FAQ
Can my 6-year-old fly United with a layover?
No. United requires children ages 5-7 to fly nonstop only. Connections are available starting at age 8.
What if the flight is canceled?
United will supervise your child, contact you, and rebook on the next available flight. They have dedicated UM staff at major hubs.
Can I book United UM flights online?
No. All UM bookings must be made by phone at 1-800-864-8331.
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