Can A Minor Fly Alone On United Airlines?

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Chief Editor of - Fancy Fly USA

Flying alone can be an exciting yet nerve-wracking experience for anyone, but what about for minors? If you’re a parent or guardian wondering if your child can fly alone on United Airlines, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at United Airlines’ policy on unaccompanied minors and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

United Airlines offers a service for unaccompanied minors, also known as UMNRs, to ensure their safety and comfort during their flight. However, there are certain rules and regulations that you need to be aware of before booking your child’s ticket. Let’s dive in and explore what United Airlines requires for minors flying alone.

Can a Minor Fly Alone on United Airlines?

H2: Can a Minor Fly Alone on United Airlines?

United Airlines is a popular airline that many people around the world trust when it comes to air travel. If you are planning to send your minor child on a flight alone, you may be wondering if United Airlines allows this. In this article, we will discuss the policies and procedures that United Airlines has in place when it comes to minors flying alone.

H3: Age Requirements for Unaccompanied Minors

United Airlines allows unaccompanied minors to fly on their planes, but there are age restrictions in place. Children between the ages of 5 and 11 are considered unaccompanied minors, and they must use the unaccompanied minor service provided by United Airlines. Children between the ages of 12 and 17 are not required to use this service, but they can if their parents or guardians wish.

For children between the ages of 5 and 11, United Airlines requires that they use the unaccompanied minor service. This service includes a United Airlines representative who will escort the child through check-in, security, and to the gate. During the flight, the child will be supervised by the flight attendants and escorted to the designated pick-up person at the destination.

H3: Booking an Unaccompanied Minor Flight

To book an unaccompanied minor flight on United Airlines, you must call the United Airlines reservation line. You cannot book these types of flights online. When you call, you will need to provide the child’s name, age, and the name and contact information of the person who will be picking up the child at the destination. You will also need to pay a fee for the unaccompanied minor service.

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H3: Fees for Unaccompanied Minor Service

The fee for the unaccompanied minor service on United Airlines varies depending on the destination and the length of the flight. As of July 2021, the fee is $150 each way for non-stop or direct flights and $200 each way for connecting flights. It is important to note that this fee is in addition to the cost of the child’s airfare.

H3: Restrictions for Unaccompanied Minors

There are some restrictions that United Airlines has in place for unaccompanied minors. For example, they cannot travel on the last flight of the day or on a flight with a connection that requires an overnight stay. They also cannot travel on certain types of planes, such as regional jets.

H3: Benefits of the Unaccompanied Minor Service

The unaccompanied minor service provided by United Airlines offers many benefits for parents and children. Parents can have peace of mind knowing that their child will be supervised throughout the entire travel process. Children can feel more comfortable and confident traveling alone with the help of a United Airlines representative.

H3: Alternatives for Unaccompanied Minors

If you do not want to use the unaccompanied minor service provided by United Airlines, there are some alternatives available. For example, you can arrange for a family member or friend to travel with your child. You can also hire a professional nanny or babysitter to accompany your child on the flight.

H3: Comparison with Other Airlines

When it comes to unaccompanied minors flying alone, each airline has its own policies and procedures. Comparing United Airlines’ policies with other airlines can help you make an informed decision. For example, American Airlines charges a $150 fee each way for unaccompanied minor service, while Delta Airlines charges $150 each way for non-stop flights and $200 each way for connecting flights.

H3: Conclusion

In conclusion, United Airlines allows unaccompanied minors to fly on their planes, but there are restrictions in place. Children between the ages of 5 and 11 must use the unaccompanied minor service, while children between the ages of 12 and 17 can use this service if desired. The unaccompanied minor service provides many benefits for parents and children, but there are also alternatives available. By understanding United Airlines’ policies and comparing them with other airlines, you can make an informed decision about your child’s travel plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum age for a minor to travel alone on United Airlines?

United Airlines allows children aged between 5 and 14 years to travel alone as unaccompanied minors. Children aged 15 and above may travel alone without any restrictions. However, children below 5 years of age must be accompanied by an adult at least 18 years old.

Unaccompanied minors between 5 and 14 years of age are required to use the unaccompanied minor service provided by United Airlines. The service is mandatory, and a fee is charged for it.

What is the unaccompanied minor service, and how does it work?

The unaccompanied minor service is a special service provided by United Airlines for children traveling alone. The service ensures that the child is escorted by a United Airlines employee throughout their journey, from check-in to the final destination.

Upon arrival at the airport, the child must be checked in by a parent or guardian. The parent or guardian must fill out the necessary paperwork and provide the child’s travel documents. During the flight, the child will be monitored by the flight attendants and escorted through customs and immigration upon arrival.

What documents are required for a minor to travel alone on United Airlines?

The child must have a valid passport or government-issued identification. In addition, the child must have a copy of their itinerary, including the flight numbers, departure and arrival times, and contact information for the parent or guardian at the arrival destination.

If the child is traveling internationally, they must also have a notarized letter from the parent or guardian giving permission for the child to travel alone. The letter must include the child’s name, the dates of travel, the flight numbers, and the contact information for the parent or guardian.

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What are the fees for the unaccompanied minor service on United Airlines?

The fee for the unaccompanied minor service varies depending on the route and the age of the child. The fee is charged each way and is in addition to the cost of the child’s ticket. The fee can range from $150 to $300 per child, per way, for domestic flights and up to $600 for international flights.

It is important to note that the fee for the unaccompanied minor service is non-refundable, even if the child’s travel plans change or are cancelled.

What are the restrictions on the unaccompanied minor service on United Airlines?

There are several restrictions on the unaccompanied minor service on United Airlines. Children under 5 years of age are not eligible for the service and must be accompanied by an adult at least 18 years old. In addition, the service is not available on all flights, and some destinations may have additional restrictions.

Finally, it is important to note that the unaccompanied minor service is not a babysitting service. The United Airlines employees who escort the child are there to ensure their safety and well-being during the flight, but they are not responsible for entertaining or supervising the child.

Child flying alone / Unaccompanied minor flying with United Airlines


In conclusion, United Airlines allows minors to fly alone but with some restrictions and guidelines to ensure their safety and well-being. The age range for unaccompanied minors is between 5-14 years old, and they must follow specific procedures during check-in, boarding, and during the flight.

Parents or guardians must also fill out necessary paperwork and pay an additional fee for the unaccompanied minor service. This service includes a designated staff member who will escort the minor to their flight and supervise them throughout their travel.

While it may be nerve-wracking for both the child and the parent, United Airlines takes extra care to ensure the safety and comfort of unaccompanied minors. With proper preparation and communication, flying solo can be a positive and empowering experience for young travelers.

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