Does My Child Need Id To Fly American Airlines?

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Chief Editor of - Fancy Fly USA

Traveling with children can be an exciting experience, but it can also bring a lot of questions and concerns. One of the most common questions parents ask is whether their child needs an ID to fly American Airlines. The answer to this question isn’t always straightforward, as it can depend on several factors. In this article, we’ll explore the different scenarios where your child may or may not need an ID when traveling with American Airlines. So, get ready to discover everything you need to know to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey for you and your little one.

Does My Child Need Id to Fly American Airlines?

Does My Child Need ID to Fly American Airlines?

Parents often wonder if their child needs identification to fly American Airlines. The answer is yes, but the type of ID required depends on the age of the child. In this article, we will explore the different types of identification that American Airlines accepts for children and teenagers.

Children Under 2 Years Old

Children under two years old are considered infants by American Airlines and are not required to have identification for domestic flights. However, parents will need to show proof of age for the child, such as a birth certificate or passport. For international flights, a passport is required for the child, regardless of their age.

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It’s worth noting that while infants may not need identification, it’s always a good idea to carry some form of identification for the child in case of an emergency. This could be a passport, birth certificate, or even a copy of the child’s medical records.

Children 2-14 Years Old

Children between the ages of two and 14 are required to have some form of identification when flying on American Airlines. Acceptable forms of ID include:

  • Passport
  • Driver’s license
  • State ID card
  • Military ID
  • Permanent Resident Card
  • Border Crossing Card

If the child does not have any of these forms of identification, a birth certificate or social security card may be accepted as a secondary form of ID.

Teenagers 15-17 Years Old

Teenagers between the ages of 15 and 17 are also required to have identification when flying on American Airlines. The same forms of ID listed above for children 2-14 years old are acceptable for teenagers.

It’s important to note that while American Airlines requires identification for minors, they do not require them to travel with an adult. However, parents may choose to purchase an unaccompanied minor service for their child, which provides extra assistance and supervision during the flight.

Benefits of Providing ID for Children

While it may seem like a hassle to gather the necessary identification for children to fly, there are several benefits to doing so. First and foremost, it ensures that the child’s identity is verified, which can help prevent unauthorized individuals from traveling with the child.

Additionally, having identification for the child can make the check-in process smoother and faster, as the airline can quickly verify the child’s information. This can be especially helpful for parents traveling with young children who may be prone to tantrums or meltdowns.

Conclusion

In summary, children of all ages are required to have some form of identification when flying on American Airlines, with the exact type of ID required depending on the child’s age. While infants under two years old are not required to have identification for domestic flights, it’s always a good idea to carry some form of ID for the child in case of an emergency.

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Parents should take the time to gather the necessary identification for their child before traveling, as it can help make the check-in process smoother and provide peace of mind knowing that their child’s identity is verified.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the policies of American Airlines for children and their identification requirements.

What is American Airlines’ policy on children flying?

American Airlines allows children of all ages to fly, including infants, as long as they are accompanied by an adult. Unaccompanied minors are also allowed on American Airlines flights, but they must follow specific guidelines to ensure their safety throughout the flight.

Unaccompanied minors must be between the ages of 5 and 14, and they must travel on a nonstop or direct flight. They will also need to have special paperwork filled out by a parent or guardian, and they will be escorted by an American Airlines employee throughout their journey.

What identification is required for children flying with American Airlines?

Children under the age of 18 are not required to provide identification when traveling with an adult on American Airlines. However, American Airlines recommends that parents or guardians bring a copy of their child’s birth certificate when traveling with a child under the age of 2, as proof of age may be required.

If a child is traveling alone as an unaccompanied minor, they will need to provide a valid form of identification, such as a passport or birth certificate. The child’s name on the identification must match the name on the airline ticket and any other travel documents.

What if my child does not have a government-issued ID?

If a child does not have a government-issued ID, such as a passport or driver’s license, American Airlines will accept other forms of identification. This can include school IDs, library cards, or any other form of identification that includes the child’s name and photo.

If a child is traveling alone as an unaccompanied minor and does not have a government-issued ID, they will need to provide two forms of identification that include their name and photo. This can include a school ID, library card, or birth certificate.

Can I add my child’s information to my American Airlines account?

Yes, parents or guardians can add their child’s information to their American Airlines account. This can make the booking process easier and ensure that all necessary information is on file. Parents or guardians can also add special requests, such as meal preferences or seating arrangements, for their child’s flight.

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If a child is traveling alone as an unaccompanied minor, the parent or guardian will need to provide additional information and fill out specific paperwork to ensure the child’s safety and well-being during the flight.

What if my child has a medical condition that requires special assistance?

If a child has a medical condition that requires special assistance, such as a wheelchair or oxygen tank, parents or guardians should contact American Airlines before the flight to make arrangements. American Airlines offers a variety of services for passengers with disabilities or special needs, including pre-boarding assistance and in-flight accommodations.

If a child is traveling alone as an unaccompanied minor and has a medical condition, the parent or guardian will need to provide detailed information about the child’s condition and any necessary accommodations.

What You Need To Know About Booking Your Child As An Unaccompanied Minor


In conclusion, it is important to remember that American Airlines requires all passengers, regardless of age, to have a form of identification when boarding a flight. This means that if your child is traveling alone, they will need to have a valid government-issued ID with them.

If your child is under the age of 18 and traveling with a parent or guardian, they may not need a separate ID as long as they are listed on the parent or guardian’s ticket. However, it is always best to check with American Airlines beforehand to ensure that you have all the necessary documentation for your child’s travel.

While it may seem like an extra step to obtain an ID for your child, it is important for their safety and security while traveling. By ensuring that your child has the proper identification, you can have peace of mind knowing that they can board their flight without any issues.

adminChief Editor of - Fancy Fly USA

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