United Airlines Minor Policy – A Complete Guide for Parents

 

When a child travels alone, safety and comfort are top priorities. The United Airlines minor policy provides a reliable and secure travel process for young passengers who are not accompanied by an adult. This service is designed to give parents peace of mind while ensuring children feel supported from check-in to arrival.

Age Rules for Traveling Minors

Under the United Airlines minor policy, children aged 5–14 traveling alone must use the airline’s unaccompanied minor service. Kids younger than 5 are not permitted to travel without an adult. For those aged 15–17, the program is optional but available for extra safety and guidance.

How the Unaccompanied Minor Service Works

United’s service is carefully structured to ensure each step of the journey is supervised. Key features include:

  • Personal check-in assistance to complete all required forms.

  • Escort through security and boarding so the child is never alone in the airport.

  • Onboard attention from trained flight attendants who monitor and assist during the flight.

  • Safe handover at arrival, where the child is released only to the pre-approved guardian.

This service ensures minors are cared for throughout the trip, reducing travel stress for both parents and children.

Flight Limitations for Minors

The United Airlines minor policy permits minors to travel only on nonstop or direct flights. Layovers and connections are not allowed for unaccompanied minors to minimize travel complications and potential delays.

Service Fees

The cost for United’s unaccompanied minor service is $150 each way. This fee covers supervision and assistance for up to two children from the same family traveling together.

What Parents Need to Provide

Before travel, parents or guardians must prepare:

  • A completed unaccompanied minor form.

  • The child’s government-issued ID or birth certificate.

  • Valid identification for both the drop-off and pick-up guardians.

  • Contact details for both ends of the journey.

Arriving early at the airport is strongly advised to complete all requirements without rushing.

Parent Tips for a Smooth Experience

  • Discuss the travel process with your child so they know what to expect.

  • Pack easy-to-carry snacks and entertainment.

  • Make sure your phone is on and accessible for airline updates.

  • Choose flights earlier in the day to avoid delays.

By following the United Airlines minor policy, parents can ensure that their child’s trip is safe, straightforward, and stress-free.


FAQs About United Airlines Minor Policy

Q1: What is the minimum age for a child to fly alone on United Airlines?
A: 5 years old, with the unaccompanied minor service.

Q2: Can minors travel internationally with this policy?
A: Yes, but only on nonstop flights and with all required travel documents.

Q3: Is there an extra fee for siblings traveling together?
A: No, the $150 fee covers up to two children from the same family.

Q4: Can a 17-year-old fly without this service?
A: Yes, for ages 15–17, the service is optional.

Q5: Who can pick up the child at the destination?
A: Only the person listed on the unaccompanied minor form with valid photo ID.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Emirates Cancellation Policy: Everything You Need to Know Before You Cancel

Pegasus Check-In: Everything You Need to Know Before You Fly

Delta Terminal SeaTac: Everything Travelers Need to Know