What Is American Airlines' Unaccompanied Minor Policy?

Traveling with children can be tricky, especially if they are flying alone. As a parent or guardian, you want to ensure that your child is safe and well taken care of during their journey. That's where American Airlines' Unaccompanied Minor policy comes into play. If you are flying with American Airlines and your child is flying solo, you will need to understand the rules and fees surrounding unaccompanied minors. 

In this blog, we will break down everything you need to know about the American Airlines unaccompanied minor policy, from what it is to how much it costs. So, let's get started! 

What is an Unaccompanied Minor?

Before diving into the details of the American Airlines Policy on Unaccompanied Minors, let's define what an unaccompanied minor is. 

An unaccompanied minor is a child between the ages of 5 and 14 who is traveling without an adult. Most airlines, including American Airlines, require these kids to follow specific rules to ensure they are safe and cared for throughout their flight. If your child is older than 14, they are typically allowed to fly alone without the unaccompanied minor service, but younger children require special attention. 

Who Needs to Follow the American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy?

The American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy applies to children aged 5 to 14 who are traveling alone. If your child is under 5 years old, they are required to fly with an adult. Here is a quick breakdown of the age requirements: 

• Ages 5 to 14: Must travel as an unaccompanied minor and follow the special policy. 

• Age 15 to 17: Can travel alone, but they are not classified as unaccompanied minors. They do not need a special service. 

• Age 18 and older: Treated as an adult passenger. 

  
  

So if your child is between 5 and 14, you will need to sign up for the unaccompanied minor service when booking your flight with American Airlines. 

American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Rules

Now let's go over the American Airlines unaccompanied minor rules so you know what to expect when you book your child's flight. 

1. Booking The Flight

When booking a flight for an unaccompanied minor on American Airlines, you can do it online or through customer service via telephone in the USA. The airline will need certain information about the child, including: 

• Full name

• Date of Birth

• Emergency contact details

• The adult's contact details for who will be picking them up

  
  

You will also need to fill out the American Airlines unaccompanied minor form, which will have details like your child's flight information and who will pick them up at the destination. 

2. American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Fee

As you probably guessed, there is a fee to use this service. The American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Fee varies based on your flight's destinations. Here is a quick look at the cost for each flight type:

When you book a flight for an American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor, it is important to remember that the unaccompanied minor fee is separate from the airfare. This charge is in addition to the regular cost of the ticket and any other associated ticketing charges that may apply to your booking. However, there is a benefit for families traveling together. If two or more unaccompanied children from the same family, whether immediate or extended, are flying on the same flights, then only a single fee will be charged. 

3. Travel Restrictions 

There are certain travel restrictions when it comes to unaccompanied minors: 

• Direct Flights only: American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy only allows children to travel on direct flights. No connecting flights are permitted, so your child will need to fly straight from the departure airport to the destination. 

• No International travel for kids under 15: If your child is under 15, they cannot fly internationally alone as an unaccompanied minor. However, kids 15 and older can travel internationally alone without additional services. 

4. Check-in and Pickup

When it comes to the day of the flight, the process is simple but very specific:

• Check-in: You need to arrive at the airport early to check in your child at the American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor desk. The agent will make sure all the paperwork is in order and your child is ready to board the plane. 

  
  

• Drop-off and Pickup: You will need to stay at the airport until the flight departs and remain in contact with the airline during the flight. Upon arrival at the destination, the child will be handed over only to the person you have designated on the American Airlines unaccompanied minor form and should be there with a valid ID. 

5. In-Flight Supervision

American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor: Key Things to Keep in Mind

When booking a flight for an unaccompanied minor with American Airlines, keep these important things in mind: 

• Age Restrictions: Make sure your child meets the age requirements for the service. Children under 5 cannot fly alone. 

• Flight Schedule: Always check the schedule to make sure there are no unexpected changes that might affect your child's travel plans. 

• Cost: Be prepared to pay the American Airlines fee for unaccompanied minors for both the outbound and return flights if it's a round trip. 

• Destination: Double-check that your flight is direct and within the airline's unaccompanied minor guidelines.

  
  

Flying alone for the first time can be an exciting adventure for kids, but it also comes with some concerns. The American Airlines unaccompanied minor policy is designed to provide extra safety and peace of mind for both parents and children. With clear guidelines, fees, and assistance, AA makes sure that your child is in good hands from start to finish. With the right preparation, your child's journey will be smooth, safe, and enjoyable. 

Sending your child on their first solo flight can feel nerve-wracking, but with American Airlines’ Unaccompanied Minor policy, you can rest assured they’ll be in safe hands from check-in to arrival. By understanding the age rules, fees, and travel restrictions in advance, you can make the process smooth and stress-free. With the right preparation, this journey can be more than just a flight; it can be your child’s first step toward independence.

FAQs About American Airlines' Unaccompanied Minor Policy

1. What age does American Airlines require for unaccompanied minor service?

Children aged 5–14 must travel as unaccompanied minors if flying alone.

2. How much does American Airlines charge for unaccompanied minors?

$150 each way (plus tax) for both domestic and international flights.

3. Can unaccompanied minors travel on connecting flights?

No, only direct flights are allowed under this policy.

4. Can children under 15 travel internationally alone on American Airlines?

No, they must be at least 15 years old to fly internationally without a guardian.

5. Who can pick up an unaccompanied minor at the destination?

Only the adult listed on the pickup form, with a valid photo ID, can collect the child.