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American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy and Fee

American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy 2025

American Airlines offers Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service for children aged 5 to 17.

Sending your child on a flight alone can be a daunting experience for any parent. American Airlines' Unaccompanied minor policy helps make it easier. This policy provides extra care and supervision for young travelers, giving parents peace of mind while they're in the air. So, let's discover how American Airlines handles unaccompanied minors, from fees to booking procedures, so you can confidently navigate the process.

Quick Overview: AA Unaccompanied Minor Policy

Flying Solo? ✈️ Kids ages 5–14 traveling alone must use the American Airlines unaccompanied minor policy for a safe journey.

  • ➤ Eligibility & Age Rules:
    • 5–7 years: Nonstop flights only, mandatory unaccompanied minor service.
    • 8–14 years: Nonstop or select connecting flights, service required.
    • 15–17 years: Service optional, fee applies if requested.
  • ➤ Service Highlights:
    • Early American Airlines boarding & meet flight attendants.
    • Gate escort to connecting flights & final pick-up.
    • Kids-only lounges at major hubs: CLT, DCA, DFW, JFK, LGA, LAX, MIA, ORD, PHL, PHX.
  • ➤ Booking & Fees:
    • AA Unaccompanied Minor Fee: $150 each way + applicable taxes.
    • Must book by phone, forms & ID required at check-in.
  • ➤ During the Flight:
    • Flight attendants assist but cannot continuously supervise.
    • Children instructed to use the call button for help.

Guarantee your child's smooth airport experience. Reserve unaccompanied minor flights quickly by calling our experts at +1-571-389-6426 for professional assistance.

What is American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy?

The American Airlines minor policy provides essential support for children traveling alone, ensuring they are safe and well cared for throughout their journey. This service simplifies solo travel and makes it less stressful for children and parents by offering dedicated assistance and supervision.

Key Features of the Service:

Age Range: 5 to 14 years.

Service Fee: $150 per one-way flight.

Priority Boarding: Kids board first.

Dedicated Assistance: Staff supervises from start to finish.

Comfort: Extra care during layovers.

Tracking: Parents can track flights online.

Fond Tip: Keep a detailed itinerary with flight times and connection details handy—like having a travel roadmap for quick reference.

American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Fee

The American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Fee provides essential support for young travelers flying alone, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance and supervision throughout their journey.

Here's a breakdown of the fee structure:

✔️One-Way Flight: $150 per child, plus applicable taxes.

✔️Round Trip: $300 per child, plus taxes.

✔️Multiple Siblings: Only one $150 fee for siblings traveling together on the same flight.

American Airlines offers a competitive fee structure. This fee supports children aged 5 to 14 who must use the unaccompanied minor service, ensuring they are well cared for during their flight. For children aged 15 to 17, the service is optional but available upon request, with the same fee applied if used.

Fond Tip: Children aged 2 to 14 can travel as an "accompanied minor" with a person who is 16 or older.

At what age can a child fly alone on American Airlines?

American Airlines has specific age guidelines for children traveling alone to ensure their safety and comfort. The rules vary depending on the child's age, dictating whether they must use the unaccompanied minor American Airlines service and the types of flights they can take. Understanding these age-based requirements helps parents make informed decisions and ensures a smooth travel experience for their young passengers.

What are American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Rules?

When sending an unaccompanied minor on an American Airlines flight, it's essential to understand the rules designed to ensure their safety and comfort. These guidelines vary based on the child's age and the flight route, so careful planning is necessary.

Age-Based Rules for AA Unaccompanied Minors

1. Ages 0-4

  • Travel Alone: Not allowed. Must be with an adult.

2. Ages 5-7

  • Service: Required
  • Flight Type: Nonstop only
  • Escort: Gate escort and guardian contact needed

3. Ages 8-14

  • Service: Required
  • Flight Type: Nonstop or connecting through specific airports
  • Connecting Airports: Charlotte, NC (CLT), Washington Reagan, D.C. (DCA), Dallas Fort Worth, TX (DFW), New York, NY (JFK and LGA), Los Angeles, CA (LAX), Miami, FL (MIA), Chicago, IL (ORD), Philadelphia, PA (PHL) and Phoenix, AZ (PHX)
  • Escort: Gate escort and guardian contact needed

4. Ages 15-17

  • Service: Optional (available on request)
  • Flight Type: Nonstop or connecting through specific airports
  • Connecting Airports: Same as for ages 8-14
  • Escort: Gate escort and guardian contact needed

Additional Restrictions for Unaccompanied Minors

Restriction TypeDetails
Other AirlinesNo connections with codeshare or oneworld® partners.
Ground TransportMinors under 15 cannot use ground transportation alone.
Last Flight of the DayThere are no final connections unless it's the only available flight.
Overnight FlightsIt's not allowed unless it's the only flight option.

Also read: How to Cancel American Airlines Flight - FondTravels.

What are the Requirements for American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Travel?

American Airlines has set specific requirements to ensure a smooth and secure travel experience for unaccompanied minors. These include pre-flight procedures, necessary documentation, and in-flight guidelines.

☑️ At the Airport

RequirementDetails
Check-inArrive 2 hours early; no online check-in.
DocumentationFill out the American Airlines unaccompanied minor form online.
Proof of AgeShow a birth certificate or passport.
Adult IDPresent a government-issued ID with the current address.
Contact InfoProvide your phone number and pick up the adult's details.
Security PassObtain a pass at the ticket counter to reach the gate.

☑️ Boarding and Takeoff Requirements

RequirementDetails
Gate ArrivalStay with the child at the gate until departure.
Notify Gate AgentInform the agent about the unaccompanied minor.
Early BoardingThe child boards early to meet the crew and learn safety.
Departure AlertThe gate agent will notify you when the flight has taken off.
Inform Pickup AdultUpdate the pickup person on the flight's status.

☑️ During the Flight

RequirementDetails
Flight Attendant ChecksAttendants will check on your child periodically.
Safety InstructionsEnsure your child asks for help and follows the rules.
Exiting the PlaneThe child should wait for a team member to assist them.

How to Book American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Flights?

Booking an unaccompanied minor flight with American Airlines is straightforward. Follow these simple steps

1. Online Booking:

  • Visit: Official Website
  • Select Flight
  • Add: "Unaccompanied Minor Service"
  • Complete Booking

2. Phone Booking:

  • Call Us: +1-571-389-6426
  • Share Flight Details
  • Request: "Unaccompanied Minor Service"
  • Confirm

3. Travel Agent:

  • Contact: Your Travel Agent
  • Provide Flight Details
  • Request: "Unaccompanied Minor Service"
  • Receive Confirmation

What is American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Check-in Process?

For unaccompanied minors, the check-in process with American Airlines ensures their safety and smooth travel. Follow these steps:

▶️ Arrival: Arrive 2 hours before the flight.

▶️ Check-in: Check-in at the ticket counter and complete the form.

▶️ Documentation: Provide the child's ID, your ID, and contact details.

▶️ Security Pass: Obtain a pass to escort your child to the gate.

▶️ At the Gate: Stay with your child and inform the gate agent.

▶️ Boarding: Your child boards early and meets the crew; the agent will notify you when the flight departs.

📌 Have you missed your American Airlines flight? Don't panic. Read this: American Airlines Missed Flight Policy

Tips for Parents and Guardians, if Your Child Traveling Alone

Here are some helpful tips:

TipWhat to Do
Discuss the TripPrepare your child by talking about the flight and safety.
Spot the HelpersTeach your child to identify uniformed team members at the airport.
Share Contact InfoWrite down significant phone numbers for them to carry.
Pack SmartInclude games, snacks, and a bit of cash in their carry-on.
Label EverythingAttach an ID and contact details to their carry-on or jacket.
Charge UpEnsure all devices are fully charged and pack chargers.
Wait for AssistanceRemind your child to wait for a uniformed team member when exiting the plane.

Wrapping Up Your Child's Solo Flight Experience

A solo flight for your child can be a positive experience with the proper preparation. By equipping them with essential information and adhering to the American Airlines unaccompanied minor policy, you set the stage for a smooth journey. Knowing what to expect and having everything they need boosts their confidence and reduces anxiety. With these steps, your child can travel safely and enjoyably, feeling well-supported at every step.

Safe travels!

Need help? Our team is ready to assist you. Call us at +1-571-389-6426.

You might also be interested in:

Spirit Airlines $9 Fare Club Complete Guide (fondtravels.com)

Delta Airlines Seat Selection | FondTravels

ANA Airlines Cancellation Policy | FondTravels

Alaska Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy | FondTravels

FAQ’s

What is American Airlines unaccompanied minor policy?

What does a minor need to fly American Airlines?

What are the requirements for minors to fly?

At what age can a child fly alone on American Airlines?

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About the author
Cynthia Lucas
Cynthia Lucas

Cynthia Lucas, an accomplished travel writer, joined Fond Travels in 2017, contributing expertise to global travel content. She specializes in affordable travel, helping thousands of readers discover the best flight deals, hotel discounts, and effective itinerary strategies. With firsthand travel experience across various regions and countries, Cynthia combines practical advice with insider insights. Her work has been featured in travel blogs, agency newsletters, and independent trip guides, establishing her as a trusted voice for budget-conscious travelers.

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