So, you're wondering how old your child needs to be to fly alone on Southwest Airlines? It's a common question for parents, and getting the details right is crucial for a smooth and stress-free journey for your little (or not-so-little) adventurer. Let's break down everything you need to know, step by step!
Navigating Solo Flights: Southwest Airlines' Policy for Young Travelers
Sending your child on a flight alone can feel like a huge step. Southwest Airlines, known for its friendly service, has specific policies in place to ensure the safety and well-being of young travelers. It's important to understand these guidelines, as they differentiate between "Unaccompanied Minors" and "Young Travelers," each with their own rules and requirements.
Step 1: Are You Ready to Uncover the Age Requirements? Let's Dive In!
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's answer the core question: How old do you have to be to fly unaccompanied on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines categorizes young flyers into two groups when they're traveling without an adult:
Unaccompanied Minors (UMs): This category applies to children aged 5 through 11 years old. For this age group, the Unaccompanied Minor service is mandatory.
Young Travelers (YTs): This category is for children aged 12 through 17 years old. For Young Travelers, the Unaccompanied Minor service is not mandatory, meaning they can travel alone without the dedicated UM service, but parents can choose to book them as a Young Traveler, which has certain stipulations.
So, the definitive answer is: if your child is between 5 and 11 years old, they must fly as an Unaccompanied Minor. If they are 12 to 17, they are considered a Young Traveler and have more independence, though specific rules still apply. Children under 5 years of age are not permitted to travel alone on Southwest Airlines.
Step 2: Understanding Unaccompanied Minors (Ages 5-11)
For children in this age bracket, Southwest provides a structured and supervised service to ensure their journey is as safe and comfortable as possible.
2.1 Mandatory Service and Eligibility
Ages 5-11: If your child falls within this age range and is traveling without a companion who is at least 12 years old, they must travel as an Unaccompanied Minor. There are no exceptions for this age group.
Flight Restrictions: Unaccompanied Minors are only allowed on nonstop or direct flights that do not require a change of aircraft. This means no connecting flights. Additionally, they cannot fly to or from international destinations or on itineraries with overnight connections.
Maturity Requirement: Southwest emphasizes that only children with sufficient maturity who are able to travel with limited adult supervision should fly as an Unaccompanied Minor. While the service provides supervision, the child should be capable of following instructions and understanding basic travel procedures.
2.2 Fees Associated with Unaccompanied Minor Service
There is a service charge for each way for an Unaccompanied Minor. As of current policies, this fee is typically $100 per child, each way for domestic flights on the U.S. Mainland. For flights between Hawaiian Islands, it's generally $35 per child, each way.
Important Note: This fee is charged per Unaccompanied Minor, even if multiple UMs are traveling together on the same reservation.
2.3 Booking an Unaccompanied Minor Reservation
Online or Phone: You can book an Unaccompanied Minor reservation online at Southwest.com or by calling their reservations line. It's often recommended to call to ensure all details are correctly captured and to confirm eligibility for the specific flight.
Information Needed: When booking, you will need to provide:
The child's full name and date of birth.
Your relationship to the child.
The child's address and telephone number(s).
Full contact information (name, address, phone number) for the adult dropping off the child at the origin airport and the adult picking up the child at the destination airport. Both adults must be at least 18 years old and have a valid government-issued photo ID.
Step 3: Preparing Your Unaccompanied Minor for Travel
Preparation is key to a smooth experience for both you and your child.
3.1 Before You Go to the Airport
Explain the Process: Talk to your child about what to expect. Let them know they will be assisted by Southwest employees and should listen to their instructions.
Pack Essentials:
Small carry-on bag with comfort items (book, small toy, headphones, activity book).
Snacks and a water bottle (empty for security, fill after).
Any necessary medication with clear instructions and in original containers.
Copy of the itinerary with contact information for both drop-off and pick-up adults, as well as emergency contacts.
A cell phone if they have one, fully charged.
Dress Comfortably: Choose comfortable clothing for the flight.
Unaccompanied Minor Form: Ensure you have completed the necessary Unaccompanied Minor form provided by Southwest. This form will detail all essential information, including emergency contacts.
3.2 At the Airport: Dropping Off Your Child
Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at the airport well in advance of the suggested check-in time (at least 2 hours before domestic flights). This allows ample time for check-in and security.
Ticket Counter Check-in: You must check in at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter. You cannot use online or self-service check-in for Unaccompanied Minors.
Required Documentation: Present the child's proof of age (birth certificate, passport, or valid government-issued ID), your valid government-issued photo ID, and the completed Unaccompanied Minor form.
Gate Pass: Request a gate pass at the ticket counter. This pass will allow you to accompany your child through the security checkpoint and to their departure gate. You will need your valid government-issued photo ID to obtain this pass.
Stay Until Departure: It is crucial that you remain at the gate until the flight has officially departed. Southwest employees will escort the Unaccompanied Minor onto the aircraft, usually pre-boarding, and seat them in a designated area for easy monitoring by flight attendants.
Step 4: Onboard Expectations for the Unaccompanied Minor
Once the child is on the plane, Southwest staff will keep an eye on them.
Flight Attendant Supervision: Flight attendants are aware of Unaccompanied Minors on board and will provide general supervision.
No Constant Monitoring: While supervised, flight attendants do not provide constant, one-on-one monitoring. The child should be able to manage their personal needs (e.g., using the restroom, asking for assistance) and follow safety instructions.
In-Flight Entertainment/Food: Southwest flights may offer Wi-Fi or in-flight entertainment. Ensure your child has a way to pay for these if desired, or pack appropriate entertainment. Southwest does not typically provide complimentary meals on most domestic flights, so packed snacks are essential.
Step 5: Picking Up Your Unaccompanied Minor at the Destination Airport
The pick-up process is just as important as the drop-off.
5.1 Arrival Procedures
Arrive Early: The designated pick-up person should arrive at the airport at least 45 minutes prior to the scheduled arrival time.
Obtain a Gate Pass: Go to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter to obtain a gate pass. You will need your valid government-issued photo ID.
Meet at the Gate: Proceed through security to the arrival gate. Check in with a Southwest employee at the gate and inform them you are there to pick up an Unaccompanied Minor.
ID Verification: Southwest personnel will verify your identity with your government-issued photo ID before releasing the child into your care.
Notify Drop-Off Person: Once the child is safely with you, it is good practice to notify the person who dropped them off at the originating city.
5.2 What Happens If There's a Delay or Diversion?
Southwest Airlines will do its best to keep both the drop-off and pick-up contacts informed of any flight disruptions.
In case of significant delays or diversions, Southwest staff will ensure the Unaccompanied Minor is cared for. They will typically attempt to rebook the child on the next available eligible flight and communicate with the parents/guardians.
Step 6: Understanding Young Travelers (Ages 12-17)
For this older age group, Southwest offers more independence.
6.1 No Mandatory Service, But Maturity is Key
Ages 12-17: Children in this age group are considered "Young Travelers" by Southwest Airlines. They are not required to use the Unaccompanied Minor service.
Self-Reliance: Southwest expects Young Travelers to have the maturity and capability to travel alone, including:
Checking in for their flight.
Navigating through the security checkpoint.
Boarding the aircraft.
Deplaning and claiming luggage.
Requesting help from a Southwest Employee if needed.
Contacting a parent/guardian in case of a travel disruption.
Flight Restrictions: Young Travelers cannot fly to or from international destinations or on itineraries with overnight connections. Unlike UMs, they can travel on connecting flights, but parents should ensure the child is capable of making connections independently as Southwest does not provide escort services for YTs making connections.
6.2 Booking for Young Travelers
Standard Booking: You can book a Young Traveler reservation like any other adult ticket, online or by phone.
Parental Responsibility: By purchasing a ticket for a Young Traveler, you affirm that you are the parent/guardian or authorized to act on their behalf.
No Additional Fee: There is no additional fee for Young Travelers, as there is no mandatory special service attached.
6.3 Preparing and Dropping Off Young Travelers
Discuss Travel Plan: Go over the itinerary, airport procedures, and what to do in case of delays with your Young Traveler.
Documents: Ensure they have a valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., school ID with photo, passport for domestic travel if preferred), and a copy of their itinerary with contact information.
Airport Arrival: Arrive early enough to allow the Young Traveler to check in and navigate security independently. You can still obtain a gate pass if you wish to accompany them to the gate.
Communication: Ensure they have a charged phone and know how to contact you or other emergency contacts.
Step 7: Key Differences Between Unaccompanied Minors and Young Travelers
It's vital to differentiate between these two categories to ensure compliance and a safe trip.
Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 common questions related to flying unaccompanied on Southwest Airlines, with quick answers:
How to book an unaccompanied minor flight on Southwest Airlines?
You can book online at Southwest.com or by calling their reservations line. Calling is often recommended to ensure all details are correct.
How to get a gate pass to drop off or pick up an unaccompanied minor?
Visit the Southwest Airlines ticket counter at the airport and show your valid government-issued photo ID.
How to prepare my child for their first solo flight with Southwest?
Talk to them about the process, pack essentials like snacks and entertainment, and ensure they have a copy of their itinerary and contact information.
How to find out the current fee for Southwest's unaccompanied minor service?
As of now, it's generally $100 per child, each way for U.S. Mainland domestic flights, but always check Southwest's "Optional Travel Charges" page for the most up-to-date pricing.
How to know if my child is mature enough to fly alone as a Young Traveler (12-17)?
Consider their ability to check in, navigate security, board independently, ask for help, and contact you in case of a disruption. Southwest states they should have sufficient maturity and capability.
How to ensure my child is safe during their unaccompanied flight?
Southwest provides supervision for UMs (5-11) and clear guidelines for YTs (12-17). Ensure all contact information is accurate and that your child understands the process.
How to handle flight delays or cancellations for an unaccompanied minor?
Southwest will contact the designated adults to inform them and make arrangements for the child's care and rebooking. Ensure your contact numbers are current.
How to check in an unaccompanied minor at the airport?
You must go to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter with your child, their proof of age, your ID, and the completed Unaccompanied Minor form.
How to pick up my child when they arrive as an unaccompanied minor?
Arrive at the airport early, get a gate pass from the ticket counter with your ID, and meet a Southwest employee at the arrival gate to receive your child.
How to differentiate between an "Unaccompanied Minor" and a "Young Traveler" on Southwest?
Unaccompanied Minors are ages 5-11 and require the mandatory, paid service. Young Travelers are ages 12-17 and do not require the service but must be capable of independent travel.
