Are you thinking about letting your child embark on their first solo adventure with Southwest Airlines? It's a significant milestone, and understanding the airline's policies is crucial for a smooth and stress-free journey. Southwest has clear guidelines for young travelers, differentiating between "Unaccompanied Minors" and "Young Travelers." Let's dive in and break down everything you need to know, step by step!
Understanding Southwest's Age Categories for Solo Flyers
Southwest Airlines categorizes children flying alone into two distinct groups, each with its own set of rules and services:
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Unaccompanied Minors (UMs): This category applies to children aged 5 through 11 years old who are traveling without an accompanying Passenger who is at least 12 years old. For these younger flyers, Southwest provides a mandatory Unaccompanied Minor service, ensuring they are supervised from check-in to pick-up.
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Young Travelers (YTs): Children aged 12 through 17 years old are considered Young Travelers. While they can travel alone, they are not subject to the Unaccompanied Minor service. Southwest expects these individuals to have the maturity and capability to navigate the airport and their journey independently, much like an adult traveler.
This distinction is key, as the level of airline supervision and the associated fees differ significantly between these two categories.
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| How Old Do You Need To Be To Fly Alone On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Determine Your Child's Age and Category
So, you're wondering how old your child needs to be? Let's start by figuring out which category your child falls into. Grab your child's birth certificate or a reliable form of ID to confirm their age. This is the very first and most important step!
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If your child is 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or 11 years old: They are considered an Unaccompanied Minor (UM). This means the Unaccompanied Minor service is mandatory, and there will be a fee associated with it.
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If your child is 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, or 17 years old: They are considered a Young Traveler (YT). Southwest does not require them to use the Unaccompanied Minor service, and therefore, no additional fee is charged for this age group. However, you, as the parent or guardian, are responsible for ensuring they are capable of traveling alone.
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If your child is under 5 years old: Southwest Airlines does not allow children under five years of age to travel alone. They must be accompanied by a passenger who is at least 12 years old.
Step 2: Understanding Policies for Unaccompanied Minors (Ages 5-11)
If your child is between 5 and 11, the process is more structured, but designed for their safety and your peace of mind.
2.1 Key Requirements for Unaccompanied Minors
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Mandatory Service: As mentioned, the Unaccompanied Minor service is required for this age group. You cannot opt out of it.
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Direct or Nonstop Flights Only: Unaccompanied Minors can only travel on direct or nonstop flights. This means itineraries that require a change of aircraft or flight number are not permitted. This is a crucial safety measure to prevent children from getting lost or confused during connections.
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No International Travel: Southwest does not offer Unaccompanied Minor service for international flights.
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Unaccompanied Minor Service Charge: There is a fee for the Unaccompanied Minor service. This fee is charged each way, per Unaccompanied Minor. You'll want to check Southwest's "Optional Travel Charges" page for the most current pricing.
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Maturity Assessment: 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 airline provides supervision, the child should be able to follow instructions and communicate their needs.
2.2 Booking a Flight for an Unaccompanied Minor
Booking for an Unaccompanied Minor requires a bit more attention than a standard reservation.
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Online or Phone/Ticket Counter: You can book Unaccompanied Minor travel online at Southwest.com or by calling Southwest Reservations or speaking with an Employee at the ticket counter. When booking online, you'll be prompted to indicate if the child is traveling with someone over 12. If you select "no," the system will recognize them as an Unaccompanied Minor.
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Providing Contact Information: You will need to provide comprehensive contact information for both the parent/guardian dropping off the child and the parent/guardian picking up the child at the destination. This includes full names, addresses, and telephone numbers (including cell numbers).
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Multiple UMs Traveling Together: If you have multiple Unaccompanied Minors traveling together on the same reservation, they can do so, but the Unaccompanied Minor service charge will apply for each UM.
Tip: Reflect on what you just read.
Step 3: Preparing Your Unaccompanied Minor for Travel
Preparation is key to a smooth journey for your young flyer.
3.1 Before the Travel Day
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Talk to Your Child: Discuss the travel plans with your child. Explain what to expect at the airport, on the plane, and upon arrival. Reassure them that Southwest Employees will be there to help.
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Pack Smart: Pack a small bag with essentials that your child can easily manage, including a favorite toy, book, or entertainment. Include any necessary medications (with clear instructions).
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Emergency Contact Information: Ensure your child has a copy of all important contact numbers (parents, guardians, emergency contacts) and the full itinerary. You can even write it on a piece of paper and put it in their pocket or backpack.
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Review Airport Procedures: Briefly explain what security checkpoints entail and the boarding process.
3.2 Dropping Off an Unaccompanied Minor at the Airport
This is where the direct involvement of the parent/guardian begins.
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Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at the airport well in advance of the scheduled departure time. Allow ample time for parking, checking luggage, and obtaining a gate pass.
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Check-in at the Ticket Counter: You must check in at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter. Inform the agent that your child is an Unaccompanied Minor.
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Obtain a Gate Pass: To accompany your child through security and to the departure gate, you will need to obtain a gate pass from the ticket counter. You will need to present a valid, government-issued photo ID to get this pass.
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Stay at the Gate: It is essential that the parent or guardian who dropped off the Unaccompanied Minor remains at the departure gate until the flight has actually departed. This ensures that if there are any last-minute issues or delays, you are there to assist.
3.3 Onboard Expectations for the Unaccompanied Minor
Southwest employees are there to assist, but your child should still be prepared.
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Pre-boarding: Unaccompanied Minors will typically be pre-boarded, allowing them to settle in before other passengers.
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Crew Assistance: Flight Attendants will be aware of the Unaccompanied Minor and provide assistance as needed during the flight.
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Following Instructions: Your child should be able to follow instructions from Flight Attendants and other Southwest Employees.
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No Monitoring During Flight: While Flight Attendants are aware of UMs, they do not provide constant, one-on-one monitoring throughout the flight. The child is expected to be relatively self-sufficient.
3.4 Picking Up an Unaccompanied Minor at the Airport
The pick-up process is just as important as the drop-off.
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Arrive Early: The designated parent or guardian picking up the Unaccompanied Minor must arrive at the airport at least 45 minutes prior to the scheduled arrival time.
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Obtain a Gate Pass: Go to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter to obtain a gate pass to meet your child at the arrival gate. Again, you will need to present a valid, government-issued photo ID.
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Check-in with Gate Agent: Once at the gate, check in with a Southwest Employee and inform them that you are there to pick up an Unaccompanied Minor.
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Verification: Southwest will verify your identity against the information provided at booking before releasing the child to you.
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Notify Drop-off Person: It's a good idea to notify the person who dropped off the UM that the child has been safely picked up.
Step 4: Understanding Policies for Young Travelers (Ages 12-17)
For older children flying alone, the process is much simpler, as they are treated more like adult passengers.
QuickTip: Reread for hidden meaning.
4.1 Key Considerations for Young Travelers
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No Mandatory Service: Southwest does not require children aged 12-17 to use an Unaccompanied Minor service. This means there's no additional fee.
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Maturity and Capability: The primary expectation for Young Travelers is that they possess the maturity and capability to travel alone. This includes being able to check in, pass through security, board, deplane, navigate airports (including potential connecting flights), and claim luggage without adult supervision or assistance from Southwest Employees.
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Domestic Flights Only: Young Travelers cannot fly to or from international destinations on Southwest.
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No Overnight Connections: Itineraries involving overnight connections are not permitted for Young Travelers.
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Parent/Guardian Responsibility: As the parent or guardian, you are ultimately responsible for ensuring your Young Traveler's readiness and ability to handle the journey independently. Southwest does not monitor Young Travelers during their travel. They are expected to be able to request help from a Southwest Employee if needed and have a way to contact a parent/guardian in case of travel disruptions.
4.2 Booking a Flight for a Young Traveler
Booking a flight for a Young Traveler is similar to booking for an adult.
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Standard Booking Process: You can book online, by phone, or at the ticket counter as you would for any other passenger.
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Provide Information: You will need to provide the child's full name, your relationship to the child, their address, telephone number(s), and date of birth. By purchasing the ticket, you affirm that you are the parent/guardian or authorized to act on their behalf.
Step 5: Preparing Your Young Traveler for Independent Travel
Even though they're considered more independent, some preparation is still highly recommended.
5.1 Before the Travel Day
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Discuss Expectations: Have an open conversation with your Young Traveler about the responsibilities of flying alone. Discuss check-in, security, finding their gate, and what to do in case of delays or changes.
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Itinerary Copies: Make multiple copies of the itinerary – one for the Young Traveler and one for the person picking them up at the destination.
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Check-in Online: Encourage them to check in online 24 hours before the scheduled departure to get their boarding pass. Consider purchasing EarlyBird Check-In® for a better boarding position.
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Southwest App: Have them download the Southwest app to monitor their flight status for any updates or gate changes.
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ID for Gate Pass (Optional): If a parent/guardian wishes to escort the Young Traveler to the gate, they will need to obtain a gate pass from the ticket counter by showing a valid, government-issued ID. This is optional, as the YT is expected to be able to navigate security on their own. While typically not required for the YT themselves, carrying a copy of their birth certificate or a school ID can be helpful for verification purposes if any questions arise.
5.2 Dropping Off and Picking Up a Young Traveler
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Airport Arrival: Arrive at the airport with sufficient time for parking, checking bags, and passing through security. The amount of time will vary by airport and travel season.
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Gate Pass (Optional): If accompanying the YT to the gate, obtain a gate pass at the ticket counter. It's recommended that the dropping-off person stays in the gate area until the flight departs.
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Meeting at Destination: The person picking up the Young Traveler should arrive at the airport early. If meeting at the gate, they will need to obtain a gate pass by showing a valid, government-issued ID. Otherwise, they can meet the Young Traveler outside security at baggage claim.
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Communication is Key: Ensure the Young Traveler has a fully charged phone and knows how to contact both the dropping-off and picking-up individuals.
Important General Tips for All Young Flyers
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Documentation: Always carry original or photocopies of government-issued identification (e.g., passport, birth certificate, government-issued photo identification card) for proof of age, especially for younger children.
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Medications and Special Needs: If your child has any medical conditions, allergies, or takes medication, create a clear, concise sheet with this information and ensure your child carries it. Communicate any essential needs to Southwest staff during check-in.
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Communication is Key: Keep open lines of communication with your child and the individuals dropping off and picking up.
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Flexibility: While planning is essential, be prepared for unforeseen circumstances like delays or cancellations. Ensure your child knows what to do and who to contact in such situations.
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Review Southwest's Official Policy: Always refer to the official Southwest Airlines website or contact their customer service directly for the most up-to-date and complete policies. Airline policies can change, and their website is the definitive source.
By following these steps and understanding Southwest's specific guidelines, you can ensure your child's solo flight is a safe and memorable experience.
QuickTip: Scan for summary-style sentences.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to book a flight for an Unaccompanied Minor on Southwest?
You can book online at Southwest.com or by calling Southwest Reservations or visiting a ticket counter. When booking online, ensure you indicate that the child is traveling without an adult aged 12 or older, which will prompt the Unaccompanied Minor service.
How to find out the Unaccompanied Minor fee for Southwest Airlines?
The Unaccompanied Minor service charge is listed on Southwest's "Optional Travel Charges" page on their official website. It's typically a per-way fee.
How to get a gate pass at the airport for dropping off/picking up a child on Southwest?
Go to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter with your valid, government-issued photo ID. Inform the agent you need a gate pass to escort a child (Unaccompanied Minor or Young Traveler) to or from their gate.
How to prepare my child for flying alone on Southwest?
Talk to your child about the process, pack a small bag with essentials, provide emergency contact information, and review airport procedures and what to expect during the flight.
How to know if my child needs to use the Unaccompanied Minor service on Southwest?
The Unaccompanied Minor service is mandatory for children aged 5 through 11 years old. Children aged 12 through 17 are considered Young Travelers and do not require this service.
Tip: A slow skim is better than a rushed read.
How to ensure my Young Traveler (12-17) is ready to fly alone on Southwest?
Assess their maturity and capability to handle check-in, security, boarding, deplaning, and baggage claim independently. Provide them with the itinerary, emergency contacts, and ensure they have a fully charged phone.
How to find out if a Southwest flight is direct or non-stop for an Unaccompanied Minor?
When booking, ensure the itinerary specifies "nonstop" or "direct" without any change in aircraft or flight number. Unaccompanied Minors are not permitted on flights with connections.
How to contact Southwest Airlines regarding Unaccompanied Minor policies?
You can visit their official website's "Children and Family Travel" section, or call their customer service line for detailed information and assistance with booking.
How to handle flight delays or cancellations for a child flying alone on Southwest?
Ensure your child has a charged phone and knows how to contact you. Southwest Employees will assist Unaccompanied Minors, but for Young Travelers, they are expected to communicate and seek assistance from airline staff independently.
How to provide proof of age for my child flying on Southwest?
Southwest generally accepts original or photocopies of government-issued identification such as a birth certificate, passport, or government-issued photo identification card as proof of age. Keep these documents readily accessible.
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