How Old to Fly Alone on Southwest Airlines: Your Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide!
Hey there, fellow traveler or concerned parent! Are you wondering about the rules and regulations for a child flying solo on Southwest Airlines? Perhaps your teenager is ready for a taste of independence, or your younger child needs to visit relatives. Whatever the reason, navigating airline policies can sometimes feel like a maze. But don't you worry! This comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know about how old your child needs to be to fly alone on Southwest, complete with a step-by-step process and all the essential details. Let's get them soaring safely!
Step 1: Understand Southwest's Age Categories for Young Travelers
First things first, it's crucial to grasp how Southwest categorizes children traveling without an accompanying adult. This forms the foundation of their policies and will determine the specific procedures you need to follow.
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Children Under 5 Years Old: Cannot travel alone under any circumstances. Southwest Airlines requires children under the age of five to be accompanied by an adult who is at least 12 years old. There are no exceptions to this rule for safety reasons.
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Unaccompanied Minors (UMs) - Ages 5-11: This is the specific category for children who will be flying alone and require special assistance from Southwest staff. The Unaccompanied Minor service is mandatory for this age group.
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Young Travelers (YTs) - Ages 12-17: Children in this age range are generally permitted to travel alone without requiring the mandatory Unaccompanied Minor service. However, Southwest emphasizes that these Young Travelers must possess the maturity and capability to navigate the airport and flight process independently. While the UM service isn't mandatory, you might still consider it if your child needs extra support.
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| How Old To Fly Alone On Southwest Airlines |
Step 2: Determine If Your Child Qualifies for Unaccompanied Minor Service (Ages 5-11)
If your child falls into the 5-11 age bracket, they must travel as an Unaccompanied Minor. This service provides a structured and supervised travel experience.
Sub-heading: Eligibility for Unaccompanied Minors (Ages 5-11)
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Direct or Nonstop Flights Only: Southwest Airlines' Unaccompanied Minor service is strictly limited to direct or nonstop flights. This means the flight cannot involve a change of aircraft or flight number. Connecting flights are not permitted for UMs.
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No International Travel: Unaccompanied Minors are not allowed on international flights. The UM service is for domestic travel within the United States only.
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Maturity Assessment: While the service provides supervision, Southwest stresses that children flying as UMs should have "sufficient maturity" to travel with limited adult supervision. This means they should be able to follow instructions from flight attendants and airport personnel.
Step 3: Gather Essential Information for Booking an Unaccompanied Minor
Booking an Unaccompanied Minor flight requires more detailed information than a standard adult ticket. Having this ready will streamline the process.
Tip: Pause, then continue with fresh focus.
Sub-heading: Information You'll Need
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Child's Full Name and Date of Birth: This is fundamental for the reservation and age verification.
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Your Relationship to the Child: You will need to confirm you are the parent/guardian or authorized to act on their behalf.
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Detailed Contact Information:
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Your full name, address, and telephone number(s).
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The name, address, and telephone number(s) of the person dropping off the child at the origin airport.
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The name, address, and telephone number(s) of the person picking up the child at the destination airport.
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Alternative contact persons for both drop-off and pick-up, in case of emergencies.
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Flight Details: Specific dates, times, and flight numbers for the desired itinerary.
Step 4: Booking the Unaccompanied Minor Flight
Unlike adult tickets, Unaccompanied Minor reservations often require a more direct approach to ensure all necessary information is captured.
Sub-heading: Booking Options
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Online (Southwest.com): While it's possible to initiate a UM booking online, you'll be prompted to confirm if the child is traveling with someone over 12. Selecting "no" will tag the reservation as an Unaccompanied Minor. However, it's often recommended to…
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Call Southwest Airlines Reservations Directly: This is often the easiest and most reliable method for booking an Unaccompanied Minor. A Southwest representative can guide you through the process, ensure all details are correct, and answer any specific questions you may have.
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At the Ticket Counter: You can also book in person at a Southwest Airlines ticket counter, but be prepared with all the required information.
Sub-heading: Unaccompanied Minor Service Charge
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Fee: Southwest Airlines charges an Unaccompanied Minor service charge for each way of travel. As of the latest information, this fee is typically $100 one-way for Unaccompanied Minors (ages 5-11) on the U.S. Mainland. For interisland Hawaii travel, the fee is $35 one-way. This fee is in addition to the regular airfare.
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Payment: The fee is usually paid at the time of booking. Multiple UMs on the same reservation will each incur the service charge.
Step 5: Preparing Your Unaccompanied Minor for Travel
Preparation is key to a smooth and stress-free travel day for your child.
QuickTip: Return to sections that felt unclear.
Sub-heading: Before Leaving for the Airport
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Review the Itinerary: Make multiple copies of the itinerary. Give one to your child, one to the person dropping them off, and one to the person picking them up. Ensure everyone knows the flight number, departure/arrival times, and contact information.
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Pack Wisely:
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Small, easy-to-manage carry-on bag with essentials: a book, small games, headphones, a comfort item, and any necessary medications.
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Snacks and an empty water bottle (which can be filled after security).
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Chargers for any electronic devices.
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A light jacket or sweater as cabin temperatures can vary.
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Talk to Your Child: Explain the process in an age-appropriate way. Reassure them that flight attendants and other Southwest employees are there to help. Teach them how to identify a Southwest employee if they need assistance.
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Identification: While TSA generally doesn't require ID for minors under 18 traveling domestically, Southwest requires proof of age for Unaccompanied Minors. Bring the child's original or a physical photocopy of their birth certificate, passport, or government-issued ID. Electronic images are not accepted.
Step 6: Dropping Off Your Unaccompanied Minor at the Airport
The drop-off process is a critical part of ensuring your child is safely handed over to Southwest's care.
Sub-heading: At the Airport
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Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at the airport well in advance of the suggested arrival times. This allows ample time for parking, checking in, going through security, and getting to the gate.
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Go to the Ticket Counter: Even if you checked in online, you must go to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter with your child. This is where you will:
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Verify the Unaccompanied Minor status.
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Provide and verify all required contact information for drop-off and pick-up.
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Show proof of the child's age.
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Obtain a gate pass: If you wish to escort your child through security to the gate, you must request a gate pass from the ticket counter agent. You will need to show your valid, government-issued ID to obtain this pass.
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Security Checkpoint: Proceed through security with your child. Be patient, as security procedures can take time.
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At the Gate: Once at the gate, check in with the Southwest Gate Agent. They will confirm your child's UM status and provide any last-minute instructions. You must remain in the gate area until the flight has departed.
Step 7: During the Flight and Upon Arrival
Southwest has procedures in place to assist Unaccompanied Minors throughout their journey.
Sub-heading: Onboard Expectations
Tip: Don’t skim — absorb.
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Flight Attendant Awareness: Southwest Flight Attendants are aware of Unaccompanied Minors on their flight and will provide general assistance. However, they do not provide constant, one-on-one supervision. The child is expected to follow all instructions and remain seated when required.
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Emergency Contact: Ensure your child knows that if they need anything or if there's a travel disruption, they should immediately ask a Southwest Employee for help.
Sub-heading: Picking Up Your Unaccompanied Minor
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Arrive Early: The designated person picking up the child should arrive at the destination airport at least 45 minutes prior to the scheduled arrival time.
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Go to the Ticket Counter: To meet the child at the gate, the pick-up person must go to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter to obtain a gate pass. They will need to present their valid, government-issued photo ID.
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At the Gate: Once at the gate, check in with the Southwest Gate Agent and inform them you are there to pick up an Unaccompanied Minor. They will coordinate the handover.
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ID Verification: The pick-up person's ID will be verified against the information provided at the time of booking. Only the pre-designated individual(s) will be allowed to pick up the child.
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If Arrival After Security Closes: If the flight arrives after the security checkpoint closes for the day, proceed to the Baggage Service Office for instructions on picking up the child.
Step 8: Considerations for Young Travelers (Ages 12-17) Flying Alone
While the Unaccompanied Minor service isn't mandatory for this age group, there are still important guidelines.
Sub-heading: Key Points for Young Travelers (YTs)
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Maturity is Key: Southwest emphasizes that YTs must have the maturity and capability to handle travel independently. This includes checking in, navigating security, boarding, deplaning, and claiming luggage.
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No Special Supervision: Unlike UMs, Young Travelers (12-17) are not provided with special supervision by Southwest employees during their travel. They are treated like adult passengers.
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Domestic Flights Only: Young Travelers are not permitted on international flights or itineraries with overnight connections.
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Booking a YT Reservation: You can typically book a Young Traveler's flight online, as you would for an adult. However, some parents still prefer to call Southwest to ensure all details are noted and to ask any questions. You will need to provide the child's full name, date of birth, your relationship, and contact information.
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Preparing a YT: Encourage your YT to have their itinerary, know how to contact you, and be familiar with airport procedures. It's a good idea for them to download the Southwest app to monitor flight status.
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Identification: While not always required by TSA for those under 18, it's highly recommended for a Young Traveler to carry a form of identification (like a school ID, passport, or a copy of their birth certificate) for verification if needed.
Step 9: Important Tips for a Smooth Experience
Beyond the step-by-step process, these tips can make a significant difference.
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Stay Updated on Policies: Airline policies can change. Always check the official Southwest Airlines website or contact their customer service directly for the most current information before booking.
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Communicate Clearly: Ensure everyone involved (the child, drop-off person, pick-up person) is aware of the plan and their responsibilities.
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Emergency Plan: Discuss what to do in case of delays, cancellations, or other unexpected events. Make sure your child knows your phone number by heart or has it readily accessible.
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Medical Needs: If your child has any medical conditions or requires medication, inform Southwest at the time of booking and ensure the child carries all necessary prescriptions and information.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Tip: Check back if you skimmed too fast.
Here are some common questions parents and guardians have when considering a child flying alone on Southwest:
How to book a flight for an unaccompanied minor on Southwest?
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You can book online, but it's often best to call Southwest Airlines Reservations directly to ensure all unaccompanied minor details are captured correctly.
How to find out the exact fee for the Unaccompanied Minor service?
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The fee is currently $100 each way for U.S. Mainland travel for ages 5-11. Always confirm the latest pricing on Southwest's official Optional Travel Charges page or by calling them.
How to ensure my child is safe during their unaccompanied flight?
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Southwest provides specific procedures for UMs, including supervision by staff at the airport and general assistance from flight attendants. Ensure you provide accurate contact information for drop-off and pick-up.
How to know if my 12-year-old needs the Unaccompanied Minor service?
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Children aged 12-17 are considered "Young Travelers" and are not required to use the UM service. However, if your child lacks maturity or you prefer extra supervision, you can still opt for it (if available for that age, though Southwest's UM service is specifically for 5-11).
How to get a gate pass to drop off or pick up my child?
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Go to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter at the airport and present your valid, government-issued photo ID to request a gate pass.
How to prepare my child for flying alone on Southwest?
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Talk to them about the process, pack essentials like snacks and entertainment, and ensure they know to ask Southwest employees for help if needed.
How to prove my child's age for an Unaccompanied Minor flight?
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You must present the original or a physical photocopy of their birth certificate, passport, or government-issued ID at the ticket counter.
How to find out if my child's flight is eligible for Unaccompanied Minor service?
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The UM service is only available on domestic, nonstop, or direct flights (no change of aircraft or flight number). International flights are not permitted.
How to handle flight delays or cancellations for an unaccompanied minor?
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Ensure the airline has accurate and accessible contact information for both drop-off and pick-up contacts. Southwest staff will work to ensure the child's safety and communicate with the designated contacts.
How to decide if my 13-year-old is mature enough to fly alone as a Young Traveler?
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Consider their ability to navigate airports, follow instructions, solve minor problems, and communicate effectively with adults. If you have doubts, assess if they truly possess the independence required for unsupervised travel.
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