Planning for a child to fly alone can feel like a daunting task, but with the right information, it can be a smooth and worry-free experience. If your child is flying Southwest Airlines as an unaccompanied minor, you're in the right place! We'll break down everything you need to know, especially regarding the costs involved and the step-by-step process.
The Essential Question: How Much Does Southwest Airlines Charge for Unaccompanied Minors?
Let's get straight to the point that's likely on every parent's mind: how much will this cost?
Southwest Airlines charges a fee for its Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service. As of the latest available information, the fee is $100 one-way per Unaccompanied Minor. This fee is charged for each segment of travel, meaning if your child has a layover on a non-connecting flight (where they stay on the same plane), it's still considered one way. If they were to have a separate connection (which Southwest does not allow for UMs), it would be two separate one-way fees.
It's important to note that this fee covers the additional supervision and assistance provided by Southwest staff to ensure your child's safe journey.
Now, let's dive into the complete guide to navigating the Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor policy.
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| How Much Does Southwest Airlines Charge For Unaccompanied Minors |
Step 1: Understanding Southwest's Unaccompanied Minor Age Requirements
Before you even think about booking, let's figure out if your child qualifies for the Unaccompanied Minor service.
Ages 5-11: Children in this age range are required to use the Unaccompanied Minor service when traveling alone. This means they cannot travel without the specific UM service and its associated fee.
Ages under 5: Children under 5 years old are not permitted to travel alone on Southwest Airlines. They must be accompanied by a passenger who is at least 12 years old.
Ages 12-17 (Young Travelers): Children aged 12 through 17 are considered "Young Travelers" by Southwest. They are not required to use the Unaccompanied Minor service and are permitted to travel alone without the UM fee. However, if you or your child feel more comfortable with additional support, you can opt for the Unaccompanied Minor service (with the applicable fee) for children in this age group, though Southwest's standard UM procedures are primarily for the 5-11 age group. Keep in mind that Southwest does not monitor Young Travelers continuously, so they should be mature enough to handle independent travel, including check-in, security, boarding, and baggage claim.
Key Restrictions for Unaccompanied Minors (Ages 5-11):
Nonstop Flights Only: Southwest only permits Unaccompanied Minors to fly on nonstop flights or direct flights that make a stop but do not require a change of planes. This is a crucial detail to remember when booking.
No International Travel: Unaccompanied Minors cannot fly to or from international destinations on Southwest Airlines.
No Overnight Connections: Flights with overnight connections are also not allowed for Unaccompanied Minors.
Engage the user: Does your child fall into the 5-11 age bracket, or are they 12-17 and you're considering the additional support? Knowing this will guide our next steps!
Step 2: Booking the Flight for Your Unaccompanied Minor
Once you've confirmed your child's eligibility and understand the restrictions, it's time to book their flight. This process is slightly different than booking a regular adult ticket.
QuickTip: A quick skim can reveal the main idea fast.
Sub-heading: How to Book (and Pay the Fee)
Southwest recommends booking Unaccompanied Minor travel through their Reservations team or at the airport ticket counter. While you might be able to initiate the booking online, you will likely need to contact Southwest directly to finalize the Unaccompanied Minor service and pay the fee.
Online (Initial Search): You can start by searching for flights on Southwest.com, making sure to select only nonstop options.
Phone (Recommended): The most reliable way to book an Unaccompanied Minor flight is by calling Southwest Airlines Reservations. This ensures that all the necessary details are captured and the UM service is correctly applied. The customer service representative will guide you through the process and help you add the UM fee.
At the Airport: You can also book in person at a Southwest Airlines ticket counter.
Information You'll Need for Booking:
When you book, have the following information readily available for both the person dropping off the child and the person picking up the child at the destination, as well as an alternate contact at the destination:
Full name
Relationship to the child
Address
Phone numbers (including area code)
The child's full name, date of birth, and gender.
Flight number and destination city.
Paying the Unaccompanied Minor Fee:
The $100 one-way fee per UM will be added to your reservation. You can typically pay this fee online during the booking process or at the ticket counter during check-in. It's a good idea to confirm with Southwest how and when the fee will be collected.
Step 3: Preparing Your Child for Travel
Preparation is key to a smooth and comfortable journey for your child.
Sub-heading: What to Discuss with Your Child
The Process: Explain clearly what will happen at the airport, during the flight, and upon arrival. Let them know they will be assisted by Southwest Employees.
Following Instructions: Emphasize the importance of listening to and following instructions from Flight Attendants and other airline personnel.
Wearing the Lanyard: Southwest will provide a special lanyard for the Unaccompanied Minor. Explain that they must wear this throughout their journey.
Who to Ask for Help: Teach them to identify a Southwest Employee if they need assistance or have questions.
Emergency Contacts: Ensure they know the names and phone numbers of the person picking them up and the alternate contact.
Sub-heading: Documents and Essentials to Pack
Copies of Itinerary: Provide the child with a copy of their itinerary, and give another copy to the person picking them up.
Identification: While not strictly required for domestic travel for minors under 18, it's wise to have a copy of the child's birth certificate or passport in case it's needed for age verification.
Unaccompanied Minor Form: Southwest has a specific form (WN-1061) that needs to be filled out. This form collects all the necessary contact information for drop-off and pick-up. You can often pre-fill this to save time at the airport.
Charged Devices: Make sure all electronic devices (phones, tablets, etc.) are fully charged as in-seat power may not be available on all aircraft.
Snacks and Entertainment: Pack some familiar snacks and drinks (within TSA liquid limits) and activities like books, games, or headphones for entertainment during the flight.
Comfort Items: A small blanket or pillow can make the journey more comfortable.
Step 4: Dropping Off Your Unaccompanied Minor at the Airport
QuickTip: Pause to connect ideas in your mind.
This is where the real-world execution begins! Arriving early is paramount.
Sub-heading: Airport Arrival and Check-in
Arrive Early: Southwest recommends arriving at the airport at least two hours before the scheduled departure time. This allows ample time for parking, checking in, obtaining a gate pass, and going through security.
Go to the Ticket Counter: Unaccompanied Minors cannot check in online or at self-service kiosks. You must go to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter.
Obtain a Gate Pass: To accompany your child through security and to the gate, you will need a gate pass. Request this at the ticket counter. You will need a valid government-issued photo ID (like your driver's license or passport) to obtain this pass.
Complete Paperwork: At the counter, you will finalize the Unaccompanied Minor form (WN-1061) and provide all required contact information for drop-off, pick-up, and alternate contacts. Double-check all names and phone numbers for accuracy.
Pay the Fee (if not already paid): If you haven't already paid the $100 UM fee, you will do so at this time.
Sub-heading: Through Security and to the Gate
TSA Security: Once you have your gate pass, proceed through the TSA security checkpoint with your child. Be aware that you will go through the regular security line as gate passes typically don't allow for TSA PreCheck access.
Check-in at the Gate: Upon reaching the gate, immediately check in with a Southwest Employee and inform them that you are dropping off an Unaccompanied Minor. They will verify the information on the UM form and often "quiz" the child on who is picking them up.
Boarding: Unaccompanied Minors are typically pre-boarded before general boarding begins. A Southwest Employee will escort your child onto the aircraft and introduce them to the Flight Attendant responsible for their flight.
Stay at the Gate: You must remain in the gate area until the child's flight is in the air. A Southwest Employee will inform you when it's safe to leave the boarding area.
Step 5: During the Flight and Upon Arrival
Southwest's procedures are designed to provide a layer of safety, though continuous monitoring is not guaranteed.
Sub-heading: Onboard Expectations
Lanyard: The child is required to wear the UM lanyard around their neck at all times.
Flight Attendant Awareness: Flight Attendants are aware that there is an Unaccompanied Minor on board and will offer assistance as needed. However, they are not continuously monitored throughout the flight.
Following Instructions: Your child is expected to follow all instructions given by the Crewmembers.
Communication: Ensure you and the designated pick-up person are available by phone during the flight in case of any flight irregularities (delays, diversions, etc.).
Sub-heading: Picking Up Your Unaccompanied Minor
The pick-up process mirrors the drop-off in its importance and requirements.
Arrive Early: The designated pick-up person should arrive at the airport at least 45 minutes prior to the flight's scheduled arrival time. Factor in time for parking, obtaining a gate pass, and going through security.
Go to the Ticket Counter: The pick-up person must go to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter to obtain a gate pass. A valid government-issued photo ID is required.
Proceed to the Gate: Go through the TSA security checkpoint with your gate pass.
Check-in at the Gate: Check in with a Southwest Employee at the arrival gate and inform them you are there to pick up an Unaccompanied Minor. They will verify your identity against the information provided on the UM form.
Escort Off Plane: A Southwest Employee will escort the child off the aircraft and directly to the designated pick-up person at the gate.
Confirmation: The pick-up person will likely need to sign a form confirming the safe collection of the child.
Notify Sender: It's a good idea for the pick-up person to immediately notify the person who dropped off the child that they have been safely picked up.
Step 6: Important Considerations and What-Ifs
Tip: Read aloud to improve understanding.
Flight Delays/Cancellations: Southwest reserves the right to not allow UM travel on flights that may be delayed, diverted, or canceled due to weather or other operational disruptions. Have a backup plan in place and ensure both drop-off and pick-up contacts are reachable.
Refunds for UM Fee: The Unaccompanied Minor service charge is generally refundable if the reservation is canceled or if an adult (12 years or older) ends up accompanying the minor on the flight.
Maturity of the Child: While Southwest has age requirements, they also emphasize that the child should have "sufficient maturity and capability" to travel with limited adult supervision. Consider your child's individual readiness before booking.
10 Related FAQ Questions and Quick Answers
How to book a Southwest Airlines unaccompanied minor flight?
You can book by calling Southwest Airlines Reservations or by visiting a Southwest ticket counter. Online booking may be initiated, but finalization often requires direct contact with the airline.
How to pay the unaccompanied minor fee for Southwest Airlines?
The $100 one-way fee can typically be paid online during the booking process or at the airport ticket counter during check-in.
How to get a gate pass for dropping off or picking up an unaccompanied minor on Southwest?
Go to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter at the airport and present a valid government-issued photo ID to request a gate pass.
How to prepare an unaccompanied minor for their Southwest flight?
Discuss the travel process, emphasize following instructions, ensure they wear the provided lanyard, and pack necessary documents (itinerary, UM form), fully charged devices, and comfort items.
QuickTip: Read in order — context builds meaning.
How to check-in an unaccompanied minor for a Southwest flight?
You must check in at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter at the airport. Unaccompanied Minors cannot use online or kiosk check-in.
How to handle flight delays or cancellations for an unaccompanied minor on Southwest?
Ensure both the drop-off and pick-up contacts are available by phone, as Southwest will contact them in case of disruptions. Have a backup plan.
How to ensure my child is safe during a Southwest unaccompanied minor flight?
Southwest provides assistance from check-in to arrival, with employees escorting the child and Flight Attendants aware of their presence. However, continuous monitoring is not provided, so your child should be mature enough to follow instructions and seek help if needed.
How to get a refund for the Southwest unaccompanied minor fee?
The fee is generally refundable if the flight reservation is canceled or if an accompanying passenger (12 years or older) ends up traveling with the minor.
How to identify who will pick up my child at the destination on Southwest?
You must provide the full name, relationship, address, and phone numbers of the designated pick-up person and an alternate contact when booking and completing the UM form.
How to know if my child (12-17) needs the Southwest unaccompanied minor service?
While not mandatory for this age group, you can opt for the service if you feel your child requires additional support. Otherwise, they are considered "Young Travelers" and are expected to travel independently.
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