Deciding when your child is ready to fly alone can be a big step, and navigating airline policies is key. Southwest Airlines, known for its friendly service and open seating, has specific guidelines for young travelers. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how old a child has to be to fly alone on Southwest Airlines, the process involved, and what to expect.
Embarking on the Solo Journey: How Old Does a Child Have to Be to Fly Alone on Southwest Airlines?
Are you considering sending your child on a flight by themselves? It's a question many parents ponder, balancing the desire for independence with the need for safety. Southwest Airlines categorizes young flyers into two main groups when they are traveling without an adult: Unaccompanied Minors (UMs) and Young Travelers (YTs). Understanding the distinction is the first, and most crucial, step in planning their trip.
Step 1: Understanding Southwest's Age Categories for Solo Travelers
Southwest Airlines has a clear distinction based on age for children flying alone, and this impacts the services and requirements.
Sub-heading 1.1: Unaccompanied Minors (UMs) - Ages 5-11
Who They Are: Children who are between 5 and 11 years old at the time of travel and are not accompanied by a passenger aged 12 or older.
Mandatory Service: For this age group, Southwest's Unaccompanied Minor service is mandatory. This means your child cannot fly alone without utilizing this service.
Flight Restrictions: Unaccompanied Minors are only allowed to travel on domestic, nonstop, or direct flights (flights that make a stop but the child remains on the same aircraft and flight number). They are not permitted on international flights or itineraries requiring a change of aircraft or an overnight connection.
Purpose of the Service: The Unaccompanied Minor service provides a layer of supervision and assistance from Southwest employees, ensuring your child is escorted from check-in to their destination and handed over to the designated pickup person.
Sub-heading 1.2: Young Travelers (YTs) - Ages 12-17
Who They Are: Children who are between 12 and 17 years old at the time of travel and are flying alone.
No Mandatory Service: Unlike UMs, Southwest's Unaccompanied Minor service is not mandatory for Young Travelers. They are considered mature enough to travel independently.
Expected Maturity: Southwest expects Young Travelers to have the maturity and capability to navigate the airport process on their own, including checking in, passing through security, boarding, deplaning, and claiming luggage. They are also expected to be able to request assistance from a Southwest Employee if needed and have a way to contact a parent/guardian in case of travel disruptions.
Flight Restrictions: Young Travelers are generally allowed on more types of flights than UMs, but they cannot fly to or from international destinations or on itineraries with overnight connections.
No Escort Service: It's important to note that Southwest Airlines does not provide specific escort or monitoring services for Young Travelers. While flight attendants will certainly assist if a situation arises, there isn't a dedicated "unaccompanied minor" escort for this age group.
Key takeaway: The age of your child dictates whether they are considered an Unaccompanied Minor (UM) requiring a specific service and fee, or a Young Traveler (YT) who is expected to travel more independently.
Step 2: Booking the Flight for a Solo Young Traveler
The booking process differs slightly depending on whether your child is an Unaccompanied Minor or a Young Traveler.
Sub-heading 2.1: Booking for an Unaccompanied Minor (Ages 5-11)
Online or Phone/Counter: While Southwest.com allows booking for UMs, many parents find it beneficial to book via phone or at a ticket counter to ensure all details are correctly communicated and confirmed. If booking online, you will be prompted to indicate if the child is traveling without an adult aged 12 or older, which will then flag them as an Unaccompanied Minor.
Required Information: Be prepared to provide comprehensive details for both the person dropping off the child and the person picking up the child at the destination. This includes:
Full Name
Address
Phone Number(s)
Relationship to the child
Alternate contact information for both drop-off and pick-up individuals.
Unaccompanied Minor Service Charge: There is a service charge for each way of travel for Unaccompanied Minors. As of current policies, this is typically $100 one-way per UM for U.S. Mainland travel, and $35 one-way per UM for interisland Hawaii travel. Note: Prices can change, so always verify on the official Southwest Airlines website or by calling them directly.
Multiple UMs: If multiple Unaccompanied Minors are traveling together on the same reservation, the service charge applies for each UM, each way.
Sub-heading 2.2: Booking for a Young Traveler (Ages 12-17)
Online Booking is Common: Young Travelers can typically be booked online just like an adult passenger. When entering the child's birth date, Southwest's system will recognize them as a Young Traveler.
No Additional Fee: There is no additional unaccompanied minor service fee for Young Travelers.
Parent/Guardian Acknowledgment: By purchasing a ticket for a Young Traveler, you are affirming that you are the parent/guardian or authorized to act on their behalf and that the child possesses the necessary maturity to travel alone.
Consider EarlyBird Check-In (Optional): While not mandatory, purchasing EarlyBird Check-In for a Young Traveler can provide an earlier boarding position, offering a better chance to select a preferred seat and access overhead bin space. However, it's not a substitute for active supervision.
Step 3: Preparing for the Day of Travel
Preparation is key to a smooth and stress-free experience for both you and your child.
Sub-heading 3.1: For All Young Travelers (UMs & YTs)
Documentation:
Proof of Age: For Unaccompanied Minors, proof of age (e.g., birth certificate, passport, government-issued photo ID) is required at check-in. While not strictly required for Young Travelers by TSA, having a copy of their birth certificate can be good insurance.
Identification for Drop-off/Pick-up: Both the person dropping off the child and the person picking up the child must present valid, government-issued photo identification.
Itinerary Copies: Make multiple copies of the itinerary, including flight numbers, times, and contact information for both drop-off and pick-up individuals. Give one copy to your child, keep one for yourself, and provide one to the person picking them up.
Communication:
Talk to Your Child: Discuss the travel process with your child. Explain what to expect at the airport, during the flight, and upon arrival. Emphasize the importance of staying with a Southwest Employee if they need assistance.
Contact Information: Ensure your child has a way to contact you or the designated pickup person (e.g., a fully charged phone with important numbers saved).
Emergency Plan: Discuss what to do in case of delays or cancellations. Reassure them that Southwest employees are there to help.
Packing:
Carry-on Essentials: Pack a light carry-on bag with essentials like snacks, a water bottle (empty to fill after security), entertainment (books, games, headphones), any necessary medications, and a light jacket.
Valuables: Advise against packing valuable items in checked luggage or leaving them unattended.
Tag Luggage: Ensure all luggage, including carry-ons, is clearly tagged with the child's name and contact information.
Sub-heading 3.2: Specifics for Unaccompanied Minors (Ages 5-11)
Check-in Only at Ticket Counter: Unaccompanied Minors cannot check in online or at self-service kiosks. You must check in at the Southwest ticket counter at the airport.
Unaccompanied Minor Form: You will need to complete an Unaccompanied Minor form provided by Southwest Airlines. This form will detail all the necessary contact information for both drop-off and pick-up.
Gate Pass: The parent/guardian dropping off the UM will typically need to obtain a gate pass from the ticket counter to accompany the child through security and to the departure gate. You will need to show your valid government-issued ID to get this pass.
Stay Until Departure: It is essential to remain at the departure gate until the flight has taken off. Southwest employees will confirm the child has boarded and the flight is airborne.
Step 4: At the Airport - Drop-off and Departure
The airport experience for a child flying alone requires careful attention.
Sub-heading 4.1: Dropping Off an Unaccompanied Minor (Ages 5-11)
Arrive Early: Arrive at the airport well in advance of the scheduled departure time (Southwest recommends at least 2 hours for domestic flights). This allows ample time for check-in, security, and any unforeseen delays.
Ticket Counter: Proceed directly to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter. Inform the agent that your child is an Unaccompanied Minor.
Complete Paperwork: Finalize the Unaccompanied Minor form and present all required identification for yourself and the child's proof of age.
Obtain Gate Pass: Request a gate pass to escort your child to the gate.
Security Checkpoint: Go through the security checkpoint with your child. Inform the TSA agent that your child is an unaccompanied minor, as they may have specific procedures.
At the Gate: Wait with your child at the designated gate. A Southwest employee will take charge of your child, usually seating them in a reserved area and ensuring they preboard the flight.
Wait for Departure: Do not leave the airport or the gate area until the flight has departed. It's crucial to be available in case of any last-minute changes or issues.
Sub-heading 4.2: Dropping Off a Young Traveler (Ages 12-17)
Check-in Flexibility: Young Travelers can check in online or at the airport. However, if you wish to accompany them through security, you will need to obtain a gate pass.
Gate Pass (Optional): If you choose to go to the gate, stop at the ticket counter to obtain a gate pass. Present your valid government-issued ID.
Security and Boarding: Young Travelers go through security and board the plane like any other passenger, according to their boarding group. While Southwest employees are available for general assistance, they will not be specifically "monitoring" the Young Traveler.
Stay Until Departure (Recommended): While not strictly required like with UMs, it is still highly recommended to remain at the airport until the flight has departed, especially if it's your child's first time flying alone.
Step 5: Onboard the Flight
What happens once your child is on the plane?
Sub-heading 5.1: For Unaccompanied Minors (Ages 5-11)
Preboarding: Unaccompanied Minors will typically preboard the aircraft, giving them extra time to settle in and for the flight attendants to get acquainted with them.
Flight Attendant Awareness: Flight attendants are informed of Unaccompanied Minors onboard and will provide assistance as needed throughout the flight. They will ensure the child is comfortable and has access to amenities.
No Direct Monitoring: While flight attendants are aware of UMs, they are not dedicated chaperones. They will ensure the child's basic needs are met and assist with any issues, but they won't be constantly supervising.
Sub-heading 5.2: For Young Travelers (Ages 12-17)
Standard Boarding: Young Travelers board with their assigned boarding group.
Independence: They are expected to be independent, find their seat, and manage their belongings.
Crew Assistance (General): Flight attendants are available to assist all passengers, including Young Travelers, with general requests or in case of an emergency. However, they do not provide special monitoring for this age group.
Step 6: Arrival and Pick-up at the Destination
This is the final, crucial stage of the solo travel journey.
Sub-heading 6.1: Picking Up an Unaccompanied Minor (Ages 5-11)
Arrive Early: The designated person picking up the Unaccompanied Minor must arrive at the airport at least 45 minutes prior to the scheduled arrival time.
Ticket Counter for Gate Pass: Go to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter to obtain a gate pass. You must present your valid, government-issued photo identification. Southwest will verify your identity against the information provided at the time of booking.
Proceed to Gate: Go through the security checkpoint and proceed directly to the arrival gate.
Meet Southwest Employee: Check in with a Southwest Employee at the gate. They will be responsible for handing over the child to you after verifying your identity.
Identification Verification: Be prepared for a thorough ID check. Only the pre-designated individual(s) with valid ID will be allowed to pick up the child.
Contact Drop-off Person: Once the child is safely with you, notify the person who dropped them off at the originating city to confirm their safe arrival.
Sub-heading 6.2: Picking Up a Young Traveler (Ages 12-17)
Meet Outside Security (Optional): For Young Travelers, you can typically meet them outside the security checkpoint at baggage claim or a pre-arranged meeting point.
Gate Pass (Optional): If you wish to meet your Young Traveler at the gate, you will need to obtain a gate pass from the ticket counter and present a valid ID.
Communication: Coordinate with your Young Traveler beforehand about a specific meeting spot. Ensure their phone is charged so they can contact you upon arrival.
No Escort Service: Remember, Southwest does not escort Young Travelers off the plane or to meet the pick-up person. They are expected to deplane and proceed independently.
Important Considerations for All Solo Young Travelers
Flight Disruptions: In the event of a flight delay, diversion, or cancellation, Southwest Airlines will take care of Unaccompanied Minors. They will ensure the child is kept in a safe area, provided with food if necessary, and that the parent/guardian is informed of the situation. For Young Travelers, they are expected to be mature enough to seek assistance from a Southwest Employee and contact their parent/guardian.
International Travel: As stated previously, Southwest does not allow Unaccompanied Minors or Young Travelers to fly alone on international itineraries.
Overnight Connections: Southwest Airlines does not permit Unaccompanied Minors or Young Travelers to travel on itineraries that involve an overnight connection.
Maturity Assessment: Even if your child meets the age requirements, you as the parent/guardian are ultimately responsible for assessing their maturity and capability to handle the challenges of solo travel, especially for Young Travelers. Consider their ability to follow instructions, handle unexpected situations, and communicate effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions about children flying alone on Southwest Airlines:
How to book a flight for an Unaccompanied Minor on Southwest Airlines?
You can book a flight for an Unaccompanied Minor (ages 5-11) on Southwest.com or by calling Southwest Reservations or at a ticket counter. It's often recommended to call or visit a counter to ensure all UM specific details are handled correctly.
How to check in an Unaccompanied Minor for a Southwest flight?
Unaccompanied Minors (ages 5-11) must be checked in at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter at the airport. Online and kiosk check-in are not available for UMs.
How to obtain a gate pass to accompany a child to the gate on Southwest?
You can obtain a gate pass from the Southwest Airlines ticket counter at the airport on the day of travel. You will need to present a valid, government-issued photo ID.
How to pay the Unaccompanied Minor service fee for Southwest Airlines?
The Unaccompanied Minor service fee is typically paid during the booking process or at the time of check-in at the airport ticket counter.
How to ensure my child is safe during a Southwest flight as an Unaccompanied Minor?
Southwest Airlines employees, including ground staff and flight attendants, are informed of Unaccompanied Minors and provide assistance and oversight throughout the travel process, from check-in to hand-off at the destination.
How to identify who can pick up my Unaccompanied Minor at the destination?
Only the pre-designated individual(s) whose information was provided during booking and who present a valid, government-issued photo ID will be allowed to pick up an Unaccompanied Minor at the destination.
How to handle flight delays or cancellations for my child flying alone on Southwest?
For Unaccompanied Minors, Southwest Airlines will ensure their safety and communicate with the parent/guardian in case of disruptions. Young Travelers (ages 12-17) are expected to seek assistance from Southwest employees and contact their parent/guardian.
How to know if my 12-year-old needs Unaccompanied Minor service on Southwest?
No, children aged 12-17 are considered "Young Travelers" by Southwest Airlines, and the Unaccompanied Minor service is not mandatory for them. They are expected to travel independently.
How to pack a carry-on for a child flying alone on Southwest?
Pack essentials like snacks, an empty water bottle, entertainment, any necessary medications, and a light jacket. Ensure the bag is easy for your child to manage and clearly tagged.
How to contact Southwest Airlines for specific questions about unaccompanied minors?
For specific questions regarding Southwest Airlines' unaccompanied minor policy or to book an UM reservation, it's best to contact Southwest Airlines Reservations directly by phone or visit their official website for the most up-to-date information.
