What Is United Airlines Policy For Unaccompanied Minors?

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Chief Editor of - Elite Fly USA

Traveling alone can be an exhilarating experience for a child, but it can also be a daunting task for parents. The thought of sending their little ones off on a plane can be quite nerve-wracking. That’s where United Airlines comes in with their policy for unaccompanied minors.

United Airlines understands the importance of ensuring the safety and comfort of unaccompanied minors during their travels. They have a comprehensive policy in place that addresses everything from check-in to arrival, making it easier for parents to entrust their children’s travels to them. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at United Airlines’ policy for unaccompanied minors and what it entails.

What is United Airlines Policy for Unaccompanied Minors?

United Airlines Policy for Unaccompanied Minors

United Airlines offers a program for unaccompanied minors that provides additional assistance and support to ensure their safety and comfort during their flight. Here is everything you need to know about United Airlines policy for unaccompanied minors.

Age Requirements

United Airlines considers unaccompanied minors to be children between the ages of 5 and 14 who are traveling without an accompanying adult who is at least 18 years old. Children between the ages of 15 and 17 may also use the unaccompanied minor program if they request it or if their parents or guardians request it.

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To use the unaccompanied minor program, the child must be traveling on a nonstop or direct flight. A direct flight is defined as a flight that makes one or more stops but does not require a change of planes.

Booking and Fees

To book a flight for an unaccompanied minor, you must call United Airlines reservations and provide the child’s age, name, and contact information for both the child and the adult who will be dropping off and picking up the child. A fee of $150 each way will be charged for each unaccompanied minor.

The fee includes the services provided by the unaccompanied minor program, such as a United Airlines employee escorting the child to and from the gate, pre-boarding, and assistance with connecting flights.

Check-In and Boarding

At check-in, the adult dropping off the child must provide a government-issued photo ID and the child’s itinerary. The adult must remain at the airport until the child’s flight has departed.

The child will receive a lanyard with their name and flight information that they must wear throughout their journey. A United Airlines employee will escort the child through security and to the gate, where they will board the plane before other passengers.

In-Flight Services

During the flight, the flight attendants will keep an eye on the unaccompanied minor and provide them with snacks and drinks as needed. The child will also be given a special card to fill out with their seat number, destination, and the name and phone number of the person who will be picking them up at their destination.

If the child has a connecting flight, a United Airlines employee will escort them to their next gate and ensure they board their next flight.

Arrival and Pick-Up

Upon arrival, a United Airlines employee will escort the child off the plane and through customs and immigration if necessary. The adult picking up the child must provide a government-issued photo ID and a copy of the child’s itinerary.

The adult must also sign a release form that confirms they are the authorized person to pick up the child. The child will only be released to the authorized person listed on the release form.

Benefits of the Unaccompanied Minor Program

The unaccompanied minor program provides peace of mind for parents and guardians who are unable to travel with their children. It ensures that the child receives special attention and assistance throughout their journey, including pre-boarding and in-flight support.

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The program also allows children to travel alone on United Airlines, which can be helpful for families in situations where a child needs to travel without an adult.

Comparison to Other Airlines

United Airlines’ unaccompanied minor program is similar to those offered by other major airlines, such as American Airlines and Delta Air Lines. The fees and age requirements are comparable, and all airlines provide assistance with check-in, boarding, and in-flight services.

However, there may be slight differences in the services provided, so it is important to review the policies of each airline before booking a flight for an unaccompanied minor.

Conclusion

United Airlines’ unaccompanied minor program provides additional support and assistance to children who are traveling alone. The program ensures that children are safe and comfortable throughout their journey and provides peace of mind for parents and guardians.

By following the age requirements, booking and check-in procedures, and in-flight services, parents and guardians can ensure that their child has a positive and stress-free travel experience with United Airlines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age range for an unaccompanied minor on United Airlines?

United Airlines considers an unaccompanied minor to be any child between the ages of 5 and 14 who is not accompanied by a parent or guardian who is at least 18 years old.

Children between the ages of 15 and 17 are not required to use United Airlines’ unaccompanied minor service, but may do so if they wish.

What is United Airlines’ unaccompanied minor service?

United Airlines’ unaccompanied minor service is designed to ensure that children traveling alone receive the necessary attention and care throughout their journey. This service includes dedicated check-in, pre-boarding, in-flight supervision, and assistance with connecting flights.

There is an additional fee for this service, and it must be arranged at the time of booking.

What documents are required for an unaccompanied minor to travel on United Airlines?

Unaccompanied minors traveling within the United States must have a government-issued ID, such as a passport or birth certificate, as well as a completed unaccompanied minor form. If the child is traveling internationally, additional documents, such as a visa, may be required.

It is important to check with United Airlines and the country of destination for specific requirements.

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What are the restrictions on unaccompanied minors during their travel?

Unaccompanied minors are not permitted to take connecting flights that involve an overnight stay, and they may only travel on nonstop or direct flights. Additionally, United Airlines requires that the person dropping off the child at the airport remain at the airport until the child’s flight has departed.

During the flight, the child will be under the supervision of a flight attendant and will be seated in a designated area of the aircraft.

What happens if there is a delay or cancellation on an unaccompanied minor’s flight?

If there is a delay or cancellation on an unaccompanied minor’s flight, United Airlines will make every effort to keep the child comfortable and safe. The child will be supervised by a United Airlines representative and will be provided with food, drinks, and accommodations if necessary.

The designated guardian will be notified of any changes to the flight status and will be updated on the child’s travel arrangements.

united airlines minor policy


In conclusion, United Airlines takes the safety and well-being of unaccompanied minors seriously. They have a specific policy in place to ensure that these young travelers are taken care of from check-in to arrival. With the help of dedicated staff and special accommodations, United Airlines strives to make the flying experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible for both the child and their parents or guardians.

Parents or guardians who are considering booking an unaccompanied minor’s flight with United Airlines can rest assured that their child will be in good hands. From providing assistance with connecting flights to ensuring that the child is never left alone, United Airlines is committed to providing the best possible care for these young travelers.

Overall, United Airlines’ policy for unaccompanied minors is a testament to their dedication to customer service and safety. With clear guidelines, experienced staff, and a commitment to excellence, United Airlines is a great choice for parents and guardians who want to ensure that their child has a safe and enjoyable flying experience.

adminChief Editor of - Elite Fly USA

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