Delta Air Lines has an Unaccompanied Minor (UMNR) program for eligible children traveling without an accompanying adult. Delta's age requirements, eligible flight options, service fee, booking process and airport procedures depend on the child's age and itinerary.
Delta's age rules determine whether a child can travel alone and whether Delta unaccompanied minor service is needed.
| Child's age | UMNR requirement | Travel options |
|---|---|---|
| 4 or younger | Cannot travel as an unaccompanied minor | must travel according to Delta's applicable accompanied-child rules. |
| 5–7 | UMNR required | Some nonstop flights |
| 8–14 | UMNR required | Some nonstop and connecting flights |
| 15–17 | UMNR optional | Nonstop and connecting flights |
Delta also requires that UMNRs be ticketed on an adult fare. The UMNR service charge is separate from the ticketed fare.
The Delta unaccompanied minor program provides airline assistance and supervision during the eligible parts of the journey. It does not make Delta the child's legal guardian or transfer parental responsibility to the airline.
Delta Sky Zones are available at select airports for eligible unaccompanied minors. Availability can vary by airport and itinerary.
Delta UMNR reservations must be made through Delta Reservations in order for the airline to verify eligibility and properly document the travel. Delta lists 800-325-8847 for UMNR assistance.
Follow these steps:
Delta's unaccompanied minor fee is $150 each way. The fee is mandatory for children ages 5–14 and applies to children ages 15–17 when a parent or guardian chooses UMNR service.
| Fee detail | Current Delta rule |
|---|---|
| UMNR fee | $150 each way |
| Children covered | Up to 4 children traveling together |
| Currency | USD, CAD, or EUR depending on departure location |
| Canada departures | CAD |
| Europe departures | EUR |
| Other locations | USD amount converted to local currency |
| Travel type | Domestic and international |
| Flight type | Eligible nonstop and connecting flights |
| Payment | One-way or round-trip |
| When payable | At check-in or in advance through Delta Reservations |
| Partner flights | Partner-specific fees may apply |
The charge is in addition to the child’s ticketed adult fare. If the first flight of a one-way journey is on a partner airline, the applicable partner UMNR fee may apply.
Prepare the following information for the Delta UMNR requirements before the trip.
The adult who is with the child should have:
| Requirement | Who Needs It? |
|---|---|
| Physical photo ID | Adult accompanying the child |
| Address shown on ID | Accompanying adult |
| Contact phone number | Accompanying adult |
| Pickup adult's name | Destination information |
| Pickup adult's address | Destination information |
| Pickup adult's phone number | Destination information |
| Travel documents | Child/adult as required by itinerary |
The adult dropping off or picking up the child should bring the required physical identification. Delta may require identification before issuing a gate pass or releasing the child. U.S. travellers leaving from airports will need a TSA-approved ID to get through security.
The airport process is an important part of the Delta unaccompanied minor policy.
Follow these steps:
A Delta employee brings a child onto the plane prior to the start of general boarding. The employee can direct the child to the flight attendants, assist the child with the seat and carry on items, point out important safety features and show the child how to contact a flight attendant.
An eligible connection is when the child meets a Delta or business-partner employee after the arriving flight. A short connection could mean direct help to the next departure, while a longer layover could mean the Delta Sky Zone or some other secure facility.
The designated pickup adult should arrive at the airport early enough to complete the required gate-pass and identification process.
At some airports, the person picking you up may be directed to the Delta Baggage Service Office.
Double check before leaving:
If an UMNR flight is delayed or cancelled in transit, Delta says employees can help rebook, stay with the child until boarding and contact the designated pickup person or emergency contact. In rare circumstances requiring an overnight stay, Delta says it can provide accommodations, meals, and supervision.