Before traveling with a child who is traveling alone, you need to be prepared. For the sake of proper organization of the journey for these kids, it is very important that the parent-careers explore the Minor Policy and plan accordingly. Having some idea about the regulations prior to qualifying for the service, making reservations, going to the airport, and picking up criteria can ease your trip tremendously. This guide aims to provide simple language explanations of the essential information for families' tripping-up-before they leave.
| Policy Rule | Details & Requirements |
|---|---|
| Mandatory UMNR Age | Children aged 5 through 11 flying without an adult (12+) |
| Optional UMNR Age (Young Travelers) | Children aged 12 through 17 (Fly as standard passengers; no fee) |
| Service Fee | $150 USD each way ($300 USD round-trip) per child |
| Permitted Flight Types | Non-stop or Direct flights ONLY (No connecting flights) |
| International Flights | Not Permitted (UMNR service is for domestic US flights only) |
| Booking Channels | Online at Southwest.com or via Southwest Customer Support |
The Southwest Airlines Minor Policy sets out the procedures relating to the travelling of children without parents/legal guardians. There is an unaccompanied minor facility provided by the airlines where the minors who qualify for it get help in traveling with the airline on particular flights. The airline provides for an unaccompanied minor service for those children who are eligible for it so that they will be given help while they are travelling.
For the parents traveling along with the minors, it is crucial to check all the travel requirements before booking a ticket.
If the child fits the age requirement of the airline, he/she might be entitled to unaccompanied minor assistance. Generally, travelers should:
Southwest enforces strict age restrictions based on the child's age on the day of departure.
| Age Group | Classification | Policy & Flying Rules |
|---|---|---|
| 0 to 4 Years | Infant / Toddler | Cannot fly alone. Must be accompanied by a passenger at least 12 years old. |
| 5 to 11 Years | Unaccompanied Minor (UMNR) | Mandatory UMNR Service. Must pay the $150 fee each way and fly only on non-stop/direct flights. |
| 12 to 17 Years | Young Traveler | Optional. Can fly alone on any flight (including connections). UMNR service is not provided. |
It is not complicated to change the logistics of the solo traveler when all travel preparations are made. It is necessary to double-check the reservation in advance:
| Service Type | Age Group | Fee Amount (Each Way) | Fee Amount (Round-Trip) | Notes & Rules |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mandatory UMNR Fee | 5 – 11 Years | $150 USD | $300 USD | Mandatory service fee in addition to the base ticket fare. |
| Young Traveler Service | 12 – 17 Years | $0 (Free) | $0 (Free) | Flies as a standard passenger; UMNR service and fee do not apply. |
| Infant / Toddler | 0 – 4 Years | N/A | N/A | Cannot fly alone. Must be accompanied by a passenger aged 12+. |
Travellers under the unaccompanied minor service will check in at the airport with the parent/designee. The accompanying adult should:
After the child has checked-in, assistance in boarding of the plane is provided by the airline personnel. Cabin members keep an eye on the young traveller and pitch in when necessary while they are flying.
Parents need to make their children aware about the travel procedures beforehand so as to build up their confidence regarding travel.
On landing, the flight will take the child to the proper adult specified at booking time. To ensure an easy pick-up:
Planning in advance is helpful for mom, dad and kids. Helpful recommendations include:
| Document | Purpose | Requirement Level |
|---|---|---|
| Southwest UMNR Form | Contains emergency contacts & drop-off/pick-up details | Mandatory (Filled at airport) |
| Government-Issued Photo ID | Valid Driver's License, State ID, or Passport for adults | Mandatory at Origin & Destination |
| Child's Proof of Age | Birth Certificate or Passport | Mandatory for age verification |
| Gate Escort Pass | Allows adults past TSA security to gate | Issued at Southwest Ticket Counter |
It details the eligibility, booking process, airport information and travel support for child travel without an adult.
Yes. Usually, a fee is included with eligible reservations. The amount varies, so travellers should check the current fares before they make any bookings.
Conditions of eligibility differ depending on the route and flight schedule and the airline's operating regulations.
To ensure a seamless trip, it is crucial for families to be aware of Southwest Airlines Minor Policy before making their reservations. Prior information about age limits, booking of seats, airport procedures, and directions to arrive can make the whole process easier for the young travellers.