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If you’re a parent or guardian planning to fly with American Airlines and you have a minor in your group, you may be wondering if they can travel alone or if there are any special requirements you need to meet. The good news is that American Airlines allows minors to fly on their own, but there are certain rules and guidelines you should be aware of to ensure a safe and smooth travel experience for your child.
In this article, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about minors flying with American Airlines, including age restrictions, travel documents, and what to expect during the flight. So, whether your child is a seasoned traveler or it’s their first time flying alone, read on to learn everything you need to know before booking their flight with American Airlines.
Contents
- Can a Minor Fly on American Airlines?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is American Airlines’ policy on minors flying alone?
- What documentation is required for minors flying alone on American Airlines?
- Can minors fly on American Airlines with an adult who is not their parent or legal guardian?
- What happens if a minor misses their American Airlines flight?
- What should minors bring on their American Airlines flight?
- What You Need To Know About Booking Your Child As An Unaccompanied Minor
- How Many Aircraft Does American Airlines Have?
- Is American Airlines Business Class Worth It?
- Can You Have 2 Carry Ons For American Airlines?
Can a Minor Fly on American Airlines?
As a parent or guardian, you may be wondering if your child can travel alone on American Airlines. Well, the answer is yes! American Airlines offers an “Unaccompanied Minor” service for children between the ages of 5 and 14 who are traveling alone.
What is the Unaccompanied Minor Service?
The Unaccompanied Minor service is a program designed to provide extra assistance and care to children who are traveling alone on American Airlines. The service is mandatory for children between the ages of 5 and 14 who are traveling alone. Children between the ages of 15 and 17 can travel alone without the service, but it is still available upon request.
When you book a ticket for an unaccompanied minor, American Airlines will provide a designated employee to escort your child through security and to the gate. During the flight, the flight attendants will also keep an eye on your child and ensure that they are comfortable and safe. Once the flight lands, the designated employee will escort your child off the plane and to the person who is picking them up at their destination.
How to Book the Unaccompanied Minor Service?
When you’re booking your child’s flight on American Airlines, you can add the Unaccompanied Minor service to your reservation. There is an additional fee for the service, and the cost varies depending on the flight and destination. You can book the service online, over the phone, or at the airport.
When you’re booking the service, you’ll need to provide the name and contact information of the person who will be dropping off and picking up your child at the airport. You’ll also need to fill out a form with your child’s information, including their name, age, and any special needs or requests they may have.
Benefits of Using the Unaccompanied Minor Service
Using the Unaccompanied Minor service provides several benefits for both you and your child. Here are some of the benefits:
Peace of Mind
As a parent or guardian, you can have peace of mind knowing that your child is in good hands. The designated employee and flight attendants will provide extra care and attention to your child during the flight.
Smooth Travel
The Unaccompanied Minor service will ensure that your child gets to their destination smoothly and safely. The designated employee will escort them through security and to the gate, and the flight attendants will keep an eye on them during the flight.
Special Assistance
If your child has any special needs or requests, the Unaccompanied Minor service can provide extra assistance. For example, if your child has a food allergy, American Airlines can provide a special meal for them during the flight.
Unaccompanied Minor vs. Traveling with an Adult
If you’re wondering whether your child should travel with an adult or use the Unaccompanied Minor service, here are some things to consider:
Cost
Traveling with an adult may be more expensive than using the Unaccompanied Minor service. If you’re on a budget, the Unaccompanied Minor service may be a more affordable option.
Independence
Traveling alone can help your child develop independence and confidence. However, if your child is not comfortable traveling alone, it may be better to have them travel with an adult.
Age
The Unaccompanied Minor service is only available for children between the ages of 5 and 14. If your child is younger than 5 or older than 14, they will need to travel with an adult.
Destination
If your child is traveling to a foreign country, they may need additional documentation or assistance. In this case, it may be better to have them travel with an adult who can provide support.
In conclusion, American Airlines offers an excellent Unaccompanied Minor service for children who are traveling alone. The service provides extra care and attention for your child during the flight and ensures that they get to their destination safely and smoothly. If you’re considering having your child travel alone, the Unaccompanied Minor service is definitely worth checking out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find below some common questions and answers about American Airlines’ policy on minors flying.
What is American Airlines’ policy on minors flying alone?
American Airlines allows minors aged 5-14 years to travel alone on nonstop and direct flights only. Children aged 15-17 can travel alone on any American Airlines flight.
For children aged 5-14, American Airlines requires the purchase of the unaccompanied minor service, which includes a fee and additional assistance throughout the travel experience.
What documentation is required for minors flying alone on American Airlines?
Minors traveling alone on American Airlines must have a completed unaccompanied minor form, which can be obtained at the airport. The form must include contact information for the child’s parent or guardian, the name and contact information of the person meeting the child at their destination, and any other important details about the child’s travel plans.
Additionally, the child must have a valid government-issued ID, such as a passport or birth certificate, and any required travel visas or permits.
Can minors fly on American Airlines with an adult who is not their parent or legal guardian?
Yes, minors can travel on American Airlines with an adult who is not their parent or legal guardian. However, the adult must be designated as the child’s guardian and have the necessary documentation, including a notarized letter of consent signed by the child’s parent or legal guardian.
The letter of consent should include details about the child’s travel plans, including flight numbers, dates, and destinations, and the name and contact information of the adult accompanying the child.
What happens if a minor misses their American Airlines flight?
If a minor misses their American Airlines flight, the airline will work with the child’s parent or guardian to rebook the child on another flight. American Airlines’ unaccompanied minor service includes monitoring the child’s travel plans and providing assistance in the event of a missed or delayed flight.
If the child is unable to travel on their scheduled flight, American Airlines will provide a refund for the unaccompanied minor service fee.
What should minors bring on their American Airlines flight?
Minors traveling alone on American Airlines should bring a government-issued ID, such as a passport or birth certificate, any required travel visas or permits, and a completed unaccompanied minor form.
Additionally, children should bring any necessary medications, snacks, and entertainment, as well as contact information for their parent or guardian and the person meeting them at their destination.
What You Need To Know About Booking Your Child As An Unaccompanied Minor
In conclusion, American Airlines allows minors to fly under certain conditions. Unaccompanied minors between the ages of 5 and 14 must use the Unaccompanied Minor Service, which includes a fee and specific guidelines for travel. Minors between the ages of 15 and 17 can travel alone, but parents or guardians can request the Unaccompanied Minor Service if desired. It’s important to review the airline’s policies and guidelines before booking a flight for a minor to ensure a safe and smooth travel experience. With the right preparation and communication with the airline, minors can safely and confidently travel on American Airlines.
