Kid flying solo? Know the rules
Summer is the busiest season for kids flying solo, and there are a number of things to consider before you make travel plans. Each airline has its own unaccompanied-minor policy -- read it before booking. Fees and restrictions vary, so know the details before buying a ticket.
AGE All the airlines require that the child be at least 5 years old to travel alone. Most carriers require kids through age 11 flying on their own to be registered for unaccompanied-minor service; Alaska requires it through age 12, and Delta, Frontier and US Airways require it through age 14. Although these are the required ages, you can opt to use the service for older kids as well.
CHOOSING A FLIGHT Most carriers require that kids ages 5 to 7 fly on nonstop or direct flights (makes a stop but no change of planes). Even if your child is old enough to meet the age requirement for connecting flights, choose nonstop flights. You may pay a little more, but you'll ease some worries about your child being stranded at a connecting airport. Most airlines won't allow unaccompanied minors on the last flight of the day because they don't want to have to make arrangements for taking care of a child overnight if the flight gets canceled.
FEES Alaska Airlines has the lowest price, charging a $25 unaccompanied-minor fee for nonstop or direct domestic flights and $50 one-way for connecting flights. AirTran charges $49-$69. Southwest charges $50 one-way and allows kids to fly solo only on nonstop or direct flights. United charges $99 one-way, and the legacy carriers such as American, Continental, Delta and US Airways charge $100 each way. Fees for international flights may be higher.
COMMUNICATE Notify the airline that your child will be traveling without an adult -- you will need to provide your contact information as well as that of the adult who will be picking your child up at the final destination.
BEFORE THE TRIP Prepare your child on what to expect and let her know to talk to an airline employee if she needs assistance. Give your child a prepaid debit or credit card for food or other small onboard purchases (many airlines are now cashless). Keep carry-on baggage to a minimum, but pack snacks and entertainment, such as toys or an iPod.
