Q&A: What are the rules for kids flying alone?
My 8-year-old daughter is going to visit her grandparents in Georgia and she's flying alone for the first time (I'm more nervous than she is!). What are the latest requirements for unaccompanied minors? -Magdalena Klimczak, Chicago, Illinois
We understand your concerns - travel for unaccompanied minors can be complicated, not to mention expensive! Rules for unaccompanied minors and domestic travel vary by airline, but most carriers require that children take nonstop flights, prohibit kids from booking the last flight of the day, and charge up to $150 more each way. Also, many airlines require an Unaccompanied Minor Request for Carriage form, which includes the contact information for the responsible party at both he departure and arrival airports (the person picking up your child will have to sign the form and identify themselves).
It's also a good idea to bring along a proof of age, like a birth certificate or passport (if she has one). Some airlines also require that a parent or responsible party remain at the airport until the child has boarded and the flight has left the gate. Below are links to the unaccompanied minor requirements for several major domestic carriers:
-American Airlines
-Continental Airlines
-Delta
-Northwest Airlines
-Southwest Airlines
-United Airlines
-US Airways
Traveling abroad? Get the latest requirements on new passport requirements for kids.
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