American Airlines Unaccompanied Minors Program (UM) Services, Guidelines & Requirements

To assist minors traveling alone, American Airlines has an unaccompanied minor program with specific facilities and services. Children between the ages of 5-17 years can utilise the American Airlines unaccompanied minor program. However, it is optional for young adults aged 15-17. The restrictions and requirements in this program should be checked beforehand to ensure a safe journey.

Are Unaccompanied Minors Allowed on American Airlines?

American Airlines allows children between 5 and 17 years of age to travel alone. However, minors aged 5-14 years are required to use the airlines’ unaccompanied minor services.  

• This service is optional for young adults between the ages of 15-17.
• Gate escort and guardian contact are required for all minors.
• The American Airlines unaccompanied minor fee is $150 one way. This charge is in addition to the original ticket price, along with taxes.

Note: One fee can be applied to 2 or more UM siblings traveling together. 

Procedure and Requirements for Unaccompanied Minors on American Airlines

Booking a trip for children traveling alone must be done by phone. Additionally, several documents are required during check-in for a smooth procedure.

• Contact 800-433-7300 to book a flight with American Airlines for minors. This helpline is available 24/7.

Documents and information required include:

1. A birth certificate or passport 
2. The responsible adult’s government-issued photo ID with current address
3. Contact number
4. Details of the adult picking up the child at the destination airport

Note: The parents/guardians need to fill out the American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Form and the Customs and Immigration documents. 

American Airlines UM Program and Services

The program for unaccompanied minors on American Airlines offers numerous services, such as:

• Early boarding for extra time to meet the flight attendants
• Unaccompanied minor lounges in the airlines’ hub cities
• An airport escort for assistance from the doors to the flight connection
• Escort facility to the authorised adult on reaching the destination airport
• In case of any flight issues or schedule changes, the airlines’ staff makes suitable accommodations and maintains supervision.

Tip: To request any special assistance or service, contact the airlines’ helpdesk.

American Airlines Unaccompanied Minors Guidelines and Policy

The airline has specific policies and guidelines about the age limit and other airport procedures, such as:

Policies

1. Children between 5 and 14 years must use American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor services.
2. The check-in procedures must be completed at the airport, as online and kiosk check-in facilities are not available.   
3. The designated adult must show their government-issued photo ID when picking up the child.

Guidelines

1. Arrive at least 2 hours before the flight departure to complete the check-in and other necessary procedures.
2. Attach an ID card and contact details to the child’s jacket or carry-on bag.
3. Ensure to have proper arrangements for the drop-off and pick-up of the minor traveling alone.
4. Inform the child about all facilities and remind them to wait for airport escorts.

Note: Children aged 5-14 years traveling with a person 16 years or above are not considered unaccompanied minors.

American Airlines Restrictions on Children Traveling Alone

American Airlines does not allow minors to travel alone on trips involving:

1. Flights with partner or oneworld alliance airlines
2. Transfer from one local airport to another
3. The last flight of the day 
4. Overnight connecting flights

Note: Minors between 8 and 17 years of age have some exceptions and can fly alone on connecting flights from specific airports.

The unaccompanied minor program of American Airlines offers assistance to the children throughout their journey and provides additional services both at the airport and onboard.  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)