How old do you have to be to fly alone

Flying solo can be an exciting adventure for children.

At the airport with an unaccompanied minor:

• Plan to arrive at the airport early
• Check in at the ticket counter with all required documents
• The airline typically issues your child a bracelet, badge, or unaccompanied minor (UM) lanyard to be worn at all times

Flying solo for the first time can be a big step – for both children and parents. The thought of your little one heading off on an adventure alone can bring a mix of excitement and anxiety, which is perfectly natural. Whether it’s a visit to family, summer camp, or a school vacation abroad, understanding the policies around how old you have to be to travel alone and what to expect can help make the experience smoother and less stressful.

The good news? Traveling as an unaccompanied minor is safer and more accessible than you might expect. Each airline has its own policies, including age requirements, supervision options, and booking procedures, so it’s essential to check the details before you book.

It may feel like there’s a lot to figure out, but don’t worry – we’re here to be your co-pilot. In this guide, we’ll share practical tips and key info to help you and your young traveler feel confident and well-prepared. With the right support, your child can spread their wings and enjoy a safe, exciting journey.

Age and flight restrictions for solo air travel

Did you know children as young as five can fly alone on many airlines? However, the minimum age for solo travel varies depending on the airline and whether it's international or domestic.

Age restrictions for domestic travel

Most airlines generally allow children as young as five to fly alone for domestic flights. Still, it's important to note that children between 5 and 14 are typically considered"unaccompanied minors" and are subject to special procedures and services. Some airlines may have higher minimum age requirements or additional restrictions for certain routes or flight times.

Age restrictions for international travel

International travel often has stricter age restrictions for solo flyers, due to the added complexities of crossing borders and navigating foreign airports.

Most airlines set the minimum age for international solo travel at:

• 12 years old for direct flights
• 15 years old for connecting flights

These age limits can vary depending on the airline and the specific countries involved. Some airlines may require children to be 16 or even 18 years old to fly internationally without an adult companion.

When planning international travel for a young solo flyer, consider the following:

1. Check the policies of all airlines involved in the journey.
2. Research entry requirements for the destination country.
3. Ensure proper documentation, including passports and any necessary visas.
4. Verify if the child needs a letter of consent from both parents or legal guardians.

What does "unaccompanied minor" mean?

An unaccompanied minor (UM) is a child traveling alone without a parent, legal guardian, or other responsible adult. Airlines typically define unaccompanied minors as children between 5 and 14 years old, though this age range varies. When a child flies as an unaccompanied minor, airlines provide special services to ensure their safety and comfort throughout the journey.

Unaccompanied minor service (UM)

Most airlines offer an unaccompanied minor (UM) program, which provides special assistance for children traveling alone. UM services are designed to ensure the safety and comfort of children traveling alone.

These services typically include:

• Dedicated staff assistance throughout the journey
• Priority boarding and deplaning
• Escort service to and from the gate and to the child’s seat
• Supervision during check-in, boarding, connecting flights, and layovers
• Meals and entertainment (on applicable flights)
• Handing the child off only to the designated adult at pick-up
• Special identification (like a lanyard or badge) to help airline staff easily identify the child

Here's a breakdown of what you can expect:

Additional fees and costs for UM service

note that these services incur an additional fee. The cost and specifics of unaccompanied minor services can vary significantly between airlines, so compare your options when planning your child's solo trip. UM service fees range from £40 to £120 per flight segment, depending on the airline and the route. Some airlines allow up to two children per fare.

At the airport with an unaccompanied minor:

• Plan to arrive at the airport early to ensure a smooth check-in and security process with your minor.
• Upon arrival, check in at the counter to provide the staff with the required documents. The airline typically issues your child a bracelet, badge, or UM lanyard to be worn at all times.
• You’ll be asked to list the name of the person picking up the unaccompanied minor at their final destination. Ensure the party meeting your child at the gate has a valid ID and a copy of the child's travel itinerary.
• At check-in, you must obtain a pass from the ticket agent to escort your child through security and wait with them at the gate until boarding.
• The pick-up person will also need a gate pass from the ticket counter to pass through security and collect the unaccompanied minor at the destination gate.

Airline policies for children flying alone

Many major airlines offer unaccompanied minor services for children flying alone, but it's important to note that not all airlines provide this service. UM service is mandatory for younger children, typically aged 5–11, but older children (12–17) can use it as an optional extra for added peace of mind.

Here's a comparison of some major airlines' policies:

*The above info is sourced from the official airline websites in July 2025.

When considering which airline to choose for your child's solo flight, review each airline's specific policies, as some airlines may restrict connecting flights or international travel for unaccompanied minors. Additionally, many airlines require booking this service and have specific check-in procedures.

Legal and consent requirements for children flying alone

The requirements for children flying alone can vary depending on the child’s age, destination (domestic or international), and airline policies. Include multiple copies (both printed and digital) of all forms to avoid hiccups or lost paperwork.

Parental authorization form

Parental authorization forms are a legal requirement for children flying alone. These forms serve as official documentation, confirming that you, as a parent or legal guardian, have permitted your child to travel unaccompanied. Most airlines require you to complete and sign these forms before your child can board the flight.

Typically, you'll need to provide the following info on the authorization form:

• Your child's full name and age
• Your contact info
• Details of the person dropping off and picking up the child
• Flight info
• Any special medical needs or allergies

Proper identification for child

Most airlines will request to see a copy of the child’s birth certificate at check-in for domestic flights or a valid passport and visa for international travel.

Proper identification for drop-off and pick-up

The parent or guardian dropping off the child must present valid photo identification that matches the info on the consent forms. The person collecting the child at the destination must be pre-authorized and display a valid and matching ID.

Preparing your child for solo travel

When preparing your child for solo travel, ensure they have everything needed for a safe and enjoyable flight. That includes all the necessary documents and some in-flight entertainment.

Before heading to the airport, make sure your child has:

• A valid government-issued photo ID or birth certificate (passport for international travel)
• Airline ticket or boarding pass (round-trip)
• Unaccompanied minor forms and documents required by the airline
• Medical info and insurance card
• Emergency contact list

Tips for parents

• Label your child’s belongings
• Ensure they have a printed list of emergency contacts
• Arrive early at the airport for check-in and paperwork
• Talk through the flight process and safety tips with your child beforehand
• Keep your phone on and accessible during the flight time
• Book non-stop flights with simple itineraries
• If your child has not flown before, visit the airport before departure day to get familiarized
• Dress your child in comfortable clothes that are easy to manage
• Have everything ready for the return flight
• Make sure your child knows the name and info of who is picking them up
• Establish check-in times, if they have a cell phone

With the right preparation, your young traveler will be well-equipped to handle their journey confidently and safely.

International solo travel for children

If you are wondering how old your child has to be to fly alone internationally, here are some helpful tips:

Children traveling outside the US

When it comes to international solo travel for children, the policies can vary depending on the destination and airline. Policies for international flights are often stricter, with higher age minimums and more documentation required. Airlines may also require notarized consent letters from parents or guardians, especially when flying to countries with strict child travel laws.

Remember to:

• Check visa requirements for your child's destination
• Provide necessary documentation (passport, consent forms)
• Arrange for a responsible adult to receive your child at the destination
• Have copies of all required documents

Children traveling to the US

If your child is flying alone to the United States, there are specific requirements you need to be aware of:

1. All children, regardless of age, must have a valid passport
2. Children under 14 must have a completed Form I-94W (visa waiver)
3. Unaccompanied minors must have a signed letter from a parent or guardian

Children traveling in Europe

Europe has its own set of policies for children flying alone. Most European airlines permit children to fly unaccompanied from the age of five, although policies may vary between countries and airlines. Here are some key points:

• Many European airlines offer unaccompanied minor services up to age 17
• Some carriers don't allow children under 14 to fly alone
• Children may need only an ID card, but a passport is always safer

Before booking any international solo flight for your child, always check with the airline and relevant embassies to ensure you have all the necessary documentation and meet all requirements.

FAQs about children flying alone

Can you travel alone at 14 without an unaccompanied minor service?

At 14, many airlines allow you to fly without using an unaccompanied minor service. However, policies vary among airlines and countries. Always check with your specific airline for their latest policies.

What documents are required for a child to fly alone?

When your child flies alone, you'll need to prepare the following documents:

• A valid ID for the adult dropping off and picking up
• A copy of the child’s itinerary
• Contact info for guardians at both ends
• Sometimes, a notarized letter of consent, especially for international flights
• Copy of birth certificate or a passport for international flights
• Completed unaccompanied minor forms
• Medical authorization form, if required

Always check with the airline in advance for specific requirements.

Can kids fly alone on connecting flights?

Yes, children can fly alone on connecting flights on some airlines, but there are additional considerations:

• Some airlines only allow direct flights for unaccompanied minors
• Others permit connections with certain age restrictions
• Longer layover times may be required for supervised transfers
• Extra fees may apply for UM service

Can children fly internationally without an adult?

Yes, but there are more restrictions and more documents are required. The UM fees are typically higher as well. Many airlines require:

• The child must be at least 8 or 12 years old
• Notarised permission letters from parents or guardians
• Additional identification and documentation

Who is allowed to pick up my child at the airport?

Only adults listed during booking as the authorized pick-up person can collect your child. They must bring a valid photo ID and arrive early to go through security, which is usually done with a gate pass provided by the airline. The designated person must be named on the unaccompanied minor form.

Are kids supervised the whole time?

Yes. With the UM service, airline staff accompany the child from check-in through boarding and the handoff at the destination. Onboard, flight attendants will escort your child to their seat, help them settle in and check in regularly.

Navigating the world of solo air travel for children can be complex, but when equipped with the right info, you can ensure a safe and smooth experience for your child. Understanding age restrictions, airline policies, and unaccompanied minor services is key when planning your child's flight. By adequately preparing your child, addressing safety concerns, and fulfilling legal requirements, you can set the stage for a successful journey. So, go ahead and give your young explorer wings to soar – the sky's the limit!