Traveling with children can be a complex task, especially when they are flying solo. United Airlines offers a dedicated service for unaccompanied minors (UMs) to ensure a safe and smooth travel experience for young passengers who are not accompanied by an adult. This policy outlines the rules, procedures, and services available to make flying a stress-free experience for both parents and children.
What is an Unaccompanied Minor?
An unaccompanied minor is any child aged between 5 and 14 years old who is traveling without an accompanying adult (someone over the age of 18). United Airlines provides special services for these children to ensure they are safely escorted from check-in to their final destination.
Age Requirements and Fees
United Airlines’ Unaccompanied Minor service is available for children between 5 and 14 years old. However, the airline requires that children who are 5-7 years old only fly on nonstop or direct flights. For children aged 8-14, they are permitted to travel on connecting flights, provided the entire journey is booked on United Airlines.
The Unaccompanied Minor service comes with a fee. As of now, United charges a $150 fee each way for this service. It is important to note that this fee is charged in addition to the regular ticket price and applies for each leg of the journey, including any layovers or connections.
Booking the Unaccompanied Minor Service
When booking the flight, parents must ensure they select the “Unaccompanied Minor” option during the reservation process. If you are booking a flight with a travel agent or through a third-party website, you may need to call United Airlines directly to request this service.
It is essential to make arrangements for unaccompanied minors well in advance, as this service is subject to availability and can sometimes be limited on certain flights.
What Happens on the Day of Travel?
On the day of the flight, parents or guardians must arrive at the airport early to check in the unaccompanied minor at the ticket counter. United Airlines staff will guide the child through security, boarding, and even during the flight. During layovers, the airline’s staff will escort the minor between connecting flights, ensuring they are properly handed over to a responsible adult at the destination.
The child will be given a special wristband or identification to indicate they are an unaccompanied minor. This helps the staff easily identify the child and provides reassurance to parents that the airline is taking all necessary precautions.
Communication During the Flight
United Airlines allows parents or guardians to communicate with their child during the flight, although the airline does not offer direct communication during the actual travel. However, once the child has safely arrived at their destination, the parent or guardian will be notified and advised when to pick them up.
Important Considerations
- Identification: Parents must provide the necessary identification when picking up the child at the destination, and the person picking up the minor must be listed in the reservation.
- Weather and Delays: If the flight is delayed or canceled, United Airlines will ensure that the unaccompanied minor is well taken care of in the airport and updated regarding their travel.
- Special Assistance: If the child requires special assistance, whether for medical reasons or a disability, parents should notify the airline ahead of time so appropriate accommodations can be made.
Conclusion
United Airlines’ Unaccompanied Minor policy is designed to provide peace of mind for parents while ensuring young travelers are safe and well cared for throughout their journey. By understanding the policy, booking in advance, and following the guidelines for check-in and communication, parents can rest easy knowing that their child is in safe hands as they fly solo. Whether for a family visit or a summer camp trip, the Unaccompanied Minor service offers a secure and efficient travel experience.
