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Carriers Clamp Down on Kids Flying Alone

By Dan Schlossberg
ConsumerAffairs.com

June 27, 2006
Though summer is the busiest season for kids flying alone, airlines are making it more difficult -- at least where connecting flights are involved.

As a follow-up to last year's merger with America West, US Airways matched its partner by increasing the minimum age requirement to 15, the oldest of any carrier.

Southwest's minimum is 12 for kids who need to change planes.

American, Continental, Delta, Northwest, and United have matching age limits of 8 for children who need connections.

Most carriers will still allow 5-year-olds to fly alone on nonstop flights, but have different rules for direct flights that make stops. Even those policies may be changing, however.

Airlines insist that unaccompanied children slow the boarding process and cost more money because employees must give them extra and often undivided attention.

That's why some carriers tack on extra fees, ranging from $25-$90, for solo minors. In fact, many require parents to wait with the child before the plane leaves and specify who will be meeting the youngster at the arrival destination.

Crowded planes and terminals, not to mention airport signs that can confuse even an experienced traveler, complicate travel plans for kids flying alone. But more of them are doing that now that schools are out, summer camps are open, and children are visiting grandparents or other relatives who live far from home.

When international travel is involved, all bets are off, as unaccompanied minors must join adult passengers in navigating customs and immigration procedures in both directions. Again, airline rules vary.

Not surprisingly, some camps, schools, and families are crying foul, claiming airline policies toward young solo flyers has jeopardized attendance and family reunions. But carriers say crowded planes and airports have left them no alternative to changing their rules.

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