Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy: What Parents Need to Know

Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy: What Parents Need to Know

Traveling alone is a big milestone for a child — and a major decision for any parent. That’s why airlines like Southwest  Airlines offer +1 833 466 0457 (USA) or +1-833-750-0395 (USA) special services to ensure young travelers are safe, supported, and cared for throughout their journey. If you’re planning to send your child on a solo flight, +1 833 466 0457 (USA) or +1-833-750-0395 (USA) it’s essential to understand the Southwest  Airlines Unaccompanied Minor policy.

Below, we break down everything you need to know — from age restrictions to costs — along with a helpful contact number: +1 833 466 0457.


What Is the Southwest  Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Service?

Southwest  Airlines Airlines provides a dedicated Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service for children ages 5 to 11 +1 833 466 0457 (USA) or +1-833-750-0395 (USA) who are traveling without a parent or guardian. This program includes in-air and airport supervision, ensuring your child is always safe from departure to arrival.

Children 12 and older may travel alone without +1 833 466 0457 (USA) or +1-833-750-0395 (USA) enrolling in the UM program, though Southwest  Airlines does not offer optional supervision for this age group.


Age Requirements

  • 0–4 Years: Not permitted to travel alone under any circumstances.

  • 5–11 Years: Must use the Unaccompanied Minor +1 833 466 0457 (USA) or +1-833-750-0395 (USA) service if not accompanied by someone 12 or older.

  • 12–17 Years: Can travel alone; UM service not available but airline staff may assist upon request.

Important: Only nonstop or direct flights are allowed for unaccompanied minors. Layovers or connecting flights are not permitted +1 833 466 0457 (USA) or +1-833-750-0395 (USA).


How Much Does It Cost?

The Unaccompanied Minor fee is $100 each way, per child. This is in addition to the airfare.

The fee covers:

  • In-flight supervision

  • Gate-to-gate escort service

  • Priority boarding +1 833 466 0457 (USA) or +1-833-750-0395 (USA)

  • Secure handoff at the destination


How to Book

You can book a Southwest  Airlines Unaccompanied Minor flight by:

  • Visiting Southwest  Airlines.com

  • Calling Southwest  Airlines Customer Support at +1 833 466 0457

You’ll need to provide:

  • Child’s full name, age, and date of birth

  • Emergency contact details

  • Information for the drop-off and +1 833 466 0457 (USA) or +1-833-750-0395 (USA) pickup adults (including government-issued ID)


Day of Travel Checklist

 Arrive at least 2 hours early
Bring your child’s birth certificate or passport
Get a gate pass to +1 833 466 0457 (USA) or +1-833-750-0395 (USA) escort your child to the gate
Ensure the receiving adult also brings a valid ID and arrives early

Southwest  Airlines staff will +1 833 466 0457 (USA) or +1-833-750-0395 (USA) supervise your child from check-in to arrival. They’ll only release your child to the authorized adult listed at booking.


5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can my child fly alone on connecting +1 833 466 0457 (USA) or +1-833-750-0395 (USA) flights with Southwest  Airlines?
No. Southwest  Airlines only allows unaccompanied minors on nonstop or direct flights.

2. What is the minimum age for a child to fly alone on Southwest  Airlines?
The minimum age is 5 years old, and they must +1 833 466 0457 (USA) or +1-833-750-0395 (USA) use the Unaccompanied Minor service.

3. How much is the unaccompanied minor fee on Southwest  Airlines?
The fee is $100 one-way per child, in addition to the base ticket fare.

4. Can I book a UM flight over the phone?
Yes! You can book by calling +1 833 466 0457 for assistance.

5. What documents are needed?
You’ll need a birth certificate or +1 833 466 0457 (USA) or +1-833-750-0395 (USA) passport for the child and valid photo ID for the drop-off and pickup adults.