+1-877-777-6741Traveling alone can be an exciting experience for children, but it requires careful planning. American Airlines offers an Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service to ensure the safety and comfort of young travelers flying without an adult. This page covers everything parents need to know, including the American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor form, fee, rules, and policy.
Table of Contents
What is the American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Service?
American Airlines provides a supervised travel program for children ages 5 to 14 flying alone. While the service is mandatory for kids aged 5-14, teens aged 15-17 can opt in if needed.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Service Name | American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor (UM) Service |
| Age Requirements | Mandatory: 5-14 years Optional: 15-17 years Not allowed: Under 5 years |
| Service Fee | $150 each way (domestic & international) |
| Flight Restrictions | No codeshare flights No red-eyes for ages 5-7 No service to Haiti/Bolivia |
| Required Documents | Completed UM form Child’s ID (birth certificate/passport) Notarized consent letter (international) |
| Booking Method | Online (aa.com), phone (1-800-433-7300), or airport counter |
| Check-In Requirements | Arrive 2+ hours early (domestic) 3+ hours (international) |
| Pickup Process | Authorized adult must show ID and sign release form |
| International Travel | Allowed with additional documentation (passport/visa/consent letter) |
| Special Assistance | Priority boarding, staff escorts, in-flight supervision |
American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Fee
The Unaccompanied Minor fee varies based on the flight route:
| Fee Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Fee | $150 USD per child, each way |
| Applicable Flights | Domestic flights within U.S. International flights (with additional requirements) |
| Fee Coverage | Dedicated staff supervision Priority boarding Escort during connections Secure handoff to authorized adult |
| Additional Costs | International fees (if applicable) Extra segments (e.g., connecting flights may incur additional fees) |
| Payment Method | Credit/debit card during online booking Cash/credit at airport check-in |
| Refundable? | No – Fee is non-refundable if the service is used |
| Discounts | No sibling discounts (each child pays full fee) Not covered by AAdvantage miles |
| When to Pay | During initial booking or At airport check-in (must be paid before flight) |
- Domestic flights: $150 per child (each way)
- International flights: $150 per child (each way) plus any applicable international fees
Note: Fees are per child, per segment, meaning connecting flights may incur additional charges.
American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Form
Parents or guardians must complete the American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor form before travel. The form collects:
- Child’s personal details
- Flight information
- Contact details of guardians at departure and arrival
How to Submit the American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Form?
- Online: Fill out the American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor form online during booking.
- At the Airport: Complete the form at check-in.
- PDF Option: Download the American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor form PDF from the official website for offline completion.
American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Rules & Guidelines 2025
To ensure a smooth journey, follow these rules:
| Age Restrictions | Ages 5-7: Only allowed on nonstop/direct flights. Ages 8-14: Can travel on connecting flights under UM service. Ages 15-17: Can travel alone but may opt for UM service. |
| Required Paperwork | Birth certificate or passport (for age verification) Notarized consent letter (if traveling internationally) Contact details of guardians at both ends |
| Check-In & Flight Requirements | Arrive at least 2 hours before departure. The designated adult must stay at the airport until the flight departs. The receiving adult must provide a valid ID and sign for the child upon arrival. |
International Travel on American Airlines for Unaccompanied Minors
For international flights, additional requirements apply:
- Valid passport & visa (if required)
- Notarized parental consent letter (for border crossings)
- Customs forms (filled by guardians)
Note: Some countries have strict entry rules for minors—check with the consulate beforehand.
American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Phone Number
For assistance, contact:
- American Airlines Customer Service: 1-800-433-7300
- Unaccompanied Minor Desk (Direct Help): Check the official website for the latest contact details.
American Airlines Flight Restrictions for Unaccompanied Minors
Not all flights allow unaccompanied minors. Below are key restrictions:
| Prohibited Routes for Unaccompanied Minors | Allowed Connections for Unaccompanied Minors |
| American Airlines does not permit UM service on: Flights to/from Haiti Flights to/from Bolivia Codeshare or partner airline flights (must be operated by American Airlines or American Eagle) Red-eye flights (overnight flights) for children under 8 | Children ages 8-14 can travel on connecting flights only if: The connection is through Charlotte (CLT), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), New York (JFK or LGA), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), Chicago (ORD), or Phoenix (PHX). The layover is less than 2 hours (longer connections may require special approval). |
American Airlines Special Accommodations for Unaccompanied Minors
| Meals & Snacks | Parents can pre-order meals during booking. Flight attendants will assist the child with food and beverages. |
| Entertainment & Comfort | Kids receive priority boarding to settle in early. They can access in-flight entertainment (if available). Parents are encouraged to pack books, tablets, or toys for the journey. |
| Medical & Special Needs | If the child has medical conditions or disabilities, notify American Airlines at least 48 hours before departure. Medications must be in original packaging with a doctor’s note. |
How to Book American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Service?
| Online Booking Process | Booking via Phone |
| Visit aa.com and select “Unaccompanied Minor Service” during booking. Fill out the American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor form online. Pay the UM fee ($150 each way). Receive a confirmation email with travel instructions. | Call 1-800-433-7300 to speak with a representative who will: Confirm eligibility. Assist with form submission. Explain check-in procedures. |
Comparing American Airlines’ UM Service to Other Carriers
| Feature | American Airlines | Delta | United |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age Range | 5-14 (mandatory) | 5-14 | 5-14 |
| Fee | $150 each way | $150 | $150 |
| International UM Service | Yes, with restrictions | Limited | Limited |
| Mobile Check-In | Yes | No | Partial |
| Connection Assistance | At major hubs only | All connections | All connections |
Check Here: Spirit Airlines Cancellation Policy 2025
Conclusion
American Airlines’ Unaccompanied Minor service ensures a safe and structured travel experience for children flying alone. By following the rules, submitting the required forms, and paying the applicable fee, parents can ensure a hassle-free journey for their young travelers.
FAQs on American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy
Can unaccompanied minors fly internationally on American Airlines?
Yes, American Airlines allows unaccompanied minors (ages 5–14) on select international flights. Additional requirements include:
Notarized parental consent letter
Valid passport/visa
Restrictions: Not available on flights to/from Haiti, Bolivia, or codeshare partner airlines.
Does American Airlines allow unaccompanied minors?
Yes. The Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service is:
Mandatory for children 5–14 flying alone.
Optional for teens 15–17.
Not offered for infants/children under 5.
How much does American Airlines charge for unaccompanied minors?
Fee: $150 each way (domestic and international).
Covers: Dedicated staff supervision, priority boarding, and flight coordination.
Note: Fee applies per child, per flight segment (connecting flights may incur additional charges).
How to book an unaccompanied minor flight on American Airlines?
Three ways to book:
Online: Select “Unaccompanied Minor Service” during booking at aa.com.
Phone: Call 1-800-433-7300.
Airport: Visit an American Airlines ticket counter.
Required: Complete the UM form and pay the fee before travel.
What age is an unaccompanied minor on American Airlines?
5–14 years: Must use the UM service.
15–17 years: Can fly alone (UM service optional).
Under 5: Not permitted to travel alone.
What is the American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor policy 2025?
Key rules include:
Flight restrictions: No red-eyes for kids under 8; no prohibited routes.
Check-in: Arrive 2+ hours early (domestic), 3+ hours (international).
Pickup: Authorized adult must show ID and sign for the child.
Connections: Only allowed at major hubs (e.g., DFW, MIA, JFK).
What age can a child fly alone on American Airlines?
5+ years: Allowed with UM service.
15+ years: Can fly without supervision (UM service optional).
What kind of ID does a child need to fly American Airlines?
Domestic flights: Birth certificate or passport (recommended).
International flights: Passport + visa (if required).
Do I need to bring a birth certificate for my child to fly on American Airlines?
Domestic flights: Not always required but recommended for age verification.
International flights: Required (along with passport).
What are the rules for American Airlines unaccompanied minors 2025?
Summary of key rules:
Ages 5–14: Must use UM service ($150 fee).
Direct flights only for ages 5–7.
No UM service on codeshare flights or to Haiti/Bolivia.
Parent/guardian must stay until flight departs.
Authorized adult must pick up child with valid ID.