What To Know
- Traveling with a child who is not yet old enough to fly alone can be a stressful experience, but American Airlines offers an unaccompanied minor service to make it easier.
- The cost of the unaccompanied minor fee on American Airlines varies depending on the age of the child, the route, and the time of year.
- The unaccompanied minor fee is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your child is being supervised by a trained professional.
Traveling with a child who is not yet old enough to fly alone can be a stressful experience, but American Airlines offers an unaccompanied minor service to make it easier. However, this service does come with a fee. The cost of the unaccompanied minor fee on American Airlines varies depending on the age of the child, the route, and the time of year.
Age of the Child
- Children ages 5-7: $150 each way
- Children ages 8-11: $100 each way
- Children ages 12-14: $75 each way
Route
- Domestic flights: The fee is the same regardless of the route.
- International flights: The fee may be higher for international flights.
Time of Year
- Peak season: The fee may be higher during peak travel times, such as summer and holidays.
- Off-season: The fee may be lower during off-season travel times.
What is Included in the Unaccompanied Minor Fee?
The unaccompanied minor fee includes the following services:
- Supervision of the child by an American Airlines employee from check-in to the gate and from the gate to the baggage claim area.
- Assistance with boarding and disembarking the aircraft.
- A special wristband for the child to wear that identifies them as an unaccompanied minor.
- A phone call to the parent or guardian when the child arrives at their destination.
How to Book an Unaccompanied Minor on American Airlines
To book an unaccompanied minor on American Airlines, you can call the reservations department at 1-800-433-7300 or visit the American Airlines website. You will need to provide the following information:
- The child’s name, age, and date of birth.
- The child’s contact information.
- The parent or guardian’s contact information.
- The flight details, including the departure and arrival cities, dates, and times.
What to Expect on the Day of Travel
On the day of travel, the parent or guardian should arrive at the airport with the child at least two hours before the scheduled departure time. The child will need to check in at the ticket counter and go through security. The American Airlines employee will then supervise the child until they board the aircraft.
When the child arrives at their destination, they will be met by an American Airlines employee and taken to the baggage claim area. The employee will then call the parent or guardian to let them know that the child has arrived safely.
Tips for Traveling with an Unaccompanied Minor
Here are a few tips for traveling with an unaccompanied minor on American Airlines:
- Book your flight in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.
- Arrive at the airport early to give yourself plenty of time to check in and go through security.
- Make sure your child has all of their necessary documents, including their passport, visa, and boarding pass.
- Pack a small bag for your child with snacks, drinks, and any other essentials they may need during the flight.
- Give your child a cell phone or other way to contact you in case of an emergency.
- Reassure your child that you will be there to meet them at their destination.
Takeaways
Traveling with an unaccompanied minor can be a stressful experience, but American Airlines offers a variety of services to make it easier. The unaccompanied minor fee is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your child is being supervised by a trained professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the age limit for unaccompanied minors on American Airlines?
A: American Airlines accepts unaccompanied minors between the ages of 5 and 14.
Q: Can I book an unaccompanied minor online?
A: Yes, you can book an unaccompanied minor online at the American Airlines website.
Q: What happens if my child misses their flight?
A: If your child misses their flight, American Airlines will rebook them on the next available flight. You will be responsible for any additional fees associated with the rebooking.
Q: Can I accompany my child to the gate?
A: Yes, you can accompany your child to the gate, but you will not be allowed to board the aircraft with them.
Q: What if I need to cancel my child’s unaccompanied minor service?
A: You can cancel your child’s unaccompanied minor service by calling the American Airlines reservations department at 1-800-433-7300. You will receive a refund of the unaccompanied minor fee.
