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Age Requirements: The Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service is mandatory for children ages 5 through 11 who are traveling without an accompanying passenger who is 12 years of age or older. Children under the age of 5 are not permitted to travel unless accompanied by a passenger 12 or older. Children ages 12 through 17 are considered "Young Travelers" and can travel alone, but are not subject to the same UM procedures.
Flight Restrictions: For safety and consistency, Unaccompanied Minors are only permitted on non-stop flights or flights that make a single stop but do not require a change of aircraft. Unaccompanied Minors cannot travel on international flights.
Service Fee: Southwest Airlines charges a flat fee for the Unaccompanied Minor service. This fee is charged each way per child, but multiple UMs traveling together on the same reservation are subject to a single fee. It is important to note that this fee is in addition to the airfare.
Documentation is Required: You must have the following information and documents ready:
The child's flight itinerary.
The full name, address, and phone number of the person dropping off the child.
The full name, address, and phone number of the person picking up the child at the destination.
An alternative contact person's information for both the drop-off and pick-up locations.
The child's birth certificate or a valid photo ID to prove their age.
A valid, government-issued photo ID for the person dropping off and picking up the child. This is required to obtain a "gate pass."
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To check in for a flight with your child traveling alone, you must go to the airport ticket counter. This process cannot be completed online or at a self-service kiosk. Follow these steps carefully:
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Arrive Early at the Airport: Plan to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your child's flight's scheduled departure time. This gives you ample time to complete the necessary paperwork and go through security without feeling rushed.
Go to the Ticket Counter: Head directly to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter. Inform the agent that you are checking in an Unaccompanied Minor. They will provide you with the necessary paperwork to fill out.
Complete the Paperwork: You will be given a special form to fill out with all the required contact information for both drop-off and pick-up. This form is critical and must be completed accurately.
Obtain a Gate Pass: Once the paperwork is complete, the agent will issue a "gate pass" that allows you to accompany your child through the security checkpoint and to their departure gate. You must have a valid government-issued photo ID to receive this pass. Note that a gate pass will not grant you access to TSA PreCheck lanes, so plan for a longer wait time.
At the Gate: Arrive at the gate at least 45 minutes before the flight's scheduled departure. Report to the gate agent and hand them the completed UM paperwork. The gate agent will attach a special lanyard to the child's neck, which identifies them as an Unaccompanied Minor.
Boarding and Supervision: The child will be allowed to pre-board the aircraft, usually with families, to give them time to get settled. A Southwest Employee will escort them to their seat and introduce them to the flight attendant who will be responsible for them during the flight.
Stay Until Take-off: It is a mandatory requirement that you remain at the departure gate until your child's flight has taken off. This is a safety precaution in case the flight is delayed or canceled at the last minute.
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Q1: What is the age range for an Unaccompanied Minor on Southwest Airlines?
A1: The service is mandatory for children ages 5 through 11. Children ages 12 through 17 are considered "Young Travelers" and are not subject to the same rules.
Q2: How much does the Unaccompanied Minor service cost?
A2: There is a fee for the service that is charged each way, per child. You can call ☎️+1(888)718-4745 ⭐ to confirm the current fee.
Q3: Can an Unaccompanied Minor fly on a connecting flight?
A3: No, they are only permitted on non-stop flights or direct flights that do not require a change of aircraft.
Q4: Can I check in an Unaccompanied Minor online?
A4: No, you cannot. You must check in at the airport ticket counter to complete the necessary paperwork.
Q5: What paperwork do I need to bring?
A5: You need the child's birth certificate or a valid photo ID, your government-issued photo ID, and the contact information for both the drop-off and pick-up parties.
Q6: What is a gate pass, and how do I get one?
A6: A gate pass is a document issued by the airline that allows you to go through the security checkpoint to the gate. You must get it from the ticket counter and show a valid ID.
Q7: Who can pick up my child at the destination?
A7: Only the person designated on the Unaccompanied Minor form will be allowed to pick up the child. They must have a valid government-issued photo ID.
Q8: Will the flight attendant watch my child the entire time?
A8: No, the flight attendant will be aware of the child and check on them, but they are not continuously monitored. The child must have the maturity to travel on their own.
Q9: What happens if the flight is delayed or canceled?
A9: The airline will supervise the child and will not leave them unattended. You should remain available by phone at all times in case of a flight disruption.
Q10: Can a phone agent assist with a last-minute flight change?
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