As a parent, sending your child on a flight unaccompanied as a minor can be quite stressful, there’s no doubt about it. This is true even for the child who hasn't been on a plane before without a guardian. Whether it’s a trip to visit relatives, a school vacation, or otherwise, making sure your sweet little child is safe and comfortable during the flight is a top priority, right? So, if the question “Does Delta Airlines allow unaccompanied minors?” is going through your head, then you’ll be relieved to know that yes!
Delta Airlines unaccompanied minor program is offered to allow children to fly alone – but certain conditions apply. And before you hit confirm on that flight ticket, understand what safety measures you need to take, what makes the child eligible to travel, and how to book the flight for your kid, so it’s easy and safe for both you, as a parent, and your child as well.
What is Delta’s Unaccompanied Minor program?
Let’s get started with what the program actually says. So, the Delta’s unaccompanied minor program is made to keep kids safe during their journey alone. From check-in to pick up, the airline ensures young travelers are looked after and provided with anything they need during their flight. Special staff is assigned for minor kids to guide them through the airport, help them with boarding, and assist them during layovers.
To be extra cautious, kids even get a barcoded wristband that keeps track of their journey, plus they’re seated next to flight attendants for extra supervision. At hubs like Atlanta or Detroit, Delta Airlines has kid-only lounges at select hubs, Sky Zones, with toys, games, and free phones to connect with family back home.
This unaccompanied minor program by Delta is mandatory for specific age groups, but optional for older teens, depending on parental preference.
Why Choose Delta’s Program?
It’s simple, Delta’s program is well thought out. Also, here are some key points:
- Their staff has been trained to put safety first.
- The trackable wristband ensures there’s an extra layer of security when it comes to kids.
- In case of a flight delay or cancellation, the airline makes sure the kids are rebooked and supervised.
- They even offer overnight accommodation, if required.
- You, as a parent or guardian, will be kept in the loop with timely updates, which will make this program a reliable choice for solo kid travel.
Mind you, this is a paid service.
How do i book a Flight for an Unaccompanied Minor on Delta?
Booking a flight for a Delta Airlines unaccompanied minor isn’t as simple as clicking a few buttons online. You need to connect with either a Delta representative or reach out to a trusted travel agent. Why? Delta wants to make sure all the information you provide is correct, from the child’s age to the pickup person’s info. We’ve broken the process down for you:
Step-by-Step Booking Process
- Step 1: Firstly, you need to connect with Delta’s representative and share your child’s travel details, like the date of travel and destination.
- Step 2: Next, ensure that your kid meets the age and flight restrictions of Delta Airlines (more on that later).
- Step 3: Add the unaccompanied minor fee to the ticket price and pay.
- Step 4: You need to submit a child travel consent form and any IDs required.
- Step 5: The last step in the booking process is to get a wristband and boarding documents at check-in.
If you need personalized help, reach out to GetgoTravels at +1 (888) 655-2474 for easy bookings and reservations available 24/7.
At what age can a child fly alone on Delta AirLines?
Delta Airlines unaccompanied minor age rules say that kids under age 5 can’t travel alone – period, no questions asked. They need to have an adult–18 or up–with them.
Here’s the breakdown for older kids:
- Ages 5–7: Kids in this age group can only fly on nonstop flights – no connections are allowed, which keeps things quite simple, and most importantly, safe.
- Ages 8–14: Next, the kids between 8 and 14 years of age can travel on nonstop or connecting flights, but only with Delta, Delta Connection, KLM, Air France, or Aeromexico. Besides these, no other airline is allowed for connections.
- Ages 15–17: The program for kids between 15 and 17 is optional, and they can choose to fly as standard passengers with a valid ID. But as a parent, just for your peace of mind, you can opt for this program, especially on international flights or complex itineraries.
International Travel Considerations
The Delta Airlines unaccompanied minor policy gets trickier for international flights. Countries like Brazil, South Africa, or more need you to get notarized letters or additional documents for kids under 18 flying alone.
Note: Check Delta’s official website for international child travel regulations.
What are the requirements for Delta’s Unaccompanied Minor service?
You need to fulfil certain requirements under Delta Airlines unaccompanied minor program to make sure your little darling is safe during traveling.
Here’s a list of rules and procedures all parents must follow:
- Escort to Departure: Either a parent or an adult (18+) must come with the child to the departure gate and be there until the flight takes off.
- Pickup at Destination: When the flight lands, only the designated adult listed at the time of booking is allowed to pick up the child, for which they’ll need a gate pass and a valid ID.
- Trackable Wristband: The child must wear the given wristband throughout their journey to track them through the airport.
- Required Documents: Send all the boarding documents, ID, and contact information with the child.
- International Travel Needs: In case the kid is flying internationally, carrying a passport is necessary along with either a birth certificate or a travel consent form.
- Red-Eye Flight Restrictions: Unaccompanied minors are not allowed to fly on red-eye flights (9 p.m.–5 a.m.), except for short domestic routes or flights to/from Hawaii and Alaska.
Documentation Checklist
These are the documents required to keep the process airtight and ensure that your child is never left unattended.
- A photo ID or birth certificate
- A child travel consent form (TSA-required for minors)
- Valid passport for international travel
- Contact information for drop-off and pickup adults
- Any medical or dietary needs must be informed in advance
How much does Delta charge for Unaccompanied Minor Flights?
A Delta Airlines unaccompanied minor fee is charged for the service on top of the booking cost.
Table outlining the fees and key details for Delta’s unaccompanied minor service
| Flight Type | Fee (Each Way) | Applies To | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic | $150 | Ages 5–14 (mandatory), 15–17 (optional) | Covers up to 4 children traveling together. Added to ticket price. |
| International | $150 | Ages 5–14 (mandatory), 15–17 (optional) | Same fee as domestic; may require additional documents for some countries. |
| Round-Trip | $300 ($150 each way) | Ages 5–14 (mandatory), 15–17 (optional) | Total fee for a return journey. |
- Payment: You can either pay the fees at check-in or in advance by calling Delta or your agent.
- Exceptions: If your kid is between 15 and 17 and you don’t choose this unaccompanied minor program, you won’t have to pay any fees. But a valid ID will be required for the kid to travel.
- Credit Card Perks: Some special credit cards, like Amex Platinum, can help pay for things when you fly on an airplane.
Which other Airlines allow Unaccompanied Minors?
You know Delta is not the only airline that offers this unique program. Other major US airlines have similar programs, but of course, the policies may vary. Having an understanding of the Delta Airlines unaccompanied minor rules is crucial when you need to decide the best travel option for your little baby. Each airline might have different age requirements, fees, and safety procedures, so keep them in mind to see which one aligns best with your needs.
- American Airlines: In this particular airline, kids aged 5 to 14 years must use the unaccompanied minor service program, which comes with a fee. Kids from 15 to 17 years of age have an optional choice to pick this program. For those under 15 years old, no red-eye flights are allowed.
- United Airlines: As a 5 to 14-year-old, it’s mandatory to choose this program when flying with United Airlines, which comes with a fee. The program is optional for 15 to 17-year-olds. And only 5 to 11-year-old kids can fly on nonstop flights.
- Southwest Airlines: If your sweet babies fall under the 5-11 age category, they can fly solo with Southwest Airlines under this program for a fee. Ages 12+ can travel without the program.
- JetBlue: With JetBlue Airlines, kids aged 5 to 14 need the program, but have to pay for the service. It’s optional for 15 to 17-year-olds. And can only fly nonstop flights.
Unaccompanied Minor Fee Charged by Other Airlines
Here's a table showing the unaccompanied minor service fees charged by major U.S. airlines:
| Airline | Unaccompanied Minor Fee (One-Way) | Age Range for Service |
|---|---|---|
| Delta Air Lines | $150 (covers up to 4 children) | 5–14 years (mandatory); 15–17 optional |
| American Airlines | $150 (covers siblings together) | 5–14 years (mandatory); 15–17 optional |
| United Airlines | $150 per child | 5–14 years (mandatory); 15–17 optional |
| Southwest Airlines | $100 per child | 5–11 years (mandatory) |
| JetBlue Airways | $150 per child | 5–13 years (mandatory) |
| Alaska Airlines | $50 (direct flight); $75 (connecting flight) | 5–12 years (mandatory); 13–17 optional |
| Spirit Airlines | $100 per child | 5–14 years (mandatory) |
To remember:
- Out of all these, only Delta Airlines has the most structured programs that cover up to four kids traveling together with a flat $150 fee.
- Airlines like Southwest and JetBlue will charge you per child.
- Generally speaking, the fees are applied one-way, so round-trip flights will obviously double the cost.
- You must always make it a point to check the latest policies directly with the airline or a travel agent before booking.
What are some tips for parents when their child is flying alone on Delta?
To be honest, it’s quite nerve-wracking to be sending your adorable kid on a Delta Airlines unaccompanied minor flight. That’s why you have to be prepared before you send them, and for that, we’ve put together some practical tips to put your mind a little bit at ease:
Prepare Your Child
Sit with your kid and talk to them through the entire journey. Explain each leg of the flight to them and what to do if they’re stuck in some situation. Tell them, Delta’s staff will be there, and they should speak only to badge-wearing employees or uniformed officers. Role-play some scenarios with them, like finding a gate or asking for help.
Pack Smart
Smart packing will take your kid a long way. Instead of giving them huge bags that they can’t even manage themselves, keep carry-ons light and pack the checked bag as light as possible. Attach an ID and contact info to their bag or jacket just as an extra precaution. Pack them snacks as the flights may only offer light bites, a charged phone, and something for entertainment like books or tablets. Give them a small amount of cash or a debit card for layovers.
Choose the Right Flight
When you’re booking, go for nonstop flights to make it easy for younger kids. Late-night flights can be avoided to lower the risk of overnight delays. As mentioned earlier, Delta’s Sky Zones at hubs like Los Angeles are incredible for kids to pass the time. For the best deals, check out the best day to book flights on Delta.
Conclusion
Hope you now have a good understanding of what it means to send your child on a Delta flight without worrying too much. Delta Airlines unaccompanied minor program states the fee and policies very simply, making it easy to understand, even if it’s your first time opting for this program. From booking till the child is picked up at the airport, Delta will make sure your child is safe and update you for your peace of mind. For seamless planning, connect with our experts at GetgoTravels and call +1 (888) 655-2474. They’ll handle the details so you can focus on prepping your young travelers.