Southwest Unaccompanied Minor Policy: Traveling Alone & Fly Smart!

The Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy is one of the most searched guidelines for parents planning safe air travel for their children. This comprehensive article explains every rule, fee, age requirement, booking guideline, airport assistance, and required documentation for minors traveling alone. This policy (also referred to as Southwest Unaccompanied Minor Policy for Minors) outlines how children aged 5–11 can travel solo under the airline’s unaccompanied minor service, and how children aged 12–17 travel as “Young Travelers.” Our complete guide helps you understand what the policy is, how it works, how much it costs, and the exact steps required before your child flies.

Use this detailed Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy 2025 guide as the most complete and reliable reference online. And if you ever need immediate travel support, last-minute booking help, or guidance with UMNR documentation, you can always call +1 (866) 558-3017 for expert assistance.

Quick Overview: Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy

• Age Groups: Southwest divides minors into two categories — Unaccompanied Minors (ages 5–11) and Young Travelers (ages 12–17).
• Service Requirement: Children aged 5–11 must use the Unaccompanied Minor service; ages 12–17 may travel alone without it.
• Cost: The Unaccompanied Minor service costs $100 each way per child.
• Flight Restrictions: Only domestic non-stop or same-plane direct flights are allowed for unaccompanied minors; international routes are not permitted.
• Booking: Must be made by phone through Southwest Airlines Reservations — online booking is not available for this service.
• Check-In Requirements: Proof of age is required. The accompanying adult must show a valid photo ID, obtain a gate pass, and provide pickup and contact details.
• Pre boarding: Unaccompanied minors pre board to sit in the front section; Early Bird Check-In is not available.
• Booking: Must be done by phone – +1 (866) 558-3017 through Southwest Airlines Reservations (not online).
• Young Travelers (12–17): May book online, pay no fee, and must manage all travel tasks independently (check-in, security, and baggage).

Pro Tip: Book early — Unaccompanied Minor spots are limited on each flight. Prepare required documents and arrive at the airport early for smooth check-in. For expert booking support and travel guidance, reach out to Flightshelpcenter at +1 (866) 558-3017.

What Is Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy?

The Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy provides special travel arrangements for children between 5 and 11 years who are flying alone. It ensures that every child receives personal supervision from departure to arrival. Once checked in, Southwest’s trained team assists your child through boarding, in-flight service, and arrival — handing them safely to the authorized guardian at the destination. Parents can rest assured that their children are flying securely with constant assistance from the airline crew.

Children under 5 years are not eligible to travel alone. For those aged 12–17, Southwest offers the Young Travelers Program, which allows older minors to travel independently. If you’re unsure whether your child qualifies or need help booking, call +1 (866) 558-3017 to speak with a Southwest travel expert.

Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Age Rules

Southwest’s Unaccompanied Minor Policy clearly defines travel eligibility based on age:

• Children under 5 years: Cannot travel alone under any circumstances.
• Ages 5–11: Must travel using the Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor service when flying without an adult (12+).
• Ages 12–17: Classified as Young Travelers who can travel independently without the UMNR service.

Southwest takes additional care for minors traveling with siblings or friends. For example, if a 10-year-old and a 13-year-old travel together, the younger child must still be registered as an unaccompanied minor.

How to Book a Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Ticket

Follow these steps to book your child’s flight under the Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy:

Step 1: Book the Flight

• Visit southwest.com or call +1 (866) 558-3017.
• Enter your child’s date of birth—Southwest automatically applies the UMNR service for eligible ages (5–11).

Step 2: Complete the Unaccompanied Minor Form

Before check-in, fill out the Southwest Unaccompanied Minor Form with:

• Child’s full name and date of birth
• Emergency contact information
• Authorized drop-off and pickup persons

Step 3: Arrive Early

Reach the airport at least 90 minutes before departure to complete check-in. The guardian must stay until the flight takes off.

Step 4: Gate Escort

Southwest agents escort the child through security and boarding. Parents receive a pass to go through security up to the gate.

Step 5: Arrival Procedures

At destination, the authorized guardian must present valid ID to pick up the child. Airline staff personally hand over the child to them.

Southwest Unaccompanied Minor Fee and Services

The Southwest Unaccompanied Minor Fee is $100 per child, per one-way trip, and applies to all children aged 5–11 traveling under the official Unaccompanied Minor (UMNR) program. For a round trip, the total cost becomes $200 per child in addition to the regular airfare.

• For children aged 5-11, the fee is approximately US$100 each way.
• Some older sources may mention US$50 one-way or US$100 round-trip – but the official policy states around US$100 each way.
• The fee covers the additional handling, pre-boarding, escorting to/from the gate, etc.
• For Young Travelers (12-17) the UM service fee does not apply (because they are not under the full UM service).

Parents should check directly with Southwest when booking to confirm the exact fee at that time, as fees can vary or change. This fee ensures safety and comfort from check-in to landing. For questions about refunds, rescheduling, or payment methods, contact +1 (866) 558-3017.

Who is eligible under the Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy?

Age eligibility

• A child aged between 5 and 11 years who is flying alone without an accompanying adult aged 12 or older qualifies as an Unaccompanied Minor under the Southwest policy.
• A child aged 12-17 years flying alone is treated as a Young Traveler, not an unaccompanied minor under the full service.
• Children under age 5 are not eligible to travel alone under the UM service and need an adult accompany them.

Additional eligibility/conditions

• The flight itinerary: For UMs (5-11), direct or non-stop flights are often required (no overnight layovers or multiple connections).
• The child must have sufficient maturity to travel with limited supervision – including checking in, passing through security, boarding and deplaning (for Young Travelers) etc.
• The parent/guardian must provide required information: who is dropping off the child, who is picking them up, alternate contact persons, etc.
• The policy may exclude certain itineraries or flights with higher complexity. For example UMs may be denied if the flight may be delayed, cancelled, or involves many connections.

Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor and Young Traveler Policy

Southwest Airlines divides its minor travel policy into two age groups: Unaccompanied Minors (ages 5–11) and Young Travelers (ages 12–17).

Children Ages 5–11 (Unaccompanied Minors)

For children aged 5–11 traveling alone, the Unaccompanied Minor service is mandatory. This service includes staff escorts, supervision, and a lanyard for identification, ensuring safety throughout the trip.

• Cost: $100 each way per child
• Flights: Only domestic non-stop or same-plane direct flights are allowed; international travel is not permitted.
• Booking: Must be made by calling Southwest Airlines Reservations (not available online).
• Requirements: Proof of age is required at check-in. The accompanying adult must have a gate pass, show photo ID, and provide contact information for both drop-off and pick-up adults.
• Pre boarding: Unaccompanied minors are not eligible for Early Bird Check-in but will be pre boarded to sit near the front of the aircraft.

Children Ages 12–17 (Young Travelers)

Children aged 12–17 are considered Young Travelers and can fly independently without the Unaccompanied Minor service.

• Cost: No additional fee
• Booking: Can be made online
• Self-sufficiency: Must be able to handle all aspects of travel — check-in, security, boarding, deplaning, and baggage claim.
• Monitoring: No supervision is provided during travel.
• Identification: ID is not required for domestic travel under 18, though it may be needed for TSA Pre Check.

Key Differences

Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Check-In & Boarding Guide

Southwest Airlines offers a carefully structured and secure process to ensure a smooth journey for every unaccompanied minor. Below is the refined, step-by-step premium guideline:

• Dedicated Parent Check-In
  Upon arrival at the airport, parents or guardians must check in at the Southwest ticket counter with a valid government-issued photo ID. Airline staff verify all travel documents and complete the UMNR paperwork.
• Escort Pass Issuance
  Southwest provides an official escort pass, allowing the guardian to accompany the child through security and all the way to the departure gate.
• UMNR Identification Badge
  The child receives a distinctive Unaccompanied Minor lanyard or wristband for easy visibility and priority care throughout the journey.
• Supervised Priority Boarding
  A trained Southwest representative personally escorts the child during the boarding process, ensuring early seating, comfort, and enhanced monitoring.
• Verified Handoff at Destination
  Upon arrival, the child is released only to the designated pickup adult listed on the UMNR form—after a strict ID verification by Southwest staff.

Flight Changes or Delays
If your child’s flight experiences any delays or schedule adjustments, Southwest’s dedicated UMNR team proactively keeps parents informed at every step.
For immediate assistance, contact +1 (866) 558-3017.

Online Pre-Check-In (Recommended)

Parents or guardians can complete the online check-in up to 24 hours before departure.

• Reservation details and child’s information are confirmed online
• Boarding position is assigned in advance
• You must still visit the ticket counter at the airport to complete UMNR documentation and receive the lanyard

Online check-in helps save time, but airport verification is mandatory for all UMNR travelers.

Southwest Airlines Policy on Minors Aged 12–17

While this article is focused on the Southwest Unaccompanied Minor Policy (for ages 5-11), it’s important to understand what applies to ages 12-17:

• Children aged 12 through 17 are considered Young Travelers (YTs) under the Southwest policy.
• The special UM service (with additional fee, mandatory escort etc) does not apply to Young Travelers. The airline treats them as more independent passengers.
• Parents/guardians are still responsible to ensure the child is prepared and capable of travelling alone, and understands procedures (check-in, security, baggage claim etc).
• There may be restrictions: for example, itineraries with overnight layovers, international flights may not be permitted for Young Travelers alone under this policy.

Thus, if your child is 12 or older and you do not opt for the UM service, they travel as a Young Traveler; this involves fewer additional airline services and no separate fee.

Important Terms and Conditions in Southwest Policy on Unaccompanied Minors

Here are some of the key terms in the Southwest Airlines Policy On Unaccompanied Minors / Unaccompanied Minor Policy Southwest Airlines that parents/guardians should review carefully:

• UMs (age 5-11) are not eligible for Early Bird Check-in service because they must pre-board.
• UMs may only fly on eligible itineraries (e.g., domestic, non-stop or direct flights with no major overnight layover) depending on the airline’s discretion.
• The airline may refuse carriage if the child appears not mature enough or the itinerary poses operational risk (e.g., likely flight cancellation).
• At drop-off: the parent/guardian must accompany the child to the check-in counter, present required documentation, wait until the flight departs. At arrival: the designated pick-up person must present ID, arrive early (often at least 45 minutes before arrival), and be on the arrival gate side of security.
• For Young Travelers (ages 12-17): the airline does not provide the same escort service as for UMs. They check in, pass through security, board, deplane and claim baggage on their own. Southwest does not monitor them during travel.
• The parent/guardian must ensure that the child has the capability (maturity) to travel alone, including ability to contact guardian if there is disruption, ask for assistance, etc.
• International flights or overnight connections may be excluded for both UM and Young Travelers under the policy.

Documents Required for Southwest Unaccompanied Minors Travel

Before your child’s departure, ensure these documents are prepared:

• Government-issued ID (for guardian)
• Copy of birth certificate (for child)
• Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Form (signed and completed)
• Emergency contact list (phone numbers for both ends)
• Proof of relationship (if applicable)

Having these ready minimizes check-in delays and ensures compliance with the Southwest Airlines Minor Travel Policy.

Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Safety Procedures

The Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy ensures continuous supervision. Trained flight attendants and ground staff track every step of the minor’s journey. Here’s how safety is maintained:

• Dedicated staff supervision from gate to destination
• In-flight attention for comfort and reassurance
• Verified pickup using government-issued ID
• Communication updates sent to guardians during delays or cancellations

You can reach out to +1 (866) 558-3017 to know more about Southwest’s updated child travel safety standards for 2025.

Drop-off and Pickup Procedures

• At Departure:
  Parents must check in the child at the ticket counter, complete forms, and receive a gate pass.
• During Flight:
  Flight attendants provide supervision and help your child if needed.
• At Arrival:
  The receiving guardian must show photo ID and wait at the designated gate.

These guidelines make the Southwest Policy on Unaccompanied Minors reliable and safe for every journey.

Tips for Parents Using Southwest Minor Policy

Planning carefully ensures a smooth experience for your young traveler. Here are expert tips:

• Pack essentials: Include snacks, games, and medications in carry-on.
• Provide updated contact numbers: For both drop-off and pickup guardians.
• Label bags clearly: Include your child’s name, flight number, and destination.
• Arrive early: Check-in at least 90 minutes before departure.
• Stay until takeoff: Remain at the gate until the flight departs safely.

If you want travel experts to handle all arrangements, contact +1 (866) 558-3017 for personalized assistance.

How To Contact Southwest Airlines for UMNR Assistance

You can reach the airline’s support line at +1 (866) 558-3017 for all matters related to Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minors Policy — including booking, fee clarification, form submission, or rescheduling assistance.

You can also connect with Flightshelpcenter, a trusted online travel agency, for complete booking management. Their experts can help you arrange flights, update reservations, and guide you through the Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy requirements efficiently.

Latest Updates on Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy 2025

The Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy 2025 continues to prioritize child safety with the following improvements:

• Streamlined digital UMNR form submission
• Enhanced ID verification system
• Faster parent notification during disruptions
• Improved onboard child monitoring process

These updates reflect Southwest’s commitment to safe and reliable solo travel for kids. For detailed updates or to confirm your child’s eligibility, contact +1 (866) 558-3017.

Key Differences: UM vs Young Traveler

Here’s a comparative overview:

If you are booking for a minor, clarify with Southwest whether you are booking as an Unaccompanied Minor (UM) or as a Young Traveler (YT) depending on age and desired level of service.

Conclusion

The Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy offers peace of mind to parents and a comfortable travel experience for young flyers. With affordable fees, attentive staff, and clear procedures, Southwest ensures every solo journey is safe and worry-free. If you’re planning to book a flight under the Southwest Airlines Minor Travel Policy, or need clarification about forms and eligibility, call +1 (866) 558-3017. For complete booking management and personalized guidance, reach out to Flightshelpcenter, a trusted travel partner that helps parents coordinate smooth and secure journeys for their children. Southwest’s reliable service and well-structured Unaccompanied Minor Policy make it one of the best airlines for young travelers in 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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