Airline policies
Most airlines have similar rules for unaccompanied minors traveling. Here are the policies from the four largest carriers in the U.S.
American Airlines
Kids as young as 5 can fly unaccompanied on American. The airline charges $150 each way for the service for solo kids or groups of siblings. Unaccompanied minors are entitled to priority boarding, kids-only lounges in the airline's hubs for those with connecting flights, a snack kit for travelers up to age 10 and escorts through the airport along with flight attendant supervision onboard.
Kids ages 15 to 17 are permitted to fly as standard passengers, but any unaccompanied traveler ages 5 to 14 is required to make use of the unaccompanied minor program. Those ages 5 to 7 are allowed to travel only on nonstop flights.
Delta Air Lines
Kids as young as 5 can fly unaccompanied on some Delta flights. The airline charges $150 each way for up to four children to use the service, which includes priority boarding, kids-only lounges in the airline's hubs for those with connecting flights and escorts through the airport along with flight attendant supervision onboard.
Kids ages 15 to 17 are permitted to fly as standard passengers on any Delta flight, but all unaccompanied traveler ages 5 to 14 are required to make use of the unaccompanied minor program. Those ages 5 to 7 are allowed to travel only on nonstop flights.
United Airlines
Kids as young as 5 can fly unaccompanied on United flights. The airline charges $150 each way for one to two kids to use the service, $300 each way for three to four kids and $450 each way for up to six kids. Unaccompanied minors on United must take nonstop flights and will be assigned a seat within 72 hours of booking. They are entitled to priority boarding and have a chance to meet the pilots before takeoff. Flight attendants check in with them during the flight as duties allow.
Kids ages 15 to 17 are permitted to fly as standard passengers on any United flight, but all unaccompanied traveler ages 5 to 14 are required to make use of the unaccompanied minor program.
Southwest Airlines
Kids ages 5 to 11 can fly as unaccompanied minors on any direct Southwest flights (both nonstop itineraries and those that stop but don't require a change of planes). The airline charges $50 per child each way for the service, which includes priority boarding and an escort and supervision onboard. Children 4 years old and younger or 12 years old and older are not eligible.