The minimum age for a child to travel by plane alone is 5 years old on most airlines, but policies vary by carrier and route. Infants under 2 weeks old are typically not permitted, and unaccompanied minor services usually start at age 5.
What is the minimum age for a child to travel by plane?
Children as young as 5 years old may travel alone on some airlines, but most require unaccompanied minor service for ages 5–14. Infants younger than 7 days old (or 14 days for some carriers) can’t fly. Always confirm the airline’s policy before booking.
Major U.S. airlines like Delta and American Airlines allow kids aged 5–7 to travel alone on nonstop flights only. Others, like United, require unaccompanied minor service for all children under 15. International carriers may have different rules. Check the specific airline’s unaccompanied minor policy—fees and age ranges vary.
Is there a minimum flying age?
There’s no legal minimum flying age, but airlines set their own rules for unaccompanied minors. Kids under 5 usually can’t fly alone, and those aged 5–14 typically need unaccompanied minor service. Airlines may also restrict travel for infants under 7–14 days old.
For example, Delta and United require unaccompanied minor service for kids 5–14. Southwest, though, lets 12-year-olds fly solo without special service. Always verify age restrictions and fees—they can change. Some international airlines have stricter policies for very young travelers.
Can I fly alone at 14?
Yes, but most airlines require 14-year-olds to use unaccompanied minor service when traveling without an adult. Some carriers let 15-year-olds fly solo, but policies differ. Check the specific airline’s rules before booking.
For example, Alaska Airlines lets kids 13–17 fly alone without unaccompanied minor service. American Airlines, though, requires it for ages 5–14. Flights must often be nonstop or direct, with no plane changes. Fees for unaccompanied minors typically run $50–$100 per flight.
Can I fly alone at 17?
Yes, 17-year-olds can usually fly alone without unaccompanied minor service on most airlines. Many carriers treat 15–17-year-olds as adults, but some still offer optional unaccompanied minor service. Always confirm the airline’s policy.
For instance, Delta and United let 15–17-year-olds travel alone without special service. JetBlue, though, requires it for ages 14 and under. Some airlines may still ask for ID or a signed parental consent form. Check the airline’s website for the most current rules.
Do kids fly free?
Children under 2 typically fly free if they sit on a parent’s lap, but they need a ticket and their own seat if occupying one. Airlines vary: some charge a reduced fare (10% of adult fare) for lap infants, while others offer free travel for infants under 2.
For example, Spirit Airlines charges $100–$150 for a lap infant on domestic flights. Alaska Airlines, though, allows free travel for lap infants. International flights often require a full fare or a discounted ticket for infants. Always check the airline’s policy—fees and age limits can differ.
Can you fly alone at 18?
Yes, 18-year-olds can fly alone without restrictions on most airlines. They don’t need unaccompanied minor service and can travel internationally without parental consent. A valid ID (driver’s license or passport) is typically required.
At 18, travelers are legally adults and can book flights independently. That said, some airlines may still require a parent or guardian to complete the booking process for international travel. Check the airline’s ID requirements—some may require a passport even for domestic flights.
Can you fly with a 3 month old?
Yes, but it’s generally not recommended due to health risks and airline policies. Most airlines allow infants as young as 7–14 days old to fly, but pediatricians advise waiting until the baby is at least 2–3 months old.
Newborns have weaker immune systems, making them more susceptible to germs on planes. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends waiting until the baby is at least 2 months old for travel. If flying is necessary, consult your pediatrician first and bring hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes.
What airlines let you fly alone at 13?
Several airlines allow 13-year-olds to fly alone, but policies vary by carrier. Some require unaccompanied minor service, while others treat 13-year-olds as adults for travel purposes.
Always verify the airline’s current policy—rules can change. Some carriers may require a signed parental consent form or ID for minors.
What do 14 year olds need to fly?
14-year-olds need valid ID for domestic flights and may need additional documents for international travel. While TSA doesn’t require ID for kids under 18 traveling with an adult, some airlines may ask for proof of age.
Acceptable IDs for a 14-year-old include a school ID, library card, or learner’s permit. For domestic flights, a birth certificate may suffice as proof of age. For international travel, a passport is typically required. Check the airline’s policy—some may have additional requirements.
What does a 13 year old need to fly?
13-year-olds typically don’t need ID for domestic flights within the U.S. when traveling with an adult. However, some airlines may ask for proof of age, such as a school ID or birth certificate.
TSA doesn’t require ID for kids under 18, but airlines may have their own policies. For international flights, a passport is mandatory. If the teen is traveling alone, some airlines may require a signed parental consent form. Always check the airline’s requirements before booking.
What airlines allow 17 year olds to fly alone?
Most major airlines allow 17-year-olds to fly alone without restrictions. Some carriers treat 17-year-olds as adults, while others offer optional unaccompanied minor service.
Always confirm the airline’s current policy—rules can change. Some carriers may require a parent or guardian to complete the booking process for international travel.
Can you go abroad at 17 without parents?
Yes, but it depends on the airline and destination country. At 17, you’re legally an adult and can travel internationally without parental consent, but airlines and immigration authorities may have additional requirements.
Some countries require a parental consent letter for minors traveling without parents, even if they’re 17. Airlines may also ask for a notarized letter of consent. Check the destination country’s entry requirements and the airline’s policy before booking. A valid passport is mandatory for international travel.
Can my 3 year old sit on my lap airplane?
Yes, but the FAA strongly recommends using an FAA-approved car seat for safety. While airlines allow lap infants, studies show car seats are far safer in case of turbulence or emergencies.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) advises parents to secure kids in their own seat with an approved car seat during the flight. Lap infants are at risk of injury from sudden movements or turbulence. If you must use a lap infant policy, hold the child securely on your lap during the flight.
Do 2 year olds have to wear a mask on a plane?
No, children under 2 are exempt from mask requirements on U.S. flights and in airports. All other passengers aged 2 and older must wear a mask or obtain an exemption from the airline.
The CDC exempts kids under 2 from mask mandates due to choking hazards. Airlines may have their own policies, but federal guidelines supersede them. Bring your own mask for your child if they’re 2 or older, and check the airline’s current mask policy before flying.
Do I need a plane ticket for a 2 year old?
No, infants under 2 don’t need a plane ticket if they sit on a parent’s lap. However, if you want the infant to have their own seat, you must purchase a ticket.
Lap infant policies vary by airline: some charge a small fee (e.g., 10% of the adult fare), while others allow free travel. For international flights, some airlines require a ticket even for lap infants. Always check the airline’s policy for lap infants before booking.
Edited and fact-checked by the MeridianFacts editorial team.
