As grandparents, we often play a special role in helping our grandchildren travel—whether for family visits, summer vacations, or holidays. But sending a child to fly alone can feel stressful. Thankfully, United Airlines has an unaccompanied minor program designed to keep kids safe from check-in to arrival.
This guide breaks down the policy in plain, senior-friendly terms: age rules, costs, and what to expect. And if you’d like direct assistance, you can always call United at 877-297-0699 to confirm details before booking.
United requires children ages 5–14 traveling alone to use its unaccompanied minor service. For kids 15–17, the service is optional—parents or guardians can decide if they’d like extra support.
With this program, United staff supervise the child from check-in through boarding, during the flight, and at pick-up.
👉 Simple rule to remember: Under 15 = required / 15–17 = optional.
The program isn’t free. United charges a flat fee of $150 each way for unaccompanied minors.
This covers up to two children traveling together under the same reservation.
The fee is paid in addition to the regular ticket cost.
Both domestic and international flights follow the same fee structure.
💡 Tip: Always confirm fees by calling 877-297-0699, since airline policies can change.
Only nonstop flights are eligible for unaccompanied minors under 15.
No connections or codeshare flights allowed.
A parent or guardian must check the child in at the airport.
Guardians must stay at the gate until the flight has departed.
Only the designated adult (with ID) can pick up the child.
Staff hand the child off directly—safety is the priority.
👴 Example: A grandfather picking up his grandson in Denver recalled being asked to show ID at the gate before United staff released the child—he said it gave him peace of mind knowing the rules were strict.
United’s unaccompanied minor program provides:
Supervised check-in and boarding.
Priority seating near flight attendants.
Assistance during the flight if the child needs help.
Escort and supervised hand-off at arrival.
👉 Think of it as door-to-door service inside the airport system.
Here are a few practical tips to make the experience smoother for both you and your grandchild:
Book early to ensure availability on nonstop flights.
Prepare documents—child’s ID and guardian contact information are required.
Pack comfort items—snacks, books, or a small toy.
Write a note with your phone number so your grandchild feels reassured.
Arrive early to allow plenty of time for paperwork and security.
👵 Real-world story: A grandmother in Florida prepared a small travel kit with snacks and a handwritten note for her grandson. She said he felt safer knowing Grandma was just a phone call away.
Booking is simple, but it has a few steps:
Book the child’s ticket online or by phone.
Call 877-297-0699 to add the unaccompanied minor service.
Pay the $150 fee.
Complete the guardian authorization forms.
Arrive early on travel day for check-in and gate escort.
United’s unaccompanied minor program ensures that children traveling alone are cared for every step of the way. While it comes with a fee, the peace of mind it provides for grandparents and parents is priceless.
With a little planning—and a quick call to 877-297-0699 to confirm details—you can feel confident sending your grandchild on their next adventure.