Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy 2025
Traveling alone can be exciting yet nerve-wracking for kids and parents. With the Southwest Airlines’ unaccompanied minor policy, you can rest easy knowing your child is in safe hands. From the booking process to pick-up, every detail is carefully managed. When your child travels alone, their safety becomes your top concern. Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy 2025 ensures young travelers are protected every step of the way.
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Who Qualifies: Unaccompanied Minor Age Restrictions
Southwest Airlines defines unaccompanied minors as children aged 5 to 11 years traveling without a passenger aged 12 or older. Children under 5 are not allowed to travel alone. Those 12 through 17 years are not considered unaccompanied minors, but may still travel solo.
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligible Age | 5 to 11 years |
| Not Eligible | Under 5 or connecting/international flights |
| Fee | $50 one-way ($100 round trip) |
| Flights Allowed | Nonstop or direct only |
| Booking Method | Phone (1-800-I-FLY-SWA) or airport counter |
| Required Forms | UM form + adult ID |
| Escort Required | Yes, at both departure and arrival |
| In-Flight Services | Supervision + snack and beverage |
| International Travel | Not allowed |
Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Fee
Southwest charges a $50 one-way fee per child. This means a round-trip will cost $100 in total. The fee is non-refundable and applies in addition to the airfare.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Service Name | Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor |
| Eligible Age | 5 to 11 years old |
| Fee (One-Way) | $50 USD per child |
| Fee (Round-Trip) | $100 USD per child |
| Applies Per Child | Yes |
| Refundable | No |
| Additional to Ticket Fare | Yes |
| Booking Required By | Phone (1-800-I-FLY-SWA) or at Airport |
| Flights Allowed | Nonstop/Direct Only (No Connections) |
| International Travel Allowed | No |
Booking Southwest Airlines Flights for Unaccompanied Minors
You cannot book these flights online. To arrange travel, call Southwest Customer Service at 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792). Alternatively, you can book in person at the airport ticket counter.
| Contact Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Phone (U.S. & Canada) | 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792) — 24/7 customer support |
| Website | www.southwest.com |
| Live Chat | Available via official website under the “Contact Us” section |
| Airport Counter | Visit the nearest Southwest Airlines ticket counter for assistance |
| Customer Relations | Submit requests via Southwest Contact Form |
| Mailing Address | Southwest Airlines, P.O. Box 36647-1CR, Dallas, TX 75235 |
| Social Media | Twitter: @SouthwestAir, Facebook: Southwest Airlines |
| UM Booking Assistance | Direct all Unaccompanied Minor bookings and questions to phone support only |
When booking, make sure the child travels on nonstop or direct flights only. Connecting flights and international routes are not permitted for unaccompanied minors.
Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Requirements & Forms
At booking, you must provide the following:
- Full name, address, and phone number of the parent/guardian dropping off and picking up the child.
- The completed Unaccompanied Minor (UM) form, available at the airport or on Southwest’s official website.
- Government-issued ID for both the drop-off and pick-up adult.
- Contact numbers for emergencies.
Keep all forms neatly filled and signed before travel. Ensure the escorting adult is authorized and carries valid ID for verification.
Day of Travel Guidelines for Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minors
| Arrival at Airport | Arrive at least 90 minutes before departure. Go to the ticket counter to check in the child. The escorting adult must obtain a gate pass to accompany the child through security to the departure gate. |
| Boarding Process | Unaccompanied minors pre-board before general passengers. A Southwest crew member will escort them onto the plane and introduce them to the flight attendants. |
| In-Flight Experience | Southwest does not provide in-flight entertainment or meals. However, children receive special attention from the crew and a free snack and beverage. |
Important Tips for Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minors for Parents and Guardians
To ensure a smooth travel experience, follow these essential tips:
- Label your child’s belongings. Attach name tags to bags and provide emergency contact details inside.
- Discuss the journey with your child beforehand. Teach them about the boarding process, what to expect on the plane, and who to talk to in case of confusion.
- Pack light. Make sure your child can carry their bag easily. Include only essentials like snacks, books, or a small toy.
- Dress comfortably. Choose simple, comfortable clothes suitable for different temperatures, especially inside the plane.
- Bring paperwork copies. Carry extra copies of the Unaccompanied Minor form, your ID, and booking confirmation.
Changes or Cancellations for Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minors
In case your travel plans change:
- You can modify or cancel the reservation by calling 1-800-I-FLY-SWA or visiting the airport counter.
- Unaccompanied Minor fees are non-refundable, but flight credits may apply based on your fare type.
- Always inform Southwest if the pick-up or drop-off person changes. Updated paperwork and identification are required.
Why Choose Southwest for Unaccompanied Minors?
Southwest Airlines offers a reliable, affordable, and safe travel solution for kids flying alone. Their dedicated crew, streamlined procedures, and flat-rate unaccompanied minor fee make them a preferred choice for many families.
With the right preparation and understanding of the Southwest Airlines unaccompanied minor rules, you can ensure your child has a safe, stress-free flight experience.
Check Here: United Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy 2025
Final Thoughts
Southwest Airlines offers one of the most straightforward and affordable unaccompanied minor policies in the industry. With its clear rules, trained staff, and low fixed fee, parents can trust that their children are in caring and capable hands. Whether your child is flying to visit family, attend school, or experience a new adventure, Southwest makes sure they are safe, supported, and stress-free throughout the journey.
FAQs on Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor
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