Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy allows unaccompanied minors (UMs) aged 5 to 11 to travel alone on nonstop or direct flights only. The airline provides special assistance from check-in through to arrival, including supervision during connections. A service fee per direction applies, and guardians must complete necessary paperwork and ensure designated adults are present for drop-off and pick-up. Southwest ensures UMs wear a special wristband and boards them early for extra attention. Staff escort UMs off the plane and supervise them until they meet their designated guardian.

Overview of Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy

Eligibility

Southwest Airlines allows children aged 5 through 11 to travel as unaccompanied minors. Children aged 12 and older are not required to use the Unaccompanied Minor service, but it is available upon request.

Booking Process

When booking a flight for an unaccompanied minor on Southwest Airlines, there are specific steps and considerations:

Contact Southwest Airlines: Inform Southwest Airlines that you will be booking travel for an unaccompanied minor. This can typically be done during the reservation process either online, through the Southwest Airlines mobile app, or by calling Southwest Airlines Customer Service.

Complete Required Forms: Southwest Airlines requires specific forms to be completed for unaccompanied minors. These forms include information about the child, the adult dropping off and picking up the child, and any additional instructions or special considerations.

Book Direct Flights: Southwest Airlines requires that unaccompanied minors travel on nonstop or direct flights only. This means the flight will not have a change of aircraft or flight number.

Pay Additional Fee: There is an additional fee for the Unaccompanied Minor service, which is in addition to the cost of the child’s ticket. The fee may vary depending on the route and is typically paid at the time of booking.

Fees

The fee for Southwest Airlines’ Unaccompanied Minor service is typically around $50 each way, as of the last update. This fee covers the cost of supervision and assistance provided to the child throughout their journey.

Preparation for Travel

Before the day of travel, there are several steps to take to ensure a smooth experience for the unaccompanied minor:

Review Documentation: Ensure you have all necessary documentation ready, including identification for both the child and the adult dropping off and picking up the child.

Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at the airport well in advance of the flight departure time. Southwest Airlines recommends checking in at least 60 minutes prior to departure for domestic flights and 90 minutes for international flights.

Escort to Gate: The adult accompanying the child to the airport must escort them to the departure gate and remain with them until the flight has departed.

Day of Travel Procedures

On the day of travel, the process for unaccompanied minors includes:

Check-In: Visit the Southwest Airlines ticket counter with the child and provide all required documentation. This includes completing the necessary forms and paying any applicable fees.

Receive UM Identification: Southwest Airlines provides the child with a special Unaccompanied Minor identification badge or lanyard that they wear throughout the journey. This helps airline personnel identify them as an unaccompanied minor.

Boarding: Unaccompanied minors are typically pre-boarded before general boarding begins. This allows them to get settled and familiarize themselves with the aircraft before other passengers board.

During the Flight: Southwest Airlines flight attendants are notified of unaccompanied minors on board. They provide additional attention and assistance to ensure the child’s comfort and safety during the flight.

Arrival and Pick-Up

Upon arrival at the destination airport:

Deplaning: The child is escorted off the aircraft by a Southwest Airlines employee and taken to the designated arrival area.

Pick-Up Procedure: The adult designated to pick up the child must present identification and sign a form acknowledging receipt of the child. Only individuals listed on the Unaccompanied Minor form are permitted to pick up the child.

Handover Process: Southwest Airlines ensures that the child is released only to the authorized adult designated on the child’s Unaccompanied Minor form. This ensures the child’s safety and security until reunited with their family or guardian.

Additional Considerations

Flight Restrictions: Unaccompanied minors may not be booked on certain Southwest Airlines flights, such as those with overnight connections or flights departing after 8:00 PM.

Age Verification: Southwest Airlines may require proof of age for unaccompanied minors. This can be in the form of a birth certificate or passport.

Special Needs: If the child has special needs or requires specific accommodations, it’s essential to notify Southwest Airlines in advance. This ensures that appropriate arrangements can be made to accommodate the child’s needs during the journey.

Conclusion

Southwest Airlines’ Unaccompanied Minor policy is designed to provide peace of mind to parents and guardians while ensuring the safety and well-being of children traveling alone. By following the guidelines outlined above, families can navigate the process of booking and preparing for travel with ease. The Unaccompanied Minor service includes dedicated assistance from check-in through to arrival, ensuring that unaccompanied minors have a positive and secure travel experience with Southwest Airlines.