American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy (2026)
American Airlines accepts unaccompanied minors ages 5–17. UM service is mandatory for ages 5–14 and optional for 15–17. The fee is $150 each way and covers all siblings on the same booking.
Last verified: 2026-07-01. Source: American Airlines official website.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Policy |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 5 years old |
| UM Mandatory | Ages 5–14 |
| UM Optional | Ages 15–17 |
| Domestic Fee | $150 each way (covers siblings) |
| International Fee | $150 each way (covers siblings) |
| Per Child? | No (covers siblings) |
| Connections | Allowed — Ages 8+ can connect at CLT, ORD, DFW, LAX, MIA, JFK, LGA, PHL, PHX, DCA. |
| International | Allowed — International flights available. Rules vary by age and destination. |
| Booking Method | Fee covers all siblings on the same booking. Must book by phone at 800-433-7300. |
Ages 5-7 restricted to nonstop flights only. Ages 8+ can connect at approved hubs. Ages 15-17 may opt into UM service.
How It Works: Step by Step
- Check-In: Check in at airport counter. Arrive at least 2 hours before departure (3 hours for international).
- Boarding: Child boards first with gate agent. Parent/guardian must stay at gate until takeoff.
- In-Flight: Flight attendants provide supervision. Kids-only lounges available at 9 hub airports for connections.
- Arrival: Gate agent escorts child to designated pickup person.
Escort Rules: Pickup person must present valid government-issued photo ID matching the name on the UM form.
Required Documents
Required
- Completed UM form (provided at check-in)
- Child's photo ID or birth certificate
- Pickup person's name and valid photo ID details
Recommended
- Copy of itinerary
- Emergency contact list
- Snacks and entertainment
Parent/guardian must remain at airport until flight departs.
Safety Procedures
- Kids-only lounge access at 9 hub airports
- Flight attendant supervision throughout
- Priority boarding
- Gate-to-gate escort for connections
Restrictions & Exceptions
- Ages 5-7: nonstop flights only
- Connections only at 10 approved hubs
- Must book by phone
Pro Tips for Parents
- Hub Connections: American allows connections at 10 major hubs for ages 8+. Choose DFW or CLT for the most UM-friendly experience.
- Sibling Savings: The $150 fee covers ALL siblings on the same booking — great value for families with multiple children.
- Arrive Early: Allow extra time for the UM paperwork at check-in. The process takes 15-20 minutes beyond normal check-in.
The Bottom Line
American offers one of the broadest UM connection networks with 10 approved hub airports. The $150 fee covers all siblings, and kids-only lounges at 9 hubs make connections comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does American Airlines charge for unaccompanied minors?
- American charges $150 each way. This fee covers all siblings traveling on the same booking, making it cost-effective for families.
- Can my child connect on American Airlines as a UM?
- Yes, children ages 8+ can connect at 10 approved hub airports: CLT, ORD, DFW, LAX, MIA, JFK, LGA, PHL, PHX, and DCA. Ages 5-7 are restricted to nonstop flights.
- Can I book American Airlines UM service online?
- No. American requires UM bookings by phone at 800-433-7300.