Delta Air Lines Unaccompanied Minor Policy (2026)
Delta 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 up to 4 children on the same itinerary.
Last verified: 2026-07-01. Source: Delta Air Lines 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 (up to 4 children) |
| International Fee | $150 each way (up to 4 children) |
| Per Child? | No (covers siblings) |
| Connections | Allowed — Ages 8+ can fly connecting itineraries. Ages 5-7 nonstop only. |
| International | Allowed — International flights available for all UM ages (nonstop for 5-7, connecting for 8+). |
| Red-Eye Flights | Not allowed — No flights departing between 9:00 PM and 5:00 AM. |
| Booking Method | Fee covers up to 4 children traveling on the same itinerary. Must book by phone at 800-325-8847. |
Ages 5-7 restricted to nonstop flights only. Ages 8-14 can fly connecting. Ages 15-17 may opt into UM service.
How It Works: Step by Step
- Check-In: Check in at airport counter (online check-in not available for UMs). Arrive at least 2 hours before departure.
- Boarding: Child boards first with gate agent escort. Parent/guardian must remain at gate until departure.
- In-Flight: Flight attendants supervise throughout. Sky Zone lounges available at ATL, DTW, LAX, MEM, MSP, JFK, LGA, SLC, SEA for connections.
- Arrival: Gate agent escorts child to designated pickup person at arrival gate.
Escort Rules: Designated pickup person must present valid 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 full name and photo ID details
Recommended
- Copy of itinerary for child
- Emergency contact numbers
- Snacks and entertainment for the flight
Parent/guardian must remain at the airport until the flight departs.
Safety Procedures
- Dedicated Sky Zone lounges at 9 major hubs for connecting UMs
- Flight attendant check-ins throughout flight
- Priority boarding and deplaning
- Gate-to-gate escort for connections
Restrictions & Exceptions
- No red-eye flights (departing 9 PM – 5 AM)
- Ages 5-7: nonstop flights only
- Must book by phone (not available online)
Pro Tips for Parents
- Book Early: Delta limits UM seats per flight. Book well in advance, especially during school breaks and holidays.
- Use Sky Zone: If your child connects, Delta's Sky Zone lounges at 9 hubs provide supervised play areas and snacks.
- Pack Smart: Include snacks, a charged device with headphones, and a comfort item. Label everything with your child's name.
The Bottom Line
Delta's UM program is one of the most comprehensive among US carriers, with Sky Zone lounges at 9 hubs and connections allowed for ages 8+. The $150 fee covering up to 4 siblings makes it cost-effective for families.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does Delta charge for unaccompanied minors?
- Delta charges $150 each way, covering up to 4 children traveling on the same itinerary. This applies to both domestic and international flights.
- Can a 5-year-old fly alone on Delta?
- Yes. Delta accepts UMs starting at age 5, but children ages 5-7 are restricted to nonstop flights only. Ages 8+ can fly connecting itineraries.
- Can I book Delta UM service online?
- No. Delta requires UM bookings to be made by phone at 800-325-8847. Online booking is not available for unaccompanied minors.