United Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy (2026)
United 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 (per 1–2 children). All UM flights must be nonstop on United or United Express.
Last verified: 2026-07-01. Source: United 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 (per 1-2 children) |
| International Fee | $150 each way (per 1-2 children) |
| Per Child? | No (covers siblings) |
| Connections | Not allowed — No connections allowed. All UM flights must be nonstop on United or United Express. |
| International | Allowed — International flights available but must be nonstop United or United Express. |
| Booking Method | Fee covers 1-2 children on the same itinerary. Can book online at united.com or by phone at 800-864-8331. |
All UM ages restricted to nonstop flights only. Ages 15-17 may opt into UM service.
How It Works: Step by Step
- Check-In: Check in at airport counter or online at united.com. Arrive at least 2 hours before departure.
- Boarding: Child boards first with gate agent escort.
- In-Flight: Flight attendants provide supervision throughout the nonstop flight.
- Arrival: Gate agent escorts child to designated pickup person at arrival.
Escort Rules: Pickup person must present valid government-issued photo ID.
Required Documents
Required
- Completed UM form
- Child's photo ID or birth certificate
- Pickup person's name and photo ID details
Recommended
- Copy of itinerary
- Emergency contacts
- Snacks and entertainment
Parent/guardian must remain at airport until flight departs.
Safety Procedures
- Flight attendant supervision throughout
- Priority boarding
- Direct handoff to designated pickup person
Restrictions & Exceptions
- Nonstop flights only (no connections)
- United or United Express operated flights only
- No codeshare flights
Pro Tips for Parents
- Book Online: United is the only major US carrier allowing online UM booking at united.com — no phone call needed.
- Nonstop Only: Plan carefully — United requires nonstop flights for all UM ages. Check route availability before committing.
- United Express: United Express (regional) flights are eligible. This expands nonstop options to smaller cities.
The Bottom Line
United's UM program is nonstop-only — no connections allowed regardless of age. This limits route options but simplifies the experience. United is the only major US carrier that allows online UM booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can my child connect on United as a UM?
- No. United requires all unaccompanied minors to fly nonstop, regardless of age. No connecting itineraries are allowed.
- Can I book United UM service online?
- Yes. United is the only major US carrier that allows online UM booking at united.com. You can also call 800-864-8331.
- How much does United charge for UM service?
- United charges $150 each way, covering 1-2 children on the same itinerary.