WestJet Unaccompanied Minor Policy (2026)
WestJet's Unaccompanied Minor program is mandatory for ages 8-11 and optional for ages 12-17. The fee is $100-118 CAD per direction depending on taxes.
Last verified: 2026-07-29. Source: WestJet official website.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Policy |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 8 years old |
| UM Mandatory | Ages 8–11 |
| UM Optional | Ages 12–17 |
| Domestic Fee | $100-118 CAD per direction |
| International Fee | Not allowed |
| Per Child? | Yes (per child) |
| Connections | Not allowed — Connections to a different flight are not allowed. |
| International | Not allowed — Travel is restricted to between two Canadian cities. Flights to the US or other international destinations are not permitted. |
| Red-Eye Flights | Not allowed — Flights must not depart before 5:30 AM or arrive after 10:00 PM. No overnight (red-eye) flights. |
| Booking Method | Fee ranges from $100 to $118 depending on taxes per direction. Payment must be processed within 72 hours of email confirmation. |
Children must be at least 8 years old. Mandatory for ages 8-11. Optional for ages 12-17.
How It Works: Step by Step
- Check-In: Arrive at least 90 minutes before departure. Check-in at the airport counter with completed UM form and required identification.
- Boarding: Child will be pre-boarded before other guests. Parent/guardian must remain at the gate or airport until the aircraft has departed.
- In-Flight: Flight attendants supervise the child. Headset, snack, and drink may be provided.
- Arrival: Child is the last to leave the aircraft. Gate agent escorts the child to the arrivals area.
Escort Rules: Pickup guardian must arrive at least 30 minutes before arrival and present valid government-issued photo ID.
Required Documents
Required
- Completed Unaccompanied Minor form
- Photocopy of child's birth certificate or government-issued ID
- Pickup person's government-issued photo ID
Recommended
- Emergency contact list
- Copy of child's itinerary
- Baggage tag with child and parent names
The photocopy of the child's ID will be sent with the child and is required for the return flight as well.
Safety Procedures
- Child is pre-boarded and seated near flight attendants.
- Child is escorted off the aircraft last upon arrival.
- Child is handed over only to the designated guardian after ID verification.
- In case of flight interruptions, children are prioritized and provided all care needs.
Restrictions & Exceptions
- No connecting flights.
- No international flights (Canada domestic only).
- No flights departing before 5:30 AM or arriving after 10:00 PM.
- No overnight (red-eye) flights.
Pro Tips for Parents
- Pack Smart: Pack additional snacks, spending money for meals, and entertainment items like books or video games in their carry-on.
- Dress Comfortably: Dress your child in loose, comfortable layers and put their name on the inside of their clothing.
- Stay at the Airport: You must remain at the airport until the aircraft has departed and be reachable by phone until your child is picked up.
The Bottom Line
WestJet restricts UM travel to domestic Canadian flights only and does not allow connections or red-eye flights. The service includes priority boarding, supervised care, and complimentary snacks and drinks.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does WestJet charge for unaccompanied minors?
- WestJet charges $100 to $118 CAD per direction, depending on taxes. This fee is in addition to the flight fare.
- What is the minimum age for a child to fly alone on WestJet?
- The minimum age is 8 years old. The UM service is mandatory for children aged 8 to 11 and optional for those aged 12 to 17.
- How do I book the WestJet Unaccompanied Minor service?
- You must complete an online form to request the service. WestJet will reply within 48 hours, after which you have 72 hours to pay the fee and confirm.