Delta vs United: Unaccompanied Minor Service Comparison
Compare Delta and United's unaccompanied minor programs side-by-side. Fees, age requirements, flight restrictions, and parent reviews.
Overview
Delta and United both charge $150 each way for unaccompanied minor service and accept children from age 5. The key differences lie in their connection policies, international coverage, and safety features. Delta offers trackable wristbands and dedicated Sky Zone lounges, while United provides a more streamlined process with broader international partner coverage.
Airline Minimum Age Requirements (Youngest to Oldest)
| # | Airline | Min Age | Mandatory Range | Solo Age |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Air France | 4 | 4–14 | 15+ |
| 2 | Delta Air Lines | 5 | 5–14 | 15+ |
| 3 | American Airlines | 5 | 5–14 | 15+ |
| 4 | United Airlines | 5 | 5–14 | 15+ |
| 5 | Southwest Airlines | 5 | 5–11 | 12+ |
| 6 | Aeromexico | 5 | 5–14 | 15+ |
| 7 | Lufthansa | 5 | 5–11 | 12+ |
| 8 | KLM Royal Dutch Airlines | 5 | 5–14 | 15+ |
| 9 | Turkish Airlines | 7 | 7–12 | 13+ |
| 10 | Virgin Atlantic | 14 | 14–0 | 14+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which airline has the cheapest unaccompanied minor fee?
Air France offers the lowest UM fees starting at €30 ($50) each way. Among US carriers, Southwest charges $100 each way. Delta and United both charge $150 each way.
Do all airlines allow unaccompanied minors on connecting flights?
No. Some airlines restrict UMs to nonstop flights only, especially for younger children (ages 5–7). Delta, United, and American allow connections for children 8+, but budget carriers often restrict UMs to direct flights.
What’s the difference between UM service on domestic vs international flights?
International UM service typically has a higher minimum age (usually 8–12 vs 5 for domestic), costs more, and requires additional documentation including passport copies and immigration forms.
At what age can a child fly completely alone without UM service?
This varies by airline: Southwest allows solo travel from age 12, while most other US carriers (Delta, United, American) require UM service until age 15. Virgin Atlantic only accepts unaccompanied travelers from age 14.