Unaccompanied Minor Fees by Airline (2026)
Airline unaccompanied minor fees vary widely by carrier and route. We've compiled information on UM fee structures to help you understand what to expect and find the most affordable option for your family.
Quick Answer
Unaccompanied minor fees typically range from around $50 to $150+ each way among major US carriers, with international airlines varying more widely. Some airlines offer multi-child discounts or per-booking pricing rather than per-child. Confirm current fees directly with each airline, as pricing changes periodically.
Complete Fee Comparison Table
| Airline | Domestic Fee | International Fee | Per Child? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aeromexico | Verify current policy directly with the airline | Verify current policy directly with the airline | Per booking | Verify current policy directly with the airline. |
| Lufthansa | Verify current policy directly with the airline | Verify current policy directly with the airline | Per booking | Verify current policy directly with the airline. |
| Turkish Airlines | Verify current policy directly with the airline | Verify current policy directly with the airline | Per booking | Verify current policy directly with the airline. |
| KLM Royal Dutch Airlines | Verify current policy directly with the airline | Verify current policy directly with the airline | Per booking | Verify current policy directly with the airline. |
| Air France | Verify current policy directly with the airline | Verify current policy directly with the airline | Per booking | Verify current policy directly with the airline. |
| Virgin Atlantic | Verify current policy directly with the airline | Verify current policy directly with the airline | Per booking | Verify current policy directly with the airline. |
| Southwest Airlines | $50 each way | N/A (domestic only) | Per child | Per child fee. |
| American Airlines | $150 each way (covers siblings) | $150 each way (covers siblings) | Per booking | Fee covers all siblings on the same booking. |
| JetBlue | $150 each way | $150 each way | Per child | Per child fee. |
| Delta Air Lines | $150 each way (up to 4 children) | $150 each way (up to 4 children) | Per booking | Fee covers up to 4 children traveling on the same itinerary. |
| Alaska Airlines | $50 nonstop / $75 connecting each way | Not specified (limited international routes) | Per child | Per child fee. |
| United Airlines | $150 each way (per 1-2 children) | $150 each way (per 1-2 children) | Per booking | Fee covers 1-2 children on the same itinerary. |
| Hawaiian Airlines | $35/segment inter-island, $100/segment Hawaii-mainland (up to 2 children) | N/A (domestic routes only) | Per booking | Fee covers up to 2 children from the same family on the same itinerary. |
How to Save on Unaccompanied Minor Fees
Book multiple children together
Some airlines cover multiple children on one reservation for a single fee. If you have multiple kids traveling together, ask each airline about their multi-child pricing before booking.
Choose nonstop flights
Some airlines charge more for connecting flights. Nonstop flights are also safer and less stressful for children flying alone.
Compare domestic vs. international rates
Some airlines charge the same fee regardless of route, while others have higher international fees. Always check both before booking.
Check age cutoffs carefully
If your child is close to the age where UM service becomes optional (typically around 12–15 depending on the carrier), you may be able to avoid the fee entirely. Confirm the exact cutoff with your airline.
Ask about sibling discounts
While not all airlines advertise sibling discounts, some may offer reduced fees for additional children on the same booking. Always ask.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which airline has the cheapest unaccompanied minor fee?
UM fees vary significantly by carrier, typically ranging from around $50 to $150+ each way for US airlines. International carriers may charge more or less depending on route. Fees change periodically, so confirm current pricing directly with each airline before booking.
Is the UM fee per child or per trip?
It varies by airline. Some carriers charge per child, while others cover multiple children on the same reservation for a single fee. Always confirm the fee structure with the airline when booking.
Are unaccompanied minor fees refundable?
Most airlines will refund the UM fee if you cancel the flight within their standard cancellation window. The fee is typically non-refundable after check-in. Check your airline's specific refund policy.
Do I pay the UM fee on top of the ticket price?
Yes. The unaccompanied minor fee is a separate service charge on top of the regular airfare. Your child needs a full-price ticket plus the UM service fee.
Are UM fees different for international flights?
Some airlines charge the same fee for domestic and international flights, while others charge more for international routes. Always check both domestic and international rates with your specific airline before booking.
Can I avoid the unaccompanied minor fee?
If your child meets the airline's age threshold for flying without UM service (typically around 15 on most US carriers, though some set it lower), they can fly as a regular passenger. Otherwise, the fee is mandatory and cannot be waived.