Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor commitment to providing excellent service, has specific guidelines in place for unaccompanied minors (UMs). This guide aims to detail these policies, ensuring that parents and guardians have all the information they need for a smooth travel experience for their young ones.

Definition of Unaccompanied Minors

An unaccompanied minor on Southwest Airlines is defined as a child between the ages of 5 and 11 who is traveling without a parent, legal guardian, or another responsible adult aged 12 or older. It is crucial to note that children under the age of 5 are not permitted to travel alone under any circumstances.

Booking an Unaccompanied Minor

Reservations

To book a flight for an unaccompanied minor, reservations must be made by calling Southwest Airlines Customer Service at 1–800–435–9792. Online bookings are not permitted for UMs. During the booking process, detailed information about the child, including their full name, age, and contact details for both the drop-off and pick-up guardians, must be provided.

Additional Charges

Southwest Airlines charges a $50 fee per direction for each unaccompanied minor, which covers the additional services provided to ensure the child’s safety and comfort. This fee is in addition to the standard airfare.

Preparing for the Journey

Required Documentation

Parents or guardians must ensure that the unaccompanied minor has all the necessary documentation, including:

A copy of the child’s birth certificate to verify age.

Identification for the parent or guardian dropping off and picking up the child.

A completed and signed Unaccompanied Minor Travel Form, which can be downloaded from Southwest’s website.

Packing

Children should carry a small backpack or carry-on bag with essential items such as:

Snacks and drinks (keeping in mind TSA liquid regulations).

A book, tablet, or toy to keep them entertained.

Any necessary medication with clear instructions for administration.

Airport Procedures

Check-In

Unaccompanied minors must be checked in at the airport ticket counter. Parents or guardians are required to arrive at least two hours before the scheduled departure to complete all necessary paperwork. During check-in, the child will receive a lanyard with a UM identification card, which they must wear throughout the journey.

Security and Boarding

After check-in, a parent or guardian must accompany the child through the security checkpoint. Only the designated adult listed on the Unaccompanied Minor Travel Form is allowed to escort the child to the gate. It is recommended that the adult remain at the gate until the flight has departed to ensure there are no last-minute changes.

In-Flight Experience

Southwest Airlines strives to make the flight as comfortable and enjoyable as possible for unaccompanied minors. The flight attendants are trained to pay special attention to these young travelers, ensuring they are safe and comfortable. The UM is usually seated near the front of the plane for easier access by the crew.

Arrival and Pick-Up

Deplaning

Upon arrival, the unaccompanied minor will be escorted off the plane by a flight attendant and handed over to a Southwest Airlines employee. The designated pick-up guardian must be present at the arrival gate with proper identification to receive the child. The airline requires that the pick-up guardian be at the airport no later than 45 minutes before the scheduled arrival.

Identification Verification

The pick-up guardian must present a government-issued ID that matches the information provided on the Unaccompanied Minor Travel Form. Without proper identification, the child will not be released.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

1. Communicate Clearly: Explain the entire travel process to your child in advance. Ensure they understand who will be picking them up and what to do if they need help.

2. Stay Connected:Make sure your child knows how to contact you and has your phone number memorized or written down.

3. Label Belongings: Clearly label your child’s belongings with their name and your contact information.

4. Be Patient: Allow extra time for check-in and pick-up procedures to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for both you and your child.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can my 12-year-old travel as an unaccompanied minor

No, Southwest Airlines does not consider children aged 12 and above as unaccompanied minors. They can travel alone under standard passenger policies.

What happens if my child’s flight is delayed or canceled?

In case of delays or cancellations, Southwest Airlines will make every effort to contact the parents or guardians. The child will be cared for by airline staff and, if necessary, provided with accommodations.

Can siblings travel together as unaccompanied minors?

Yes, siblings aged between 5 and 11 can travel together as unaccompanied minors. Each child will need to have a separate Unaccompanied Minor Travel Form and pay the UM service fee.

Are there any restrictions on unaccompanied minors’ travel

Unaccompanied minors are not allowed to travel on the last connecting flight of the day or on flights that may require an overnight stay due to missed connections. They can only travel on non-stop or direct flights.

Conclusion

Southwest Airlines’ unaccompanied minor policy is designed with the utmost care and attention to ensure the safety and comfort of young travelers. By following the guidelines and preparing adequately, parents and guardians can ensure a smooth and stress-free journey for their children. With Southwest Airlines’ dedicated staff and comprehensive procedures, unaccompanied minors are in good hands, allowing them to reach their destination safely and happily.