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Unaccompanied minors

The unaccompanied minor service lets children fly without an adult. Most airlines offer it, usually for a fee on top of the fare. Minimum ages, conditions and fees vary by airline.

AirlineConditions
AeroméxicoRequired for children aged 5 to 14 traveling alone; optional from age 15.
American AirlinesRequired for children aged 5 to 14 traveling alone; optional from age 15. Children aged 5 to 7 can only use it on nonstop flights.
Copa AirlinesRequired for children aged 5 to 14 traveling alone; optional from age 15. Children aged 5 to 7 can only use it on direct flights.
Delta Air LinesRequired for children aged 5 to 14 traveling alone; optional from age 15.
United AirlinesRequired for children aged 5 to 14 traveling alone.
VivaDoes not offer an escorted unaccompanied minor service. Children under 14 must travel with someone 18 or older; those aged 14 to 17 may travel alone if an adult signs a release form.
VolarisRequired for children aged 5 to 11; optional from age 12.

Before the trip

  • Book the service when you buy the ticket; some airlines limit the number of unaccompanied minors per flight.
  • The adult who drops off the child must stay at the airport until the flight departs, and the adult who picks up must show official ID.
  • Check the fee and the documents required with the airline; minors leaving Mexico may need a travel permit signed by the parents.

Conditions and fees change; confirm them with your airline before booking.