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SkyWest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy: Rules, Fees, and Best Practices

Tours N Travel Pro
16 September 2025 by
Tours N Travel Pro

When a child flies alone, parents want reassurance that the airline has a clear process in place. The SkyWest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy ensures safety and guidance for young travelers, but the details—rules, fees, and documents—can feel confusing. Below, we’ve combined official guidelines with insider tips to make your child’s trip stress-free.

Unaccompanied Minors: What You Need to Know

SkyWest defines unaccompanied minors as children traveling without an adult 18 or older. While SkyWest operates many flights for partner airlines like United Express or Delta Connection, the core requirements remain: book the service in advance, complete the proper forms, and follow the pickup/drop-off rules.

Traveling with Children: Age Rules and Restrictions

  • Children under 5 generally cannot travel alone.

  • Ages 5–14 usually must use the unaccompanied minor service.

  • Teens 15–17 may travel as regular passengers but can opt for added supervision.
    Because SkyWest flies under multiple partner brands, always check the mainline carrier’s policy for your exact itinerary.

Traveling with Infants on SkyWest Airlines

SkyWest does not allow infants (under 2 years) to travel alone. If you’re flying with an infant on your lap or in a paid seat, partner airline policies for lap infants apply—check the airline operating your ticket. Always bring a birth certificate or ID to confirm your child’s age.

SkyWest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Fees

Fees vary by route and partner airline:

Flight Type

Typical Fee (Unofficial Estimates)*

Non-stop flights

Around $25 per child

Connecting flights

Around $50 per child

Partner airline fees

Up to $150 on some carriers

*These are approximate values gathered from third-party sources like ToursNTravelPro. Confirm the exact fee with the operating airline when you book.

How to Book a SkyWest Airlines Flight for Your Child

  1. Reserve Early – Contact the partner airline or your travel agent (ToursNTravelPro, +1-866-679-5070) to flag the reservation as an unaccompanied minor.

  2. Provide Contact Information – List the authorized adults for drop-off and pickup with accurate phone numbers.

  3. Confirm Flight Restrictions – Avoid itineraries with overnight layovers or tight connections.

  4. Pay the Applicable Fee – Fees are typically charged at booking or check-in.

SkyWest Airlines Documents for Minors

Prepare these items before travel:

  • Unaccompanied Minor Form – Completed and signed by a parent/guardian.

  • Government-Issued ID – Required for the adult dropping off and the adult picking up.

  • Child’s Identification – Birth certificate, passport, or other accepted ID.

  • Contact Sheet – Include emergency numbers and any special instructions.

Best Practices & Tips for Parents & Guardians

To help the journey go as smoothly as possible, here are some best practices:

  • Confirm Policy Before Booking
    Since rules and fees vary by partner airline, check both SkyWest and the airline you’re flying under (United, Delta, American, Alaska, etc.) before purchasing the ticket.
  • Book the Unaccompanied Minor Service Well in Advance
    This ensures space is reserved and staff is prepared. Doing last-minute requests may cause delays or complications.
  • Fill Out All Forms Completely and Accurately
    Make sure drop-off/pick-up names and IDs are correct. Double check contact phone numbers. Note any special assistance needs (medical, dietary, etc.).
  • Pack Smartly
    Include snacks, a water bottle, reading material or small games, a change of clothes if needed, anything the child may need to be comfortable.
  • Label Everything & Make Copies
    Tag luggage and carry-ons, provide the child with emergency contact info (written). Have copies of reservation, forms, IDs, just in case.
  • Prepare the Child
    Talk through what to expect: check-in, security, boarding, connecting flights if any, meeting the person at the other end. Familiarity helps reduce anxiety.
  • Stay Available / Reachable
    Make sure your cell phone is charged, and you have backup contact info at both ends. If gates change or flights are delayed, the airline may need to reach you.

Read more travel insights in our guide on American Airlines’ Miami–Bimini route flight info and tips for helpful planning strategies that apply across airlines.

Where to Get Updates & Avoid Surprises

  • Use SkyWest Airlines’ official website — their Children Traveling Alone page is the authoritative source. 
  • Also review the major carrier’s unaccompanied minor policy for your specific itinerary. The policy may differ if you fly under United, Delta, American, etc., even if some segments are by SkyWest.
  • If booking through a travel agency (like ToursNTravelPro), ask them directly for all fees, deadlines, and documentation to ensure your child is compliant.

Final Thoughts

The SkyWest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy gives families peace of mind when a child must fly solo. By understanding age limits, fees, documents, and booking steps, you can make the process smooth and worry-free. For personalized guidance or to reserve a flight, ToursNTravelPro can assist at +1-866-679-5070—ensuring your child’s trip is handled with care and professionalism.