When it comes to air travel for children flying alone, safety and comfort are top priorities for parents. If you're considering SkyWest Airlines for your child’s next solo trip, it's important to understand the SkyWest Unaccompanied Minor Policy: Give Your Kids Comfort And Luxury SkyWest operates regional flights on behalf of major airlines such as Delta Connection, United Express, American Eagle, and Alaska Airlines. Because of this, their unaccompanied minor policy is largely based on the guidelines of these partner carriers. However, there are essential details and procedures every parent should know to ensure a smooth and luxurious experience for their child traveler.
SkyWest Airlines does not market or sell its flights directly to passengers. Instead, it operates under the brand names of its partner airlines. So, when booking an unaccompanied minor (UMNR) ticket with SkyWest, you’ll need to refer to the policies of the major carrier operating the flight—such as Delta, United, American, or Alaska Airlines. Despite this, SkyWest ensures that all flights provide a consistent, child-friendly environment for minors traveling alone.
Whether it's a short domestic hop or a longer regional route, luxury by making their travel experience feel secure, welcoming, and easy.
Each partner airline has slightly different age rules, but here is a general guideline you can expect across SkyWest-operated flights:
Ages 5–7: Allowed on nonstop flights only. UMNR service is mandatory.
Ages 8–14: Can fly on connecting flights, depending on the airline. UMNR service is typically required.
Ages 15–17: Optional UMNR service available upon request, depending on the airline.
Parents must check the specific airline's policy before booking, as each has unique age requirements and restrictions.
To ensure a hassle-free experience, unaccompanied minor reservations cannot usually be made online. Parents or guardians must contact the airline’s customer service directly. During booking, the airline will request important details such as:
Child’s full name and date of birth
Flight number and route
Contact information of the person dropping off and picking up the child
Any special needs or health concerns
SkyWest, through its partner airlines, takes this information seriously and uses it to design a personalized, safe travel experience. Booking early also ensures that limited UMNR slots per flight are still available.
SkyWest’s partners charge an additional UMNR service fee, which covers the cost of supervision, early boarding, snacks, and gate assistance. These fees are generally:
$150 each way (Delta, American, and United)
$50 each way (Alaska Airlines)
These fees are applied per child, even if multiple minors are traveling together.
While the fee may seem like an added cost, it contributes to creating a safe, comforting, and luxurious environment for your child.
When flying SkyWest-operated flights, unaccompanied minors are treated with care from the moment they arrive at the airport. Parents or guardians must:
Arrive early to complete paperwork
Accompany the child through security (with a gate pass)
Stay at the gate until the flight departs
SkyWest staff will escort the minor through the boarding process. This ensures that your child feels confident and secure as they begin their journey. Some partner airlines allow kids to pre-board so they can meet the flight attendants and get settled before the plane fills up.
is more than a slogan—it reflects the airline’s dedication to young travelers. Once onboard, the flight crew takes extra care of unaccompanied minors:
Flight attendants check in regularly
Children receive snacks and beverages
Crew members make the experience feel warm and friendly
Although SkyWest aircraft are smaller regional jets, the comfort level remains high, and special attention is given to minors to make them feel relaxed.
At the destination, the designated pickup person must:
Arrive early
Show a valid government-issued photo ID
Sign the release form before the child is handed over
The child will be escorted off the aircraft and supervised until the hand-off is complete. This organized system ensures that SkyWest’s unaccompanied minor policy maintains the highest level of security and comfort until your child reaches your arms again.
To maximize your child’s comfort and luxury while flying with SkyWest, follow these tips:
Explain the journey: Walk them through the steps of checking in, boarding, and deplaning.
Pack essentials: Include snacks, a favorite toy, a book, and an electronic device with headphones.
Label everything: From carry-ons to jackets, make sure each item has your child’s name and your contact info.
Prepare documents: Ensure your child has a copy of their itinerary and emergency contact information.
Making your child feel informed and in control is a big step toward a smooth and enjoyable solo journey.
In the event of delays or cancellations, SkyWest’s partners have protocols in place to care for unaccompanied minors. Children will never be left alone in such situations. A staff member will:
Stay with your child during delays
Keep parents informed via call or text
Rebook flights as needed
Provide meals and comfort amenities if the wait is long
This level of support underlines SkyWest’s promise: Give Your Kids Comfort And Luxury even in the face of unexpected disruptions.
This ensures that every child flying alone receives the attention, safety, and comfort they deserve. While SkyWest operates under the umbrella of major airline partners, their unified goal is to deliver a seamless experience that puts both kids and parents at ease. From booking to arrival, your child’s solo journey will be handled with care, compassion, and professionalism. So, the next time your child needs to travel alone, you can book with confidence—knowing they’re in safe hands with SkyWest.