If you’ve ever had to send your child on a flight alone, you know how stressful it can feel, whether it’s their first solo trip to grandma’s or a routine custody travel plan. I’ve booked Delta’s Unaccompanied Minor service multiple times for my own child and for family members, and I can say this confidently: Delta takes the process seriously and offers one of the more structured and secure programs among U.S. airlines.
Still, understanding the age limits, fees, and booking requirements ahead of time is crucial. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Delta’s Unaccompanied Minor policy in 2025, from eligibility and costs to booking advice and personal experience.
What Is Delta’s Unaccompanied Minor Policy in 2025?
Delta’s Unaccompanied Minor (UMNR) policy is designed for children who are traveling without a parent or guardian.
Delta’s unaccompanied minor service is mandatory for children between certain age ranges when traveling without an adult. The program ensures a Delta staff member supervises your child from the moment they check in until they are released to a designated adult at the destination.
Children under five years old are not allowed to travel alone under any circumstance. For ages five to seven, Delta allows solo travel only on nonstop Delta-operated flights. Once your child is eight years old, they may fly alone on both nonstop and connecting Delta flights. From age fifteen onward, the unaccompanied minor program becomes optional, though I still recommend it for first-time flyers or longer trips.
What Ages Are Eligible for Unaccompanied Minor Service?
Delta defines eligibility based on your child’s age at the time of travel, not booking.
- Children under 5 years old: Cannot travel alone under any circumstances.
- Ages 5–7: May travel only on nonstop Delta flights using the Unaccompanied Minor service.
- Ages 8–14: Can travel on both nonstop and connecting Delta flights with UMNR service.
- Ages 15–17: May travel alone without the service but can use it optionally if desired.
I’ve found Delta’s age policy to be clear and consistently enforced. When I sent my 9-year-old on a connecting flight, the process was tightly managed from gate to gate.
How Much Does Delta’s Unaccompanied Minor Service Cost?
As of 2025, the UMNR fee is $150 each way, which covers up to 4 children traveling together under the same reservation.
That means if you’re sending two siblings on the same flight, the fee is still just $150, not per child, but per direction.
The fee includes:
- Priority boarding
- Preboarding assistance
- Escort services at both departure and arrival
- Gate supervision during layovers (if applicable)
- Complimentary kids’ entertainment and snacks onboard
Compared to some other carriers, this fee is mid-range. While it may seem like an extra expense, the level of service included, such as boarding assistance, in-flight attention, and escorting during connections, makes the cost well worth it in my experience.
Each time I’ve paid the fee, I’ve seen clear value in how Delta staff handled my child’s journey, especially on connecting flights where tight layovers and airport navigation could be stressful for a young traveler.
How Do You Book the Unaccompanied Minor Service on Delta?
You can’t book this service online. You’ll need to call Delta Reservations directly at 800-325-8847 after purchasing the ticket, or in some cases, during the booking process if you inform the agent.
Here’s how I usually do it:
- Book the child’s ticket online or by phone.
- Immediately call Delta Reservations to add the Unaccompanied Minor service.
- Provide the name, address, and phone number of the adult dropping off and picking up the child.
- Confirm details via email or in your Delta app itinerary.
You’ll receive documentation with instructions for airport check-in, gate escort procedures, and ID requirements for the adults involved.
What Flights Can Unaccompanied Minors Take?
The rules depend on the child’s age and flight type.
Ages 5–7:
- Nonstop Delta flights only
- No connections allowed
- No codeshare or partner-operated flights
Ages 8–14:
- Nonstop or connecting Delta-operated flights
- Layovers must be under 4 hours
- Connecting flights must be the last flight of the day to that destination
- No red-eye flights (typically departures between 9 PM and 5 AM)
Delta does not permit UMNR travel on:
- Delta Connection flights with the last leg operated by another airline
- International flights with connections outside the U.S.
When booking, I always look for morning or midday nonstop options to avoid any chance of delay or missed connections late in the day.
What Happens on the Day of Travel?
Based on my own experience, here’s how the travel day usually unfolds:
- At Departure:
The child must be checked in at the airport by a parent or designated guardian. Bring government-issued ID and arrive at least 90 minutes early for domestic flights. The adult will receive a security pass to accompany the child to the gate. - During the Flight:
Flight attendants are made aware of UMNRs and check in with them regularly. Kids are usually seated near the front for easier monitoring. - At Arrival:
The child is escorted off the plane and handed over to the designated adult, who must present valid ID and match the contact details on file.
Delta also tracks UMNRs internally using barcoded wristbands and internal scans, which I found reassuring. You’ll get text notifications or updates if you’ve opted in for alerts.
Preparing Your Child to Travel Alone
I’ve found that preparing your child well in advance can ease their anxiety and yours. I always walk through the day-of travel process with them step-by-step: from going through security and boarding the plane, to meeting the flight attendant and being picked up at the other end.
It helps to pack a small carry-on with snacks, a water bottle (filled after security), a few entertainment items, and a printed contact sheet with phone numbers for parents or guardians. If your child needs any medications, make sure they’re packed in the carry-on and clearly labeled.
Most importantly, remind your child to always speak up if they feel unsure or need help, Delta’s staff are trained to assist, but kids need to know it’s okay to ask.
Are International Flights Allowed for Unaccompanied Minors?
Delta allows Unaccompanied Minor travel on some international routes, but restrictions are much tighter. Only nonstop Delta-operated flights are permitted, and not all countries accept UMNRs due to local laws.
If you’re considering an international trip for your child alone, call Delta Reservations well in advance. You’ll need:
- A valid passport for the child
- A notarized letter of consent from the parent/guardian
- Possible documentation based on the destination country’s entry requirements
In my opinion, international UMNR travel should only be used for highly predictable routes with direct service, such as New York to London or Atlanta to Cancun.
Final Thoughts
Booking a child’s solo flight can feel daunting, but Delta’s unaccompanied minor program offers strong support and peace of mind. From my experience, both as a parent and frequent flyer, I trust Delta’s protocols. The system is organized, staff are communicative, and your child is never left unattended.
If you follow the policy closely, prepare your child, and communicate clearly with the airline, the process can be surprisingly smooth, and in many cases, even empowering for the child.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I book Delta’s Unaccompanied Minor service online?
No. You must call Delta Reservations to add it after purchasing the ticket.
How early should I arrive at the airport?
At least 90 minutes before departure for domestic flights. More for international.
Is the fee per child or per booking?
It’s $150 each way per booking, covers up to 4 kids on the same itinerary.
Can my child fly on a connecting flight?
Yes, but only if they are 8–14 years old and the connection meets Delta’s time and routing requirements.
What if my child’s flight is delayed?
Delta will supervise the child throughout the delay and contact both designated adults if there are any disruptions.