The minimum age for children to travel alone as adults paying adult fares varies: Kids have to be 12 years old to fly alone on domestic flights with Hawaiian, Southwest, Air Canada, and WestJet; 13 years old on Alaska; 14 years old to fly as an adult on JetBlue; and 15 years old on Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier, ...

Yes, it is perfectly legal for a 12-year-old to fly alone, and most major airlines actually classify children of this age as "Young Adult" passengers rather than "Unaccompanied Minors." For domestic flights within the U.S. and many European countries, children aged 12 and older are generally permitted to travel without the mandatory supervision fees or "escort" services required for younger kids (typically ages 5–11). However, individual airline policies vary: for example, Southwest and Delta consider 12-year-olds old enough to fly solo, while United and American may have different age thresholds for mandatory "Unaccompanied Minor" (UM) status on certain routes. For international travel, the rules are often stricter; many carriers still require 12-year-olds to use the UM service due to the complexities of customs and immigration. Legally, no government "ban" exists, but parents should always check the specific carrier's "Contract of Carriage" and ensure the child has a valid passport and a notarized letter of consent.

Yes, it is generally legal for a 12-year-old to travel alone on a plane, but specific rules and requirements vary by airline and country. Most airlines offer “unaccompanied minor” (UM) services for children traveling alone, typically for ages 5 to 14. Here’s what you need to know:

Key Points for 12-Year-Olds Traveling Alone:

1. Airline Policies:
   - Many airlines require children under a certain age (often 12 or 14) to use their unaccompanied minor service.
   - This service ensures the child is supervised by airline staff during the flight and at layovers.
   - Some airlines may allow 12-year-olds to travel without UM services, but this varies.

2. Documentation:
   - Parents or guardians typically need to complete an unaccompanied minor form.
   - Proof of age (e.g., birth certificate or passport) may be required.
   - Ensure the child has all necessary travel documents, including a passport if traveling internationally.

3. Fees:
   - Unaccompanied minor services often come with an additional fee, which varies by airline.

4. Pickup Arrangements:
   - The person dropping off and picking up the child must provide valid identification and be specified on the UM form.

5. International Travel:
   - Additional rules may apply for international flights, including visas, parental consent letters, and customs requirements.

Steps to Take:

• Check the airline’s policy: Contact the airline directly to confirm their rules for 12-year-olds traveling alone.
• Book UM services if required: Ensure the child is properly registered and supervised.
• Prepare the child: Provide them with all necessary documents, emergency contacts, and instructions.

Always verify the latest regulations with the airline and relevant authorities before making travel arrangements.