On American Airlines, a passenger is considered an adult at the age of 12.
This distinction is important for several aspects of travel:
- Ticket Pricing: Passengers aged 12 and older must purchase an adult ticket. Children aged 2-11 typically travel on a child’s fare, which may sometimes be discounted.
- Unaccompanied Minors: The airline’s Unaccompanied Minor (UMNR) service is mandatory for children ages 5-14 traveling alone. For young adults ages 15-17, the service is optional. Once a passenger turns 18, they are considered an adult and the service is no longer available.
- Seating: Adults and children over 12 are not eligible to sit in certain seats (like bulkhead rows) with infants.
- Traveling Alone: A passenger aged 12 or older can travel independently without any special procedures.
In summary:
Adult Fare: Age 12 and older.
Unaccompanied Minor Rules: An “adult” for the purpose of traveling without restrictions is age 18, but for ticket pricing, it’s age 12.
Always double-check with American Airlines directly when booking, as policies can change and may have specific conditions for international flights or different fare types. You can find the most current information on their website under “Travel Information” for children or unaccompanied minors.