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As a parent or guardian, you may be wondering if your child needs an ID to fly with American Airlines. Many airlines have different policies when it comes to children traveling alone or with a companion, and it can be hard to keep track of the rules.
Fortunately, American Airlines has clear guidelines in place for children traveling alone or with an adult. In this article, we will explore the requirements for IDs when flying with American Airlines and what you need to know to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience for your child.
Do Kids Need ID to Fly American Airlines?
Travelling with kids can be a challenging experience, and many parents often wonder whether they need to provide identification for their children when flying with American Airlines. The answer to this question is not straightforward, as it depends on the child’s age, destination, and the type of flight. In this article, we will explore the requirements for kids to fly with American Airlines and provide you with all the information you need to make your travel experience as smooth as possible.
Age Requirements for Kids to Fly with American Airlines
Children of all ages are welcome to fly with American Airlines. However, if your child is under the age of 18, there are specific requirements that you should be aware of. If your child is under the age of 2 and will be sitting on your lap during the flight, you do not need to provide any identification for them. However, if your child is over the age of 2 and will have their own seat, you will need to provide identification for them.
For children over the age of 2, American Airlines requires that they have a valid form of identification. This can be in the form of a passport, birth certificate, or government-issued ID. If your child is travelling internationally, they will need a passport regardless of their age.
Domestic Flights
For domestic flights within the United States, American Airlines does not require children under the age of 18 to provide identification. However, it is always a good idea to carry identification for your child, especially if they look older than their age. This can help prevent any confusion or delays at the airport.
If your child is travelling alone on a domestic flight, they will need to provide identification. American Airlines requires that children between the ages of 5 and 14 who are travelling alone have an unaccompanied minor service. This service provides additional assistance and supervision for children travelling alone, and American Airlines requires that children using this service carry identification.
International Flights
For international flights, American Airlines requires all passengers, including children, to have a passport. If your child does not have a passport, you will need to obtain one before your trip. It is also a good idea to carry a copy of your child’s birth certificate, just in case.
If your child is travelling alone on an international flight, they will need to have additional documentation. American Airlines requires that children under the age of 15 who are travelling alone have an unaccompanied minor service. Children using this service must carry a passport and any other required documentation for their destination.
Benefits of Providing Identification for Kids
While it is not always required for children to provide identification when flying with American Airlines, there are many benefits to doing so. Firstly, providing identification can help prevent any confusion or delays at the airport. If your child looks older than their age, carrying identification can help ensure that they are not mistaken for an adult.
Secondly, providing identification can help keep your child safe. If your child gets lost or separated from you during your travels, having identification can make it easier for airport staff and law enforcement to identify them and reunite them with you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while it is not always required for children to provide identification when flying with American Airlines, it is always a good idea to carry identification for your child. This can help prevent any confusion or delays at the airport and can also help keep your child safe. If your child is travelling alone, they will need to provide identification, and you will need to arrange for an unaccompanied minor service. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your child has a safe and enjoyable travel experience with American Airlines.
Contents
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What age do children need an ID to fly with American Airlines?
- What type of ID is acceptable for children flying with American Airlines?
- Can a child fly alone with American Airlines?
- What documentation is required for an unaccompanied minor traveling with American Airlines?
- What happens if a child does not have the required documentation for American Airlines?
- How To Print A Boarding Pass For United Airlines?
- Are American Airline Tickets Cheaper At The Airport?
- How To Sign Up For American Airlines Frequent Flyer?
Frequently Asked Questions
What age do children need an ID to fly with American Airlines?
Children under the age of 18 are not required to have an ID when traveling domestically with American Airlines. However, it is recommended that they carry some form of identification, such as a birth certificate, for verification purposes. If the child is traveling internationally, a passport is required.
It is always a good idea to check with the airline before traveling to ensure that you have the necessary documentation for your child.
What type of ID is acceptable for children flying with American Airlines?
Acceptable forms of identification for children flying domestically with American Airlines include a birth certificate, passport, or government-issued ID. If the child is traveling internationally, a passport is required.
It is important to note that the name on the ID must match the name on the ticket, and the ID must be valid and not expired.
Can a child fly alone with American Airlines?
Yes, American Airlines offers an Unaccompanied Minor Service for children traveling alone. The service is available for children between the ages of 5 and 14 and includes assistance with check-in, boarding, and in-flight needs. There is an additional fee for this service, and it must be arranged in advance with the airline.
Children between the ages of 15 and 17 can travel alone without the Unaccompanied Minor Service, but they are still subject to the airline’s policies and procedures for child travelers.
What documentation is required for an unaccompanied minor traveling with American Airlines?
When traveling with American Airlines as an unaccompanied minor, the child must have a government-issued ID, such as a passport or birth certificate, and a copy of their itinerary. The child’s parent or guardian must also provide contact information for themselves and the person who will be picking up the child at their destination.
It is important to note that additional documentation may be required depending on the destination and the airline’s policies.
What happens if a child does not have the required documentation for American Airlines?
If a child does not have the required documentation for travel with American Airlines, they may be denied boarding. It is important to ensure that your child has the necessary documentation before traveling and to check with the airline for any additional requirements or restrictions.
If your child is denied boarding due to lack of documentation, the airline may offer options for rebooking or refunding the ticket.
In conclusion, it is important for parents to know that American Airlines requires children aged 15 and under to have identification when flying alone. This policy is in place for the safety and security of all passengers, especially minors who may be traveling without a guardian. It is recommended that parents check with the airline’s specific requirements and guidelines for children traveling alone before booking a flight.
Having the proper identification will help ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience for both parents and their children. It is important to note that acceptable forms of identification may vary depending on the child’s age and the airline’s policies. Parents should also consider additional measures, such as providing emergency contact information and ensuring their child is familiar with airport procedures.
Overall, while it may seem like a hassle to obtain identification for younger children, it is an important step in ensuring their safety and well-being while traveling alone. By taking the necessary precautions and following the airline’s guidelines, parents can help their children have a successful and enjoyable flight experience.
