Originally Posted by hobo13

As for the UM declaration -- yes, that raises another point. I have no first hand experience there. But I can imagine that if you have to interact with the counter agents, they may well ask for the passport. And no passport = no travel, even on the domestic sector.

Do you see how my entire argument is predicated upon avoiding the check-in counter? Any scenario you dream up that involves talking with an agent is likely to tank the plan -- I agree. The idea is for the kid to hand his BP to the GA, hear the BEEP, and board the plane. If he does that, it's all good. Anything else, and, well, you end up with this thread!

As for the UM issue -- a couple years ago we were standing at the gate in ORD. A kid comes up asking about the status of the flight. It was pretty clear to us that he was 8, maybe 10 at the most. And by himself. The GA asked where his parents were. He said he was flying by himself to see his mom. She asked his age. Without any hesitation, he puffed out his chest, and boldly stated that he was THIRTEEN. It was fairly obvious to everyone that the kid had been coached -- and had practiced -- how to answer this question. But the GA shrugged, and went about her business. The kid boarded the flight.

The point is that there are rules, policies, and procedures -- and there is reality. I live in reality.