Originally Posted by
Detroiter
Oh for heaven's sake. I handled an ORD connection easily when I was 15. Of course I was briefed by my brother on what to expect there before I got on the plane at DSM. And I waited out a snow delay by myself at PHL when I was 14. I doubt teenagers these days are less mature than I was at that age.
I do find it amazing how incapable some think that a 12-13 year old is. Travelling on an aeroplane is not much different to getting on a train plus boarding pass checks reduce the risk of someone getting on the wrong aeroplane whilst easy to get on the wrong train
Making sure that the child is prepared and aware of what to do and having tools such as mobile phones to keep in contact is worthwhile of course
I know those that at 12 year that have managed journeys to Sydney or Auckland with no issues ; a domestic US flight should be child's play