Originally Posted by
MSPeconomist
It would help if the OP would give the kid's exact age and specify the airline. UM policies differ greatly even from one USA legacy carrier to another. Also, the kid might have an easier time with TSA if he has a government photo ID even though it's not required. This would help if the airline demands that he prove his age.
Kid is not quite 16, carries a passport, cellphone, cash & plastic when traveling, and I'm trying to decide between UA (fare sale) and Southwest, which I know will let him travel sans headache.
Based on the UA website, kids 15+ can travel solo, but some on the UA board seemed to think not.
Also, kid when dressed up can pass for 18.
/rant on: I started traveling solo on transcons to youth conferences at 14, no cell phone, no plastic and it wasn't nearly as complicated as it is now!