It's amazing how things have changed in a generation (or two). When I was a kid my parents would let me, and my sisters travel by train from the suburbs into Boston. We were 10, 12 and 14 years old.

And when I was 18 I took myself to Mexico for the summer (there were arrangements made there prior to my departure).

A 16 year old should be able to get himself on a plane especially if someone makes sure he gets to his gate.

Who knows... he might actually become more mature out of the experience.