Check age requirements for air travel. Find out if you can fly alone, sit in an exit row, or need an adult companion based on your age.
Children under 2 can fly as lap infants, no separate seat required.
Ages 5-11 typically require unaccompanied minor service with fees.
You must be at least 15 years old to sit in an emergency exit row.
Flying has different age-based rules depending on the airline and destination. This guide covers the most common age requirements for air travel in the United States and most international carriers. Always check with your specific airline for their exact policies.
Children under 2 can fly as a lap infant, sitting on an adult's lap without purchasing a separate seat. Some airlines allow discounts or free travel for lap infants on domestic flights.
Children ages 2 and older must have their own seat and pay the applicable fare. They must be accompanied by someone aged 12 or older.
Many airlines allow children ages 5-11 to fly alone but require unaccompanied minor service. This includes staff supervision, escort through the airport, and a fee (typically $50-$150 each way).
Children 12 and older can usually fly alone without unaccompanied minor service. However, they cannot sit in emergency exit rows (requires age 15+).
Teens aged 15 and older can sit in exit rows. They can also travel independently and are responsible for their own travel documents.
You can apply for a student pilot certificate at age 16. A private pilot license requires being at least 17 years old.
At 18, you are a full-fare adult traveler. You can qualify for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, and work as cabin crew. All airline privileges are available.
TSA PreCheck is available for passengers 12 and older. Children 12 and under can use the TSA PreCheck lane when traveling with an eligible adult. Global Entry (for expedited international re-entry) requires applicants to be at least 18 years old.
If you're interested in a career in aviation, you can start training early. Student pilot certificates are available at age 16, private pilot licenses at 17, commercial pilot licenses at 18, and airline transport pilot (ATP) certificates at 23. Cabin crew positions typically require you to be at least 18 or 21 depending on the airline.