WestJet Unaccompanied Minor Policy

Navigating the WestJet Unaccompanied Minor program is the first step for parents looking to ensure a safe, supervised, and stress-free journey for their children traveling solo. Whether it is a trip to visit grandparents or a flight for a school event, WestJet provides a dedicated service designed to keep young travelers secure from the moment they check in until they are safely handed over to a designated guardian at their destination.

For immediate assistance with booking or specific inquiries, you can reach out to travel experts at +1-877-593-4887.

Quick Overview: WestJet Unaccompanied Minor Policy

The WestJet Unaccompanied Minor Policy is tailored to meet the needs of different age groups. While the airline prides itself on its “Little WestJetters” experience, there are specific boundaries regarding where and how these minors can fly.

Age Eligibility & Requirements

• Ages 0–7: Not permitted to fly alone. They must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or older.
• Ages 8–11: The WestJet Unaccompanied Minor service is mandatory.
• Ages 12–17: The service is optional. Teens in this bracket can fly as “adults” or use the supervised service for extra peace of mind.

How the Service Works

The program includes dedicated staff supervision during the flight, priority boarding, and a secure “hand-to-hand” transfer process between guardians. For more details on the setup, call +1-877-593-4887.

Booking & Fees

The WestJet Unaccompanied Minor fee typically ranges between $100 – $118 CAD (plus tax) per child, per direction. This fee is in addition to the airfare.

Key Rules for Parents

• Direct Flights Only: Minors cannot travel on connecting flights or “red-eye” flights.
• Domestic Focus: Service is primarily for flights within Canada.
• Time Restrictions: Flights must not depart before 5:30 a.m. or arrive after 10:00 p.m.

Does WestJet allow unaccompanied minors?

Yes, WestJet welcomes Unaccompanied Minors WestJet on their flights, provided the child is at least 8 years old. The airline has established one of the most robust safety protocols in North America to manage solo child travelers. However, it is important to note that this service is exclusive to WestJet-operated flights and is not available on code-share or partner airline flights (such as those operated by Delta or Air France).

What is the WestJet Unaccompanied Minor Policy?

The WestJet Unaccompanied Minor Policy is a set of safety regulations and service standards that govern the travel of children without a legal guardian. The policy ensures that a child is never left unattended. From the check-in counter, a WestJet agent or “Guardian” escorts the child through security and to the gate. Once on board, the cabin crew takes over, periodically checking on the child and assisting with snacks or entertainment.

How to get an unaccompanied minor flight on WestJet?

Booking a WestJet Unaccompanied Minor flight requires a bit more than a standard online reservation. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth booking:

• Online Request: Start by filling out the WestJet Unaccompanied Minor Form online.
• Wait for Confirmation: WestJet typically reviews the request and responds via email within 48 hours.
• Call to Pay: Once the request is approved, you must call the airline (or use the support line at +1-877-593-4887) within 72 hours to process the payment and the WestJet Unaccompanied Minor fee.
• Documentation: Ensure you have the WestJet Unaccompanied Minor Form PDF printed and ready for the airport.

What are the WestJet unaccompanied minor fees?

When budgeting for your child’s trip, remember that the WestJet Unaccompanied Minor fee is a separate charge from the flight ticket.

Note: Fees are non-refundable unless the flight is cancelled by the airline.

WestJet Unaccompanied Minor Guidelines

To maintain safety, WestJet follows strict operational guidelines:

• Max Count: Only four unaccompanied minors are permitted per flight. It is best to book early.
• Language: The child must be able to communicate basic needs in English or French.
• Health: Children with severe allergies requiring an Epi-Pen or those with significant disabilities may not be eligible for the solo program and may instead require the Guardian Fare program.

WestJet Unaccompanied Minor Age Requirements

Understanding the WestJet Unaccompanied Minor Age Requirements is vital to avoid being denied boarding at the gate.

WestJet Unaccompanied Minor Age Rules

• Under 8 Years: Cannot fly solo under any circumstances.
• 8 to 11 Years: Must use the service. A parent/guardian must stay at the airport until the flight is officially in the air.
• 12 to 17 Years: Considered “Young Guests.” They can travel alone without the fee/service, but the parent can opt-in if they feel the child needs extra help.

Unaccompanied Minors WestJet – Age Overview

The airline strictly enforces these age brackets based on the child’s age on the date of departure. If a child turns 12 between the outbound and return flight, the service becomes optional for the return leg.

WestJet Unaccompanied Minor Form

The WestJet Unaccompanied Minor Form is the most important document in your travel kit. It acts as a “passport” for the airline’s staff to identify who is authorized to drop off and pick up the child.

WestJet Unaccompanied Minor Form Details

The form requires:

• Child’s full name, gender, and birthdate.
• The “Dropping off” guardian’s name, address, and 24-hour contact number.
• The “Picking up” guardian’s name, address, and 24-hour contact number.

Unaccompanied Minor Form WestJet – Required Information

You can usually download the WestJet Unaccompanied Minor Form PDF from the official website or receive it via email after your booking is confirmed. You are required to print two copies: one for the departure and one for the return.

WestJet Unaccompanied Minor Requirements

Preparation is the key to a successful solo flight. Review these WestJet Unaccompanied Minor Requirements before heading to the airport.

Mandatory Documents for WestJet Unaccompanied Minors

• Identification: A photocopy of the child’s birth certificate or government-issued ID (Non-photo ID is acceptable for domestic travel).
• Completed Forms: The 2026 version of the WestJet UM form.
• Guardian ID: The person dropping off the child must have a valid government-issued photo ID.

Airport & Check-In Requirements

You must arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before departure. You cannot use self-service kiosks; you must check in at the “Special Assistance” or full-service counter.

Pro Tip: The guardian at the destination must arrive at the airport 30 minutes prior to the scheduled landing and must present photo ID that matches the name on the form exactly.

WestJet Unaccompanied Minor Baggage Policy

WestJet’s baggage rules for children flying alone follow the standard allowance based on the fare type purchased, such as UltraBasic, Econo, or Premium.

Baggage Allowance for Children Flying Alone

• Carry-on: One carry-on bag and one personal item are permitted, depending on the selected fare.
• Checked Bags: Checked baggage fees vary by fare class. Pre-paying for baggage is recommended to reduce overall travel costs.

Baggage Restrictions

Children must be able to handle their own carry-on luggage through the airport. While WestJet staff may assist with placing bags in overhead bins, the child should be capable of carrying the bag independently if required. For detailed baggage fee information, contact customer support at +1-877-593-4887.

International Travel Rules for Unaccompanied Children

Many parents are unsure about solo child travel on international routes.

Important Notice: WestJet does not provide an unaccompanied child service on international flights, including routes to or from the United States.

For international travel, children must be at least 12 years old to fly independently as standard passengers. Alternatively, families may consider the Guardian Fare option, which allows an adult to accompany the child and return on a discounted ticket.

Inflight & Arrival Experience for WestJet Unaccompanied Minors

WestJet ensures a safe, supervised journey with continuous care from boarding until the child is handed over.

Onboard Assistance for Unaccompanied Minors WestJet

Once the child is on board, they are seated in a designated area (usually near the back or front where crew can easily see them). The flight attendants will:

• Introduce themselves to the child.
• Explain the safety features of the aircraft.
• Provide a complimentary snack and beverage.
• Check in frequently to ensure the child is comfortable.

Arrival & Guardian Handover Process

Upon landing, the child will stay in their seat until all other passengers have deplaned. A WestJet agent will then escort the child through the airport to the designated meeting area. The child will only be released to the guardian listed on the WestJet Unaccompanied Minor Form after their photo ID is verified.

Conclusion

The WestJet Unaccompanied Minor program offers a reliable way for families to stay connected across Canada. By adhering to the WestJet Unaccompanied Minor Policy, preparing the necessary WestJet Unaccompanied Minor Form, and understanding the age-specific requirements, you can ensure your child’s solo flight is a positive milestone.

For the latest 2026 updates or to book your child’s next adventure, contact the specialized desk at +1-877-593-4887.