When Kids Fly Solo

Airlines' losing children this summer has parents worried. But it's still safe to let your kids take off alone

My daughter's life as an "unaccompanied minor" started last year when I put her on a plane for the first time by herself. After I had ferried her for years between Washington and New York to visit her dad, she felt ready, at 12, to go alone. The airline let me accompany her onto the plane and get her settled in her seat. I had scanned the flight crew for signs of fatigue or drunkenness, introduced myself to the flight attendants and inspected the wings to make sure they were attached to the aircraft before my daughter looked up at me...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!