Mexican Consulate in L.A. takes a wide-ranging role in guiding immigrants to social services. Partnering with U.S. government agencies and nonprofits, the consulate offers aid on parenting, healthcare, labor violations and other issues.
After age 11, however, airline policies differ widely. United, Continental and American allow children to travel alone from the age of 12, while JetBlue lets them travel solo from 14. Delta, Spirit and US Airways, however, all require children under 15 to travel in the unaccompanied minor programs. For parents of well-traveled, confident teenagers, this rankles.
Young teenagers trying to claim their independence aren't getting any help from the airline industry. Beginning Sept. 3, American Airlines will charge $150 extra fee each way, or $300 for a round-trip flight, for unaccompanied minors between the ages of 5 and 14.