Any minor over 2 must have a ticket. An infant under 2 may fly without a ticket as long as the baby is on the lap of a parent or guardian. Babies and toddlers may fly in FAA-approved car seats if the parents purchase tickets for them.
Minors typically do not need photo identification long as there is an adult with them. Teenagers may want to carry an ID to shorten the screening process at security, especially if they look older.
The federal government requires security screening for all passengers. Children who can walk on their own will have to go through a metal detector. Infants may be carried through.
Airlines establish their own guidelines for kids. Generally, kids must be of school age and have an airline chaperon. This may cost extra. Teens can travel alone. A parent or guardian may be required to come through security to the gate, ensuring the child is always accounted for.
