Delta reinstates policy allowing unaccompanied minors

ATLANTA - Delta Air Lines said Monday it has resumed allowing children to fly by themselves on direct and connecting flights.

The airline ended the practice for minors aged five to 11 on September 13, two days after the terrorist attacks on New York and Washington. Children ages 12 and older -- and those on nonstop flights -- were allowed to continue flying without an adult.

New security requirements and operational constraints led to the change in September. Delta now believes it will be able to manage children through their connections since security systems have become more formalized.