Can a 17-yr old check-in for a domestic flight by themselves?

Question

I am a 17-yr old living in California. I am planning on making a weekend trip to NYC during the month of October to visit distant relatives that are not on speaking terms with my parents. Because of this family dispute, I do not plan on telling my parents that I am going to visit them. I understand that some airlines will allow unaccompanied minors to board their planes if a "responsible adult" is there with them. I am also aware, however, that AirTran considers anyone above 12 an adult. My question is: is there any way I can board an airplane going from LAX to JFK with neither a parent present nor a notarized letter saying that I'm allowed to go? If so, which airlines would I have to buy the ticket from?

Answer 1

Yes, you are considered an adult ticket wise.

Any major airline will do.

Answer 2

At age 17 you are still under your parent's control and should not travel anywhere without telling them regardless of the reason.