What is the procedure for an unaccompanied minor on the flight?

Unaccompanied minor on the flight

When a minor has to fly alone, without being accompanied by his parents, there are a few laws that regard this situation.

A child flying without a parent or a guardian is called an “unaccompanied minor”, or shortly, UNMR.

Every airline has its own rules and restrictions in addition to obeying the law.

Minors younger than 5 years old traveling within Europe and between Europe and the Middle East, as well as those under the age of 7 traveling between Europe and the US cannot fly alone. They may only travel with a parent, guardian, sibling, or any other person who must be at least 16 years of age.

On the other hand, minors between the ages of 5 and 12 can only travel without an adult with an official escort provided by the airline company. This service is charged extra.

How do I buy a ticket for an unaccompanied minor?

It is not possible to book an airline ticket online for an unaccompanied minor. This is a special case and falls under special services.

The following information will be needed when booking:

• minor’s first and last name (written as in the passport)
• date of birth
• passport information: passport ID, expiration date, country that issued the document and the nationality od the minor
• information of the person accompanying the minor on the flight, as well as the person waiting for them at the arrival airport (first and last name, kinship, contact telephone and ID number)