The Air France Unaccompanied Minor service, known globally as the “Kids Solo” program, is a dedicated solution designed to provide children with a safe, supervised, and comfortable journey when traveling without a legal guardian. Navigating the complexities of solo travel for a child can be daunting for any parent, but Air France has refined its protocols to ensure that from the moment of check-in to the final handover at the destination, your child is under the constant care of trained professionals.
Whether your child is visiting family across the globe or attending an international summer camp, understanding the nuances of the Air France Unaccompanied Minor policy is essential for a stress-free experience. In this comprehensive 2026 guide, we break down everything from age requirements and fees to the specific documentation needed to clear customs.
Quick Overview: Air France Unaccompanied Minor
Air France’s Kids Solo service supports children traveling alone by providing continuous supervision from airport check-in to final handover. The service is mandatory for children aged 4–11 on domestic flights within France and 5–14 on international routes, while optional for older minors depending on flight type and parental authorization. Kids Solo ensures trained Air France staff escort children throughout the airport, onboard the aircraft, and during arrival procedures.
Age Requirements & Service Usage:
- Ages 4–11 (Domestic) / 5–14 (International): Mandatory enrollment in the Kids Solo program.
- Ages 12–17 (Domestic France): Kids Solo optional; minors may travel alone with parental consent.
- Ages 15–17 (International): Kids Solo optional with completed authorization forms.
How the Kids Solo Service Works:
- Booking: Booked online during ticket purchase by selecting the “traveling alone” option or via customer support.
- Check-in: A parent or guardian completes required forms; Air France staff escort the child through security and boarding.
- During Flight: Cabin crew regularly monitor the child and provide assistance when needed.
- Arrival: Ground staff escort the child off the aircraft and hand them over only to the authorized pickup person after ID verification.
Key Requirements:
- Forms: Completion of the Air France Unaccompanied Minor form; French residents may require an Authorization to Leave the Territory (AST).
- Documents: Valid passport, visas, and destination entry requirements must be met.
- Tracking: Parents can receive real-time flight updates through Air France digital tools.
Important Notes:
- Fees: Service fees vary by route and are charged per flight segment.
- Transfers: Transfers between Paris-Orly (ORY) and Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) are not permitted.
- Lounges: Unaccompanied minors generally do not have access to airport lounges.
Does Air France Allow Unaccompanied Minors?
Yes, Air France not only allows but specializes in transporting young travelers through its mandatory and optional “Kids Solo” services. The airline recognizes that modern families often live across borders, making the Air France Unaccompanied Minor service a vital link for maintaining connections.
For many years, Air France has been a leader in child safety in the aviation industry. In 2026, they have further enhanced this service with real-time digital tracking and improved biometric security at major hubs like Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Paris-Orly (ORY). If you are planning a trip and need immediate assistance with a booking, you can contact the dedicated support line at +1-877-593-4887.
What Does “Unaccompanied Minor” Mean on Air France?
On Air France, an “Unaccompanied Minor” (often abbreviated as UMNR in the travel industry) refers to any child traveling alone or in a different cabin class than their accompanying adult. Even if a parent is on the same plane but seated in Business Class while the child is in Economy, the airline requires the child to be enrolled in the Air France Unaccompanied Minor Service to ensure they receive proper supervision.
Definition and Eligibility
To qualify for the service, the child must meet specific age and route criteria. Generally:
- Mandatory Service: Required for children aged 4 to 11 on domestic flights within France and children aged 5 to 14 on international flights.
- Optional Service: Available for teenagers aged 12 to 17 (domestic) or 15 to 17 (international) upon parental request.
Purpose of the Service
The primary goal of the Air France Unaccompanied Minor program is to provide a “chain of custody.” This means the child is never left alone. Air France staff take over responsibility from the parent at the check-in counter, escort the child through security, wait with them at the gate, and hand them over directly to the cabin crew. Upon arrival, the process is reversed until the child is safely with the authorized guardian.
Air France Unaccompanied Minor for Domestic & International Flights
The rules for the Air France Unaccompanied Minor International service differ slightly from domestic regulations due to customs and immigration laws.
- Domestic Flights (Within France): For travel between cities like Paris, Nice, or Lyon, the service is mandatory for children up to 11 years old.
- International Flights: On long-haul routes (e.g., New York to Paris), the Unaccompanied Minor Air France service is mandatory for children up to 14 years of age. This ensures that younger children are assisted with passport control and complex terminal transfers.
Booking an Air France Unaccompanied Minor Ticket
Booking a ticket for a child traveling solo requires more information than a standard adult booking. Air France needs to know exactly who is dropping the child off and who is picking them up.
How to Book Online
You can book the Air France Unaccompanied Minor service directly through the official website or mobile app.
- Select the “Kids Solo” option during the passenger selection phase.
- Enter the child’s correct date of birth to trigger the mandatory service requirements.
- Provide the full name, address, and mobile number of the authorized person at the destination.
- Review the Air France Unaccompanied Minor Fee before finalizing the payment.
Booking at the Airport or via Phone
While online booking is convenient, many parents prefer speaking to a live agent to ensure every detail is handled correctly. For personalized assistance and to confirm availability on specific routes, you can call +1-877-593-4887. Booking via phone is often recommended for flights involving partner airlines or complex connections where the online system might have limitations.
Fees and Charges
The Air France Unaccompanied Minor Fee is a surcharge added to the adult fare. As of 2026, these fees typically range as follows:
- Short-haul/Domestic: Approximately €40 to €60 per flight leg.
- Medium/Long-haul: Between €100 and €150 per flight leg. These fees cover the cost of dedicated staff, the “Kids Solo” lounge access during connections, and the administrative handling of the minor’s safety documents.
Air France Unaccompanied Minor Policies
The Air France Unaccompanied Minor Policy is strict to ensure no child is misplaced or left without supervision during flight delays.
Age Restrictions
- Under 4 years: Not permitted to fly alone. Must be accompanied by an adult (18+) or a legal guardian.
- 4-11 Years: Mandatory service for domestic flights.
- 5-14 Years: Mandatory service for international travel.
- 15-17 Years: The Air France Unaccompanied Minor Age policy allows these teens to fly as “adults” unless parents specifically opt-in for the “Kids Solo” service for added security.
Flight Types Allowed
Unaccompanied minors are generally allowed on most Air France-operated flights. However, there are restrictions on:
- Connections: Minors are only allowed to connect through specific hubs like CDG, ORY, or LYS.
- Overnight Layovers: Air France does not allow unaccompanied minors to stay overnight at an airport.
- Last Flight of the Day: To avoid issues with cancellations, it is often discouraged to book a minor on the very last flight of the evening.
Required Documentation
Documentation is the most critical part of the process. If you miss a single form, the child may be denied boarding.
- Passport and Visas: Mandatory for all international travel.
- Air France Unaccompanied Minor Form: This is the “Handling Advice” form where you list the contact details of guardians.
- Air France Unaccompanied Minor Form Pdf: You can download this from the website in advance. It is recommended to bring at least 3-4 printed copies.
- AST (Autorisation de sortie du territoire): For children residing in France and traveling abroad, this specific government form is required.
Preparing Your Child for the Flight
A successful Unaccompanied Minors Air France experience begins at home. Preparing your child emotionally and physically can make a world of difference.
Packing Tips
Keep the carry-on light but functional.
- Essentials: A change of clothes, any necessary medications, and a light jacket (cabin temperatures can be cool).
- Entertainment: Fully charged tablets, books, or small toys.
- Snacks: While Air France provides meals, having familiar snacks can be a comfort.
- Identification: Place a copy of the Unaccompanied Minor Form Air France inside their backpack just in case.
Safety and Comfort
Explain the process to your child. Tell them about the “Air France jacket” or lanyard they will wear. This identifies them to all airport staff as a child traveling solo. Remind them that they should never leave the side of the Air France staff member until they reach their final destination.
Communication During the Flight
While children cannot typically make calls mid-flight, parents can stay updated. The Air France app allows you to track the flight’s progress. You will receive a notification when the plane takes off and, most importantly, when the child has been safely handed over to the guardian at the arrival gate.
Check-In and Airport Procedures
The Air France Unaccompanied Minor Requirements stipulate that parents must arrive at the airport well in advance.
Early Arrival Recommendations
It is advised to arrive at least 2.5 to 3 hours before departure. This gives you plenty of time to visit the dedicated “Kids Solo” check-in counter, verify all identification, and complete the final signatures on the Air France Unaccompanied Minor Form. For questions regarding check-in times for specific airports, call +1-877-593-4887.
Escort Service to the Gate
Once check-in is complete, an Air France agent will take charge of your child. In most major airports, the parent is asked to remain at the airport until the flight has actually departed. The agent will lead the child through priority security lanes and into the boarding area.
Arrival at Destination
The person picking up the child must be the exact individual named on the documentation. Air France staff will check their government-issued ID against the form. No child will be released to anyone not listed, regardless of the relationship.
Special Considerations for Children with Medical Needs
If your child has allergies or requires medication, you must inform the airline at the time of booking. For complex medical needs, Air France offers the “Saphir” service, which works alongside the Air France Unaccompanied Minor Service to provide specialized assistance for children with reduced mobility or chronic health conditions.
Air France Unaccompanied Minor Safety Measures and Support
Safety is the cornerstone of the Air France Unaccompanied Minor Review ratings, which are consistently high. The airline utilizes a “closed-loop” system where every transition—from ground staff to cabin crew to arrival staff—is digitally logged. In 2026, many hubs also use dedicated, secure lounges where minors can wait for connections while playing games or resting under the watchful eye of supervisors.
Tips for a Smooth Air France Unaccompanied Minor Experience
- Book Direct Flights: Whenever possible, choose non-stop flights to minimize the stress of navigating a connecting airport.
- Double-Check IDs: Ensure the pickup person has their physical ID (not a digital copy).
- Stay Reachable: Keep your phone on and fully charged throughout the duration of the flight. For any last-minute changes to pick-up details, contact +1-877-593-4887 immediately.
- Inform the Child: Make sure they know they can ask the flight attendants for anything, from a glass of water to help with their seatbelt.
Conclusion
The Air France Unaccompanied Minor program is more than just a ticket; it is a comprehensive safety net for families. By following the guidelines for the Air France Unaccompanied Minor Policy, preparing the necessary forms, and arriving early, you can ensure your child’s journey is an exciting adventure rather than a source of anxiety. With dedicated staff, comfortable lounges, and modern tracking technology, Air France remains a top choice for young solo travelers.
