The Brussels Airlines Unaccompanied Minor service is a dedicated assistance program designed to ensure that children traveling alone are safe, supervised, and comfortable from the moment they arrive at the airport until they reach their final destination. Sending a child on a flight by themselves can be a nerve-wracking experience for any parent, but Brussels Airlines provides a seamless support system to bridge the gap between departure and arrival. Whether your child is visiting family abroad or returning from a school trip, the airline’s specialized staff handles every detail with the utmost care.
If you have questions about booking or specific requirements for your child’s journey, you can always reach out to Brussels Airlines Customer Service at +1-877-593-4887 for expert guidance.
Quick overview: Brussels Airlines Unaccompanied Minor
Brussels Airlines bases unaccompanied minor assistance on the child’s age at departure. Children under 5 are not allowed to fly alone, while the Unaccompanied Minor service is mandatory for ages 5 to 11 and optional for ages 12 to 17. For children with Italian nationality, the service is required until age 14.
Age Requirements & Mandatory Service
The airline determines the level of assistance required based on the child’s age on the day of departure:
- Under 5 years: Not permitted to travel alone. Must be accompanied by an adult (18+).
- 5 – 11 years: The Unaccompanied Minor service is mandatory.
- 12 – 17 years: The service is optional but can be requested for peace of mind.
- Italian Nationals: Note that for children with Italian nationality, the UM service is mandatory until age 14.
Key Rules for Connections
- Same-Day Only: Connecting flights are permitted only if they occur on the same day. Overnight transfers are not allowed.
- Brussels Airport (BRU): During layovers at Brussels, children are supervised in a dedicated “Junior Runner” lounge.
- Operating Carrier: The service is primarily for flights operated by Brussels Airlines. For codeshare flights (e.g., operated by United or Lufthansa), you must check the operating carrier’s specific UM rules.
The Journey: Step-by-Step
- Booking: You cannot book UM service online. You must call the Service Centre or visit a ticket desk.
- At the Airport: Online check-in is disabled. You must check in at the counter. The parent/guardian must remain at the airport until the flight has taken off.
- In-Flight: Children are seated near the crew stations. On long-haul flights, child meals are provided (request these 24 hours in advance for kids aged 9-11; they are automatic for those under 9).
- Arrival: The child is the last to deplane and is escorted to the authorized guardian. The guardian must present a valid government-issued ID that matches the name provided during booking.
Important Documentation
- Handling Advice Form: You must provide four printed and signed copies of the Brussels Airlines UM form.
- ID/Passport: The child must have their own valid passport/ID and any necessary visas.
- Parental Consent: Some countries require a notarized letter of consent from both parents.
Service Fees (2026 Estimates)
Brussels Airlines charges an Unaccompanied Minor fee per child, per one-way flight. Within Europe and to Morocco: ~€85 ($95). Middle East: ~€95 ($105). Sub-Saharan Africa: €115–€125 ($130–$140). USA & Canada: ~€125 ($140).
Tip: Book early! Most flights have a limit of 4 to 6 unaccompanied minors per aircraft. If the limit is reached, your child may not be able to board.
Does Brussels Airlines Allow Unaccompanied Minors?
Yes, Brussels Airlines allows unaccompanied minors to travel alone through its Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service. The service is mandatory for children aged 5–11 and optional for teens aged 12–17. Children under 5 are not permitted to fly alone and must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or older.
Trained staff escort the child through the airport, supervise them during the flight, and ensure a secure handover to the authorized guardian at arrival. Since UM slots are limited, parents should book early and complete the required Unaccompanied Minor form before travel.
What Is the Brussels Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy?
The Brussels Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy is a set of mandatory and optional regulations designed to safeguard young travelers. Under this policy, the airline takes full legal responsibility for the child during the flight and any necessary transfers. This includes escorting them through security, assisting with boarding, and ensuring they are handed over only to the authorized guardian listed on the paperwork.
Who Is Considered an Unaccompanied Minor on Brussels Airlines?
According to the Brussels Airlines Child Policy, any child between the ages of 5 and 11 who is not traveling with an adult (at least 18 years old) is legally required to use the Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service. For teenagers between 12 and 18 years old, the service is optional but highly recommended for those who may be inexperienced with air travel or connecting flights.
What Services Are Included in Brussels Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Assistance?
When you book Brussels Airlines Unaccompanied Minor assistance, you aren’t just paying for a ticket; you are paying for a comprehensive care package:
- Dedicated Escort: A staff member will guide the child through the airport, security, and passport control.
- Priority Boarding: Minors are usually the first to board, allowing them to settle in and meet the cabin crew.
- In-Flight Supervision: Flight attendants keep a close eye on the child, providing meals, drinks, and comfort.
- Safe Handover: At the destination, the child is escorted to the arrivals hall and released only after the guardian’s ID is verified.
What Is the Minimum and Maximum Age for Unaccompanied Minors?
Understanding the age brackets is crucial for planning your trip. Brussels Airlines has strict rules to ensure the child’s safety based on their maturity level.
Age Rules for Children Flying Alone
Brussels Airlines does not allow children under 5 years old to fly alone under any circumstances, and they must always travel with an adult. For children aged 5 to 11 years, the Unaccompanied Minor service is mandatory when traveling without a parent or legal guardian. Teenagers aged 12 to 18 years may travel independently without the service, although parents can choose to add the Unaccompanied Minor service for extra supervision and peace of mind.Children under 5 must always be accompanied by an adult who is at least 18 years old. If the accompanying person is between 12 and 18, the younger child is still classified as an unaccompanied minor.
Can Teens Travel Without the Unaccompanied Minor Service?
Yes, teenagers aged 12 and above can travel as “young passengers” without the specialized UM service. However, if they travel without it, the airline does not provide an escort or constant supervision. If you feel your teenager might be overwhelmed by a busy airport like Brussels (BRU), you can still opt-in for the service for added peace of mind. For help adding this to a teen’s booking, call +1-877-593-4887.
How Much Does Brussels Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Service Cost?
The cost for the Brussels Airlines Unaccompanied Minor service is a surcharge added to the adult fare of the ticket. These fees cover the logistics of providing extra staff members to look after your child.
Brussels Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Fees by Route
The fee depends on the destination and the complexity of the flight path. As of 2026, the general pricing structure is:
- Within Europe: Approximately €85 / $95 per child, per way.
- Middle East & North Africa: Approximately €95 / $105 per child, per way.
- Sub-Saharan Africa: Approximately €115 – €125 / $130 – $140 per child, per way.
- USA & Canada: Approximately €125 / $140 per child, per way.
Is the Unaccompanied Minor Fee Refundable or Transferable?
Generally, the UM service fee follows the same rules as the ticket fare class you purchased. If you have a flexible ticket, the fee may be refundable. However, for “Economy Light” or non-refundable tickets, the fee is typically lost if you cancel. Always double-check the specifics with Brussels Airlines Assistance at +1-877-593-4887 before finalizing your plans.
How to Book Brussels Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Service?
Book the child’s flight first, then add the Unaccompanied Minor service through Brussels Airlines customer service or a travel agent. Complete the UM form and provide required documents. Online check-in is not allowed—check in at the airport counter on departure day.
Step-by-Step Booking Process
- Contact the Airline: You must book either through the Brussels Airlines Customer Service team at +1-877-593-4887 or via a certified travel agency.
- Provide Guardian Details: You will need the name, address, and phone number of the person dropping off the child and the person picking them up.
- Pay the Fee: The service fee is paid at the time of booking to secure the “UM slot” on the flight, as there is a limit on how many minors can be on one aircraft.
- Receive Confirmation: Ensure your itinerary specifically mentions “UM Service” or “Special Assistance Requested.”
When Should You Request Unaccompanied Minor Assistance?
It is recommended to book the service at least 24 to 48 hours before departure. Since airlines limit the number of unaccompanied minors per flight (often only 4 to 6 slots), waiting until the last minute might result in your child being unable to board.
What Documents Are Required for Brussels Airlines Unaccompanied Minors
Documentation is the most important part of the Brussels Airlines Unaccompanied Minor process. Without the correct forms, the child will be denied boarding.
Brussels Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Form Explained
The Brussels Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Form (also known as the Handling Advice form) is a document where you list the child’s medical info, flight details, and authorized guardian contacts. You must bring four printed copies of this form to the airport.
Passport, Visa, and Parental Consent Requirements
- Passport: Every child needs their own valid international passport.
- Visas: If the destination requires a visa, the child must have it in their passport.
- Parental Consent: Many countries (like South Africa, Brazil, or Italy) require a notarized parental consent letter or a specific “Declaration of Guarding” for minors traveling without both parents.
- ID of Guardian: The person picking up the child MUST bring a government-issued photo ID that matches the name on the UM form exactly.
What Are the Rules for Flights and Connections
Brussels Airlines allows unaccompanied minors mainly on direct flights. Connecting flights may be permitted only on specific routes and must be approved in advance. Overnight connections are not allowed, and all flights must be operated by Brussels Airlines or approved partner airlines to ensure continuous supervision.
Allowed Flights for Unaccompanied Minors
The service is primarily available on flights operated directly by Brussels Airlines. If the flight is a Codeshare (marketed by Brussels but operated by United, Lufthansa, etc.), the rules of the operating carrier apply.
Are Connecting Flights Permitted for Children Traveling Alone
Yes, connecting flights are allowed, but with conditions:
- The connection must be within the same day.
- The child will be supervised by staff in a “Junior Runner” lounge or designated area during the layover.
- Overnight connections are generally not permitted for minors traveling alone.
Brussels Airlines Child Policy vs Unaccompanied Minor Policy
It is easy to confuse these two. The Brussels Airlines Child Policy governs general discounts and seating for families, whereas the UM policy is about safety for those without a legal guardian on board.
Traveling With Family vs Flying Alone
When traveling with Brussels Airlines Family benefits, children often receive a 25% discount on the base fare. However, when flying alone, the child pays the full adult fare plus the UM service fee.
Special Assistance Options for Families
If you are flying with your child but need help (e.g., traveling with three small children alone), you can request Brussels Airlines Assistance to help navigate the airport, though this is a different service than the UM program. Contact +1-877-593-4887 to discuss family support options.
How Does Brussels Airlines Assist Unaccompanied Minors During Travel?
Brussels Airlines provides end-to-end assistance to ensure children traveling alone are safe, supervised, and comfortable throughout their journey—from airport check-in to final handover at arrival. Trained staff closely monitor unaccompanied minors at every stage of travel, following strict child-protection procedures.
Airport Assistance and Boarding Support
At the airport, you must check in at the counter (online check-in is usually disabled for UM). The parent must stay at the airport until the flight is officially “Wheels Up.” A staff member will take your child through the “Crew” or “Fast Bag” lanes to avoid long queues.
In-Flight Care and Arrival Procedures
On board, the child is seated in a location where the crew can easily monitor them (often near the galley).
- Meals: For long-haul flights, special child meals are provided (must be requested 24 hours in advance).
- Arrival: The child is the last to deplane. A ground agent meets them at the door and walks them through customs to the meeting point.
How to Contact Brussels Airlines Customer Service for Unaccompanied Minors?
For booking, changes, or questions related to the Brussels Airlines Unaccompanied Minor service, parents or guardians should contact Brussels Airlines Customer Service directly by phone, live chat, or through an authorized travel agent. It’s best to reach out before departure, as UM services must be arranged in advance. Keep the child’s booking reference and travel details ready to ensure faster assistance.
- Direct Support: Call +1-877-593-4887 for booking assistance.
- Online Chat: Available on the Brussels Airlines official website for general queries.
- Social Media: Useful for quick status updates, but not for sensitive booking details.
When to Contact Brussels Airlines Assistance Team
You should contact the Brussels Airlines Assistance Team as soon as you plan a trip involving an unaccompanied minor, or if there are any changes to the child’s travel plans. Reach out immediately for flight changes, cancellations, special assistance requests, document updates, or if delays or disruptions affect the journey.
- You need to change the person authorized to pick up the child.
- The flight is delayed, and you need to know the new arrival time.
- You need to clarify specific visa requirements for a minor.
Tips to Save Money When Managing a Brussels Airlines Booking
Managing a Brussels Airlines booking for an unaccompanied minor doesn’t have to be expensive if you plan ahead. Small timing and fare choices can significantly reduce change fees and unexpected fare differences.
Best Time to Make Changes
To avoid high fees, try to make changes as soon as your plans shift. Prices for the Brussels Airlines Unaccompanied Minor service are fixed, but the difference in flight fares can increase significantly as the departure date approaches.
Choosing the Right Fare for Flexibility
If you are unsure about travel dates for your child, consider booking the Economy Flex fare. While the initial cost is higher, it allows for free changes, which can save you hundreds of dollars if your schedule changes. For a breakdown of fare differences, feel free to call +1-877-593-4887.
Conclusion
The Brussels Airlines Unaccompanied Minor program is designed to give parents complete confidence when their child needs to travel alone. With clearly defined age requirements, trained staff supervision, and strict handover procedures, the airline ensures children are protected at every stage of the journey—from airport check-in to final arrival. The service goes beyond basic travel support by offering personalized assistance, priority handling, and continuous monitoring, making it one of the most reliable options for young travelers.
If you need help with booking, changes, fees, or documentation, reaching out to Brussels Airlines Customer Service at +1-877-593-4887 ensures expert guidance and timely assistance. With the right preparation and the airline’s dedicated care, your child’s journey can be safe, comfortable, and completely stress-free.
