Turkish Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy

Sending a child on a flight alone can be stressful for parents, especially when international travel is involved. To support families, Turkish Airlines Unaccompanied Minor services are designed to provide supervised assistance for children traveling without a parent or legal guardian, ensuring safety, comfort, and proper care from airport check-in to final arrival.

This guide explains the Turkish Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy for 2026, including age eligibility, booking rules, service fees, required documents, airport support, and in-flight care. Updated to reflect current aviation and child-protection standards, it helps parents plan solo child travel with confidence. For immediate assistance or reservations, support is available at +1-877-593-4887.

Quick Overview: Turkish Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy

Turkish Airlines offers Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service for children 7-12 years old who travel alone, requiring parent/guardian authorization and a fee (variable by route) paid at the airport, ensuring crew supervision from check-in to arrival; younger kids (2-7) can travel with a paid cabin crew member, while older teens (12-18) can fly alone but need proper documentation and guardian consent, with the service prioritizing safety at all journey stages.

Age Guidelines & Service

• Ages 2-7: Can travel with a paid cabin crew member as a companion at the parent’s request.
• Ages 7-12: Can travel alone using the Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service with a signed authorization form and payment.
• Ages 12-18: Can travel as an adult but require guardian consent and proper travel documents (passport, visa, etc.).

Key Requirements

• Authorization: Parents/guardians must sign a Carriage Authorization Document.
• Documents: Valid passports, visas, and consent letters are essential for international travel.
• Airport Presence: A parent or authorized adult must stay at the airport until the flight departs.

Fees & Booking

• Fees: A fee applies for the UM service, paid at the airport during check-in. Fees vary by route.
• Booking: Contact Turkish Airlines directly or book online, ensuring you request the UM service at +1-877-593-4887.

During the Journey

• Supervision: Dedicated staff assist the child from check-in through boarding and during the flight.
• Special Assistance: Includes priority check-in, lounge access (where applicable), and personalized attention.

Pro Tip: Book the UM service 48 hours early at +1-877-593-4887. Remember to order a ‘Child Meal’ in advance so your traveler can enjoy the exclusive Turkish Airline Kids Club menu!

What Is Turkish Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Service?

The Turkish Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Service is a dedicated assistance program created for children traveling alone without a parent or legal guardian. From airport check-in to final arrival, trained ground staff and cabin crew supervise each stage of the journey, ensuring smooth coordination, safety, and proper handovers throughout the trip.

Key benefits of the service include:

• Priority assistance at check-in, security screening, and boarding
• Continuous supervision by trained cabin crew during the flight
• Controlled handover to an authorized adult at the destination
• Clear escalation procedures in case of delays, disruptions, or missed connections

This service is designed to meet international aviation and child-protection standards, making it a reliable option for families planning solo travel for minors on domestic and international routes. For eligibility confirmation, documentation details, or booking assistance, parents may contact support at +1-877-593-4887 before departure.

Does Turkish Airlines Allow Unaccompanied Minors?

Yes. Turkish Airlines allows children to travel alone under clearly defined age-based conditions and supervision rules. Children aged 7–12 years must be enrolled in the Turkish Airlines Unaccompanied Minor service, children aged 2–7 years are accepted only with mandatory paid assistance, while teens aged 12–18 years may travel independently with parental or guardian consent and valid documentation, subject to route, aircraft, and airport restrictions.

Eligibility is generally categorized as follows:

• Children aged 7–12 years are permitted to travel alone when registered under the Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service
• Children aged 2–7 years may travel only with mandatory paid assistance arranged through the airline
• Teens aged 12–18 years may travel independently with parental or guardian consent and required documents

Acceptance may vary depending on the route, aircraft type, transit airport regulations, and availability of ground support services. Parents are advised to confirm age eligibility and documentation requirements before booking.

Turkish Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Age Policy

Turkish Airlines allows unaccompanied minors based on age: children aged 2–7 require mandatory paid cabin crew assistance, ages 7–12 must use the Unaccompanied Minor service, and teens aged 12–18 may travel independently with parental consent and valid documents.

The Turkish Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Age Policy defines clear age-based eligibility rules to ensure child safety, supervision, and regulatory compliance on domestic and international flights. Requirements vary by age group and may also depend on route, aircraft type, and transit airport regulations.

Age Eligibility & Service Requirements

Note: For children aged 2–7, the companion service requires purchasing a separate seat for a dedicated cabin crew member who remains with the child for the entire flight.

Age acceptance and service availability may vary based on destination rules, connection points, and operational constraints. Parents should confirm eligibility, documentation, and route-specific conditions before booking. For accurate guidance, families can contact support at +1-877-593-4887.

Turkish Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Routes & Restrictions

Turkish Airlines allows unaccompanied minors on many—but not all—routes; direct flights are recommended, codeshare or overnight layovers are often restricted, and some international destinations require extra consent documents.

While the airline connects passengers across a vast international network, the Unaccompanied Minor (UMNR) service is not automatically offered on every itinerary. Route eligibility depends on operational support, airport facilities, connection times, and local travel rules.

Key Restrictions & Considerations

• Direct vs. Connecting Flights:
  For younger children, especially those under 12, direct flights are strongly recommended to minimize transit risks and supervision gaps.
• Codeshare & Partner Flights:
  Some codeshare routes may not support unaccompanied minors if the partner airline’s policy differs. Always verify with all carriers involved.
• Layovers & Connections:
  Short layovers with adequate child support may be allowed, but overnight stays and long layovers are generally restricted for unaccompanied minors unless a guardian is present.
• International Destination Rules:
  Certain countries enforce local immigration, child welfare laws, or additional consent requirements, which may limit UMNR acceptance on those routes.

Parents should always confirm route eligibility, connection rules, and any required documentation during booking or by calling +1-877-593-4887 to avoid last-minute travel issues.

How to Book Turkish Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Service

Turkish Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Service booking requires advance coordination, identity verification, and staff availability confirmation. The service is not processed like a regular adult ticket and often requires direct assistance from the airline.

Booking an unaccompanied minor with Turkish Airlines cannot always be completed through standard online booking flows. Because the airline must verify documents, confirm route eligibility, and ensure trained staff availability, a guided booking process is required—especially for international travel.

Step-by-Step Booking Process

• Step 1: Start the Reservation Early
  Inform Turkish Airlines at the time of booking that the passenger is a child traveling alone. It is strongly recommended to initiate the request at least 48 hours before departure to ensure service availability.
• Step 2: Request UMNR Service Explicitly
  During booking—online, via an agent, or by phone—you must clearly request the Turkish Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Service. The airline will verify whether the selected route and flight support UMNR handling.
• Step 3: Provide Guardian & Pickup Details
  Parents or legal guardians must submit full contact information for:
  • The adult dropping off the child at departure
  • The authorized adult receiving the child at arrival
    Valid identification and consent documentation may be required depending on the route.
• Step 4: Confirm Authorization & Fees
  Ensure that the Unaccompanied Minor Passenger Carriage Authorization is added to the ticket. Service fees are typically paid at the airport during check-in or confirmed during assisted booking.

Parents or guardians must remain at the airport until the flight has departed. For route confirmation, documentation guidance, or faster booking support, families can contact +1-877-593-4887 before finalizing travel plans.

Turkish Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Fee (2026)

Traveling alone with Turkish Airlines as a minor comes with a dedicated service fee, which ensures supervision, safety, and assistance throughout the journey. Here’s a complete breakdown:

Fee Structure

• Domestic Flights: Approximately $50–$70 USD per segment
• International Flights: Typically $100–$150 USD per segment
• Companion Service (Ages 2–7): Requires a paid cabin crew escort — significantly higher as an additional ticket is purchased for the crew member plus the service fee

Fees apply per segment, not per journey, and passengers pay them at the airport during check-in.

What the Fee Covers

• Supervision by trained cabin crew and ground staff
• Assistance during boarding, security, and in-flight
• Safe handover to an authorized adult at the destination
• Coordination for special routes or multi-segment itineraries

Tips for US Passengers

• Confirm the exact fee for your specific route by calling +1-877-593-4887
• Early booking ensures availability of staff, especially for ages 2–7 requiring a companion
• International long-haul fees are higher due to extended supervision

Turkish Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Form & Documents

Traveling with a child as an unaccompanied minor requires careful preparation. Turkish Airlines provides a structured Unaccompanied Minor (UMNR) Service, but completing the correct forms and providing proper documentation is essential for a smooth journey.

Essential Documentation Checklist

Before your child’s flight, ensure all documents are ready and accurate. Missing paperwork may lead to denied boarding.

• Unaccompanied Minor Declaration Form (Turkish Airlines)
  • Contains child’s personal information and contact details of authorized guardians.
  • Must be signed by a parent or legal guardian.
• Passenger Carriage Authorization Form (Turkish Airlines)
  • Confirms airline approval for the child to travel alone.
• Unaccompanied Minor Certificate from the Airline
  • Issued at check-in to confirm enrollment in the UMNR service.
• Valid Passport & Visa (for international flights)
  • Even for children, proper travel documents are mandatory for all destinations.
• Parental Consent Letter
  • Many countries require a notarized consent letter from one or both parents for minors traveling alone.
• Health & Vaccination Documents (if required)
  • Any necessary medical records or vaccination certificates should be prepared in advance.

Airport, In-Flight & Arrival Support

Turkish Airlines ensures that children traveling alone receive full supervision from check-in to handoff at the destination.

At the Airport

• Dedicated check-in assistance at special counters (e.g., Istanbul Airport Family & Child counter).
• Priority security handling and escort to the boarding gate.
• Parent or guardian must remain at the airport until departure.

During the Flight

• Continuous supervision by the cabin crew.
• Special meals and comfort assistance if requested 24 hours in advance.
• Regular check-ins and reassurance to ensure the child’s safety.

Upon Arrival

• Child is escorted through immigration and baggage claim (where applicable).
• Release only to the pre-authorized adult listed on the UMNR documentation.
• Ensures safe handoff and compliance with international travel regulations.

Tips for USA Parents

• Book early: Ensure UMNR service is requested at least 48 hours before departure.
• Verify documents: All names must match the airline reservation exactly.
• Call for assistance: For any questions about forms, fees, or route eligibility, contact Turkish Airlines USA at +1-877-593-4887.
• Prepare your child: Explain the process and introduce them to the flight crew if possible.

Turkish Airlines Child Policy vs Unaccompanied Minor Policy

Understanding the difference between the Child Policy and Unaccompanied Minor (UMNR) Policy is crucial for US travelers. This helps parents choose the correct option and ensures smooth travel for children.

Comparison Highlights:

Child Policy:

• • Applies to children traveling with a parent or guardian.
  • Focus on family seating, child meals, and comfort.
  • No additional fees.
  • Age range: 2–12 years.

Unaccompanied Minor Policy:

• Applies to children traveling alone.
• Mandatory supervision by airline staff from check-in to arrival.
• Service fees apply ($50–$70 domestic, $100–$150 international per segment).
• Age focus: 2–12 years primarily.
• Requires specific documentation (UM Declaration Form, Authorization Form, Passport/Visa, Consent Letter).

Quick Table for Easy Reference:

Turkish Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy – Delays & Safety

When a child travels alone, Turkish Airlines places safety first and actively supervises unaccompanied minors throughout the journey, even in cases of flight delays or cancellations.

Key Safety Measures:

• Supervision During Delays: Children remain under airline staff supervision at all times.
• Immediate Guardian Notification: Parents or guardians are contacted promptly for updates.
• Alternative Arrangements: Airline provides re-accommodation or alternate flights as needed.
• Overnight Stays: Managed securely with staff or authorized local guardians if required.
• Trained Crew: Cabin crew are trained in first aid and child safety, ensuring peace of mind.

Tip: The UMNR Policy guarantees continuous care, proper documentation, and structured procedures, making solo travel safe for children while keeping parents informed throughout the journey.

Conclusion

The Turkish Airlines Unaccompanied Minor program is one of the most reliable in the aviation industry. By combining strict safety protocols with the warm hospitality of the Turkish Airline Kids Club, the airline ensures that your child’s solo journey is a positive milestone rather than a stressful event. From the time you complete the Turkish Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Passenger Carriage Authorization until the final handoff at the arrival gate, Turkish Airlines carefully manages each step of the process.

Ready to book your child’s next adventure? For expert help with the Turkish Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Fee or to start your reservation, call +1-877-593-4887 today.