Etihad Airways Unaccompanied Minor Service: Key Facts
Etihad Airways primary sources reviewed January 13, 2026. Use these facts to shortlist the trip, then have Etihad Airways confirm the specific child and every operating segment. This summary covers Etihad child-travel service.
Etihad Airways has a clear policy for children traveling alone. The most important rule is that children aged 5 to 11 must use the service, while those aged 12 to 17 can use it optionally. Children under 5 cannot travel alone.
Planning is essential, as you must pre-book the service by submitting a form at least 24 hours in advance.
Is Your Child Eligible to Fly Alone on Etihad Airways?
Eligibility is based on the child's age. Here is the breakdown:
- Ages 5 to 11: The unaccompanied minor service is mandatory. They cannot fly without it.
- Ages 12 to 17: The service is optional. You can request it, or they can travel as an independent passenger.
- Under 5: Not allowed to travel alone. They must be with an adult.
It's also important to check the route. Direct Etihad flights are the clearest option, but the service may be temporarily unavailable for flights connecting through Abu Dhabi.
Understanding the Age Rules
The child's age on the day of each flight is the deciding factor.
- 5-11 (Mandatory): This is a hard rule. The service is required and free if pre-booked.
- 12-17 (Optional): This is the only group where you have a choice. The service costs a fee.
- Under 5: Cannot travel alone.
If the child's birthday falls during the trip, the rule for their age on each flight applies.
What the Unaccompanied Minor Service Includes
The service is designed to provide a safe and supervised handoff. Here's what you can expect:
- Check-in: Assistance at the check-in counter.
- Escort: Staff will accompany the child through security to the gate.
- Onboard: Cabin crew will help the child get settled and check in on them.
- Arrival: The child will be escorted to the arrival area and released to the designated adult after ID verification.
It's important to note this is a supervision service, not a medical care service.
How to Book the Service
The booking process is different from a standard ticket. Here is the process:
- Book an Adult Fare: You must book the child as an adult passenger.
- Submit the Form: You must submit the online UM form at least 24 hours before departure.
- Get Acceptance: You will receive an acceptance confirmation that you must retain.
Important: You cannot book this service online as a standard option. You must go through this process.
Required Documents
Getting the documents right is essential. Here is your checklist:
- Passport/ID: A valid passport or national ID for the child.
- Visas: Any required visas for the destination or transit countries.
- Etihad UM Form: The completed airline form.
- Parental Consent: A signed consent form from the parent or legal guardian.
- Adult IDs: The IDs of the adults dropping off and picking up the child.
An airline form is not a substitute for a passport or visa.
Cost of the Unaccompanied Minor Service
The fee structure depends on the child's age and the route. The service is free for children aged 5-11 when pre-booked. For teens aged 12-17, it costs $100 for a direct flight or $150 for a connecting flight, each way.
Baggage Allowance
The child's baggage allowance is the same as an adult. An infant gets a route-based checked allowance plus a 5 kg cabin bag.
Strollers and Car Seats
You can bring a stroller, car seat, or other child equipment. One pushchair, carrycot, or car seat can be checked for free. Bassinets are available for babies under 11 kg and 75 cm, subject to availability.
The Airport Check-in and Handoff Process
The airport process is straightforward but strict. Here's what to do:
- Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at the check-in counter well in advance.
- At Check-in: You must check in at a staffed counter. The adult dropping the child off must present the child and all the necessary documents.
- Wait: The adult dropping the child off must stay at the airport until the flight has officially departed.
- At Pickup: The designated adult must bring a valid photo ID to collect the child.
Eligible Flights and International Travel
Eligibility: Direct Etihad flights are the clearest option. The service may be temporarily unavailable for flights connecting through Abu Dhabi, so you must check the live status.
International Travel: For international trips, you must consider the requirements of the destination and transit countries. Passport, consent, partner airline, Abu Dhabi transit, and destination requirements are all separate and must be met.
Special Assistance
This service is not a personal care service. If your child has specific medical or mobility needs, you must discuss them with the airline in advance. Complex needs may require an adult companion.
Scenario: Planning a Trip
A family is planning to send their 9-year-old from London to Abu Dhabi. The child is 9, so the service is mandatory. They book an adult fare for the child and submit the UM form 24 hours before departure. They receive an acceptance confirmation. On travel day, they arrive early, check in, and wait for the flight to depart. The designated adult arrives with ID to collect the child.
Final Tips and Checklist
Here are a few final tips for a smooth journey:
- Book Early: Submit the form at least 24 hours in advance.
- Save Acceptance: Keep the confirmation in a safe place.
- Check Documents: Double-check the document requirements for all countries involved.
Summary of Etihad Airways Unaccompanied Minor Rules
| Age/category | Solo eligibility | Service | Fee or fare | Key note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Infant 7 days–23 months | Adult required | Infant family rules | Route fare/baggage | Bassinet under 11 kg/75 cm |
| Under 5 | Adult required | UM unavailable | Not applicable | Same flight and cabin |
| Age 5–11 | May travel alone | UM mandatory/free if pre-booked | Normal adult fare | Form 24+ hours ahead |
| Age 12–17 | May travel alone | UM optional | $100 direct/$150 connecting | Adult ticket |
For Etihad Unaccompanied Minor service, use this Etihad Airways unaccompanied minor policy table as a question list. Only the operating airline can approve the real trip.
Official Source for This Guide
The information on this page is based on the official Etihad Airways source. Always check it again before you travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions from parents about Etihad Airways' unaccompanied minor policy.
What age can a child fly alone on Etihad Airways?+
Children aged 5 to 11 must use the pre-booked unaccompanied minor service. Children aged 12 to 17 can travel alone or use the service optionally. Children under 5 cannot travel alone.
How much does the Etihad Airways unaccompanied minor service cost?+
The service is free for children 5-11 when pre-booked. For teens 12-17, it costs $100 for a direct flight or $150 for a connecting flight, each way.
What flights are eligible for the service?+
Direct Etihad flights are the clearest option. The service may be temporarily unavailable for flights connecting through Abu Dhabi, so you must check the live status.
How do I book the unaccompanied minor service?+
You must book an adult fare for the child and then submit the online UM form at least 24 hours before departure. You will receive an acceptance confirmation.
What documents do I need for my child?+
You will need the child's passport/ID, any necessary visas, the Etihad UM form, parental consent, and the IDs of both the drop-off and pickup adults.
What is the baggage allowance for an unaccompanied minor?+
The child's baggage allowance is the same as an adult. An infant gets a route-based checked allowance plus a 5 kg cabin bag.
Can I bring a stroller or car seat?+
Yes, one pushchair, carrycot, or car seat can be checked for free. Bassinets are available for babies under 11 kg and 75 cm, subject to availability.
What is the check-in process?+
You must check in at a staffed counter. The adult dropping the child off must stay at the airport until the flight departs. The pickup adult must bring photo ID.
Can a child with a disability use this service?+
The UM service is not a personal or medical care service. Complex needs may require an adult companion. Discuss any specific needs with the airline in advance.
Can an infant use this service?+
No, Etihad classifies infants as children from 7 days to 23 months and they must travel with an adult.
What if my child's flight is delayed?+
A connection or same-day change can alter the service and fee. You must get the new itinerary re-approved by the airline.
Are there special rules for international travel?+
Yes, passport, consent, partner airline, Abu Dhabi transit, and destination requirements are all separate and must be met.
Can siblings travel together?+
Yes, siblings can travel together. The youngest child's age will determine the rules that apply to the group.
Who can pick up my child?+
Only the adult named in the booking can pick up the child. They must arrive early with photo ID.
Can I change the pickup person?+
Yes, but you must get Etihad Airways' approval before the flight arrives. Both adults should have the revised confirmation.
Will the crew give my child medicine?+
You should not expect this. The UM service is not a medical care service. If your child needs help with medication, discuss this with the airline.
Can I go to the gate with my child?+
This is at the discretion of the airport and security. Ask at check-in and be prepared to stay in the terminal.
Is a consent letter always required for international travel?+
The requirement depends on the child's citizenship, custody situation, and the destination. The Etihad form is not a substitute for a government travel authorization.
What should my child pack in their carry-on?+
Pack a paper contact card, their documents, any permitted medicine, a phone charger, a light jacket, and essentials for a short delay.
What is the first thing to check before booking?+
Confirm the child's age to see if the service is mandatory (5-11) or optional (12-17). Then, check the flight route's service availability, especially for connections.
How close to departure should I recheck my plans?+
Recheck the flight status and booking just before you leave for the airport, especially after any schedule changes.
Continue your planning
Editorial and verification note
For Etihad Unaccompanied Minor service, Etihad Airways controls flight acceptance. Public authorities control passports, consent, transit and entry. The single primary carrier link appears in the source section above.
Etihad Unaccompanied Minor service editorial note: Updated January 13, 2026. AI assisted the research structure and quality checks. A person should still compare this itinerary with current Etihad Airways instructions. We do not claim Etihad Airways affiliation.