Key facts for Thai Airways child travel
Thai Airways primary sources reviewed May 29, 2025. This summary is a starting point. Always confirm the service for your child's specific route and flight number with the airline.
This is your practical guide to managing a child's booking on Thai Airways. We will walk you through the entire process, from making a change to the reservation to the final handoff at the airport.
The core rule is that children aged 5 to 11 must use the mandatory Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service. For young people aged 12 to 17, the service is optional but available. We'll cover the details for both age groups.
Your action center for Thai Airways bookings
This section is your checklist. Each step—from reservations to pickup—is broken down to help you avoid common mistakes and make the process smoother.
Making a reservation for a child
You must contact a Thai Airways office. You cannot book the UM service online. A local Thai Airways office will help you make the reservation and complete the Special Assistance & Handling Form.
Make sure the child's name on the ticket matches their passport exactly. Save your booking reference (PNR) and any confirmation the airline sends you.
Changing or updating the booking
If you need to change a flight or correct a name, contact the airline or your travel agent. After any change, it is critical to ask the agent to confirm that the UM service is still active on the new ticket.
Updating the service details
If you need to change who is dropping the child off or picking them up, you must call the airline. Only Thai Airways can update these details in their system. Do not rely on a text or email; the change must be in the official booking.
Flight delays and re-routing
If the flight schedule changes, the airline will help you. However, always confirm that the new flight is also eligible for the UM service. If the new flight has a different operator or requires a cross-airport transfer in Bangkok, the service may not be valid.
Canceling and getting a refund
Cancel through the airline or your agent. Ask them to separate the airfare from the service fee, as they are often refunded differently. Always keep the cancellation confirmation for your records.
Understanding the costs
There is a specific fee for the UM service. For international flights, the child pays an adult fare plus a USD 60 service charge per flight. For domestic Thai flights, children 5-11 pay 75% of the normal fare, and there is no service fee.
Check-in and the boarding pass
You must check in at the airport desk. You cannot do it online. The parent or guardian will sign the final forms there. Ask the airline if you can get a pass to go to the gate with your child.
At the airport: the handoff process
At check-in, you'll hand your child over to a Thai Airways staff member. On arrival, the named person must be there early with their ID. The airline will only release the child to the adult whose name is on the form.
Checking baggage and carry-ons
The baggage allowance is based on the child's ticket. The service fee does not give extra weight. Keep all important documents and a change of clothes in the child's carry-on bag.
Preparing the right documents
Don't forget the paperwork. You'll need the child's passport or ID, any necessary visas, the completed Thai Airways service form, and a notarized consent letter for international travel. Some destinations, like the Philippines, may have additional waiver requirements.
Domestic vs. international flights
International trips have extra steps. You will often need a notarized consent letter for border control. Also, check the destination country's specific rules for minors.
Pickup and drop-off contacts
The adults doing the drop-off and pickup must be named on the form. Confirm the meeting point at the arrival airport. If you need to change the pickup person, you must get the airline's approval first.
Example: a smooth booking change
Imagine the airline emails you about a 3-hour flight delay. First, check the new flight time. Then, call Thai Airways to ensure the UM service is still valid. Finally, message the person picking the child up to share the new arrival time. This simple routine prevents confusion on the day.
Tips for an accurate record
Keep a written timeline of your booking. Note down who you spoke to, the date, and any changes made. This can be very helpful if you need to refer back to a previous agreement.
Review the booking 48 hours before the flight. Check the flight times, the service status, and the names of the adults. A quick check can catch a small error before it becomes a big problem.
Explain the plan to your child. Tell them who will help them and who will meet them at the other end. A prepared child is usually a more relaxed traveler.
Pre-departure checklist
Thai Airways service at a glance
| Traveler Age | Can They Travel Alone? | Service Provided | Fee Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 5 | No | Must travel with adult | N/A |
| 5 to 11 | Yes, with mandatory service | UM service is required | Intl: Adult fare +$60, Dom: 75% fare |
| 12 to 17 | Yes | Can travel alone; UM optional | Intl: Adult fare +$60 (if booked) |
| Codeshare | Check operating carrier | Rules may differ | Check with operating airline |
Official source for this guide
For the most accurate information, always start with the Thai Airways website.
Frequently asked questions
Here are answers to common questions to help you plan.
At what age can a child fly alone on Thai Airways?+
Children aged 5 to 11 must use the mandatory Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service. Young people aged 12 to 17 can also use it, but it is optional for them.
What is the fee for the Unaccompanied Minor service?+
For international flights, the child pays an adult fare plus a USD 60 service fee per flight. For domestic flights within Thailand, children 5-11 pay 75% of the normal fare, and there is no service fee.
Which flights are allowed for the UM service?+
The service is for Thai Airways-operated flights. It does not apply to codeshare flights, flights with a transfer between Bangkok's airports (BKK-DMK), or overnight stops unless an adult is arranged.
How do I book the UM service?+
You must contact a local Thai Airways office to make the booking and complete the Special Assistance & Handling Form.
What documents does a child need?+
A valid passport, any required visas, the completed Thai Airways handling form, and a parental consent letter. Some destinations, like the Philippines, may have additional requirements.
What is the baggage allowance?+
The baggage allowance is based on the child's ticket (adult fare for international, domestic child fare for Thai domestic).
Can a child take a stroller or car seat?+
Yes, but these items require separate advance booking. There may be a fee for using them.
What is the check-in process?+
The parent or guardian must check the child in, complete the forms, and the designated adult must meet the child at the destination with a valid ID.
Can this service support a child with a disability?+
If a child needs more care than the UM service provides, they must be accompanied by a capable adult.
Can an infant use this service?+
No. Infants must be accompanied by an adult. Children under 5 are not eligible for the UM service.
What if the flight is delayed?+
If a delay causes a missed connection or an unsupported airport transfer, the UM service may not be valid. A new plan would be needed.
Are there special rules for international travel?+
Yes. You are responsible for all visa and country-specific entry requirements, which are separate from the airline's rules.
Can siblings travel together?+
Yes, but the rules are based on the youngest child's age. Ask the airline to link the bookings.
Who can collect the child at the destination?+
Only the adult named in the booking can collect the child. They must present a valid photo ID.
Can the pickup person be changed?+
Yes, but only if Thai Airways approves the change before the flight.
Will the crew administer medication?+
No. The child must be able to manage their own medication. If they need help, they must travel with an adult.
Can a parent go to the gate?+
This depends on the airport's security rules. Ask at the check-in desk.
Is a consent letter always required?+
For many international destinations, a notarized parental consent letter is a separate government requirement.
What is the most important thing to check first?+
First, check the child's age and confirm the flight is operated by Thai Airways.
What proof should the family save?+
Keep the booking confirmation and any receipts for the service fee.
What route detail can change the rules?+
The airline operating the flight. This service is only for Thai Airways-operated flights.
How close to departure should I recheck the details?+
Recheck the booking 48 hours before departure, especially after any schedule changes.
Continue your planning
Editorial and verification note
The airline is the final authority on all bookings. This guide is designed to help you prepare and ask the right questions, but it is not a substitute for directly confirming your travel details with Thai Airways.
Editorial note: Updated May 29, 2025. This information is for guidance only. Please verify all details with the official airline source before making travel arrangements.