Key facts for Thai Airways child travel
Thai Airways primary sources reviewed May 28, 2025. This is a general guide. You must confirm the rules for your specific route and flight number with the airline.
A straightforward look at Thai Airways' rules for children traveling alone. Thai Airways has a specific Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service. It is mandatory for younger children and optional for older teens. Knowing the age rules is the first step to planning a safe trip.
The key rules are based on the child's age on the day of travel. Children aged 5 to 11 must use the airline's UM service. Young people aged 12 to 17 are allowed to travel alone, but they can also choose to book the service for extra peace of mind.
Can a child fly alone on Thai Airways?
The short answer is yes, but it depends on their age. Thai Airways permits children aged 5 and over to travel alone with the appropriate service. However, the rules for a 6-year-old are different from those for a 15-year-old.
It is also essential to check who is operating the flight. The service is only available on Thai Airways-operated flights. If you are on a codeshare with another airline, you must check their rules.
Age rules for independent travel
The age rule is based on the travel date. Children 5 to 11 years old must use the mandatory UM service. This means they will be accompanied by staff from check-in to the arrival handoff.
Young people aged 12 to 17 have more flexibility. They can travel as "young adults" and may choose to buy the UM service if they feel they need it.
The Unaccompanied Minor service
It is a supervised handoff service. For children aged 5-11, a Thai Airways staff member will escort them through the airport, help them board, and hand them over to the designated adult at the destination.
For those aged 12-17 who buy the service, it provides the same level of support. It is not a babysitting service; the child must still be able to follow basic instructions and manage their own personal needs.
How to book for a young traveler
For all UM bookings: You must contact a local Thai Airways office. They will help you make the reservation and complete the necessary Special Assistance & Handling Form.
Before you book
Have the child's full name, date of birth, and passport details ready. You will also need the name and contact information for the adult meeting them at the destination.
Required documents
Correct documentation is crucial. A valid passport and any required visas are a must. You will also need the completed Thai Airways handling form and a parental consent letter. Some countries, like the Philippines, have additional waiver requirements.
Make sure the name on all documents matches the ticket. Keep all documents together in a safe, easy-to-reach place.
Fees and costs
The fee depends on the route. For international flights, the child is charged 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.
Always ask for the final total when you book, including the airfare and any other extras.
Baggage and packing
Baggage allowance is based on the ticket. For international flights, it's the adult allowance; for domestic, it's the child fare allowance. Pack all essential items in a carry-on bag that the child can manage themselves.
Strollers and car seats
These require advance booking. Bassinets and infant equipment must be requested in advance and there may be a fee for their use.
The airport process
For departure: A parent or guardian must be at the airport for check-in. They will complete the final forms. The designated adult must meet the child at the destination with a valid ID.
At arrival
The designated adult must be at the airport early to meet the flight. They must bring a valid photo ID that matches the name on the form.
Connections and international travel
For connecting flights: The UM service does not apply to codeshare flights, flights requiring a transfer between Bangkok's airports (BKK-DMK), or overnight stops unless an adult is arranged for the transit.
For international travel: The child is responsible for complying with all immigration and customs rules. This includes having the correct travel consents and visas.
Special assistance
Discuss any extra needs in advance. If your child needs help with personal care or medical needs that go beyond the UM service, they must be accompanied by a capable adult.
Example: planning a trip
A parent is planning for their 9-year-old to fly alone to visit grandparents. They confirm the child's age, check the flight is operated by Thai Airways, and call the local Thai Airways office to book the mandatory UM service. They fill out the forms with their details and the grandparents' details as the pickup contacts.
On the day of the flight, they arrive early, check the child in, and stay until the flight takes off. The grandparents arrive early at the destination airport with their ID and meet the child as arranged.
Final travel checklist
Eligibility and service at a glance
| Age/Category | Can They Travel Alone? | What to Expect | Fee Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 5 | No | Must travel with an 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 official Thai Airways website.
Frequently asked questions
Here are answers to some common questions about Thai Airways' child travel policy.
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 28, 2025. This information is for guidance only. Please verify all details with the official airline source before making travel arrangements.