Turkish Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Rules
Turkish Airlines policy checked May 20, 2025. This is a general guide. You must confirm all details for your child's specific flight directly with Turkish Airlines.
Planning a solo trip for your child on Turkish Airlines? This guide breaks down the policy in plain English, so you can feel confident about the journey.
Turkish Airlines has a unique policy that allows younger children to travel with a cabin-crew companion. Children under 2 cannot travel alone. Let's look at the details so you can plan a smooth trip.
Who Can Fly Alone on Turkish Airlines?
The basic rule: Children under 2 are not allowed to travel alone. They must be accompanied by an adult.
For children aged 2 to under 7, you can request a paid cabin-crew companion. This is a different service from the standard unaccompanied minor program. For children aged 7 to under 12, they may travel alone with a parent or legal representative's written authorization.
Always double-check your child's age on the outbound and return flight dates.
What the Service Includes
This is not a babysitting service. It's a way for the airline to ensure your child is looked after during their journey. A staff member will help them through check-in, security, boarding, and connect them with the person picking them up at the other end.
Your child must be able to manage their own basic needs. The level of service is different for younger children (2-6) who have a companion versus older children (7-11) who have authorization.
How to Book the Service
You must call Turkish Airlines: You cannot book the unaccompanied minor service online. You must contact Turkish Airlines directly to arrange the service and get the correct fare.
When you book, you'll also need to complete the Unaccompanied Minor Passenger Carriage Authorization form. Have the contact information ready for the adults dropping off and picking up your child. Save any confirmation you receive.
Documents You Will Need
Be prepared: You will need your child's passport or ID, a visa if required for international travel, and the completed authorization form.
The adult dropping off and picking up the child must also bring a valid photo ID that matches the name on the booking. Check the document rules for your destination.
Understanding the Fees
The fee is included in the fare: The cost of the unaccompanied minor service is part of the child's ticket price. The exact amount depends on the route.
You can also pay the fee at the airport check-in. Always ask for a current quote when you book.
Child Baggage and Equipment
Baggage allowance: Your child's baggage allowance is based on the child or UM ticket you purchased. The service fee does not give you any extra baggage.
Pack essential items like documents and medication in your child's carry-on bag. Equipment like strollers or car seats are handled separately.
At the Airport: Drop-off and Pickup
Check-in: You must check in at the airport counter, not online. The legal guardian must sign the necessary documents at check-in.
Stay until departure: The adult dropping the child off must stay at the airport until the flight has departed. The staff member will then escort your child.
Pickup: The adult named on the form for pickup must arrive early and show a valid photo ID that matches the name on the record. The airline will not release the child to anyone else.
Connections and International Travel
Route restrictions: The service applies to approved Turkish-operated flights. Partner and destination border rules require separate confirmation.
International rules: Border authorities have additional requirements for passengers under 12 and under 18. You are responsible for all government requirements like passports, visas, and any necessary consent letters.
Real-World Planning Example
Imagine your 10-year-old is flying from Istanbul to London. First, you check their age (10), which means they are in the 7-11 category and can travel alone with authorization. You call Turkish Airlines to book the flight and request the UM service.
You fill out the authorization form and provide the names and contact details of both adults. On the day of the flight, you arrive early, check in at the counter, and wait until the flight departs.
Final Checklist and Tips
Talk to your child about the process to help them feel prepared. Let them know a staff member will be with them and who they should look for at the arrival gate.
Turkish Airlines Minor Travel Comparison
| Age | Eligibility | Service | Fee | Key Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under 2 | Not allowed to travel alone | N/A | N/A | Must travel with an adult |
| 2 to 6 | Can travel with companion | Cabin-crew companion | Included in fare | Request in advance |
| 7 to 11 | Can travel alone | Unaccompanied Minor (with authorization) | Included in fare | Parent must provide written authorization |
These are general guidelines. Always check with the airline for the latest rules on your specific route.
Official Turkish Airlines Source
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official source.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions parents have about Turkish Airlines' unaccompanied minor policy.
What is the minimum age for a child to fly alone on Turkish Airlines?+
Turkish Airlines allows children as young as 2 to travel with a paid cabin-crew companion. Children aged 7 to under 12 can travel alone with written authorization from a parent or legal representative.
How much does the unaccompanied minor service cost on Turkish Airlines?+
The service fee is included in the child's fare. The exact amount depends on the route. You can also pay at the airport check-in. Ask for a current quote when booking.
What documents does my child need for a solo flight on Turkish Airlines?+
You will need a passport or ID, a visa if required, a completed authorization form, and the IDs of both the drop-off and pickup adults.
How do I book the unaccompanied minor service on Turkish Airlines?+
You must contact Turkish Airlines directly to book the service and get the correct fare. You will also need to complete the Unaccompanied Minor Passenger Carriage Authorization form.
Can a parent accompany a child to the gate on Turkish Airlines?+
This depends on the airport and security rules. You should ask at check-in, bring your ID, and be prepared to stay in the terminal until the flight departs.
Continue your planning
Editorial and verification note
Turkish Airlines sets the rules for accepting unaccompanied minors. Governments set the rules for travel documents. This is an independent guide for planning purposes.
Editorial note: Updated May 20, 2025. We use AI to help structure our guides, but a human reviews all information. Always check with the airline before you travel.