Guide for children flying alone in France

The idea of letting a minor fly alone can be a daunting one for parents or guardians. However, with proper preparation and a clear understanding of the rules and protocols, it can become an educational and memorable experience for the young traveller. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of what's involved for a minor to travel alone by plane in Francewith a focus on assistance services for minors (UM) and other relevant procedures.

The aerial adventure of unaccompanied minors (UM)

Travelling is a fantastic opportunity for minors to learn and grow. Knowing what to expect, from check-in to on-board activities, can ease their worries and boost their self-confidence.

Check-in and boarding procedure

Registration is the first step. At this stage, the minor and his/her guardian must present themselves at the airline counter. After checking the documents, the staff provides guidelines for boarding and accompanies the minor through the checkpoints to his or her seat.

What to expect during the flight

Once on board, the crew members ensure that the minor is properly taken care of. Companies often offer children's meals and age-appropriate entertainment, such as films or games. For enhanced surveillance, they are generally placed close to the flight crew.

Recovery on arrival

At destination, the minor is guided by staff to the baggage reclaim area.

The person responsible for collection must show proof of identity and be punctual to avoid possible sanctions.

How does the minors' support service (UM)

This is a service offered by many airlines to support minors travelling alone. From check-in to arrival, the minor is supervised. Costs vary depending on the airline and the length of the journey. For more information specific to Air France, visit their dedicated page or call 3654 (€0.35/min).

Documents required to benefit from this service

Minors must have either a valid passport or an identity card for domestic flights. What's more, a signed AST form and a photocopy of the signatory's identity document are essential.

Age restrictions

Domestic flights generally accept minors from the age of 4 or 5, while the minimum age for international flights is often 6 or 7. It is essential to check with the company you have chosen.

For more information online, please visit page dedicated to the UM service on the Air France website: https://wwws.airfrance.fr/information/passagers/enfants-non-accompagnes. This page contains in-depth information about eligibility criteria, the check-in procedure, what to expect during the flight, as well as a general presentation of the UM service.

Travelling alone is a step towards independence for a minor. With the right preparation, this experience can be as beneficial for the child as it is reassuring for the parents.