Children Travelling Alone on Indian Flights
Unaccompanied Minors Traveling Alone on Indian Flights
Sending your child to travel alone on an Indian flight can feel stressful, but major airlines like Air India and IndiGo offer dedicated Unaccompanied Minor (UM) services to ensure safety and comfort. Children aged 5 to 11 are classified as Unaccompanied Minors and require mandatory UM service with parent-signed forms and adult supervision until departure.
This comprehensive guide covers everything parents need to know: age rules, booking process, fees, consent forms, airport procedures, safety tips, and airline-specific policies for a smooth journey.
Understanding Unaccompanied Minor Service
Indian airlines provide a supervised Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service for children travelling alone. The service includes escort from check-in to boarding, in-flight care by cabin crew, and safe handover to the authorised adult at the destination airport.
Key Point: Children aged 5–11 years must use the UM service. It is mandatory and cannot be waived.
Age Classifications & Rules
Here are the standard age rules followed by most Indian airlines:
- 5–11 years: Classified as Unaccompanied Minors. Mandatory UM service required.
- 12–17 years: Can travel alone without UM service, but parents can opt for UM service for added supervision.
- Under 5 years (Infants): Not permitted to travel alone under any circumstances.
Transit Limitations
IndiGo does not accept UM bookings if the transit time exceeds 6 hours or involves a night halt. Always book direct flights when possible for younger children.
Booking Process and UM Fees
You must inform the airline at least 24–48 hours in advance when booking a ticket for an unaccompanied minor. The UM service is charged separately.
| Aspect |
Domestic Flights |
International Flights |
| Typical UM Fee |
₹3,000 – ₹5,000 |
₹8,000 – ₹10,000 (approx. ₹9,999) |
| Booking Window |
At least 24 hours prior |
At least 48 hours prior (recommended) |
| Fare Charged |
Usually adult fare |
Adult fare |
Pro Tip: Contact the airline call centre directly for exact fees as they can vary by route and season.
Preparing Your Child for the Flight
- Complete the airline’s Unaccompanied Minor Form with details of the dropping-off and picking-up adults.
- Prepare clear identification: Government ID or Aadhaar for domestic; Passport for international flights.
- Pack medications, warm clothes, comfort items, snacks, and entertainment in cabin baggage.
- Give the child a fully charged mobile phone with important contact numbers saved.
- Print multiple copies (4–6) of the signed consent forms.
On the Day of Travel
- Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before domestic departure or 3 hours before international flights.
- Parents/guardians must remain at the airport until the flight departs.
- At check-in, submit all documents and the UM form. The child will receive a UM badge.
- Airline staff will escort the child through security and to the boarding gate.
Important: The parent or guardian dropping off the child must stay at the airport until the flight has taken off.
During the Flight
Cabin crew are trained to take special care of unaccompanied minors. They assist with seating, meals, toilet visits, and any anxiety or needs the child may have. The child is usually seated near the crew for easy monitoring.
Arrival and Pick-up Procedures
At the destination airport, airline staff escort the child through immigration (if international), customs, and baggage claim. The child is handed over only to the authorised adult whose details are mentioned in the UM form. The pick-up person must carry valid photo ID.
Air India vs IndiGo UM Policies
Air India
- Comprehensive UM service with excellent care
- Accepts UMs on most connecting flights
- Good for international routes
IndiGo
- Strict transit rules (max 6 hours, no night halt)
- More budget-friendly but limited flexibility
- Efficient for direct domestic flights
Safety Tips for Unaccompanied Minors
- Prefer direct flights to avoid transit complications
- Pack all essential medicines with clear dosage instructions
- Include a change of clothes and favourite comfort item in hand baggage
- Ensure the child knows how to use the in-flight entertainment and call the crew
- Provide emergency contact numbers and teach the child to stay calm
Parents must fill and sign the airline’s official Unaccompanied Minor Form. Usually 4–6 copies are required. The form must clearly mention the names, contact numbers, and relationship of the adult dropping off and picking up the child. A separate parental consent letter is also recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can minors travel alone on a plane in India?
Yes, children aged 5 and above can travel alone using the Unaccompanied Minor service. Children under 5 years are not allowed to travel unaccompanied.
Can kids travel alone in Air India?
Yes, Air India allows children aged 5–11 as unaccompanied minors with mandatory UM service. Children 12+ can travel alone or opt for the service.
Can a 17 year old Indian travel internationally alone?
Yes, a 17-year-old can travel internationally without UM service, though some airlines may still offer optional supervision.
Can a 14 year old travel alone in IndiGo?
Yes, IndiGo allows 12–17 year olds to travel alone without mandatory UM service, but parents can request it for extra care.
Which airline allows 14 year olds to travel alone?
Most Indian airlines including IndiGo, Air India, Vistara (now Air India), SpiceJet, and Akasa Air allow children 12 years and above to travel unaccompanied without mandatory UM service.
Are UM services mandatory for children aged 5–11?
Yes, the Unaccompanied Minor service is mandatory for all children between 5 and 11 years travelling alone on Indian flights.
What documents are needed for unaccompanied minors on domestic flights?
Government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar, passport, school ID with photo), UM form, and parental consent letter.
What if the pick-up person is late at the arrival airport?
Airline staff will continue to supervise the child until the authorised guardian arrives. However, it is best to inform the airline in advance if there is any delay.
Final Thoughts: With proper planning and use of the airline’s Unaccompanied Minor service, children can travel safely and comfortably on Indian flights. Always double-check the latest policies directly with the airline before booking.
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