What Is the Turkish Airlines’ Unaccompanied Minor Service and How Does It Work?

When your child needs to fly alone, you can trust Turkish Airlines’ Unaccompanied Minor special assistance. They provide a dedicated, end-to-end service for children aged 7 to under 12 (optional for 13-17). Their mission is to make the entire journey secure and comfortable. Turkish Airlines’ highly trained personnel provide constant, watchful care for your child from the moment they arrive at the airport for check-in until they are safely reunited with their guardian at the destination.

This is a breakdown of the Turkish Airlines Special Assistance Services for Unaccompanied Minor. It is a comprehensive support program designed to provide full care and assistance to children who are traveling without a parent or guardian. 

Who Qualifies as an Unaccompanied Minor To Travel On A Turkish Airlines Flight?

Turkish Airlines’ unaccompanied minor policy outlines two primary services.

1. Accompanied Minor Passenger (Ages 2 to under 7):

Children in this age group have the option to be accompanied by a cabin crew member throughout the flight.

To utilize this service, a parent or authorized guardian must request it. The service carries a minimal fee in exchange for dedicated attention and extra care given to the child while traveling.

2. Unaccompanied Minor Passenger (Ages 7 to under 12):

Children in this age group are permitted to travel alone under the airline’s supervision.

The parent or legal representative must provide a signed written authorization form, officially known as the Unaccompanied Minor Passenger Carriage Authorization.

Turkish Airlines’ Unaccompanied Minor Procedure:

The Unaccompanied Minor service is a comprehensive process that ensures the child is looked after at every stage of their journey:

1. At Check-in:

• The presence of a legal representative (parent or guardian) is mandatory during the check-in process.
• The representative will be required to sign all necessary documentation, including the Authorization form, and receive a briefing on the process from the attending staff.
• It is a critical requirement that the parent or legal representative remain at the departure airport until the flight has officially departed.

2. During the Flight:

You can trust Turkish Airlines to look after your child. They guarantee the safety and comfort of unaccompanied minors, with their staff providing full supervision and personalized care throughout their trip.

3. Service Fee:

The fee for the unaccompanied minor service is covered by the fare you purchased. Most often, you will be able to pay the required service charge when you check in at the airport. The service fees differ as per your location – domestic, and international. For instance, in the case of domestic flights, the UM fees for direct flights is 500 TL, and for connecting flights it is 1000 TL. The international flight fares vary as per the Zones. For more information you may check Turkish Airlines’ official website. 

Also Read: How Disabled Passengers Can Access Turkish Airlines’ Special Fare Discounts?

Preparation Tips for Turkish Airlines’ Unaccompanied Minor Service:

Here is what you should prepare when you have availed of Turkish Airlines’ UM Policy for your kids. 

1. Complete the Necessary Documentation in Advance:

This is what you should do at first: 

• Book the UM Service: This must be arranged through Turkish Airlines’ reservations or sales offices, not just online. The service is mandatory for children aged 7 to under 12 traveling alone. Children aged 2 to under 7 can use an optional cabin crew escort service for a fee.

• Fill out the required Unaccompanied Minor Handling Advice Form (or “Permission to Carry an Unaccompanied Child form”). This form includes contact details, valid identification information for the parent/guardian dropping off the child, and the designated adult picking them up at the destination.

2. Confirm Drop-off and Pick-up Details:

You should maintain accuracy in this regard to save yourself from any hassle. 

• Make sure the full name, contact number, and address of the person meeting the child at the destination clearly stated on all forms and are accurate.

• Remind the pick-up person that they must bring valid photo identification (as specified on the forms) and be ready to sign a release form.

3. Pack an Emergency and Comfort Kit (Carry-on):

This is important to ensure your kid’s convenience throughout the flight. 

• You must pack all essential travel documents, such as passport, visa, ticket, completed UM form copy, and contact list in a clearly identifiable pouch or folder that the child can easily carry.

• Include comfort items like a favorite toy, a book, a tablet with pre-downloaded games/movies, a neck pillow, and some approved snacks for the flight.

4. Arrive Early and Be Prepared to Wait:

Being on time both during arrival and even while picking up the minor at the departure point is of utmost importance. 

• Turkish Airlines generally recommends arriving at least 2 hours before the flight for check-in.

• The parent or guardian who has come to drop off the kid must remain at the airport until the flight has departed to ensure a smooth boarding process. This would also help in case of unexpected delays. 

5. Provide a Clear and Accessible Communication Method:

Letting your child know the ways to get in touch with you if the need arises is another thing that is to be done. 

• If your child carries a mobile phone or electronic device, ensure it is fully charged and that they know how to call you and the designated pick-up person.

• Write down the most important emergency contact numbers on a card and put it in their carry-on luggage for easy access, in case the device runs out of battery.

6. Address Special Needs (Meals and Health):

If your child is allergic or has any special requirement, inform Turkish Airlines of the same before the flight. 

• If your child has any allergies or special dietary requirements, ensure these are requested and confirmed with the airline in advance, often up to 24-48 hours before the flight.

• Also, pack any necessary medication in their carry-on with a doctor’s note, explaining how the child should take it or when they might need assistance from the crew.

Conclusion:

Give your child (age 7-11) a safe and cared-for travel experience with the Turkish Airlines Unaccompanied Minor service. Their expert team handles the entire journey, guaranteeing strict supervision and personalized attention at every step. This dedicated service ensures that your young flyer feels comfortable and secure throughout the flight. With all documentation handled clearly and a focus on emotional support, Turkish Airlines transforms independent travel into a secure and smooth adventure for them.

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