UM — Unaccompanied Minor

UM — Unaccompanied Minor

Unaccompanied minor handling is one of the most responsibility-intensive passenger service functions an airline performs. The UM service creates a chain of custody — the airline assumes legal duty of care for the child from the moment the accompanying adult hands them over at check-in.

Age Categories

Airlines typically define: UMNR (SSR code) — the standard unaccompanied minor, usually aged 5–11, who requires the full supervised service; Young Passenger (YP) — typically 12–15, who may travel with awareness and limited supervision but without the full UM escort service; Young Adult — 16–17, travelling independently. Age ranges and service levels vary by airline.

The UM Journey

The UM service covers: check-in with the accompanying adult (authorisation form signed), escort through security to the gate, priority boarding, in-flight check by cabin crew, escort off the aircraft on arrival, supervision in the transit area (if connecting), handover to the named authorised adult at the destination (ID verification required).

UMNR SSR Code

The UMNR SSR is added to the PNR to flag the child's status across all systems — DCS, PNL/ADL messages to the ground handler, and the cabin crew's service list. The child's age must be included in the SSR.

Airline Fee

Most airlines charge a UM fee, which varies by route (domestic/international), airline and age. The fee covers the additional supervision, documentation and dedicated escort service.