China Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy (2026)
China Airlines requires Unaccompanied Minor service for children aged 5-11, who must purchase an adult fare. For teens aged 12-17, optional airport clearance assistance is available for $75 USD each way.
Last verified: 2026-07-29. Source: China Airlines official website.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Policy |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 5 years old |
| UM Mandatory | Ages 5–11 |
| UM Optional | Ages 12–17 |
| Domestic Fee | Adult fare |
| International Fee | Adult fare (Ages 5-11) / $75 USD (Ages 12-17 optional) |
| Per Child? | Yes (per child) |
| Connections | Allowed — Interline travel with Southwest Airlines (WN) is not permitted for UMs. Transfers to KLM, Delta, or Alaska Airlines have specific restrictions. |
| International | Allowed — Accepted on China Airlines/Mandarin Airlines operated flights. Code-shared flights operated by other carriers are not applicable. |
| Booking Method | For ages 5-11, an adult ticket must be purchased (excluding RBD L). For ages 12-17, optional assistance is $75 USD each way. |
Ages 5-11 must use UM service and purchase an adult ticket. Ages 12-17 can travel alone or opt for airport clearance assistance for a fee.
How It Works: Step by Step
- Check-In: Submit the application at least 72 hours before flight departure (excluding holidays) for ages 5-11, or 24 hours for ages 12-17.
- Boarding: Child is escorted by airline staff during boarding.
- In-Flight: Flight attendants provide supervision and assistance during the flight.
- Arrival: Child is escorted through airport clearance and handed over to the designated person.
Escort Rules: The designated pickup person must present valid ID matching the details provided in the UM application.
Required Documents
Required
- Completed Unaccompanied Minor Application Form
- Child's passport or valid photo ID
- Entry and exit documents as required by the destination country
Recommended
- Emergency contact information
- Copy of flight itinerary
Some countries/regions have special requirements for entry and exit documents for Unaccompanied Minors. Please check with official authorities.
Safety Procedures
- Escort provided through airport clearance for arrivals and departures
- Flight attendants supervise the child during the flight
- Child is only released to the pre-designated pickup person with valid ID
Restrictions & Exceptions
- Not allowed on code-shared flights operated by other carriers
- Business Class only accepts Unaccompanied Minors aged 8 to 11
- Cannot travel on interline itineraries involving Southwest Airlines (WN)
- Certain discount ticket types (ID/AD/GE/RG/DM/CG) are not applicable
Pro Tips for Parents
- Apply in Advance: Submit the UM application at least 72 hours before departure for ages 5-11 to ensure the service is arranged.
- Check Cabin Restrictions: If you want your child to fly Business Class, note that they must be at least 8 years old.
- Verify Interline Rules: If your child's itinerary includes flights on KLM, Delta, or Alaska Airlines, check transfer restrictions carefully.
The Bottom Line
China Airlines allows children aged 5-11 to travel alone but requires them to purchase an adult fare ticket rather than paying a flat UM fee. Teenagers 12-17 can request optional airport assistance for $75 USD.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does the Unaccompanied Minor service cost on China Airlines?
- For children aged 5-11, there is no separate fee, but they must purchase an adult fare ticket. For teenagers aged 12-17, optional airport clearance assistance costs $75 USD each way.
- What is the age range for unaccompanied minors on China Airlines?
- The mandatory UM service applies to children aged 5 to 11. Teenagers aged 12 to 17 can fly independently or opt for assistance.
- How do I book the Unaccompanied Minor service?
- You must submit an application at least 72 hours before departure for ages 5-11, or 24 hours before departure for the optional teen service. Booking and ticketing cannot be completed entirely online.