China Eastern Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy (2026)
China Eastern requires unaccompanied minor service for children aged 5 to 11. The fee is 50% of the adult fare for domestic flights and 100% of the adult fare for international flights.
Last verified: 2026-07-29. Source: China Eastern Airlines official website.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Policy |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 5 years old |
| UM Mandatory | Ages 5–11 |
| Domestic Fee | 50% of the published regular adult fare |
| International Fee | 100% of the applicable adult fare |
| Per Child? | Yes (per child) |
| Connections | Not allowed — This service is available only on non-stop flights operated by China Eastern Airlines or Shanghai Airlines. |
| International | Allowed — Available on international flights, but check visa restrictions (e.g., child visas requiring an accompanied adult are not permitted). |
| Booking Method | Fares apply based on domestic or international routes. Service must be approved prior to ticket purchase. |
Service is for children aged 5 (inclusive) to under 12. Only 5 children aged 5 to under 8 are permitted per flight.
How It Works: Step by Step
- Check-In: Arrive and complete check-in procedures at least 120 minutes prior to scheduled departure. Present original identity documents.
- Boarding: Staff will assist the child with boarding. The drop-off person must remain at the airport until the flight has departed.
- In-Flight: China Eastern Airlines staff will supervise and assist the child during the non-stop flight.
- Arrival: Staff will verify the identity of the designated pick-up person upon arrival before completing the handover.
Escort Rules: Drop-off and pick-up persons must be adults aged 18 or above with full legal capacity and present original valid identification.
Required Documents
Required
- Application Form for Unaccompanied Minor Service (two printed copies)
- Child's valid identity document (original used for ticket purchase)
- Original valid identification of drop-off and pick-up persons
Recommended
- Contact information for designated drop-off and pick-up persons
- Flight itinerary details
An approved application for Unaccompanied Minor Service is required prior to ticket purchase.
Safety Procedures
- Strict capacity limits of 12 unaccompanied minors per flight
- Identity verification of designated pick-up person upon arrival
- Mandatory wait for drop-off person until flight departure
- Direct supervision by airline staff during handover
Restrictions & Exceptions
- Available only on non-stop flights
- Not permitted for children holding visas that require an accompanying adult
- Maximum of 5 children aged 5 to under 8 per flight
Pro Tips for Parents
- Book Early: With a strict limit of 12 unaccompanied minors per flight, apply for the service well in advance.
- Wait at Departure: The drop-off adult must remain at the airport until the flight actually departs, not just when it boards.
- Prepare Documents: Ensure you bring two printed copies of the UM application form and original IDs for everyone involved.
The Bottom Line
China Eastern offers a structured UM program limited to non-stop flights only. Capacity is strictly capped at 12 unaccompanied minors per flight, so early booking is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does the China Eastern UM service cost?
- For domestic flights within China, the ticket is charged at 50% of the regular adult fare. For international flights, it is charged at 100% of the adult fare.
- What are the age requirements for flying alone on China Eastern?
- The service is mandatory for children aged 5 to 11 (under 12). Children under 5 cannot fly alone, and those 12 and older can fly as adults.
- How do I book the UM service?
- You must apply for the service before purchasing a ticket. Applications can be made via ticket offices, the customer service hotline, or online, at least 48 hours before domestic flights and 96 hours before international flights.