How much does South African Airways charge for unaccompanied minors?

Fees vary depending on the route and whether the flight is domestic or international. You must contact SAA reservations to confirm the exact fee.

What is the age range for unaccompanied minors on South African Airways?

The service is mandatory for children aged 5 to 11. It is optional for children aged 12 to 15. Children under 5 cannot travel alone.

Can I book SAA unaccompanied minor service online?

No, the unaccompanied minor service cannot be booked online. You must call SAA reservations directly to arrange travel.

South African Airways Unaccompanied Minor Policy (2026)

South African Airways requires unaccompanied minor service for children ages 5-11. The service is optional for children ages 12-15.

Last verified: 2026-07-29. Source: South African Airways official website.

Quick Facts

Detail	Policy
Minimum Age	5 years old
UM Mandatory	Ages 5–11
UM Optional	Ages 17–16
Domestic Fee	Contact airline directly
International Fee	Contact airline directly
Per Child?	Yes (per child)
Connections	Allowed — Connecting flights allowed but must not be on the next day.
International	Allowed — International travel permitted; strict immigration documentation required.
Booking Method	Fees vary by route. Must contact SAA reservations at +1-877-593-4887 to book and confirm pricing.

Children under 5 cannot travel alone. Ages 12-16 (Young Passengers) can travel alone or opt into the UM service (official page: 'between the ages of 12 and 16').

How It Works: Step by Step

Check-In: Arrive early for priority check-in. Parents must remain at the airport until the flight has departed.
Boarding: Child is escorted through passport control and security directly to their seat.
In-Flight: Cabin crew checks on the child regularly to ensure comfort and entertainment.
Arrival: Child is escorted through immigration to arrivals and handed over to the designated adult after ID verification.

Escort Rules: Designated pickup person must present valid photo ID matching the booking records.

Required Documents

Required

Child's valid passport
Unabridged birth certificate
Parental consent affidavit/form
Copies of parents' IDs/passports

Safety Procedures

Continuous supervision from check-in to handover at destination
Mandatory UM identification lanyard that cannot be removed
Cabin crew notification and regular in-flight checks
Strict identity verification of the receiving adult

Restrictions & Exceptions

No online booking; must call reservations
Direct flights must arrive before 20:00 hrs
Connecting flights cannot be on the next day

Pro Tips for Parents

Book Early: UM service cannot be booked online and there are quotas per flight. Call SAA reservations well in advance.
Prepare Documents: Ensure you have the unabridged birth certificate and parental consent affidavit, as South African law is strict.
Stay at Airport: You must remain at the departure airport until the flight has officially departed.

The Bottom Line

SAA provides continuous supervision from check-in to arrival for children traveling alone, with strict documentation requirements in line with South African immigration laws.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does South African Airways charge for unaccompanied minors?: Fees vary depending on the route and whether the flight is domestic or international. You must contact SAA reservations to confirm the exact fee.
What is the age range for unaccompanied minors on South African Airways?: The service is mandatory for children aged 5 to 11. It is optional for children aged 12 to 15. Children under 5 cannot travel alone.
Can I book SAA unaccompanied minor service online?: No, the unaccompanied minor service cannot be booked online. You must call SAA reservations directly to arrange travel.