The UM (Unaccompanied Minor) service: comprehensive care from start to finish
The term UM, which stands for Unaccompanied Minor, refers to the specialised escort service provided by airlines. This service ensures that your child will never be left unattended.
As soon as your child arrives at the check-in desk at the airport, they are looked after by our ground staff. They are then personally entrusted to the cabin manager. Throughout the flight, our cabin crew ensure their comfort and safety. On landing, they are escorted to the person designated to collect them, following a strict identity check.
Good to know: At Chalair, this service is available for children aged 4 to 11 and is subject to availability.
Administrative preparations: don’t forget a thing
A successful journey begins with a complete set of documents.
Booking for this service must be made before departure, as soon as possible, and only by telephone on 0 892 700 499. Once the service has been confirmed, you will need to complete:
- The UM care form: This document sets out the precise contact details of the person dropping off the child and the person collecting them.
To avoid any last-minute stress at the airport, please ensure you have the following documents to hand:
- A valid identity document: National identity card or passport (depending on the destination).
- The authorisation to leave the country (AST): If the flight involves a minor resident in France leaving French territory, this Cerfa form is essential, accompanied by a copy of the signatory parent’s identity document.
Packing the perfect flight bag
To ensure the journey goes in a flash, what you pack in your hand luggage is key. Here’s our checklist of essentials:
- A comfort blanket or a familiar object: Essential for very young children to provide a reassuring point of reference.
- Something to keep them occupied: A book, felt-tip pens (non-staining), a games console or a tablet with headphones.
- A small snack: Although our cabin crew take great care of our passengers, having their favourite biscuits is always a bonus.
- A warm item of clothing: The air conditioning in the cabin can be a bit chilly; a light jumper or a scarf is recommended.
On the day: travelling with your child without stress
Parents’ state of mind has a huge influence on their child’s. Here are a few tips for a smooth departure:
- Arrive early: Plan to be at the airport at least 1½ hours before take-off. This allows you to complete the final formalities at your leisure.
- Explain what will happen: Tell them about the different stages (going through security, waiting, meeting the flight attendant). The more they know what to expect, the less daunted they’ll be.
- Stay at the airport: The accompanying parent must stay at the airport until the plane has actually taken off.
Why choose Chalair for your child’s journey?
Choosing a smaller, more personalised airline like Chalair means offering your child a less intimidating environment than large international hubs. Our regional flights mean shorter journeys and more direct contact with our staff. We treat every child as a VIP passenger, paying special attention to every stage of their journey.
Whether it’s connecting different regions of France or making family reunions easier, we’re committed to making this first solo journey a positive and rewarding experience for your child.
Image created with Grok