The UM (Unaccompanied Minor) Service: Comprehensive Care from Start to Finish
The term UM, which stands for Unaccompanied Minor, refers to the special escort service provided by airlines. This service ensures that your child will never be left unattended.
As soon as your child arrives at the airport check-in counter, our ground staff will take care of them. They will then be personally entrusted to the flight attendant in charge. Throughout the flight, our crew will ensure their comfort and safety. Upon landing, they will be escorted to the designated person waiting to meet them, after a strict identity check.
Good to know: At Chalair, this service is available for children ages 4 to 11 and is subject to availability.
Administrative preparations: don't forget anything
A successful trip starts with a complete application.
This service must be booking before departure, as soon as possible, and only by phone at 0 892 700 499. Once the service has been confirmed, you will need to fill out:
- The UM Care Form: This document provides the exact contact information for the person dropping off the child and the person receiving the child.
To avoid last-minute stress at the airport, make sure you have the following documents:
- A valid form of identification: National ID card or passport (depending on the destination).
- Authorization to Leave the Country (AST): If the flight involves a minor residing in France leaving French territory, this Cerfa form is required, along with a copy of the signing parent’s ID.
Packing the Perfect Travel Bag
To make your trip fly by, what you pack in your carry-on matters. Here’s our checklist of essentials:
- A security blanket or a familiar object: Essential for young children to provide a comforting point of reference.
- Things to keep them occupied: A book, markers (non-staining), a game console, or a tablet with headphones.
- A little snack: Even though our crew members take great care of you, having your favorite cookies is always a nice touch.
- A warm garment: The air conditioning in the cabin can be chilly; a light sweater or scarf is recommended.
The Big Day: Supporting Without Adding Stress
Parents' mindset has a huge impact on their child's. Here are a few tips for a smooth start:
- Arrive early: Plan to be at the airport at least 1.5 hours before takeoff. This will give you plenty of time to complete the final check-in procedures without rushing.
- Explain what will happen: Tell them about the steps involved (going through security, waiting, meeting the flight attendant). The more they know what to expect, the less intimidated they’ll be.
- Stay at the airport: The accompanying parent must remain at the airport until the plane has actually taken off.
Why choose Chalair for your child's trip?
Choosing a small, intimate airline like Chalair means providing your child with a less intimidating environment than large international hubs. Our regional flights offer shorter travel times and more direct interaction with our staff. We treat every child like a VIP passenger, paying special attention to every step of their journey.
Whether it’s connecting different regions of France or making it easier for families to reunite, we’re committed to making your child’s first solo trip a positive and rewarding experience.
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