Air Canada Unaccompanied Minor Policy: The 2026 Parent’s Guide

• Children Under 8 Years Old: Children younger than 8 cannot travel alone as unaccompanied minors. They must be accompanied by a passenger who is at least 16 years old, seated in the same cabin.

• Children Aged 8-11 Years: According to the air canada unaccompanied minor age policy, children in this age group must use the Unaccompanied Minor service if traveling alone. This service is mandatory and provides comprehensive supervision throughout the journey.

• Children Aged 12-17 Years: Teenagers in this age range may travel alone without restrictions. However, the Unaccompanied Minor service is available as an optional service if parents prefer additional supervision and assistance for their teens.

It's worth noting that Air Canada's minimum age of 8 is higher than many US airlines, which typically allow children as young as 5 to fly as unaccompanied minors.

What are the Air Canada Unaccompanied Minor Rules?

Understanding the air canada unaccompanied minor rules ensures a smooth travel experience:

1. Eligible Flights Only

UM service is available exclusively on non-stop flights operated by Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge, or Air Canada Express (Jazz). Connecting flights and codeshare flights are not permitted to minimize risks.

2. Seating and Medical Restrictions

Children are seated in the last three rows near the cabin crew for better supervision. The service is unavailable for children who are blind, deaf, severely allergic to peanuts/cats/dogs, or have medical conditions requiring special care without prior medical approval.

3. Additional Rules

• No pets allowed in cabin

• Must book in advance (not on departure day)

• Parents must stay until flight departs

Ready to book your child's flight? Contact Affluence Travels today for expert assistance with Air Canada unaccompanied minor bookings and ensure your child's journey is seamless and stress-free.

When preparing for your flight, don't forget to check Air Canada seat selection to ensure your carry-on fits comfortably near your chosen seat.

What is the Air Canada Unaccompanied Minor Fee?

The Air Canada unaccompanied minor fee is $100 CAD (approximately $118 USD) each way per child per flight, regardless of fare class.

What's Included:

• Dedicated supervision from check-in to arrival

• Priority boarding and gate escort service

• Meal or hot snack on Air Canada Bistro service flights

• Complimentary non-alcoholic beverages

For example, a round-trip Toronto-Vancouver flight costs $200 CAD total. Two children on the same flight would be $200 CAD per segment ($100 per child).

Air Canada Unaccompanied Minor Full Process

1. Booking and Documentation

Contact Air Canada Reservations or Affluence Travels to book the UM service (online booking is not available).

Required Documents:

• Domestic flights: Birth certificate, health card, passport, or government-issued ID

• International flights: Valid passport

2. Check-in Process

At the airport, complete the "Request for Carriage" form with your child's details, emergency contacts, and authorization. Your child receives a UM lanyard for identification. Depending on the airport, you may get a gate pass to accompany them through security. You must stay until the aircraft departs.

3. During the Flight

Children enjoy priority boarding and are greeted by the In-flight Service Director. Cabin crew monitors unaccompanied minors throughout the flight. Complimentary beverages and meals (on Bistro service flights) are included.

4. Upon Arrival

The In-flight Service Director assists with deplaning, and an airport agent escorts your child to meet the designated adult, who must show photo ID and sign the UM envelope.

Planning to cancel? Refer to the Air Canada cancellation policy for refund and credit details.

Tips for Preparing Your Child for Solo Travel

• Pack Smart: Minimize carry-on items, include ID on bags, pack snacks and entertainment

• Charge Devices: Ensure tablets and phones are fully charged (not all planes have outlets)

• Prepare Your Child: Explain turbulence, seatbelt rules, lavatory location, and airplane etiquette

• Be Realistic: Assess whether your child is truly ready for solo travel

Looking for personalized assistance? Book flights with Affluence Travels for expert help with your Air Canada unaccompanied minor booking.

Making the Most of Air Canada's UM Service

Understanding the air canada unaccompanied minor policy empowers you to make informed decisions about your child's solo travel. Air Canada's dedicated program provides professional care, ensuring your young traveler's safety and comfort from departure to arrival. With proper preparation and understanding of the airline's requirements, your child's first solo flight can be an exciting milestone and a positive experience.

Need expert help booking your child's unaccompanied minor flight? Contact Affluence Travels today for personalized service and guidance through the entire booking process.