When your child needs to travel alone, their comfort and safety become top priorities. Cathay Pacific Airways, a leading international airline based in Hong Kong, offers a specialized unaccompanied minor service to support young travelers throughout their journey. Whether it’s their first flight or a routine trip, understanding the Cathay Pacific Unaccompanied Minor Policy ensures a smooth, stress-free experience for both you and your child. Here, we provides everything you need to know—including age limits, service fees, booking procedures, and documentation requirements—so you can feel fully prepared.

Table of Contents
What is the Cathay Pacific Minor Service?
Here’s a clear key features about the Cathay Pacific Minor Service:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Service Name | Unaccompanied Minor (UMNR) Service |
Eligible Age Range | 6–17 years old |
Mandatory Age Range | 6–11 years old (must use UMNR service) |
Optional Age Range | 12–17 years old (service optional but recommended for young travelers) |
Not Allowed to Travel Alone | Children under 6 years old |
Booking Method | Must be booked directly through Cathay Pacific Customer Service |
Online Booking | Not available for UMNR—phone booking required |
Service Fee | Varies by route (approx. USD $150–$300 per flight segment) |
Included Services | Check-in assistance, priority boarding, in-flight supervision, handover at arrival |
Required Documents | Completed UMNR form, valid ID for guardians, passport/visa (if applicable) |
Check-in Requirement | Parent/guardian must arrive 2–3 hours early for document processing |
Pickup Policy | Designated adult must present valid ID; name must match booking records |
International Travel Allowed | Yes, with proper documentation |
Safety Measures | Supervision at all stages of the journey; secure handover protocols |
Cathay Pacific Airways Age Guidelines
Cathay Pacific has established clear age-based rules to determine whether a child qualifies for unaccompanied minor service:
Age Group | Unaccompanied Minor Service Requirement |
0–5 years | Cannot travel alone. Must be accompanied by an adult (18+). |
6–11 years | Must use unaccompanied minor service. |
12–17 years | May travel alone; unaccompanied minor service is optional but available. |
Note: Age cut-offs are based on the child’s age on the date of departure, not the booking date.
What is the Cathay Pacific Unaccompanied Minor Policy Includes: Service Details
Cathay Pacific’s unaccompanied minor service is designed with safety, care, and personal attention in mind. Here’s what the service typically provides:
- Pre-flight coordination: Dedicated staff meet your child at check-in and help them through security.
- Priority boarding: Unaccompanied minors are allowed to board early and settle in with assistance from the cabin crew.
- In-flight care: Flight attendants monitor and support the child throughout the flight.
- Arrival support: Upon landing, airline representatives escort the child to the designated pick-up guardian after verifying their identity.
Cathay Pacific Fees for Unaccompanied Minor Service
Cathay Pacific charges a service fee to cover the additional attention and care provided during your child’s solo travel:
Fee Component | Details |
Service Fee | Approx. USD $150–$300 per sector, depending on route and region. |
Includes | Escort from check-in to gate, in-flight supervision, and handover at destination. |
Additional Notes | Each child is charged separately; fees are non-refundable in most cases. |
Booking a Flight Under the Cathay Pacific Unaccompanied Minor Policy
Booking a ticket for an unaccompanied minor involves more steps than a standard reservation. Follow these guidelines to stay compliant:
- Book Directly with Cathay Pacific
- Reservations for unaccompanied minors must be made by calling Cathay Pacific’s Customer Service team.
- Online booking is not available to ensure that all safety protocols are followed.
- Reservations for unaccompanied minors must be made by calling Cathay Pacific’s Customer Service team.
- Submit Detailed Information
- The child’s full name and date of birth.
- Emergency contacts at both ends of the journey.
- Full names and government-issued ID details for both the drop-off and pick-up guardians.
- The child’s full name and date of birth.
- Arrive Early
- Arrive at least 2–3 hours before departure to allow ample time for form completion, ID verification, and check-in.
- Arrive at least 2–3 hours before departure to allow ample time for form completion, ID verification, and check-in.
Required Documentation for Cathay Pacific Airways Unaccompanied Service
To ensure a safe and documented journey for your child, Cathay Pacific requires the following paperwork:
- Unaccompanied Minor Form: A special form must be completed and signed by a parent or legal guardian.
- Photo ID: Both the person dropping off and picking up the child must present valid identification.
- Travel Documents: Ensure the child carries a valid passport and visa (if required), especially for international travel.
- Contact Info: Keep your phone on and ensure all emergency numbers provided are accurate and reachable.
Check Here: Emirates Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy
Final Thoughts
Flying alone can be a big adventure for a young traveler, and with the Cathay Pacific Unaccompanied Minor Policy, your child will be well taken care of at every step. From the moment they check in to when they’re safely handed off to a guardian at their destination, the airline provides dependable support and guidance. With the right preparation and understanding of the policy, you can ensure a smooth and safe journey for your child.
FAQs on Cathay Pacific Unaccompanied Minor Service
What is the Cathay Pacific Unaccompanied Minor Service?
It is a service designed to assist children traveling alone, ensuring their safety and comfort throughout their journey.
What age group qualifies for Cathay Pacific Unaccompanied Minor service?
Children aged 5 to 18 years old can use the Cathay Pacific Unaccompanied Minor.
How can parents or guardians book Cathay Pacific Unaccompanied Minor service?
They need to contact Cathay Pacific directly and complete the Unaccompanied Minor Form before booking.
What documents are required for a Cathay Pacific unaccompanied minor to travel?
A valid passport, visa (if applicable), and the completed Cathay Pacific Unaccompanied Minor Form.
Who assists the child during their Cathay Pacific flight?
The Cathay Pacific cabin crew provide support and ensure the child’s safety throughout the flight.
Is the Cathay Pacific Unaccompanied Minor Service available for connecting flights?
Yes, but prior arrangements must be made to ensure proper assistance during transit.
What happens when the child arrives at their destination?
The child is handed over to the designated guardian after verification.
Are there additional fees for the Cathay Pacific Unaccompanied Minor Service?
Yes, Cathay Pacific charges a fee for providing this service.
Can Cathay Pacific Unaccompanied Minor travel internationally?
Yes, as long as they meet entry requirements for their destination and have the necessary documentation.
What should parents do before departure to ensure smooth travel?
They should ensure all documents are completed, arrive at the airport early, and provide valid identification and contact details.