The service is mandatory for children between ages seven and 12 traveling without an adult. Children ages 13-17 years are not required to travel as unaccompanied minors, but the service is optional for this age group as well. Children under seven years of age are not allowed to travel unless accompanied by an adult.

Yes, a 12-year-old can fly alone to Turkey, but they fall into a specific category known as a "Young Passenger." In 2026, most major airlines (like Turkish Airlines) consider children aged 12 to 18 as old enough to fly without the "Unaccompanied Minor" (UM) service, which is usually mandatory for kids under 12. However, parents can still request the UM service for 12-year-olds if they want an airline representative to escort them through customs and transfers. If flying without the service, the child must have a valid passport and, crucially, a notarized letter of consent from both parents, as Turkish immigration is very strict about preventing international child abduction. You should always check the specific airline's "Young Traveler" policy, as some low-cost carriers may have different age thresholds or documentation requirements for solo minors.