For young travelers unable to fly with a parent or guardian, unaccompanied minor schemes at airports and airlines ensure they receive appropriate care. These schemes vary but generally involve passengers being escorted throughout their journey.
In Switzerland, this trend is notable, with Swissport reporting an increase in unaccompanied minors at major airports. The company, which provides passenger services at Swiss airports, stated that over 10,000 young travelers were handled at two facilities last year.
According to Swissport, this rise in unaccompanied minors flying reflects a shift in travel patterns affecting the aviation industry. Swissport emphasizes the importance of dedicating resources to ensure the safety of these young flyers.
Swissport’s role involves escorting minors from check-in to boarding, after which airline cabin crews take over. Amid rising numbers, especially during peak periods like Christmas and summer holidays, the company strives to give “parents or guardians peace of mind” through its services.
Swissport’s Managing Director for Switzerland & France, Andreas Keller, stated, “With international mobility increasing, especially in cities with diverse, global workforces like Zürich, Basel, and Geneva, more children are flying alone to visit family members who live far apart. Ensuring their well-being and safety on the ground has always been a top priority for Swissport and its airline partners.”
Zürich Airport, though the 18th busiest in Europe with 31.2 million passengers in 2024, still sees days with nearly 200 unaccompanied minors. A peak of 192 was recorded on July 7, 2024. On average, Geneva and Zürich airports handle 30 to 35 unaccompanied minors daily, with EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg experiencing a steady flow as well.
In 2024, Basel handled 900 unaccompanied minors with a 3% annual increase, while Geneva and Zürich saw 12,500 and 12,000 respectively, each with a 4% increase.
Swissport prides itself on handling unaccompanied minors smoothly at Swiss airports. The company ensures that “in close cooperation with airlines, unaccompanied minors receive dedicated supervision, making their airport experience safe and stress-free.” Swissport provides guidance on its website for parents or guardians of unaccompanied minors, emphasizing preparation, documentation, and booking assistance in advance.
