Swissport Sees Rise in Solo Child Travelers as Unaccompanied Minor Services Expand Across Swiss Airports
(IN SHORT) Swissport International has reported a significant increase in the number of unaccompanied minors (UMs) traveling alone through Swiss airports, reflecting changing family dynamics and increased international mobility. In 2024, nearly 12,000 UMs passed through Zurich Airport, over 12,500 through Geneva, and 900 at Basel, each showing a year-on-year increase of 3–4%. Swissport ensures safe and smooth journeys for these young travelers, offering full support from check-in to arrival in close coordination with airlines. The company is reinforcing its commitment to child safety and seamless travel experiences, as demand for these services continues to grow across Switzerland.
(PRESS RELEASE) ZURICH, 2025-Apr-14 — /Travel PR News/ — A rising number of children are now traveling alone through Swiss airports, highlighting evolving travel trends shaped by globalized family structures and shifting work patterns. Swissport International, the world’s leading provider of aviation ground services and Switzerland’s largest passenger service operator, is ensuring that these young flyers are cared for every step of the way.
Known in aviation terms as unaccompanied minors (UMs), these are children aged 5 to 12 who travel without an adult. Working closely with airline partners, Swissport offers comprehensive care from check-in to arrival, ensuring a safe, smooth, and reassuring experience for both the children and their families.
Demand for UM services in Switzerland is growing steadily. At Zurich Airport, Swissport supported nearly 12,000 unaccompanied minors in 2024—up 4% from the previous year. The peak was reached on 7 July, when 192 solo young travellers were assisted in a single day. Geneva Airport saw an even higher volume with more than 12,500 UMs—a year-on-year increase of just over 4%. At Basel EuroAirport, more than 900 unaccompanied children were assisted, representing a 3% rise.
Swissport’s dedicated services for unaccompanied minors ensure that children are accompanied at every stage of their airport journey. Trained staff guide them through check-in, security, boarding, and, upon arrival, assist with immigration and customs before handing them over safely to their designated guardian or family member.
“With increasing international mobility, particularly in globally connected hubs like Zurich, Geneva, and Basel, we’re seeing more children flying solo to visit family across borders,” said Andreas Keller, Managing Director for Switzerland & France at Swissport. “Our top priority remains their safety, comfort, and peace of mind for their families.”
To support the growing demand, Swissport continues to strengthen its unaccompanied minor services with attention to care, security, and efficiency.
For families preparing a child to fly alone, Swissport recommends having all required documents prepared in advance, booking the UM service early through the airline, and helping the child understand the travel process and who will greet them at their destination.
Media contact:
Nathalie Berchtold,
Group Communications,
P.O. Box, 8058 Zurich Airport, Switzerland
media@swissport.com, +41 43 815 00 22
SOURCE: Swissport International AG
