Quick Answer
Yes — and age 8 is a key milestone! At 8, American, Delta, and Alaska now allow connecting flights. This opens up many more route options that weren't available at ages 5-7.
Age 8: The Connection Milestone
🎉 Big Change at Age 8
Ages 5-7: Nonstop flights only (all airlines)
Age 8+: Connecting flights allowed on American, Delta, Alaska
This means if no nonstop exists, your child can now connect through hub airports!
Airlines at Age 8
| Airline | Fee (each way) | Connections at 8? |
|---|---|---|
| American | $150 | ✅ YES - at AA hubs |
| Delta | $150 | ✅ YES - at DL hubs |
| Alaska | $75 | ✅ YES - at AS hubs |
| Southwest | $100 | ❌ Nonstop only |
| United | $150 | ❌ Nonstop only |
| JetBlue | $150 | ❌ Nonstop only |
| Spirit | $150 | ❌ Nonstop only |
Approved Connection Hubs
At age 8+, connections are only allowed at major hub airports:
- American: DFW, CLT, ORD, MIA, PHX, LAX, JFK, PHL
- Delta: ATL, DTW, MSP, SLC, SEA, LAX, JFK
- Alaska: SEA, LAX, SFO, PDX, ANC
Connections at non-hub airports are still not allowed.
Best Airline at Age 8
Need a Connection? → American or Delta
If no nonstop exists, these are your only options with connections.
Nonstop Available? → Alaska ($75) or Southwest ($100)
If nonstop works, save money with the budget-friendly options.
Find Flights for Your 8-Year-Old
We show which routes allow connections:
Search UM Flights
