Connecting Flight – Definition and Meaning
A connecting flight is a flight where travelers must change planes at an intermediate airport before reaching their final destination.
Instead of a direct flight, the journey is split into two or more segments, often operated by the same or partner airlines.
Connecting flights are common for long-haul travel or when no direct flights are available between two locations.
How Connecting Flights Work
- First Flight: Takes you from your departure city to a hub or transfer airport.
- Layover: A break between flights, usually ranging from 1 to several hours.
- Second Flight (or More): Takes you from the connection airport to your final destination.
In many cases, your checked luggage is automatically transferred between flights, but always confirm this when booking.
Why Choose a Connecting Flight?
- Lower Cost: Often cheaper than direct flights.
- More Route Options: Access to destinations not served by direct flights.
- Flexibility: Possibility to add stopovers and visit an additional city.
Things to Consider
- Layover Time: Ensure enough time between flights to go through security and immigration if necessary.
- Airport Layout: Large airports can require long walks or even shuttle transfers.
- Missed Connections: Delays on the first flight can lead to missed second flights — booking with one airline reduces risk.
FAQ
It depends on the airport, but 1.5–2 hours is generally safe for domestic, and 2–3 hours for international connections.
If your flights are on the same ticket and airline, your luggage is usually transferred automatically. Otherwise, you may need to collect and recheck it.