Key insights:
- When you take a single flight to your destination, that’s called a direct flight. If you have to switch planes to reach your final destination, the second (or third or fourth) plane is called a connecting flight.
- International connections typically require going through immigration and customs, so travelers should plan for additional time.
- Staying informed about gate changes and layover logistics can make the connection process smoother.
While it would be nice to always fly directly to your destination when setting out on a trip, it’s not always possible. Your itinerary may require you to take several different flights to multiple locations before finally arriving at your destination. These additional flights are called connecting flights and come with extra considerations you should be aware of before arriving at the airport.
Why take a connecting flight?
An itinerary with connecting flights may be cheaper than flying direct. Airlines with large fleets may need additional passengers on some of their routes, so they’ll price these flights more cheaply to fill the seats.
Different types of airplanes and airports may also necessitate taking a connecting flight. If you’re going a long distance or traveling to a smaller airport, you may need to stop along the way.
What to keep in mind when you have a connecting flight
While airlines try to make connections as seamless as possible, stay aware of these factors when you’re planning your layovers and connecting flights.
International vs. domestic connections
If your connection is domestic, meaning you’re connecting in the same country where you started, you can simply walk to your next gate and board the same way you did before your first flight. You won’t have to check in or go through security again.
However, if your connecting flight lands in a different country from where you started, there are some extra steps.
Even though you might not leave the airport, you’ll likely have to go through immigration and customs before getting on your next flight. A border control agent may review your passport and boarding pass before you pass into the main terminal area. You may have to collect your checked baggage and recheck it once you’re through.
Before traveling, check the customs requirements of every country you’ll pass through. Some countries require passengers to have airport transit visas to board their next flight.
Gate assignments
Your connecting flight might not have a gate assignment when you take off on your first flight. If you have an electronic ticket or use the carrier’s app, this information may update automatically. If you don’t have the gate assignment when your first flight lands, you can ask airline personnel, check one of the screens at the airport (which typically show flights in the same terminal), or search for the gate online. If you have a particularly long layover, it’s possible that a gate won’t be assigned yet.
Amount of time between flights
Airlines will do their best to book you on flights with reasonable layover times, but this isn’t always possible due to scheduling needs. If you have a layover that’s less than an hour, look up your next gate and a map of the connecting airport ahead of time so you know where you’re going the minute you step off the plane.
If you have a longer layover, you’re free to wander the airport, eat and shop before getting on your next flight. If it’s particularly long, you might even leave the airport to explore the local area. Note that you’ll be required to go through security again when you return, so give yourself enough time to make your connection.
Missed connections
Sometimes the best-laid plans go awry. If your first flight is delayed, it could result in a missed connection. This can be stressful, but don’t panic. Airlines will generally offer you a replacement flight to get to your final destination. Speak to a gate agent or call the airline’s customer service line for more information.
Your options may be more limited if your flights are on different airlines. In this case, you may be required to purchase another full-price ticket. Check with both airlines to see what your options are.
Enjoy the trip
Connecting flights can be stressful and exhausting, but they may also offer you a chance to stretch your legs and explore a place that would never be on your radar. If your options are overwhelming, consider using Citi Travel® to compare prices and itineraries for flights, both direct and with connections. Remember, getting there is half the fun.
