Lois Larson
Connecting flights is a convenient way to reach your destination, but it can also be stressful if you don't plan carefully. When connecting flights, you may need to change terminals, and sometimes even airports, leaving you vulnerable to missing your next flight if you don't allow enough time. It's important to check the minimum connection time for each airport and to be aware of any visa requirements for the country you're connecting through. Booking all your flights on one ticket can help ensure the airline will rebook you at no extra cost if you do miss a connection due to delays.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Booking connecting flights | It is recommended to book connecting flights directly with the airline or via a third-party service such as Kiwi, Expedia, or eDreams. |
| Self-transfer | If the first flight is delayed or cancelled and you miss the next flight, you may have to book a new flight yourself. |
| Luggage | In the case of self-transfer, you will typically need to collect and check-in your luggage at each airport. With airline-protected connections, luggage may be transferred automatically without any action needed from the passenger. |
| Airport codes | Pay attention to airport codes when booking connecting flights. |
| Layover duration | Consider the length of the layover when booking connecting flights. A longer layover can provide a buffer in case of unexpected delays. |
| Minimum connection time | Check the minimum connection time for each airport, as some may require more time to navigate. |
| Travel insurance | Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers flight delays or cancellations to protect yourself in case of missed connections. |
| Visa requirements | Research visa requirements for your travel destinations and layover locations. Some countries, such as those in the US and the Schengen Zone, may require a transit visa even if you don't leave the airport. |
| Boarding passes | Most airlines will provide all boarding passes for your trip when you check in for the first flight. If you don't have a boarding pass for a connecting flight, you can still pass through security with your itinerary. |
| Airport navigation | Familiarize yourself with the airport layout, including the distance between terminals and the availability of shuttle services, to ensure a smooth transition during connections. |
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What You'll Learn
Connecting flights with different airlines
Yes, it is possible to book connecting flights with different airlines. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, if you book your flights separately and your first flight is delayed or cancelled, causing you to miss the next one, you will be responsible for purchasing a new flight or flights. While you may still be entitled to flight delay compensation for the delayed or cancelled flight, you will generally need to handle rebooking and bag transfers yourself with split bookings. Therefore, it is recommended to book all flights on a single ticket if possible, as the airline is more likely to assist you in the event of delays or missed connections.
When booking connecting flights with different airlines, it is crucial to allow for sufficient layover time. For domestic layovers, aim for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, while for international layovers, 2 to 3 hours is generally recommended, especially if you need to go through immigration or collect your baggage. Keep in mind that some countries, such as the United States, require all passengers to collect baggage and go through customs, even during a layover. Therefore, always check the specific requirements of the countries and airports you are travelling through.
Additionally, pay close attention to airport codes and ensure you know the minimum connection time for different airports. It is also important to be aware of any security restrictions and give yourself enough time to pass through security, especially if you need to change terminals or airports during your connection.
To book connecting flights with different airlines, you can utilise online tools and platforms such as Alternative Airlines' multi-stop flights tool or third-party services like Kiwi, Expedia, or eDreams. These platforms can help you find flight options and build your itinerary, ensuring that your connections are efficient and convenient. Remember to always check the details of your booking, including luggage handling, to avoid any surprises during your journey.
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Self-transfer flights
To avoid the risks associated with self-transfer flights, it is recommended to book connecting flights with an airline-protected connection. These flights can be booked directly from an airline or through a third-party service such as Kiwi, Expedia, or eDreams. With an airline-protected connection, the airline will take care of you if your first flight is delayed or cancelled, and your baggage will be transferred automatically.
When booking self-transfer flights, it is important to pay attention to the airport codes, the length of the layover, and the minimum connection time. It is also a good idea to arrive at the airport early, 2-3 hours before the scheduled departure time, to allow for any potential delays or issues.
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Airport-protected connections
When booking connecting flights, travellers should be aware of the differences between self-transfer flights and those with an airline-protected connection.
Self-transfer flights are when you book separate flights that connect to your destination. This means that if your first flight is delayed or cancelled, causing you to miss your next flight, it is your responsibility to book a new flight. This is less protected, and you will need to buy travel insurance to cover these instances. You will also need to collect and check in your luggage after every flight.
With an airline-protected connection, if your first flight is delayed or cancelled, the airline will take care of you. Your luggage will also be transferred automatically. Connecting flights with an airline-protected connection are the easiest to book. You can book them directly from the airline or via a third-party service such as Kiwi, Expedia, or eDreams. When booking, choose the origin and destination, select the dates and number of travellers, and press "Search". However, pay attention to whether these are airline-protected transfers. If you have to change airports, this is usually a sign that they are not airline-protected transfers.
When booking flights via a third-party service, pay attention to the length of the layover and airport codes. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before the scheduled departure time. Also, be aware of the minimum connection time, which varies from airport to airport.
If you are flying to or from Europe and your flight is delayed for more than 3 hours, cancelled less than 14 days before the scheduled departure time, or you are denied boarding due to no available seats, you may be entitled to compensation of up to €600 per passenger.
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Transit visas
When travelling, it is important to be aware of the visa requirements for your destination and any countries you may be passing through. This includes when connecting flights, as you may need to pass through immigration and customs in the connecting country, even if you do not plan to leave the airport. This is known as an airport transit visa (ATV). ATV requirements vary depending on the country and airport, so it is important to check the rules for your specific travel route.
For example, when transiting through a French airport, you may be required to obtain an "A" airport transit visa (ATV) if you hold a passport from or an ordinary passport issued by specific countries. This is required if you are travelling from an airport outside the Schengen Area and staying in the international zone of an airport in metropolitan France while waiting for a connection to a destination also outside the Schengen Area. If you have a connection between two airports in the Schengen Area, or if the French airport through which you wish to enter is closed overnight, you must hold a valid short-stay Schengen visa instead.
Similarly, when transiting through the United States, different visa requirements apply depending on your purpose for entering the country and your country of citizenship. If your primary purpose is other than transit, such as visiting friends or sightseeing, you generally require a visitor (B) visa. However, if you are a citizen of a participating country, you may be able to transit the United States on the Visa Waiver Program.
To obtain a transit visa, you will typically need to provide specific documentation, which may include a completed visa application form, a valid passport, proof of your connecting flights or onward travel arrangements, passport photos, and evidence of your ability to pay all costs during your stay in the transit country. It is recommended to plan ahead and allow sufficient time for visa processing, as it may take several weeks.
It is important to note that airlines can provide guidance on transit visas, but they are not responsible for your visa compliance. Always confirm visa requirements with official sources, such as the relevant embassy or consulate, to avoid unexpected issues during your journey.
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Boarding passes
A boarding pass is a crucial document that grants passengers access to their flight and serves as a comprehensive guide to their flight specifics. It is not just a ticket to board the plane but also provides essential flight details and plays a vital role in verifying entitlements under air passenger rights in cases of delays, cancellations, or other disruptions.
There are two main types of boarding passes: the traditional paper boarding pass and the modern mobile or digital boarding pass. The paper version is typically printed on a rectangular piece of paper, detailing the passenger's flight information, including their identity, flight number, date, class of carriage, origin and destination, departure and boarding times, gate and seat number, and the number of checked bags. It also includes a barcode that is scanned at the gate to verify the validity of the pass and update the airline's database.
The mobile or digital boarding pass can be displayed on smartphones, smartwatches, or tablets, featuring a QR code or a 2D barcode for scanning at the gate. This option is more convenient and environmentally friendly, saving time and paper. Passengers can usually access their mobile boarding passes through the airline's website or mobile application.
For connecting flights, a separate boarding pass is required for each new leg, even if the same aircraft is used. This is because each leg is distinguished by a different flight number. Passengers should pay attention to the airport codes, the length of layovers, and minimum connection times when booking connecting flights, especially if they are self-transfer flights, as delays or cancellations may result in missing the next flight and needing to book a new one.
Overall, the boarding pass is a critical document that ensures a seamless travel experience, providing access to various airport services and the aircraft while also serving as a central source of flight information for passengers.
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Frequently asked questions
A self-transfer refers to when you book separate flights, which may be with different airlines. If your first flight is delayed and you miss your next flight, it is your responsibility to book a new flight.
Airline-protected connections are when the airline will take care of you if your first flight is delayed or cancelled, and you miss your next flight. They may also transfer your checked luggage to your final destination.
It is recommended to book all flights on one ticket, as the airline is more likely to help you with rebooking and transferring luggage. You should also check the minimum connection time for each airport, and whether you need a transit visa.
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