Flights
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A connecting flight means your journey isn’t direct: you need to land at one or more airports and switch planes before flying to your final destination. This generally happens when there are no direct flights available on that route or when the non-stop flights are more expensive. The time that you spend at the airport while changing your flight is known as a layover.
Connecting flights come with several variations that suit the needs of every traveller.
Airline Protected Transfers : Airline-protected transfers mean that you book your flights on a single ticket that covers all the flights on your journey toward your final destination. In that case, the airline is responsible for all the transfers. If there was any delay or cancellation that caused you to miss your next flight, then the airline takes all the responsibility and rebooks your flight on the next available option.
Self Transfer: Self-transfer means that when you book a flight segment separately, it means you need to collect your luggage and check in again at the connecting airport. If you miss a connecting flight due to any delay, then it will be your responsibility; you’ll have to book your next flight on your own.
Booking & Itinerary: When you book all the legs of your journey on a single reservation, your e-ticket or printed itinerary will list each flight number, departure and arrival time, and the length of each layover. If there is any delay caused, the airline will be responsible and rebook it for you on the next available flight at no extra charge.
Baggage Handling: With a single ticket itinerary, the airline usually tags your checked bags throughout your journey, so you do not need to collect and re-check them during your layover. However, if you book separate tickets, then you will need to collect the baggage at each stop (or layover) and check it in again.
Navigating the Layover: When you are at the airport during your layover, follow the sign marked “connection” or “Transfers” to find your next departure gate. If you are transitioning from an international flight to a domestic one, then you might need to pass through the security check again, so keep your passport and boarding pass within reach for a quicker process. Take advantage of the airport facility to grab meals, recharge your device, or simply relax before your next flight.
While you’re in the Air: While you're in the air, take advantage of in-flight Wi-Fi if available or check your next flight's boarding gate as soon as you land to keep track of your connecting flight. Being aware of this in advance helps you to avoid delays, especially in some cases, the terminal is apart, so a little planning helps you to avoid last-minute delays at the airport.
Booking your connecting flights with Crystal Travel ensures a smoother, more affordable, and reliable travel experience from start to finish. Here’s why travellers trust us:
Affordable Fares, Tailored for You: We scan and compare multiple airlines and routes to secure the best value connecting flights that match your schedule and budget. Whether you're looking for short flights from UK, long haul flights, or flexible one way flights, we find the right fit for every need.
Custom Itineraries & Stopovers: Want extra time to explore a layover city like Dubai or Singapore? Prefer the fastest route possible? Our travel experts design personalised flight itineraries based on your preferences—be it a short transit or a multi city flight journey.
24/7 Customer Support: Flight delays happen, but with Crystal Travel, you’re never left to deal with them alone. Our travel expert support team monitors your flights and assists with rebooking if plans change, ensuring a stress-free connection.
Smart Layover Planning : We only recommend flights that meet or exceed the Minimum Connection Time (MCT) required by each airport, significantly reducing the risk of missed connections or rushed transfers.
With Crystal Travel’s Fly Now Pay Later flights option, you can secure your connecting flight deal today and split the cost into 4 easy, interest-free payments with our trusted partner Affirm. It’s the perfect way to manage your travel budget while enjoying a flexible journey. Just book your connecting flight now and pay later in small instalments—no stress, no hidden fees.
Making a connecting flight doesn’t need to be stressful if you plan smart. Here are some of the tips that help you make your connecting flight easier:
Plan for Enough Layover Time: Give yourself enough time between your connecting flights, at least 60 minutes for domestic connections and 90 minutes or more for international ones—especially if you know that you need to go through immigration at the airport.
Check Airport Layouts in Advance: Go through the airport layout before you travel, especially for major hubs. Knowing how far apart your gates are can help you move faster between connections.
Keep Essentials in Your Carry On: Always pack your valuables—medication, travel documents, phone charger, and a change of clothes in your hand luggage. If your checked bag is delayed or lost, you’ll still be covered.
Use Airline Apps for Real-Time Updates: Download your airline’s app or sign up for Crystal Travel alerts to get instant updates on gate changes, delays, or cancellations.
Understand Visa and Transit Requirements: Not all airports allow international transit without a visa. Always check if you need a transit visa, electronic travel authorisation (eTA), or if you must clear immigration, even during a short layover.
Avoiding a few key errors can make the difference between a missed connection and a smooth journey:
Booking Separate Tickets: Buying two separate tickets (especially with different airlines) can be risky. If your first flight is delayed, the second airline isn’t obligated to help you rebook.
Not Factoring in Minimum Connection Time (MCT): Each airport has a standard minimum time needed to transfer between flights. Booking connections with a layover that is too short can lead to missed flights, especially in large or unfamiliar airports.
Skipping Visa Research: Always verify whether a transit visa is required, even if you’re not leaving the airport. Missing this can result in denied boarding or entry.
Relying Too Much on Checked Baggage: If you can, travel with carry-on only, especially for short layovers. It reduces the risk of lost or delayed luggage.
Overlooking Airline Baggage Transfer Rules: Low-cost or code-share airlines may require you to collect and re-check your luggage during a connection. Always confirm your baggage transfer policy in advance.
When flying with a connecting flight, it’s important to check whether you’ll need a transit visa. Visa rules depend on your nationality, the countries you’re passing through, and the route of your journey. Here’s a quick overview of popular transit regions:
United States: Most travellers may need a Transit (C) Visa to pass through the U.S. However, if you already hold a valid Visitor (B) Visa or are eligible for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), a separate transit visa usually isn’t required.
United Kingdom: Starting 8 January 2025, travellers from countries like Australia, Japan, and Israel must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). EU citizens will need an ETA from 2 April 2025. It costs approximately £10 and remains valid for 2 years or until your passport expires. Depending on your nationality and whether you leave the airport, you might also need a Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) or a Visitor in Transit Visa.
Schengen Area (Europe): Some travellers require an Airport Transit Visa (ATV) when connecting through Schengen Zone airports—even if they don’t leave the terminal. However, if you have a valid visa or residence permit from countries like the U.S., Canada, Japan, or EU nations, you may be exempt.
China: As of 17 December 2024, travellers from 54 countries can enjoy up to 10 days (240 hours) of visa-free transit through China, as long as they are heading to a third country. This policy applies at 60 airports across 24 provinces, so be sure to confirm if your transit airport qualifies.
A connecting flight is when your journey includes two or more flights with a stop in between. You change planes at a connecting airport before reaching your final destination.
If your connecting flights are on one ticket, your baggage is usually transferred automatically. But if you booked separate tickets or are changing airlines, you may need to collect and recheck your luggage.
For international connections, aim for at least 90 minutes. For domestic ones, 60 minutes is usually enough, though more time is always safer in case of delays.
It depends on the country you're connecting in, your nationality, and whether you’re leaving the airport. Some countries require transit visas, while others don’t—always check in advance.
If your entire journey is on one booking, you’ll usually get all boarding passes at check-in. If not, you may need to collect the next boarding pass at the transit desk.
If your flights are on a single ticket, the airline usually rebooks you on the next available flight. With separate tickets, you might have to pay for a new one yourself.
Yes, if the layover is long enough and you meet visa and immigration requirements. Always check local rules and ensure you have enough time to return and clear security.
Self-transfer means switching flights booked separately—you handle your own bags and check-in. Airline-protected transfers are booked together, and the airline takes care of delays and baggage transfer.
Often, yes. Connecting flights can save money, especially on long-haul routes, but they may take more time.
Absolutely! Crystal Travel compares fares across multiple airlines and offers expert support, exclusive deals, and smart itineraries tailored to your schedule and budget.
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