It is not always possible to find direct flights to the city we need - then you have to take a ticket with a connecting flight or transfer. We tell you how they differ from each other.
Connecting flight
You check in for two flights at the same time, the difference between the planes is no longer than 24 hours. At the check-in counter, you will be given one ticket: you can have several connections, but they will all be booked in one order. Flights are operated by the same airline or aircraft from the same airline alliance.
So what are their differences?
Connecting flight
- You are given one ticket for several flights at once;
- In the next city/country, you do not need to check in again, take/return suitcases, etc.;
- If the client is late for the connection, the airline itself buys him a ticket for the next flight to the desired city;
- No visa is required while waiting in the transit area.
Transplantation
- The client receives several tickets;
- Re-registration is required;
- The tourist himself picks up and re-checks his luggage;
- If you are late, you will have to buy a ticket yourself (with a surcharge);
- Fly with one or more airlines;
- It is often necessary to have a visa even if you do not leave the airport.
It doesn't matter if you are flying with a transfer or with a connection - always arrive in advance! Especially when the flight is international. It is better to allow from fifty minutes to an hour and a half: for example, when connecting, you will still have to go through security control, and the countries in which the visa regime applies will invite you to passport control.
Always check the location of the gates on the airport map in advance!
How not to miss your flights
- Choose a regular flight: unlike a charter flight, it rarely changes the departure time, and you can plan your trip in advance;
- Before buying a ticket, study the fare conditions: it is better to take refundable tickets with the ability to exchange them;
- When you buy a ticket with a transfer, pay attention to which airport the second plane departs from. If not from one, then it is better not to buy such tickets;
- Check in in advance for your future flight and don't throw away your boarding pass! Check your baggage allowances and dimensions so you don't have to pay for excess baggage;
- Follow the signs at the airport to easily transfer to the next plane. If you get lost, contact the staff - they are always ready to help and show the way to the gate;
- Look at the time, or better yet, set yourself an alarm clock for the time when you need to go to boarding.
You missed the second plane. What to do?
Connecting flight
There are times when you are delayed for the second flight due to the delay of the first one. In this case, the airline must provide you with a free transfer to the next flight - call the airline's hotline. If you do not want to board a newly selected flight, the employee must put a stamp on the ticket that your plane is delayed - this way you can get a refund for the ticket that you did not use.
Transplantation
You didn't board the first plane, but you realize you'll be late for the second? Then call the airline you are flying with and ask them to exchange or refund your ticket. You can also approach the representatives of the company upon arrival at the second airport. Some airlines have a fare that offers to exchange a ticket, even if the second plane has already departed. Request compensation from the airline of the delayed flight, but there is no guarantee that they will pay you anything, since all the risks lie with the passenger during the transfer.
