I missed my connection. What happens now?
Sources checked . Final review by Sean Williams pending.
If both flights are on one ticket and you missed the connection because the first flight was late, the airline normally rebooks you on its next available flight. If you booked separate tickets, the second airline usually has no duty to help. If you are connecting to a cruise, call the cruise line right away.
| One ticket (single reservation) | Airline normally rebooks you if its delay caused the miss |
|---|---|
| Separate tickets | The second airline generally treats you as a no-show |
| Minimum connection time | Airlines only sell connections at or above their minimum for that airport |
| Connecting to a cruise | Ships sail on schedule; ask the line about joining at a later port |
What should I do right after missing a connection?
- Check the airline app; many airlines rebook missed connections automatically.
- Go to the transfer or service desk, and call the airline while you wait.
- Ask for meal or hotel vouchers if you are stuck overnight, and keep receipts.
- If you are connecting to a cruise, call the cruise line right away.
- Tell your advisor so the rest of the trip can be adjusted.
Who is responsible for rebooking me?
It depends on how you booked. When both flights are on one ticket and the first flight's delay caused the miss, the airline normally rebooks you. On separate tickets, the second airline usually treats you as a no-show and owes you nothing.
Book one ticket if you are connecting to something that will not wait, like a cruise. Leave a long layover if you must use separate tickets.
What if I'm connecting to a cruise?
Ships leave on schedule. Ask the cruise line whether you can join at the next port of call, and check your passport, because flying into a foreign port usually requires one. See what happens if you miss the ship.
How can I avoid missed connections next time?
Fly into the cruise port city the day before, choose layovers well above the minimum connection time, and keep the whole itinerary on one ticket when you can.
Frequently asked questions
- Will the airline rebook me if I miss my connection?
- If both flights are on the same ticket and the first flight's delay caused the miss, airlines normally rebook you on the next available flight. Ask at the transfer desk or in the app.
- What if my flights were on separate tickets?
- The second airline usually is not responsible for a missed connection caused by another airline. Leave long layovers when booking separate tickets.
- What if I miss my cruise because of a flight?
- Call the cruise line's emergency number. You may be able to fly to a later port of call at your own cost, which travel insurance with missed connection coverage may reimburse.
- Is a short layover risky?
- A connection sold on one ticket meets the airline's minimum connection time, but there is little room for delays. For important connections, choose a longer layover.
Sources
Founder, Egretline Travel ยท Tampa, Florida
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