Are you allowed to miss your connecting flight?

Missed Connections: Your Rights and Responsibilities

Missing a connecting flight can be a stressful experience, especially if you’re concerned about the financial implications. Fortunately, the airline’s policy and your travel itinerary play crucial roles in determining the consequences and options available to you.

Same Airline Policy

Typically, if your missed connection is on the same airline, they are obligated to rebook you onto the next available flight free of charge. This includes situations where the delay or cancellation was caused by circumstances outside of the airline’s control, such as weather or mechanical issues.

However, if the missed connection was due to your own fault (e.g., arriving late at the gate), you may be liable for any additional costs associated with rebooking.

Travel Itinerary

The type of travel itinerary you have purchased also affects your options. If you booked a single ticket (where each leg of the journey is on the same reservation), the airline is responsible for ensuring that you reach your final destination, even if you miss a connecting flight.

On the other hand, if you booked separate tickets for each leg of your journey, the connecting airline is not obligated to assist you if you miss your flight. In this case, you may need to purchase a new ticket on your own.

Next Steps

If you do miss a connecting flight, here are the recommended steps to take:

1. Contact the airline immediately: Inform the airline of the missed connection and ask for assistance.
2. Confirm rebooking: Verify that the airline has rebooked you onto the next available flight without additional charges (if applicable).
3. Check for accommodation: If the delay or cancellation results in an overnight stay, inquire about any accommodations provided by the airline.
4. Seek compensation (if necessary): If the missed connection was caused by the airline’s fault, you may be entitled to compensation or a refund.

Remember, the airline’s policy and your travel itinerary will ultimately determine the specific consequences and options available to you when you miss a connecting flight. By understanding your rights and responsibilities, you can minimize stress and ensure a smooth resolution to the situation.