According to a United Airlines flight attendant, missing a connecting flight is not only inconvenient but also leads to various issues regarding costs and schedules.

While some situations are beyond control, such as bad weather or air traffic congestion, passengers can significantly reduce risks by avoiding the 5 mistakes below:

Too short layover times

Many passengers choose flights with short layover times to save time. However, this poses a significant risk at busy airports where arrival and departure gates are far apart. "Typically, the minimum recommended layover time is 45 minutes for domestic flights and two hours for international flights. However, this number depends on the airport's size", the former flight attendant stated. Check the airport map on the website or mobile application to estimate a reasonable transfer time before booking tickets.

Many passengers miss connecting flights due to their own reasons. *Travel and Trek*

Booking with different airlines

If you book individual flight segments with different airlines, you will not be guaranteed protection if your first flight is delayed or canceled. The booking system does not recognize this as a connecting itinerary, so you will not receive assistance for rebooking or compensation. Moreover, transferring between different terminals when flying with various airlines also increases the risk of missing your connection.

Choosing seats at the back of the aircraft

Sitting at the back makes you deplane slower. If you have an urgent connection, consider choosing a seat in the front cabin or in priority economy. Rushing and pushing forward when the aircraft stops often annoys other passengers and can lead to unnecessary arguments.

Not prioritizing early morning flights

Early morning flights are typically less delayed because they are not affected by chain delays from previous flights. Missing a late-day flight not only forces you to stay overnight at the airport but also causes trouble with checked baggage or additional costs if the airline does not provide hotel accommodation.

Checking baggage unnecessarily

If possible, minimize your luggage to only carry-on bags. This saves time during airport procedures and eliminates the risk of your baggage not being transferred in time for the next flight.

Advice: Always monitor your flight status via the airline's application and keep all expenditure receipts if you unfortunately incur costs due to a missed connection, to request a refund later.

Tam Anh (according to Travel + Leisure)