What Happens If You Miss a Connecting Flight?
Don't panic. What happens next mostly depends on one thing: whether both flights are on the same ticket.
Quick answer
If both flights are on one ticket and the first flight was late, the airline usually rebooks you on the next available flight. If you booked separate tickets, the second airline generally has no duty to help.
Same ticket (one booking)
- Go straight to the airline's transfer desk or use its app — rebooking is often automatic.
- Your checked bags usually follow you to the new flight.
- For long waits caused by the airline, ask what meal or hotel help it offers.
Separate tickets
- The second airline may treat you as a no-show and cancel the rest of that ticket.
- You may have to buy a new ticket — leave much longer layovers when self-connecting.
Missed it because you were late?
If the delay was your fault (e.g. a slow security line), the airline decides whether to help. Ask politely at the desk right away.
Plan safer connections
Check how risky your layover is with our layover calculator. If the airline cancelled or seriously delayed you, see the delay compensation checker.
Heads up: GhettoAirline is a comparison site. We don't sell tickets, take payments, issue refunds or hold reservations. Bookings, changes, cancellations, refunds and claims are handled directly by the airline or travel provider you booked with.