Missed Connecting Flight: Who Pays and What Are Your Options

One ticket or two? This decides everything

If both flights are on a single booking reference, the airline that sold you the journey is responsible for getting you to your final destination. Missing the connection is their problem to fix, and they normally rebook you at no extra cost.

If you booked the two flights separately, even on the same airline, the second airline technically owes you nothing. Some will help anyway, especially if you ask calmly and early.

What to do in the airport

1. Look for a transfer or connections desk before passport control. Going out to arrivals can lock you out of the quick fix.
2. Have your booking reference open and ready.
3. Ask to be put on the next available flight, and ask what time you would arrive.
4. If the next flight is tomorrow, ask about a hotel in the same conversation.

Who pays

On a single booking from a covered airport, the delay is measured against your arrival at the final destination. That is often where compensation becomes relevant.

On separate bookings, the cost of the new ticket is usually yours, unless travel insurance covers missed connections. Some policies do, but many require a minimum connection time, so check the wording before assuming.

For next time

• Leave more time than the minimum legal connection, especially where you change terminals or clear immigration.
• Prefer one booking for connecting flights when the price difference is small.
• Keep hand luggage with the essentials, in case your bag travels without you.