Minimum Layover Time: What You Need to Know

The time required for a layover depends on the airport, visa requirements, baggage, and airline. Here are the main recommendations:

1. Minimum Connection Time (MCT)

• Domestic flights – 40-60 minutes.
• International flights – 1-2 hours.
• Terminal-to-terminal transfers – 2-3 hours.
• Airport-to-airport transfers – at least 4-6 hours (e.g., London: Heathrow → Gatwick).

2. Does it depend on the airline?

• Same booking (same airline or partner flight):
• The airline manages the connection and may rebook you for free in case of a delay.
• Baggage is automatically transferred.
• Different bookings (different airlines):
• You must collect and recheck your baggage.
• If you miss your flight, you’ll need to buy a new ticket.

3. Important considerations

• Large airports (Istanbul, Dubai, Heathrow) require more transfer time.
• Transit visa may be required in some countries (USA, UK).
• Overnight layovers – fewer available flights, making alternatives harder to find.

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