What does a connecting flight mean?

Question

Do I have to pick up my luggage and check it or will it be transfered to my connecting flight or destination automatically and do I have to go through security again?

Answer 1

Think of a layover like a stop at a restaurant along the highway, on the way to your final destination.

Place A ----> Layover ----> Place B

The airline will transfer your bags directly to your final destination, so you only have to check them once. And you only have to go through security once.

When you first check in at the first airport (Place A), they will give you tickets for both flights.

Answer 2

connecting flights means they will take care of ur bags, u just pick them up at your ARRIVAL destination. Also in between connecting flights, means when u arrive at other airport, u just walk to another gate for ur next flight without going thru security or check backs again. At the beginning at your depart, they will give u both tickets for now and the next flight you'll be taking during "connecting" flights.

Answer 3

No...You just go to the next flight. You're already past security and the check in...You only have to do that if you leave the airport.

Answer 4

A connecting flight just means you have to change planes somewhere.

As far as bags, all of the above answers are correct IF you are flying domestically.  Or if you are flying from one country in Europe's Schengen zone (most of Western Europe) to another Schengen country.

But if you are flying internationally, for instance flying New York -> London -> Manchester, England, then you will have to get your bags in London, take them through customs, and re-check them.

If you are flying from country A to country B to country C (and none of them are in the Schengen Zone), such as Miami-Toronto-Paris, then it varies by country whether you'll have to clear customs in country B.  Some have a transit area, some don't.  If your middle country is the US, such as Mexico City - Chicago - Vancouver, you will certainly have to get your bags in the US airport and clear customs with them.

Answer 5

With a connecting flight, your checked baggage will automatically be routed from your first flight to your next flight.  You will NOT have to exit the secure area, pick up your bags, recheck, and go back through security.  Just head to the gate with your connection.

Answer 6

If you have a connecting flight then that means you have to go on another flight, as in it's not your final destination. Usually, your baggages will go to your destination, but ask the person at the counter when you are checking in just to make sure. Yes, some places you have to go to security again.