What to do if you miss your connecting flight: A guide

Nov 21 2024 MFR travel team

It can be quite stressful when you miss a connecting flight while in a place or rushing to a destination. Fortunately for travelers like us in situations where flights are missed due to circumstances beyond our control the reassuring news is that there are rights granted to passengers and practical steps that can be taken to manage the situation effectively. This detailed guide will provide you with insights into what actions you should take if your connecting flight is missed details, on how to navigate through airline protocols and useful advice to help prevent instances of missed connections.

Check the type of ticket you have

The course of action when you miss a connecting flight largely depends on the type of ticket you purchased:

Single ticket (same Airline or partner airlines): If both legs of your journey are on a single ticket (with the same airline or partner airlines), the airline is responsible for rebooking you on the next available flight at no extra cost. This applies whether the delay that caused you to miss your connection was due to the airline (such as technical issues) or weather-related circumstances.

Separate tickets (different airlines): If you booked two separate tickets with different airlines, the situation becomes more complex. In this case, each airline is only responsible for the leg they operate. If your first flight was delayed and caused you to miss the second, you may not be entitled to automatic rebooking or compensation. You might need to purchase a new ticket, depending on the fare conditions.

Act quickly if you miss your connecting flight

Once you realize you will miss or have missed your connecting flight, it’s essential to act fast:

Get in touch with the airline personnel away by heading to the customer service desk or approaching the gate agents directly to get yourself rescheduled for the flight out. Airlines typically have a responsibility to help passengers in scenarios when it’s their fault like delays or technical problems that led to missing a connection. In case the airline is at fault for the delay causing you to miss your connection flight you should not incur any fees, for getting booked onto a flight.

If you find yourself waiting in a line, at the customer service desk for help, with your airline query or concern, consider reaching out to the airlines customer service hotline as an alternative way to get assistance efficiently.

Know your rights under EU Regulation 261/2004

If your flight was within the European Union (or operated by an EU-based airline), you have certain rights under EU regulation 261/2004 if you miss your connecting flight due to a delay. These rights include:

Re-routing: If you miss your connection due to the airline’s fault (delay or cancellation of the first leg), they must rebook you on the next available flight to your destination. If the delay causes a significant change in your travel plans, the airline may also offer alternative transportation, such as a train.

Compensation: If you experience a flight delay that causes you to reach your destination over three hours late you might be eligible, for compensation, between €250 and €600 depending on how the flight was and the extent of the delay.

Care and Assistance: In case you find yourself stranded waiting for a delayed flight or a new one altogether, at the airport; the airline must offer you meals and beverages along with possible lodging if needed. Moreover will you have the right to make two phone calls or send emails, for assistance.

Consider rebooking options

If you miss a connecting flight, you may have a few rebooking options, depending on availability:

The airline will typically attempt to reschedule you on the flight, to your intended destination; however  depending on the specific route and its level of activity, at the time  this may involve waiting for a few hours or even until the following day.

Consider exploring options by inquiring with the airline about routes or potential partnerships, with other airlines to reach your destination as they may be able to arrange a flight, with a different carrier or suggest alternative routes through various cities.

Handling missed connections on separate tickets

If you have made reservations, on flights with airlines and end up missing your connecting flight the most appropriate steps to take will be determined by the second airlines policies, in such situations.

Reach out to the airline promptly to notify them of your delay situation without delay if possible! Although they are not legally required to reschedule your flight at no cost to you; they could potentially extend a discounted rate, for the flight option based on their specific guidelines and regulations.

When it comes to travel insurance policies it's important to verify if they include coverage, for missed connections. Some plans provide compensation for missed connections allowing you to claim expenses, for a replacement flight or accommodations and meals.

Tips for avoiding missed connections

Preventing missed connections is always better than dealing with the consequences. Here are some tips to reduce the risk:

Book long layovers: Avoid booking flights with very tight layover times. Allow at least 90 minutes to 2 hours between connecting flights, especially if you need to go through security or immigration at the connecting airport.

Check the connection airport: Some airports are large, and it may take a long time to walk between terminals. Check the layout of the airport in advance to ensure you have enough time to move between gates.

Fly with partner airlines: When booking connecting flights, try to choose flights operated by the same airline or its partners. This simplifies the process of rebooking in case of delays.

Plan for overnight layovers

Sometimes missing a connection means staying overnight. If this happens:

Make sure to review the airlines policy regarding missed connections as they may offer accommodations in case the delay was their responsibility​​​​​; remember to inquire about options, for hotel accommodations and transportation to and, from the hotel​​​​​.

Make sure to have your must haves, with you at all times. Pack essentials such as toiletries, an outfit and chargers in your hand luggage. This will ensure you're ready, in case your checked baggage gets delayed or becomes hard to reach during your layover.

How MYFLYRIGHT can help you

If you miss a connecting flight due to flight delays, flight cancellations, or any airline-related issue, MYFLYRIGHT can assist in claiming compensation and ensuring your rights under EU 261/2004 are enforced. We simplify the process by handling all legal procedures and negotiations with airlines, increasing your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve. Whether it’s rebooking issues, compensation for delays, or missed connections, MYFLYRIGHT takes the stress out of dealing with the airline so you can focus on reaching your destination.