May 28, 2026
How Connecting Flights Work: Minimum Connection Times Explained
Airlines and airports set minimum connection times that define how short a layover can be and still legally allow a checked bag to make the transfer. Here is how those times are determined.
When you book a connecting itinerary, the airline checks whether your layover meets the minimum connection time (MCT) for your connecting airport. If the layover is shorter than the MCT, most booking systems won't allow the itinerary to be sold as a through booking — though airlines can and do waive this under some circumstances.
What determines the MCT?
Minimum connection times are set by individual airports in coordination with airlines and IATA. They depend on:
- Terminal changes — connecting between terminals requires more time than staying in the same terminal
- International to domestic — clearing customs and immigration after an international arrival adds significant time
- Security requirements — some connections require passing through security again
- Baggage transfer — checked bags must be physically moved between aircraft
Short MCTs at efficient hubs
The most efficient connecting airports have MCTs as short as 35-45 minutes for domestic-to-domestic connections. Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) is renowned for efficient international-to-international connections, with MCTs of 40-50 minutes for Schengen-to-Schengen transfers. Dubai (DXB) can achieve 60-minute international connections due to its streamlined transit facilities.
Longer MCTs at complex airports
Large, multi-terminal airports like London Heathrow (LHR) and Los Angeles (LAX) have longer MCTs, particularly for international connections, because terminal changes may require taking a bus or train between buildings. At Heathrow, international-to-international connections across terminals may require 90 minutes or more.