Minimum Connection Time (MCT) is the shortest interval between two flights that an airport considers safe for a connection. This single number decides whether you'll make your onward flight on a connecting itinerary. Before you buy, pay attention to it — it often matters more than the price.
What MCT is and why it matters
Each airport sets its own MCT, and it depends on the type of connection — domestic, international or moving between zones. The time covers deplaning, walking between terminals, repeating security if required and reaching the new gate.
On a single ticket (one booking), the airline factors MCT in automatically and won't sell you a shorter connection. The problem appears when you buy the flights separately.
Recommended time by connection type
Practical guidelines (for a single ticket):
- Domestic → domestic: 45-60 minutes
- International → international within the same alliance: 60-90 minutes
- Arriving in Schengen → leaving Schengen (passport control): 90-120 minutes
- Large hubs (Istanbul, Frankfurt, Dubai): add 30-45 minutes of buffer
Single ticket vs self-transfer
On a single ticket your bag is checked through to the final city and the airline is responsible for the connection. A self-transfer (separately booked flights) means you must collect your bag, re-check it and clear security again — that takes at least 3 hours.
Before choosing a connecting route, read Layovers and transit: the complete guide — it explains exactly when the risk is worth it.
On a self-transfer, the airline is not liable if you miss the onward flight — you pay for the new ticket. Leave at least 3 hours and factor in online check-in for the second flight.
What happens if you miss the connection
On a single ticket, if you miss the flight because the first leg was delayed, the airline rebooks you on the next service for free. On a self-transfer, the full responsibility is yours.
If you've already missed a flight, the step-by-step actions are laid out in Missed your flight: what to do.
Practical tips
- Check the connection time when buying — under 1 hour at a big hub is risky
- Prefer a single ticket if the connection is under 2 hours
- Add buffer on overnight or peak-morning flights — queues are long
- Verify your gate number on the screens as soon as you land
- Compare connecting fares on Travel365's price calendar
Istanbul Airport (IST) is enormous — it can be a 20-minute walk between gates. See the Istanbul Airport guide.
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