Layover

A connection — a stop and change of flights at an intermediate airport en route to the destination. Layovers are typically shorter than a stopover and the traveller doesn't leave the airport's transit area, or only briefly. Corporate travel policies often set a minimum and maximum acceptable layover time to balance the risk of missed connections against total trip duration.

There is no single official limit, but a connection is generally treated as a layover if it lasts less than 24 hours on an international journey, or just a few hours on a domestic trip. Every airport also sets a minimum connecting time — the shortest time considered sufficient to change planes, which depends on terminals, passport control and security. Connections booked on a single ticket are protected: if the first flight is delayed, the airline is responsible for rebooking the passenger.

When evaluating layovers, companies weigh several factors. Short connections reduce total travel time but increase the risk of missed flights, especially at large airports or when terminals change. Long layovers are safer but tiring and can cut into working time. Travellers may also need a transit visa in some countries, even if they do not leave the airport. Connections booked on separate tickets carry extra risk, because the second airline has no obligation to help if the first flight is late.

In Tumodo, travellers can filter flights by number of stops and total travel time, and companies can build layover rules into their travel policy by setting the maximum number of connections, the maximum flight duration and preferred departure times. Airport services such as VIP lounges, Fast Track and Meet & Assist can be booked online to make long connections more comfortable, and real-time alerts about delays combined with 24/7 support help travellers act quickly if a connection is at risk.