English edition · checked 2026-10-18

Missed a flight connection? Take these steps

Act at the airport, identify which ticket covers the next flight, and keep records. Rebooking and expenses depend on the ticket and applicable local rules.

At the airport

1. Check whether the next flight is still operating and whether boarding has closed.
2. Contact the airline operating the missed segment and the carrier that issued the ticket.
3. Ask about rebooking, the next available route, baggage and whether remaining segments need to be protected.
4. Keep receipts and written notices if you pay for food, transport or a hotel.

One ticket or separate tickets?

On one ticket, the issuing carrier’s conditions normally govern the whole itinerary. On separate tickets, each carrier may treat its own segment independently. Do not assume one airline must rebook a flight bought from another carrier or travel seller.

Check the rules that apply to your trip

Passenger rights, care obligations and insurance coverage depend on the route, carrier, ticket and jurisdiction. Use the official government guidance for the country involved and the terms of your own travel insurance. This guide does not promise a refund or compensation.

Keep a short incident record

Write down the original schedule, actual arrival, missed flight, staff instructions, new itinerary and reference numbers. This makes later claims easier to explain.

Official sources

• UK CAA passenger travel guide
• JAL disruption and travel guidance

Keep reading: Separate tickets and connections · Through-checked baggage · Award ticket changes