Direct vs Connecting Flights to Pakistan

A direct (nonstop) flight is faster and has fewer things that can go wrong; a connecting flight can be cheaper and offers more choice. The right pick depends on your priorities, the route and the time of year.

Direct flights

• Pros: shortest journey, no connection to miss, bags go straight through.
• Cons: fewer options and days, sometimes higher fares, availability changes.

Connecting flights

• Pros: more routes and times, often lower prices, and the option to break a long journey.
• Cons: longer total time, risk of a missed connection, and more airports and terminals.

How to connect safely

• Book a single ticket, so the airline is responsible if you miss the connection. See missed connecting flight.
• Allow enough time: at least two to three hours for international connections, more if you change terminals or need a visa.
• Check the baggage arrangement: through-checked to the final destination.
• Know the transit rules; see delayed in transit.

Which hubs

The Gulf hubs of Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi, and Istanbul, are the common connection points. See the guides for Dubai and Qatar.

Compare

Compare total travel time and price, not just the fare. For a long trip with children or older family, a direct flight is often worth extra.

General information only, not legal or safety advice. Details change; check with your airline and the relevant authority. See our editorial policy.