Minimum Connection Time Calculator | Safe Airport Layover Times

Official minimum (same ticket)

0 min

Protected — the airline rebooks you free if a delay breaks it

Safe buffer (separate tickets)

0 min

Self-transfer — no rebooking protection

Self-transfer risk

On separately-booked tickets the airlines owe you nothing if you misconnect — you buy a new ticket. You'll also usually have to reclaim your bags, clear immigration and re-check in, which the official MCT does not cover. That's why the safe buffer is higher than the minimum.

MCT vs a Safe Buffer — What to Actually Book

Minimum Connection Time (MCT) is the shortest gap an airline or airport will sell on a single ticket. Book below it and the system won't even offer the connection.
On a single ticket (or protected partner itinerary) the MCT is a floor you can trust: if a delay makes you misconnect, the airline rebooks you onto the next flight for free and your bags follow.
On separate tickets (self-transfer) there is no protection. Miss the second flight and it's a new booking — so add a real buffer, and add even more if you must reclaim and re-check bags, clear immigration, or change terminals.
MCTs assume an on-time arrival and empty queues. During peak periods, in bad weather, or at sprawling hubs, allow well above the minimum.
Terminal changes are the usual trap — many hubs need a landside shuttle and a fresh security screening between terminals.
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