Layover Buffer Calculator
Is your connection long enough to actually make it?
Enter your values
ⓘ Live results
- Spare time
- -5 min
- Risk
- Not enough time — rebook
- Time you actually need
- 85 min
- Breakdown
- deplane 15 + transfer 15 + checks 25 + boarding 30
- Recommended minimum layover
- 130 min
Quick answer
A safe connection needs deplaning, terminal transfer, any immigration and re-screening, and boarding time — plus a buffer for arrival delay.
Spare = layover − (deplane + transfer + checks + boarding)
How to use the Layover Buffer Calculator
- 1Enter your scheduled layover in minutes.
- 2Pick the connection type — immigration and customs add the most time.
- 3Add the transfer time between terminals and a realistic delay allowance.
Worked example
Using the values the calculator loads with:
Inputs
- Scheduled layover95 min
- Connection typeDomestic to international
- Terminal transfer time15 min
- Expected arrival delay15 min
- BagsChecked through
Results
- Spare time-5 min
- RiskNot enough time — rebook
- Time you actually need85 min
- Breakdowndeplane 15 + transfer 15 + checks 25 + boarding 30
- Recommended minimum layover130 min
Frequently asked questions
What is a minimum connection time?
Each airport publishes an MCT, often 45 minutes domestic and 90 minutes international. Airlines will sell tighter connections on a single ticket, but the risk is yours in practice.
What if I miss the connection?
On a single ticket the airline must rebook you. On separate tickets you have bought a new flight, which is why separate-ticket connections need 3+ hours.
About this calculator
- Built and reviewed by James Whitfield · How we build and test calculators
- Report an error
Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.