MCT is the legally defined minimum interval required for a passenger and their checked luggage to transfer between connecting flights at a specific airport.
Every airport in the world has a strictly defined Minimum Connection Time (MCT) filed in the global distribution systems, which varies based on the terminal layout and whether the connection is domestic or international. For example, the MCT for an international-to-international connection in Munich might be a highly efficient 45 minutes, while transferring at London Heathrow might require an MCT of 90 minutes. If a flight itinerary does not meet this minimum time limit, the booking system will physically block the ticket from being issued. While an airline will guarantee your connection if it meets the MCT, savvy business class travelers often manually request longer layovers. A 60-minute connection might be legal, but it doesn’t leave any time to visit the lounge, grab a shower, or enjoy a pre-flight meal—which defeats half the purpose of flying premium.
No, certified travel agents and airline systems cannot issue a single ticket that violates the established MCT.
The airline is fully responsible for rebooking you on the next available flight and providing hotel accommodations if an overnight stay is required.
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