Flights

Get your Answers to Questions about flights

This Flights Guide is provided for general informational purposes only.

It does not constitute legal, financial, or airline booking advice. Flight schedules, fares, baggage rules, and airline policies vary by carrier and route. Always review the terms and conditions of your airline ticket and consult the airline or a licensed travel professional for specific guidance before booking or traveling.

Your travel questions

Answers to common inquiries

Nonstop vs. direct — what’s the difference?

Nonstop flight has no stops.

A direct flight keeps the same flight number but may stop en route. If you want the fastest option, filter for “nonstop”.

See also: Nonstop, Direct flight

What bags are included on US airlines?

A personal item is usually free; carry-on and checked bags may have fees, especially on ULCCs. Always check your fare rules.

See also: <a href="/glossary#term-personal-item">Personal item</a>, <a href="/glossary#term-carry-on">Carry-on</a>, <a href="/glossary#term-checked-bag">Checked baggage</a>, <a href="/glossary#term-ulcc">ULCC</a>

Who qualifies for TSA PreCheck?

US citizens and US lawful permanent residents can apply. Some foreign nationals qualify via trusted traveler programs. Approval is required before use

See also: TSA PreCheck

Global Entry vs. PreCheck vs. CLEAR

Global Entry speeds up US immigration and includes PreCheck

TSA PreCheck speeds up TSA security;

CLEAR is a paid ID verification to skip ID lines (not a TSA program).

See also TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, CLEAR

Basic Economy: restrictions to expect

Expect limits on changes, seat selection, boarding group, and sometimes carry-ons. Rules vary by airline—check baggage and change policies carefully.

See also: Basic Economy

Can I change my ticket without a fee?

Many US airlines removed change fees on standard economy and above for domestic routes; fare differences may apply. Basic Economy usually excluded.

See also: Zero change fee

What is a codeshare and does it affect baggage?

You may book Airline A but fly Airline B. Baggage rules are often set by the marketing carrier on US itineraries; verify on your ticket.

See also: Codeshare

Open-jaw; multi-city tickets explained

Arrive in one city and depart from another to avoid backtracking. Use the “Multi-city” search and compare prices with standard roundtrips.

See also: Open-jaw

Best time to book US domestic flights

Prices fluctuate. As a rule of thumb, check several weeks in advance, monitor for drops, and avoid peak holidays when possible.

See also: Tariff

Red-eye flight survival tips

Choose a seat you can sleep in, bring layers, earplugs and an eye mask, hydrate, and keep your arrival morning light to adjust.

See also: Red-eye flight