Travel & Transport
Airport Connection Buffer Calculator
A workable connection is longer than the walk between gates. Add deplaning, terminal transfer, border or security processing, and the time before departure when the next gate closes. Then add a delay buffer that reflects the itinerary. This estimate cannot replace an airline’s minimum connection rule.
Planning estimate only. Check measurements and real-world constraints before buying materials or making a commitment.
Calculate your scenario
Change any input. Results update immediately.
Your results
Physical process time
58 min
Deplaning, transfer, and processing.
Connection without delay buffer
73 min
Includes the next flight’s gate-close time.
Recommended planning time
108 min
Adds the selected inbound-delay margin.
How the calculation works
The calculator applies this relationship to the inputs above. Keep every measurement in the unit shown.
Worked example
Use this example to check the calculator by hand before relying on a result.
Assumptions behind the result
- • Flights use the scheduled itinerary.
- • Bags are checked through where applicable.
- • Terminal transfer estimates are realistic.
- • No overnight or airport-change transfer is involved.
- • Airline minimum-connection rules are checked separately.
Mistakes that change the answer
- • Comparing arrival time with departure time only.
- • Ignoring gate closure.
- • Assuming checked bags transfer on separate tickets.