A nonstop flight goes from your departure airport to your destination without landing in between. A direct flight keeps the same flight number but may stop on the way, sometimes with a change of plane. If you want the fastest trip, look for the word nonstop, not direct.
The difference
- Nonstop: one takeoff, one landing. No intermediate stop.
- Direct: one flight number, but the plane can land once or more on the way. You may stay on board, or you may change aircraft.
- Connecting: two or more flight numbers. You change planes and possibly airlines, and your bags may or may not be checked through.
How to check before you pay
- Look for the number of stops in the search results. 'Nonstop' or '0 stops' means no landing; '1 stop' means a landing even when it's 'direct'.
- Compare the total travel time with the flying time. A trip much longer than the flying time almost always includes a stop.
- Check the flight number on both legs. If the number changes, it's a connection.
Why nonstop isn't always better
- Nonstops can cost more, though on routes with several airlines they are sometimes priced like a connection.
- A connection through a good hub can give you more departure times, and it can make an out-of-the-way city reachable.
- A short stop on a direct flight can be a break on a very long trip.
Where this matters from Canada
- Many Asia, Caribbean and Mexico routes from Toronto and Vancouver have nonstops. See our list of every nonstop route from Canada.
- Flights to South Asia often mix nonstops with connections in Europe or the Gulf, so check the stops.
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Where to stay, data and getting around
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Common questions
Is a direct flight faster than a connecting one?
Usually, but a direct flight with a stop is slower than a nonstop. The number of stops tells you more than the word direct.
Do I have to change planes on a direct flight?
Sometimes. The flight number stays the same, but the aircraft can change at the stop. The booking page or airline can tell you.
Do nonstop flights cost more?
Often, but not always. Compare both on your dates. Nonstops save hours, which can be worth a higher fare, especially with children or on long routes.
Sources
Checked November 10, 2026. Rules, prices and opening hours change, so confirm before you travel.