A layover refers to a period of time during a journey where a traveler stops in a particular location for a certain duration before continuing to their final destination. It is an intermediate break within a long journey, usually associated with air travel but can also occur during bus, train, or ship transportation. During a layover, passengers typically remain in an airport, bus station, train station, or seaport while waiting for their next flight, bus, train, or ship.
The duration of a layover can vary widely, ranging from a few minutes to several hours or even overnight, depending on the travel itinerary or circumstances. Layovers can be planned or unplanned, with planned ones often incorporated into the travel schedule as a deliberate stop to break a long journey or explore a new location briefly. Conversely, an unplanned layover may occur due to flight delays, cancellations, missed connections, weather conditions, or other unforeseen circumstances.
During a layover, passengers may engage in various activities, such as rest and relaxation, dining, shopping, exploring the surrounding area, or spending time at airport facilities. Some airports even offer amenities such as lounges, entertainment areas, spas, and sleeping pods to enhance passengers' layover experience.
Layovers are a crucial aspect of connecting flights, enabling passengers to switch planes and airlines, complete necessary immigration procedures, retrieve checked luggage, and meet any additional travel requirements before continuing their journey.
