Minimum Connecting Time (MCT)
The shortest layover an airline/airport considers safe for passengers to make their connection.
Full definition
MCT is the official minimum time between arriving on one flight and departing on another at a specific airport. MCTs vary by airport, airline, and whether flights are international vs domestic. Published MCTs are guidelines — ExpertFlyer and airline websites show MCT-compliant connections.
Build buffer for international-to-domestic transfers (often 90+ minutes at major US hubs) and when changing terminals.
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