What defines a connecting flight?

A connecting flight is characterized by the need for passengers to change aircraft during their journey. This type of flight typically involves multiple legs on a trip where the passenger must disembark from one flight and board another to reach their final destination. Connecting flights often occur when there is no direct service available between the origin and the final destination or when travelers opt for a layover that might offer more competitive pricing or better scheduling options.

The other options describe different types of flight experiences but do not accurately define what constitutes a connecting flight. A flight that goes directly from origin to destination signifies a non-stop journey, with no need for aircraft change. A non-stop flight that requires refueling does not imply a change of aircraft, which is essential for labeling a flight as "connecting." Lastly, while automatically transferring luggage can sometimes occur with connecting flights, it is not a defining characteristic. The core aspect of a connecting flight is the requirement for passengers to switch planes.