Identify the boundary
Airside is the controlled part of the airport used after the relevant screening or checks; landside is the public-access part. A connection may keep you within a permitted airside route or require exiting and repeating procedures. Two terminals in the same airport do not automatically have an airside connection for your itinerary.
Build the actual path
Find the airport’s instructions for your arrival and departure terminals, international or domestic status and baggage arrangements. Check whether you must collect luggage, pass border control, use a shuttle or enter a new security queue. A map distance alone is not a transfer time, especially when a path depends on opening hours or access permissions.
Keep airport changes separate
Compare the IATA codes, not only the city names. An airport change usually adds a ground journey and may require entry permission for the country. Confirm who is responsible for the transfer and what the ticket protects. Do not assume a metropolitan city code describes one building or one airport.
Confirm assistance and recovery
Plan mobility assistance across the whole route, including any public transport segment. Identify an alternative if the shuttle or onward flight is unavailable. A general airport guide provides a starting point; the operating airline and airport must confirm the procedures applicable to your itinerary.
International Flight News separates verified facts, durable context and editorial analysis. Time-sensitive reports identify their primary sources, publication date and material updates.