Is it better to book a direct flight or a connection?

Direct (nonstop) flights are almost always more reliable. Every connection adds risk: your first flight can be delayed, you might miss the connection, your bags might not make the transfer, and you spend time in an extra airport. BTS data shows that itineraries with connections have roughly double the overall delay/disruption rate compared to nonstop flights on the same route.

The math: if each flight has an 80% on-time rate, a two-leg itinerary has an effective on-time rate of about 64% (0.8 x 0.8). Add in connection risks and the real-world reliability drops further. A nonstop flight eliminates all of these compounding risks.

When connections make sense: if the nonstop is significantly more expensive (2x+ the price), if no nonstop exists on your route, or if you can get a comfortable layover (2+ hours) at a well-connected hub. If you must connect, choose a hub where your airline has deep operations (Delta at ATL, United at ORD/DEN, American at DFW/CLT) — these hubs have more rebooking options if something goes wrong. Avoid connecting through airports known for weather delays (ORD in winter, DEN in spring, SFO in summer fog season) when alternatives exist.