Ticket Jargon

Don't see your question? Send it to adatravel@pplsi.com.

What is the difference between nonstop, direct and connecting flights?

A nonstop flight flies directly from point A to point B without any stops.
A direct flight will fly from point A to point B, but you'll have at least one if not several stops along the way.
To get from point A to point B on a connecting flight, you'll not only have to stop over along the way, but you will also have to get out and make another flight to finish your journey.

Is the best way to get there with a nonstop, direct or connecting flight?

Prices on these three options will vary as to which is the cheapest way to go, so you'll probably want to evaluate each possibility for cost.
The frequent flyer points awarded on these three options can also vary.
On a very long trip it might be easier on you to enjoy a short stop over, but this will depend on the length of the trip and the stop over, as well as, personal preferences.
Nonstop flights are the quickest and simplest way to get there since you won't have to deal with any stops or transfers. Nonstop flights also provide less opportunity for your luggage to be lost.

What does it mean if it states that the ticket is nontransferable?

This usually means that the ticket is only to be used by the person whose name is listed on the ticket and cannot be used by anyone else but that person.
Policies will vary among types of tickets, so check the Airline's policy to find out exactly what the term means when it is applied to a particular ticket.

What does it mean if it states that the ticket is nonrefundable?

This means that you will not be issued a refund for the amount of the ticket if you don't use it. Policies can vary, so check the Airline's policy to find out the exact meaning when it is applied to a particular ticket.
Some Airlines will allow a nonrefundable ticket to be used another time, but there is usually a penalty in the form of a fee to change the original itinerary of the ticket. If you are using a travel consolidator, remember that they can sign agreements with the Airline that will eliminate some of your protections, so in their case nonrefundable may mean use it or lose it.