Direct flights, despite the name, will also take you from your departure city to your destination, but will make a stop elsewhere in between. Some people might get off the flight during this stop, others may get on, but a direct flight does not count as a connecting one as it will have you staying put on the plane.

Whether you get off the plane on a direct flight is one of the most common points of confusion in travel, because a "direct" flight is not the same as a "non-stop" flight. On a non-stop flight, the plane goes from Point A to Point B with no stops, so you obviously stay on the plane. On a direct flight, the flight number stays the same (e.g., Flight 123), but the aircraft may make a scheduled stop in an intermediate city to pick up more passengers or refuel. During this stop, you typically stay on the aircraft while some people get off and others board. However, in some rare cases, you might be asked to exit the plane with your carry-on luggage and wait in a secure boarding area for 45 minutes while the plane is cleaned or a crew change occurs, only to re-board the same aircraft. It is vital to check your itinerary details: if it says "1 stop" but only lists one flight number, it is a direct flight. If it lists two different flight numbers, it is a "connection," and you will definitely have to change planes. Always listen to the flight attendant's instructions during the intermediate stop to ensure you don't accidentally wander off into the terminal if you are supposed to remain on board.