What is the main difference between long-haul and short-haul flights?

Most reputed Airlines offer two different types of flights for short-haul and long-haul routes. Passengers can choose either of these two ways to reach their desired city at a reasonable price. The primary difference between short-haul and long-haul routes is based on the specific distance covered and time limit. However, any airline that covers aerial distances of less than 3,000 miles or operates between two routes for 3 hours will be categorized as a short-haul flight. Similarly, when an airline's travel distance is above 3,000 miles and flies for more than 3 hours to any specific destination, it will be considered a long-haul flight.

How do I know if my flight is short-haul or long-haul?

Some passengers are unable to predict whether their flight is short-haul or long-haul, and they are confused before using its services. Normally, flight distance and duration in the air are the main factors that help passengers determine whether any Airline allows short-haul or long-haul flight services for particular destinations. The following points will also clarify passengers' short- and long-haul flight problems.

• Short-haul flights: Airlines allow flight services a maximum of up to 3 hours and cover distances less than or around 3,000 miles to reach specific cities. Short-haul flights are mainly operated on domestic routes.
• Long-haul flights: When an Airline continues its services for 7 or more hours to reach a specific destination, it is considered a long-haul flight. Also, Airlines that offer long-haul flights cover above 3,000 miles and operate widely on international routes. 

What is considered a long-haul flight?

Long-haul flights often cover international destinations or intercontinental cities, and airline ticket costs for distant routes will be costlier than short-haul. The common definitions for long-haul flights can be observed from its overall durations in the air. So, the Airlines that usually fly for 7 to 12 hours on specific routes will be counted as long-haul flights. So, whenever you use airline services for international destinations, there is a high chance of long-haul flights to particular routes. Passengers who still need more details about long-haul flights can contact the specific airline's customer service, XXX-XXX-XXXX, and inquire about it from them over the Phone. Read more about How can passengers maximize comfort during a long-haul flight?  

Is a 3-hour flight short-haul?

Yes, flights that cover around 3 hours of journey in the air will be denoted as short-haul. Nowadays, numerous eminent air carrier supports short-haul flights with non-stop destinations and it also has less exposure to jet lags for passengers. Besides the less Jet lag exposure, they will also see some other benefits while choosing short-haul flights, which are mentioned below.

• Less travel time allows passengers to reach their destinations within some hours or a maximum of 3 hours.
• It is cost-effective and more comfortable for passengers who do not want to continue the long journey.
• Short-haul flights are safer than long-haul Airlines because they mostly fly to lower altitudes.
• Passengers can quickly get flexible tickets for short-haul routes, even at the last minute.

Do you get free meals on long-haul flights?

It is not mandatory that Airlines will always offer free meals to passengers on long-hual flights. Nevertheless, most international Airlines that cover long distance allow free snacks and one-time meal to willing passengers. Moreover, any passengers who need customized dishes from the available options can request in advance, and the airlines will make arrangements for the same while boarding the plane. Also, passengers do not have to pay additional costs for such meals because they are already included in the reservation. They can request premium drinks at a certain price after consulting with the airline's representatives before onboarding the plane.

Can you take your own food on a long-haul flight?

Yes, you can carry your food on long-haul flights only if the eatable items are in solid state form. Several renowned Airlines have restrictions on food items in liquid or gel form. So, before carrying any food, check the state and navigate through the Airline's liquid policy, which only supports up to 3.4 oz of fuel items on long-haul flights. Further, you can carry solid food items in your carry-on or in checked bags, especially on long-haul destinations.

Solid food items permitted on long-route flights include bread, sandwiches, cooked meat, and salads. If you do not carry any food items on the plane, you can still request meals or snacks during the flight, and Airline will make possible cuisine arrangements.