A journey by air often involves multiple stages, each constituting a distinct portion of travel between two airports. For instance, a trip from New York to London with a layover in Dublin comprises two such portions: New York to Dublin, and Dublin to London. These individual legs of a larger itinerary are commonly referred to within the travel industry by a specific term.
Understanding this concept is crucial for managing travel arrangements effectively. Breaking down a journey into these constituent parts allows for precise pricing calculations, accurate scheduling, and efficient management of potential disruptions. This granular approach has become increasingly important with the rise of complex itineraries and the prevalence of online travel booking platforms. Furthermore, it facilitates detailed record-keeping for frequent flyer programs and expense reporting.