How to Filter Nonstop Flights Only

The single most useful thing you can do before searching for flights is apply the nonstop filter. It takes about five seconds on any platform — and it immediately eliminates every connecting itinerary from your results, so you're only comparing true direct options.

Here's how to do it on every major booking site.

Skyscanner

Go to skyscanner.net and enter your departure airport, destination, and dates.
Click Search Flights.
On the results page, look for "Stops" in the left-hand filter panel.
Select "Direct only" or "0 stops".
Results will instantly update to show only nonstop flights.

ℹ️ On Skyscanner mobile, tap Filters at the top of the results screen, then scroll to Stops and select Direct.

Google Flights

Go to google.com/flights and enter your route and dates.
Click Search.
On the results page, click "Stops" in the filter bar near the top of the page.
Select "Nonstop only".
Click Done. Results update immediately.

Google Flights also has an excellent price calendar view that works with the nonstop filter — showing you the cheapest nonstop fares across a full month at a glance.

💡 Google Flights' price tracking feature works with the nonstop filter applied. Set a price alert on a nonstop-only search and you'll be notified specifically when nonstop fares drop — not connecting itineraries.

Kayak

Go to kayak.com and search your route.
On the results page, look for "Stops" in the left filter panel.
Check the box for "Nonstop".
Results filter instantly.

Kayak also shows a price history graph on many routes — visible once you've run your search — which helps you understand whether the current nonstop fare is historically high or low.

Expedia

Search your route on expedia.com.
On the results page, look for "Number of stops" in the left filter panel.
Select "Nonstop".
Results update to show only direct flights.

Booking Directly with the Airline

Most airline websites also offer a nonstop filter when searching flights. British Airways, Emirates, and Singapore Airlines all allow you to filter results to show only nonstop options. The advantage of booking directly is sometimes a slightly lower fare (no OTA booking fee) and easier modification if plans change.

Verifying a Flight Is Truly Nonstop Before You Book

Even after applying the nonstop filter, always verify the stop count before completing your purchase. On the flight details page (before payment), look for:

Number of stops: 0 — This is the definitive confirmation of a nonstop flight.
A single departure airport and single arrival airport, with no intermediate airports listed.
A single continuous flight duration with no layover time shown.

If you see anything suggesting an intermediate stop — even if the filter was applied — contact the airline or check the flight details more carefully before booking.

The Bottom Line

Applying the nonstop filter is the most important 5-second habit you can develop as a frequent traveler. It removes the noise, focuses your search, and ensures you're never accidentally comparing a 12-hour nonstop to an 18-hour connection as if they were equivalent options. Do it first. Every time.