Glossary · At the airport
What is a red-eye flight?
Also called overnight flight
A red-eye is an overnight flight that leaves late at night and arrives early the next morning, letting you sleep in transit and save a day — and often a hotel night. The name comes from the tired, red eyes of passengers who don't sleep well on board.
Pack a small in-cabin comfort kit — eye mask, earplugs, a warm layer — within easy reach, since you'll want it without opening the overhead bin.
Related terms
Updated July 2, 2026
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