Choosing between direct and connecting flights for the ATL → OGG route depends on availability, price, and convenience. Direct nonstops (rare/seasonal) offer the fastest door-to-door time and less risk of missed connections, but they can be pricier and limited in frequency. Connecting flights via LAX, SFO, SEA, or PHX are more common, often cheaper, and provide more scheduling options—though they increase total travel time to 11–15 hours depending on layover length. For November travel, weigh the cost savings of a connection against potential delays on the West Coast; if traveling over Thanksgiving, prefer nonstops or longer buffer times between connections.