Why some longer flight options with connections cost more than a direct flight

Question

Looking at expedia I’ll notice that often there will be a 2 hour direct flight option to my desired destination for say $300. And then they will also offer a 13 hour 3 layover option for $1400.

In: Economics

Answer 1

Often when there’s multiple weird connections they’re looking at multiple one way itineraries vs to get to your destination.

Will it work? Yes! Is it optimal/rational? Nope

The other flight options should feel like they’re crazy timings and/or too expensive. They’re anchoring your price/expectations so the direct flight automatically feels more rational. But are there other airlines, other dates, or other routes they don’t want you to think about??

To them, hopefully you won’t ask any of those questions