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

Each leg of the flight costs money. Forget that they are all happening in quick succession and let’s pretend they are all a day or week apart. What should cost more a flight from Miami directly to LA or a flight from Miami to Houston + a flight from Houston to Denver + a flight from Denver to LA. 

Tldr 3 flights more expensive than 1 flight.