TF Routing Options, Normal vs Direct

[sfatula]

What would be the difference between normal and direct TF routing? Normal in the manual merely says defines a normal routing path. Well, not very specific. Normal to me would mean straight there, I would call that normal. But, it must not be, as direct says direct routing to the destination.

This leaves me wondering, what is normal then! Is it merely less safe than Safer, however, not as reckless potentially as direct?

[LeeChard]

Later in the game if you've island hopped you'll find your supply TF's will go out of their way to avoid
enemy occupied bases. If you know that they don't represent a threat you can order you route to go direct
and your ships will sail right past them.

[HansBolter]

Agree with Ranger.

Normal with have a Normal reaction to threat.

Direct seems to override threat tolerance settings.