Please excuse my absolute ignorance (both in general and on this thread). I haven’t travelled outside Europe in about eight years.
I’ve to book a flight that has a connecting flight through the States (cc @balbec). Connecting flight options varying from 1 hour to 3 or 4 hours. Given that I can go through pre-clearance at Dublin Airport, this means I have no customs issues in the US, so I’m guessing those shorter layovers of 90 mins - 2 hours should be more than sufficient? I should add I’m booking direct through the airline, so I’m covered if a delay from their side forces me to miss my connecting flight, but that could mess things up a little.
My question though is the coming back. I’ve to go through the States. What’s the customs story then? Does all that ESTA lark cover me as well? Again, should I get away with 60-90 mins for connecting flights?
Like the time I gave myself an hour in Heathrow, had to collect my bags, recheck in, and ended up walking through a building site outside the terminal I needed to get?
Coming back 60-90 is tight. Do your bags go straight through - I think you may have to grab them
I’ve had to clear security again in US airports connecting from Mexico and fairly sure I had to grab bags and drop off even though tagged through to destination
Jesus Christ take the 3/4 hours and don’t be fretting the whole day. Worst case scenario you’ll have to put in time having a beer in an American airport.
Agree with @Fagan_ODowd here. US airports are horrible places to be rushing in. If on your holidays, don’t add the stress to your journey. Unforeseeables, delays etc. Take the 3 or 4 layover which likely be cut 1.5/2 by time you change terminals etc etc.
Check lounges in airport and buy a pass for one going over anyway. You’ll get a bit of peace and quiet and a comfortable chair and drink and maybe food.
). Connecting flight options varying from 1 hour to 3 or 4 hours. Given that I can go through pre-clearance at Dublin Airport, this means I have no customs issues in the US, so I’m guessing those shorter layovers of 90 mins - 2 hours should be more than sufficient? I should add I’m booking direct through the airline, so I’m covered if a delay from their side forces me to miss my connecting flight, but that could mess things up a little.
