Clearing Custom if on MR
Jul 19, 2014, 3:36 pm
#1
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Clearing Custom if on MR
I am planning a mileage run from LAX to SYD with same day return. Do I need to clear customs OR can i just go to the departure gate?
If I don't need to clear customs, will it be like LHR whereby I would need to clear another security checkpoint (i.e TSA) before going to the departure gate?
Thank you.
If I don't need to clear customs, will it be like LHR whereby I would need to clear another security checkpoint (i.e TSA) before going to the departure gate?
Thank you.
Jul 19, 2014, 7:26 pm
#3
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Jul 19, 2014, 9:38 pm
#4
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Jul 20, 2014, 4:31 pm
#5
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May be an OT but the OP's plan reminded of a guy I knew who was after a MR on *A out of SYD. The best fare in terms of timing, miles earned and cost came to be with UA SYD-LAX return in Y (back to back).
The next best thing was TG SYD-BKK, but that didn't even come close in terms of cpm as UA had a special at the time.
Anyhow, I wouldn't do such a MR (or any for that matter).
The next best thing was TG SYD-BKK, but that didn't even come close in terms of cpm as UA had a special at the time.
Anyhow, I wouldn't do such a MR (or any for that matter).
Jul 20, 2014, 4:39 pm
#6
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UA used to be ideal for MRs trans Pacific. Upgrades were almost guaranteed with the right base fares. This has now changed ( i.e. Almost guaranteed upgrades ) with their new management. The whole UA FT culture revolves around getting "free" upgrades.
Jul 22, 2014, 4:44 am
#7
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If you are flying on United your profile indicates you will have access to one of the *A clubs that have showers. If you have no access to a club for a shower there are free landside showers after clearing Customs & Immigration where you will need to bring your own towel. I am sure whomever is sitting near you would appreciate it on the return flight.
Last edited by Aspen; Jul 22, 2014 at 4:47 am Reason: brevity
Jul 22, 2014, 2:23 pm
#8
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If you are flying on United your profile indicates you will have access to one of the *A clubs that have showers. If you have no access to a club for a shower there are free landside showers after clearing Customs & Immigration where you will need to bring your own towel. I am sure whomever is sitting near you would appreciate it on the return flight.
Jul 22, 2014, 4:12 pm
#9
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I presume you will have no luggage and be on QF metal. You should be able to OLCI, if not you can checkin and get your BP at the Qantas International Business lounge.
As for security, to go from arrivals to departures there is "International Transit".
There is only WTMD and x-ray - LAGS rules apply. Normally no documentation is needed for this (although you should have all standard stuff like passport and copies of e-tickets, BP's etc. with you).
Once at the departures level you can proceed to the lounge.
As for security, to go from arrivals to departures there is "International Transit".
There is only WTMD and x-ray - LAGS rules apply. Normally no documentation is needed for this (although you should have all standard stuff like passport and copies of e-tickets, BP's etc. with you).
Once at the departures level you can proceed to the lounge.
I am planning a mileage run from LAX to SYD with same day return. Do I need to clear customs OR can i just go to the departure gate?
If I don't need to clear customs, will it be like LHR whereby I would need to clear another security checkpoint (i.e TSA) before going to the departure gate?
Thank you.
If I don't need to clear customs, will it be like LHR whereby I would need to clear another security checkpoint (i.e TSA) before going to the departure gate?
Thank you.
Last edited by serfty; Jul 22, 2014 at 8:10 pm
Jul 22, 2014, 4:39 pm
#10
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Jul 22, 2014, 6:53 pm
#11
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It may be difficult to get a BP in LAX unless you can show permission to enter Oz ( ie Oz / NZ passport or visa).
Jul 22, 2014, 8:08 pm
#12
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"No Documentation is needed to use International Transit Security."
Jul 30, 2014, 8:33 am
#13
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The OP could apply online, if a US citizen, for an Aust Transit Visa, free to apply.
We all assume "she will be right", but what happens if the plane goes out of service, and you have to get out to the open area of SYDi airport?
If there is time, OP, I would get a Transit Visa for Aust.
Does not mean you have to use it, I mean clear Aust Immi and Aust Customs, but if you need it, at least its there.
We all assume "she will be right", but what happens if the plane goes out of service, and you have to get out to the open area of SYDi airport?
If there is time, OP, I would get a Transit Visa for Aust.
Does not mean you have to use it, I mean clear Aust Immi and Aust Customs, but if you need it, at least its there.
Jul 30, 2014, 8:40 am
#14
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OP, best of luck, but the airline you plan to do this MR with, might not be so helpful in allowing you to do it.
Do come back and tell us if it works.
I know, domestically in Aust, I have done it with VA in a 4.5 hour turnaround, but haven't tried it internationally, same day return that.
Not to mention you loose a day coming over the international date line, and gain a day going back... and all that.
Do come back and tell us if it works.
I know, domestically in Aust, I have done it with VA in a 4.5 hour turnaround, but haven't tried it internationally, same day return that.
Not to mention you loose a day coming over the international date line, and gain a day going back... and all that.
Jul 30, 2014, 5:02 pm
#15
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OP, best of luck, but the airline you plan to do this MR with, might not be so helpful in allowing you to do it.
Do come back and tell us if it works.
I know, domestically in Aust, I have done it with VA in a 4.5 hour turnaround, but haven't tried it internationally, same day return that.
Not to mention you loose a day coming over the international date line, and gain a day going back... and all that.
Do come back and tell us if it works.
I know, domestically in Aust, I have done it with VA in a 4.5 hour turnaround, but haven't tried it internationally, same day return that.
Not to mention you loose a day coming over the international date line, and gain a day going back... and all that.