I didn't realize that DL had gone to (or maybe always has had) the dreaded split routing on this SYD-LAX-ATL service. I thought originally that DL 16/17 operated on the 777LR for both legs in both directions, but now that is not the case. It's unfortunate when folks are booked on the same flight number all the way through, but still have to worry about making a connection due to change of aircraft at LAX.

I used to live in LA but never connected intl > domestic at LAX. Is there not a separate airside security re-check after clearing immigration/customs to allow the arriving intl pax access into the T5/6/7/8 airside complex without going through one of the main security lines used by originating domestic pax in those terminals? Seems like there should be a separate recheck for those intl arrivals who are connecting, since once you are clear of security it is possible to use the T5-6 airside tunnel and the airside corridors connecting T6-7-8 to go to any gate in the complex.