FlyerTalk Forums - View Single Post - SYD-LAX on Qantas - Earliest time before ownward flight on UA to check-in/bags?
Old Jul 2, 2012 | 12:28 am
  #10  
ozflier
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Join Date: Aug 1999
Location: Australia
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Originally Posted by ILikeComfort
I have a question for the opposite direction. We'll be arriving to SYD from LAX at ~7:50 AM. It's probably peak tourism season (Dec. 17 is arrival), so I'm wondering how much time we should give ourselves to clear customs and get to the domestic gates?

Thanks!
With luck, one hour would be the shortest and 2 hours if not so lucky.

Your baggage getting to the carousel usually takes longer than clearing immigration -though for Australians, the latter is automated if you have an electronic passport .

Most pax will have baggage checked in some way thru Customs often by Xray . If you were in J or F, you will get a priority customs clearance voucher which really helps speed thru that area.

It is then not a long walk(say some 500 metres) to the Qantas checkin in and security check.

Interterminal buses leave every 10 minutes or so and are quick - no further security checks at the domestic terminal. Once there you just follow the crowds up the escalator and you are right at the departure gates .

The only problems with connections is if the UA a/c arrives late or both the flights from LAX and SFO arrive at the same time - as it seems to take longer to get the bags unpacked.

All in all , in economy , easily make it in 2 hours .In the front cabins , 90 minutes no problem.

Qantas are usually pretty forgiving if you check in late at the fault of the arriving carrier.

Happy to give more info if needed.
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