Originally Posted by
elvisisdead
The first involves a 45 minute connection in San Salvador (from YYZ -AV to AV). Not only is this tight, it is in March, so a late inbound flight is a distinct possibility. I understand there is no security to clear in SAL, but 45 minutes seems really tight... Since this is one of the last flights out, if I can't make a connection, I will be delayed a whole day.
Thanks for your help.
When they were affordable (they are much less so now) and before Global Entry, I used to fly TACA/LACSA (same thing) about 10 times a year via SAL and never had issues with connections either way, even connecting to COPA which used to be the best timing (vs. connecting to TACA on their puddlejumper prop planes).
TACA/Avianca/LACSA connections in SAL require 40-44 minutes less than your amount of time depending on how far the gate is, which can range from about 200 feet to nearly zero.
And they are ruthless about padding their schedules a ton so 45 minutes really means as much as an hour and 45 minutes. Check Flightstats for typical arrival times vs. scheduled ones. Easy 30 minutes early daily.
They know when you left and when you'll arrive so the plane will be there.
The FF program might be lousy, but their service and timing is pretty good.