Originally Posted by
moa999
Which is why I asked about separate PNRs...
If you are on separate tickets your onwards PNR is for a "solely North American flight" your other PNR is complete, whether it was 2hrs or 2 days ago.
What we the traveller tend to define as a single itinerary may not be by airlines, (or travel insurance provides)
Travelling on separate tickets does not preclude lounge access if otherwise the rules are met.