Originally Posted by
uclacolumbiaunc
SLC website has very little information about its airport regarding connection...
so i have a few questions about International to Domestic connection at SLC:
1. Flying AMS-SLC on KL business class on an award ticket, SLC -> Los Angeles area on DL economy (or perhaps C+) on a paid ticket. I am doing two separate reservation because of the lack of award availability on KL non-stop from AMS->LAX. Will KL agent be able to check my luggage through from AMS to Los Angeles area airport even these flights are two separate bookings??
2. Will KL agent at AMS check me in for both flights in two reservations?
3. Will I have to leave the security area after clearing US Immigration and go through security again (I have Global entry)? From what I've read, it seems like all gates / terminals are connected via walkway at airside....
4. I know MCT is 1 hour for I->D connection, but should I allow two hours (2:50 arrival from AMS, perhaps 5pm-ish departure to Los Angeles area) just in case the immigration takes longer than expected? from what I've read, SLC immigration lines are not that long, but you never know.
1)Yes they can check your luggage through, however it doesn't matter. When you reach SLC you have to pickup your luggage and recheck it after customs. Unlike the EU, in the US you complete both Immigration and Customs at your first port of entry.
2)No - KLM will not be able to check you in for the separate reservation. They have no access to it, and DL doesn't allow checkin till 24 hours before departure. You can checkin online, or when you recheck your bags after customs in SLC
3)You always have to reclear security after an international flight, except for those from pre-clearance. (Dublin, most Canadian airports, etc)
4)MCT is only for actual, one ticket reservations. Regardless of how long it takes, if you miss the flight it will get cancelled. KLM will have no responsibility if you miss the Delta flight. You won't get a hotel, they won't rebook you, etc. DL also has no responsibility to rebook you. However DL will do it even though they don't have to. Note that if you're on a full flight, that your seat may be given away. If that's the case you'll need to wait till the next day to fly. Again regardless of the reason, no hotel/food/compensation will be given since it's two different reservations.