Originally Posted by
aztimm
I don't agree at all. I've had at least 2 experiences where TA flights arrived early and we were kept on the aircraft until immigration opened. Then it was a mad scramble, together with passengers from 2-3 other flights, all trying to get through immigration. If checking bags, then that is a whole other story.
Not to mention that most people shy away from the aircraft that service CLT-LAX.
CLT immigration and customs open at 1300. All inbound international flights are due in past 1300. But when the winds are in your favor and you get there early you have to wait to get off the plane. On St. Saturdays (what we call Saturday since we have so many Caribbean island flights that day of the week) there can be a rush at 1300.
I will say our customs officers are also a bit more strict than in most other airports.