Originally Posted by
mjuler
Not a recent experience, but we did this flight a few years back, just after the A380 started on the route. We were late leaving LHR and landed after the Chinese flight. It seemed to take an age for each group of passenger to pass customs, plus customs booths started to close down which really didn't help. It was at least 2-hours, then a massive queue at car hire it was gone 11pm before we were on the road. Then to top it all off, Interstate 405 was closed for roadwork with non-existent diversion signs!
Now that does sound like a nightmare that I could do without.
Originally Posted by
Tobias-UK
That sounds like the days before the kiosks were introduced. Now those on ESTA bypass the main immigration lines and head to the kiosks. Much quicker than of old.
I didn't know there was a different line for ESTA passengers. I assume the "ESTA" line is clearly identified as I've not been to LAX for over 20 years.
Originally Posted by
flying_pig
There is little consistency, unfortunately. I had a few horror experiences when travelling on one of my passports which is not eligible for Global Entry and no SS picking me up. In one instance a couple of months ago I was in the queue to the kiosks for about 1 hour (ie: 1 hour to get to the kiosks plus then another 20 minutes to get stamped and exit). Other times I was in the baggage hall within 5 minutes.
One key variable is whether anyone in your group will get the dreaded “X” on the kiosk’s receipt. That can happen even if you are on ESTA and can depend on a variety of factors. That would mean another - usually long - queue to see an immigration officer, which could take AGES. So, my advice would be to build generous contingency if you have other plans afterwards.
Only plans afterwards are onward travel to our hotel in Universal City via a pre-booked shuttle service. Hopefully they'll wait for us if we're delayed
