Originally Posted by
alanmelb
My partner and I are travelling BNE-SYD-LAX-LAS next month. The flights (QF except for the last flight, operated by AA) are all booked on the one itinerary (single PNR) and I have QF Platinum / oneworld Emerald status. We have a three hour connection in LAX, and hope that we might have a chance to freshen up at the lounge before the final leg. We're hoping it's not too tight: I understand that it can take more than two hours to clear customs and immigration - though, conversely, it looks like QF11 has very good historical on-time performance.
Our plan to connect quickly is below. Any tips on how to optimise would be appreciated!
* Use the Mobile Passport Control app to get through immigration quickly (looks like immigration lane 43 is for MPC).
* Go downstairs to pick up our bags from the carousel, clear customs, and, recheck them for the final flight (I'm assuming they should already be tagged for the last leg).
* Find the TBIT arrivals TSA area: leave the customs hall and turn right, towards T4, staying inside the building.
* Once cleared, make our way airside to T4.
* Get to the American Airlines lounge near gate 40.
Does this sound about right? If the TBIT arrivals TSA area is closed or very busy, am I correct that we'd be able to use the American Airlines Flagship First checkin (our last flight is operated by AA), accessible curbside from Terminal 4?
You are correct on all counts. 3 hours is plenty so don't sweat it.
The only thing you want to check is the make sure your LAX-LAS flight departs from T4. It may depart from T5 or even TBIT due to equipment swap. If that is the case on the day of your travel, it's fine to stay in the Flagship lounge in T4. Just give yourself a few more minutes to walk to the gate in T5 or TBIT (all behind security).