Gwen,

The e-kiosks are the only way to go (assuming you have an e*ticket and not paper!). At Ternminal Two in LAX the e-kiosk is built into the NW check in counter at the far right side as you face the counter. I find it easiest to use my Worldperks card. You simply put the card in and pull it out like an ATM. The screen displays your name and WP#. It displays your flight/seat info and asks if you want to make any changes. If not, push no and the two questions regarding have you been keeping an eye on your bags, and has anyone asked you to carry anything come up. Just touch the correct answers on the touch screen. It also asks how many bags you want to check (zero!). The whole process takes perhaps 30 seconds. It then prints your boarding pass. I do not think there will be much of any wait at the e-kiosk.

Use the boarding pass and your photo ID at the foot of the escalators. The security person will let you up the escalator. There is a potential wait here, although there was none on Sunday when I passed through. Any line should move quickly, as nothing is being inspected except your ID and boarding pass.

At the top of the escalator is the regular security. Here could be a big delay. I breezed through, but this is where you could run into trouble. Once through, you're good to go.

I have read the posts above, and I am confused as to whether it is thought you will have to clear any security at the United terminal. I do not think you will, just fight through the crowds and get on the shuttle bus. The buses go MUCH faster now that no private cars can come to the terminals.

I think you are vulnerable to delay at two points:

1. The United flight itself is delayed.

2. Long line at security at top of escalators at T2.

The rest, getting out of the United terminal, the shuttle bus, the e-kiosk, the check at the base of the escalators should not be problem areas.

(note there are two up escalators now, not one up and one down as before - if the line is long at the first you come to, the other is perhaps 15 yards beyond near the Virgin counter area, but it will be slightly out of sight)


Good luck.

[This message has been edited by Shinkansen (edited 10-15-2001).]