Originally Posted by
nmcgreal
Can I check my bags all the way through from Barcelona to JFK if I am switching airlines from British Air to AA? I was worried I'd have to pick them up off the rounder in the British Air baggage area and check them back in at the AA ticket counter?
There should be no problem checking them through. In fact, you
should be able to check them through to RDU to avoid having to carry them to the hotel at JFK. You will still need to claim them at customs, but can then redeposit them just outside the arrival hall.
It helps if they are on the same PNR, but I have been able to check through even if not (but you should have the ticket or itinerary on hand if they are not on the same PNR).
When you get to LHR, if you are running late or there are long lineups at the connection centre screening, tell them when your flight is and they will often let you go through a fast path even if you don't formally qualify.