I'm not sure what a J ticket is - I assume it's not the aisle, as it carries along the full length of the aircraft, and there will be bins at some point. Worryingly though, according to a KLM seating plan of the A330-200, my seat is in the toilet! The last time I looked at the seating plan though (2 days ago - and it's closed now) the flight was not full.

Thanks to everyone for all the great - and patient - help, to this newbie (to the forum that is, I REALLY HAVE flown before!)

I'm still not sure if I should check-in online (or at the kiosk) or if I should take it to the desk. Personally, I'd rather skip the queue at the desk.

The issue now is really about when I get to ORD (and I was there about 3 years ago, changing for a flight to Indianapolis). My check-in suitcase is big and heavy (about 50lb) and my carry-on camera bag even though it is only about 32 linear inches - well under all carry-on size allowances - is not easy to carry.

Even though I definitely had it with me, when I was last in ORD, I can't remember carrying the suitcase from terminal 5 to 3 (on the shuttle). If I thought getting the second boarding pass at the check-in desk in SNN is the reason I avoided that, I would risk going to the desk. BUT if I have to make that trip anyway - or if I don't - I'll go to the kiosk in SNN.

Any clarification of the ORD procedure would be VERY welcome.

Thanks again for all your help!

Stephen