Jan 2, 2016, 6:17 pm
Last edit by: Prospero
Please edit or add information to this wiki as necessary.
Link to Miami International Airport website
Link to aa.com Miami International Airport page and airport app.
Link to thread with archived older posts.
Peculiarities: MIA can be affected by summer tropical storms and hurricanes. Knock-on effects during lengthy IROPS can manifest themselves systemwide. At peak times (e.g. early morning arrivals), arrivals processing and terminal facilities can get very crowded.
Airport Map
Concourses and Gates
The terminal at MIA is a single U-shaped building divided into 6 concourses. AA operates flights out of Concourses D & E.Concourse D: Gates D1-D60
Gates E20-E33 are located at the International Satellite Terminal, accessible via people mover on Level 4 just past the Concourse E security checkpoint. If the people mover is out of service, signs will direct passengers to the shuttle bus departing from the E1 Bus Station on Level 1
Checking in at MIA Link
Flagship Check-in: Yes
Arrival at the Airport
The TSA recommends arriving at the airport 2 hours before your flight (3 hours for international). If you travel often, save time by enrolling in TSA PreCheck. We’re working with the U.S. government to alleviate these delays.
Check-in Times
You must be checked in:
You must be at the gate and ready to board the aircraft:
Doors close 10 minutes before departure.
Time to baggage delivery: 30-55 minutes
AA Ticket Counters Link
Concourse D
Charter 1: Cuba charter check-in only; open dependent on charter flight schedule, located across from Door 1
Kiosk 1: self-service check-in; located between Doors 1 and 2
Main: full-service check-in; located across from Door 2
Flagship: full-service check-in; located between Doors 2 & 3
Priority: full-service check-in; separate queues for First Class & AAdvantage Executive Platinum, Business Class & AAdvantage Platinum, and AAdvantage Gold & Priority; late nights Priority and Main are consolidated at this counter; located between Doors 3 & 4
Kiosk 2: self-service check-in; located across from Door 5
Kiosk 3: self-service check-in; located across from Door 6
Rebooking Center: missed connection assistance for customers arriving on international flights only; located across from Door 6
Cuba Check-in: self-service check-in for customers traveling to Cuba only; located between Doors 6 & 7
Concourse E
Charter 2: Cuba charter check-in only; open dependent on charter flight schedule, located across from Door 10
Security at MIA
Link to security checkpoint locations map. All Concourse D and E gates are accessible from any D or E checkpoint. Connections to or from other concourses will require you to exit and reclear security.
If you do not have Priority or Pre✓, please allow at least 20-40 minutes to clear security. If you miss your flight due to security checkpoint wait times, you will be allowed to standby for the next AA flight to your destination.
Concourse D
Checkpoint 1: open 5 AM to 9 PM, best for Gates D1-D21, located across from Door 1
Checkpoint 2: open 24 hours, best for Gates D22-D24, available to Priority and Pre✓ passengers only while other checkpoints are open (4 AM to 10:30 PM), located across from Door 3
Checkpoint 3: open 4 AM to 10:30 PM, best for Gates D25-D29 & D41-D60 (via skytrain) and access to skytrain Station 2, located between Doors 5 & 6
Checkpoint 4: open 8 AM to 10 AM and 6 PM to 8 PM, best for Gates D30-D40, located across from Door 9
D FIS Checkpoint: open 4 AM to 9:30 PM, available only to passengers who have cleared customs at the D federal inspection station (non-precleared international flights arriving Concourses D, E & F), located to your left upon exiting customs
Concourse E
Checkpoint E: open 4 AM to 10:30 PM, best for Gates E2-E11 & E20-E33, located between Doors 11 & 12
Priority lanes available at Checkpoints 2 and E
TSA Pre✓ available 24 hours at Checkpoint 2, available during peak times only at Checkpoints 1, E, and D FIS
CLEAR available at Checkpoint E & H
Tip: Upon exiting customs, you will be directed to the D FIS checkpoint. If you would like to use an alternate checkpoint, follow the signs to the Crew EXIT and Rebooking Center in order to avoid exiting on the Arrivals (lower) level and having to go back upstairs. Checkpoints 1-3 will be to your left and Checkpoints 4 & E will be to your right.
Security checkpoint operating hours may differ from published times due to TSA staffing constraints and security initiatives.
MIA Services, Shopping, and Dining
MIA VIP Services (expedited processing similar to AA Five Star Service): link.
Lounges: please see the Lounge Dashboard sticky for further lounge information at MIAConcourse D: Admirals Clubs above Gate D15 and across from Gate D30; Centurion Lounge at Gate D12 (take elevator in rotunda to Level 3)
Dining & Shopping: Link to MIA services, dining guide, and interactive map
On-Airport Hotel:Miami International Airport Hotel (landside, Concourse E)
Wi-Fi:Paid WI-Fi service available throughout terminal. Link to pricing information and connection instructions
Smoking: Smoking is permitted only in designated smoking areas across from terminal sidewalks and at:TGI Friday's smoking lounge between Gates D34 & D36
Rental Cars: The Rental Car Center is located at 3900 NW 25 St, Miami, FL 33142 (across from the main entrance to the airport) and is served by 16 companies. Link. Access to and from the terminal is via the MIA Mover automated people mover.Arriving Passengers: After collecting your baggage, follow the black and pink signs to the MIA Mover station on the third level of the terminal, accessible via moving walkway. From there, board the MIA Mover to the Rental Car Center. Trains generally depart and arrive on the right track and run 24 hours a day. From 5 AM to midnight, trains run approximately every 3 minutes; from midnight to 5 AM, trains run approximately every 7 minutes. The train will reach the Rental Car Center in approximately 3 minutes. After exiting the station area, the rental car agencies will be located to your right.
Departing Passengers: Please return your vehicle at the Rental Car Center before checking in for your departing flight. After returning your vehicle, follow the black and pink signs to the MIA Mover station on the fourth level of the facility. From there, board the MIA Mover to Miami International Airport. Trains generally depart and arrive on the right track and run 24 hours a day. From 5 AM to midnight, trains run approximately every 3 minutes; from midnight to 5 AM, trains run approximately every 7 minutes. The train will reach the airport terminal in approximately 3 minutes. After exiting the station area, moving walkways to AA ticket counters and gates will be located to your right.
Animal Relief Areas:Coming soon!
MIA Parking
There are Valet and Garage parking options. Link for options, pricing, and maps
Accessible/Disabled Parking: Link
Cell Phone Waiting Lot: Link
MIA Transportation
Public Transportation: All buses and trains depart from Miami Central Station, which is co-located with the Rental Car Center and is accessible via the MIA Mover automated people mover. Link to map and directions to Miami Central StationMetrorail Orange Line to Dadeland South, serving Downtown Miami
Miami Beach Airport Express bus to Miami Beach
Metrobus routes 7, 37, 42, 57, J, 238/338 & 297
Tri-Rail commuter rail to Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach
Hotel Shuttles, Shared-Ride Vans, and Taxis: Link to area map and fare estimatesHotel shuttles pick up and drop off on the Departures (upper) level at Doors 3 & 7 at Concourse D; there are no designated stops at Concourses E-J
Super Shuttle shared-ride van service. Stands located on Arrivals (lower) level at Concourses D, E, F, and H.
Taxi stands located on Arrivals (lower) level at Concourses D, E, F, and H. Blue "Airport Region Taxi Service" taxis serve areas immediately adjacent to the airport. Yellow taxis serve all other areas.
Uber and Lyft rideshare services are technically illegal at MIA but will accept pick-ups and drop-offs. There are no designated stops; however, rideshare drivers will generally pick up on the Arrivals (lower) level.
Intercity Bus: Buses depart from Miami Central Station. Link to map and directions to Miami Central StationGreyhound bus service throughout continental United States
megabus low-cost express bus service to Orlando and Tampa
Things to Do
Do I have time to go to Miami or Miami Beach?Downtown Miami Due to increased security checkpoint wait times, you should allow yourself at least 3 hours between connections if you do not have Priority or Pre✓. A taxi to the city center should take approximately 12-17 minutes and will cost approximately $22. Because traffic to and from the airport can be unpredictable, consider taking the Metrorail Orange Line in lieu of a taxi. It is a 15-minute ride from the airport to the city center and trains run every 10-15 minutes except late nights. A roundtrip is $4.50.
Miami Beach Allow at least 3½ hours between connections due to the possibility of heavy traffic on the highways between the beach and the mainland. A taxi to the beach should take approximately 22-27 minutes and will cost $35 (flat rate) if going south of 63rd Street. For reference, South Beach and most of the tourist spots are south of 23rd Street. Consider taking the 150 Miami Beach Airport Express bus from the airport to the beach. It is a 31-minute ride from the airport to the Lincoln Road Mall and buses run every 20 minutes. A roundtrip is $4.50.
Posts from 2015-2017 have been archived here.
Check-in times as of March 2016 Link
In most locations, you must be checked in:
At least 45 minutes before scheduled departure, for flights within the United States[
At least 60 minutes before scheduled departure, for flights to or from airports outside of the United States
If you’re beginning travel from any of the airports below, the check-in time is longer:
Departing from: Check-in must be completed by:
(minutes before scheduled departure time)
In most locations, you must be checked in:
At least 45 minutes before scheduled departure, for flights within the United States[
At least 60 minutes before scheduled departure, for flights to or from airports outside of the United States
If you’re beginning travel from any of the airports below, the check-in time is longer:
Departing from: Check-in must be completed by:
(minutes before scheduled departure time)
- Caracas, Venezuela (CCS) 90 minutes
- Dublin, Ireland (DUB) 75 minutes
- Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE) 75 minutes
- Maracaibo, Venezuela (MAR) 90 minutes
- St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands (STT) 90 minutes
Link to aa.com Miami International Airport page and airport app.
Link to thread with archived older posts.
Peculiarities: MIA can be affected by summer tropical storms and hurricanes. Knock-on effects during lengthy IROPS can manifest themselves systemwide. At peak times (e.g. early morning arrivals), arrivals processing and terminal facilities can get very crowded.
Special notice
We operate out of Concourses D and E. Check your flight status for gate information.
Ticket counters
American Airlines
Concourse D
Daily: 4 a.m. - 11:30 p.m.
We operate out of Concourses D and E. Check your flight status for gate information.
Ticket counters
American Airlines
Concourse D
Daily: 4 a.m. - 11:30 p.m.
Airport Map
Official Minimum Connection Times for MIA (assuming same terminal):
International arrivals at MIA requires most passengers to fill out a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Declaration Form 6059B - one per family - process U.S. Immigration, retrieve baggage at arrivals carousels, process through U.S. customs, re-check baggage, proceed to either the TSA connections security processing queue or landside and process TSA security (with onward boarding pass) to return airside. (Read on for exceptions.)
This does not apply if you are connecting international to international and have red "ITI" tags on your checked baggage. You will have to produce the Form 6059B and still pass through USCBP, albeit without baggage.
Other than for U.S. passport holders and passengers with USDHS ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization under the Visa Waiver Program), who may use kiosks that expedite the arrivals process, Immigration, Customs and TSA Security queues can at times be tortuous and one would do better scheduling a connection time closer to 2:30 (or even 3:00) for a comfortable international to domestic or to international connection for non-ESTA / non-U.S. passport holders.
If one is enrolled in Global Entry and can use the dedicated kiosks and expedited queues, the process is speediest as there are clearly marked queues after the self-clearing kiosks and one is not required to possess a Form 6059B.
- 0:40 Domestic to Domestic
- 0:45 Domestic to International
- 1:35 International to Domestic
- 1:35 International to International
International arrivals at MIA requires most passengers to fill out a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Declaration Form 6059B - one per family - process U.S. Immigration, retrieve baggage at arrivals carousels, process through U.S. customs, re-check baggage, proceed to either the TSA connections security processing queue or landside and process TSA security (with onward boarding pass) to return airside. (Read on for exceptions.)
This does not apply if you are connecting international to international and have red "ITI" tags on your checked baggage. You will have to produce the Form 6059B and still pass through USCBP, albeit without baggage.
Other than for U.S. passport holders and passengers with USDHS ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization under the Visa Waiver Program), who may use kiosks that expedite the arrivals process, Immigration, Customs and TSA Security queues can at times be tortuous and one would do better scheduling a connection time closer to 2:30 (or even 3:00) for a comfortable international to domestic or to international connection for non-ESTA / non-U.S. passport holders.
If one is enrolled in Global Entry and can use the dedicated kiosks and expedited queues, the process is speediest as there are clearly marked queues after the self-clearing kiosks and one is not required to possess a Form 6059B.
For general information, see:
AA FAQ: Will I make my connection?
MIA Airport Website
MIA North Terminal (Concourse D) Updates
Concourse D Skytrain (inside security) - transfers between all gates in Concourse D and between inbound international flights and Customs & Immigrations Halls in Concourse E. Concourses D and E are connected inside security via a walkway.
Connections between terminals at MIA (using the Skyride Connector moving walkways)
AA.com: Admirals Club Locations and Hours
FT: American Airlines Lounge Dashboard for Lounge information
AA FAQ: Will I make my connection?
MIA Airport Website
MIA North Terminal (Concourse D) Updates
Concourse D Skytrain (inside security) - transfers between all gates in Concourse D and between inbound international flights and Customs & Immigrations Halls in Concourse E. Concourses D and E are connected inside security via a walkway.
Connections between terminals at MIA (using the Skyride Connector moving walkways)
AA.com: Admirals Club Locations and Hours
FT: American Airlines Lounge Dashboard for Lounge information
Concourses and Gates
The terminal at MIA is a single U-shaped building divided into 6 concourses. AA operates flights out of Concourses D & E.Concourse D: Gates D1-D60
- American Airlines ticket counters are located at Concourse D, Doors 1-7 and Concourse E, Door 10
- American Airlines mainline flights depart from Gates D1-D51
- American Eagle flights depart from Gates D53, D55 & D60
Gates E20-E33 are located at the International Satellite Terminal, accessible via people mover on Level 4 just past the Concourse E security checkpoint. If the people mover is out of service, signs will direct passengers to the shuttle bus departing from the E1 Bus Station on Level 1
- American Airlines ticket counters are located at Concourse D, Doors 1-7 and Concourse E, Door 10
- American Airlines mainline flights depart from Gates E2-E11 & E20-E33
- British Airways ticket counter is located at Concourse F, Door 14; flights using Airbus A380 equipment depart from Gate E6 and all other flights depart from Gate E8
- Finnair ticket counter is located at Concourse E, Door 10; flights depart from Gate E30
- Iberia ticket counter is located at Concourse E, between Doors 13 & 14; flights depart from Gate E23Qatar Airways ticket counter is located at Concourse E, between Doors 9 & 10; flights depart from Gate E10
- WestJet ticket counter is located at Concourse E, Door 12; flights depart from Concourse F
- British Airways ticket counter is located at Concourse F, Door 14; flights using Airbus A380 equipment depart from Gate E6 and all other flights depart from Gate E8
- WestJet ticket counter is located at Concourse E, Door 12; flights depart from Concourse F
- Delayed American Airlines international flights arrive at Concourse J when the federal inspection station at Concourse D is closed (generally between 11 PM and 3:30 AM)
Checking in at MIA Link
Flagship Check-in: Yes
Arrival at the Airport
The TSA recommends arriving at the airport 2 hours before your flight (3 hours for international). If you travel often, save time by enrolling in TSA PreCheck. We’re working with the U.S. government to alleviate these delays.
Check-in Times
You must be checked in:
- At least 45 minutes before scheduled departure, for flights within the United States (domestic flights)
- At least 60 minutes before scheduled departure, for flights to airports outside of the United States (international flights)
You must be at the gate and ready to board the aircraft:
- 15 minutes prior to scheduled departure
Doors close 10 minutes before departure.
Time to baggage delivery: 30-55 minutes
AA Ticket Counters Link
Concourse D
Charter 1: Cuba charter check-in only; open dependent on charter flight schedule, located across from Door 1
Kiosk 1: self-service check-in; located between Doors 1 and 2
Main: full-service check-in; located across from Door 2
Flagship: full-service check-in; located between Doors 2 & 3
Priority: full-service check-in; separate queues for First Class & AAdvantage Executive Platinum, Business Class & AAdvantage Platinum, and AAdvantage Gold & Priority; late nights Priority and Main are consolidated at this counter; located between Doors 3 & 4
Kiosk 2: self-service check-in; located across from Door 5
Kiosk 3: self-service check-in; located across from Door 6
Rebooking Center: missed connection assistance for customers arriving on international flights only; located across from Door 6
Cuba Check-in: self-service check-in for customers traveling to Cuba only; located between Doors 6 & 7
Concourse E
Charter 2: Cuba charter check-in only; open dependent on charter flight schedule, located across from Door 10
Security at MIA
Link to security checkpoint locations map. All Concourse D and E gates are accessible from any D or E checkpoint. Connections to or from other concourses will require you to exit and reclear security.
If you do not have Priority or Pre✓, please allow at least 20-40 minutes to clear security. If you miss your flight due to security checkpoint wait times, you will be allowed to standby for the next AA flight to your destination.
Concourse D
Checkpoint 1: open 5 AM to 9 PM, best for Gates D1-D21, located across from Door 1
Checkpoint 2: open 24 hours, best for Gates D22-D24, available to Priority and Pre✓ passengers only while other checkpoints are open (4 AM to 10:30 PM), located across from Door 3
Checkpoint 3: open 4 AM to 10:30 PM, best for Gates D25-D29 & D41-D60 (via skytrain) and access to skytrain Station 2, located between Doors 5 & 6
Checkpoint 4: open 8 AM to 10 AM and 6 PM to 8 PM, best for Gates D30-D40, located across from Door 9
D FIS Checkpoint: open 4 AM to 9:30 PM, available only to passengers who have cleared customs at the D federal inspection station (non-precleared international flights arriving Concourses D, E & F), located to your left upon exiting customs
Concourse E
Checkpoint E: open 4 AM to 10:30 PM, best for Gates E2-E11 & E20-E33, located between Doors 11 & 12
Priority lanes available at Checkpoints 2 and E
TSA Pre✓ available 24 hours at Checkpoint 2, available during peak times only at Checkpoints 1, E, and D FIS
CLEAR available at Checkpoint E & H
Tip: Upon exiting customs, you will be directed to the D FIS checkpoint. If you would like to use an alternate checkpoint, follow the signs to the Crew EXIT and Rebooking Center in order to avoid exiting on the Arrivals (lower) level and having to go back upstairs. Checkpoints 1-3 will be to your left and Checkpoints 4 & E will be to your right.
Security checkpoint operating hours may differ from published times due to TSA staffing constraints and security initiatives.
MIA Services, Shopping, and Dining
MIA VIP Services (expedited processing similar to AA Five Star Service): link.
Lounges: please see the Lounge Dashboard sticky for further lounge information at MIAConcourse D: Admirals Clubs above Gate D15 and across from Gate D30; Centurion Lounge at Gate D12 (take elevator in rotunda to Level 3)
Dining & Shopping: Link to MIA services, dining guide, and interactive map
On-Airport Hotel:Miami International Airport Hotel (landside, Concourse E)
Wi-Fi:Paid WI-Fi service available throughout terminal. Link to pricing information and connection instructions
Smoking: Smoking is permitted only in designated smoking areas across from terminal sidewalks and at:TGI Friday's smoking lounge between Gates D34 & D36
Rental Cars: The Rental Car Center is located at 3900 NW 25 St, Miami, FL 33142 (across from the main entrance to the airport) and is served by 16 companies. Link. Access to and from the terminal is via the MIA Mover automated people mover.Arriving Passengers: After collecting your baggage, follow the black and pink signs to the MIA Mover station on the third level of the terminal, accessible via moving walkway. From there, board the MIA Mover to the Rental Car Center. Trains generally depart and arrive on the right track and run 24 hours a day. From 5 AM to midnight, trains run approximately every 3 minutes; from midnight to 5 AM, trains run approximately every 7 minutes. The train will reach the Rental Car Center in approximately 3 minutes. After exiting the station area, the rental car agencies will be located to your right.
Departing Passengers: Please return your vehicle at the Rental Car Center before checking in for your departing flight. After returning your vehicle, follow the black and pink signs to the MIA Mover station on the fourth level of the facility. From there, board the MIA Mover to Miami International Airport. Trains generally depart and arrive on the right track and run 24 hours a day. From 5 AM to midnight, trains run approximately every 3 minutes; from midnight to 5 AM, trains run approximately every 7 minutes. The train will reach the airport terminal in approximately 3 minutes. After exiting the station area, moving walkways to AA ticket counters and gates will be located to your right.
Animal Relief Areas:Coming soon!
MIA Parking
There are Valet and Garage parking options. Link for options, pricing, and maps
Accessible/Disabled Parking: Link
Cell Phone Waiting Lot: Link
MIA Transportation
Public Transportation: All buses and trains depart from Miami Central Station, which is co-located with the Rental Car Center and is accessible via the MIA Mover automated people mover. Link to map and directions to Miami Central StationMetrorail Orange Line to Dadeland South, serving Downtown Miami
Miami Beach Airport Express bus to Miami Beach
Metrobus routes 7, 37, 42, 57, J, 238/338 & 297
Tri-Rail commuter rail to Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach
Hotel Shuttles, Shared-Ride Vans, and Taxis: Link to area map and fare estimatesHotel shuttles pick up and drop off on the Departures (upper) level at Doors 3 & 7 at Concourse D; there are no designated stops at Concourses E-J
Super Shuttle shared-ride van service. Stands located on Arrivals (lower) level at Concourses D, E, F, and H.
Taxi stands located on Arrivals (lower) level at Concourses D, E, F, and H. Blue "Airport Region Taxi Service" taxis serve areas immediately adjacent to the airport. Yellow taxis serve all other areas.
Uber and Lyft rideshare services are technically illegal at MIA but will accept pick-ups and drop-offs. There are no designated stops; however, rideshare drivers will generally pick up on the Arrivals (lower) level.
Intercity Bus: Buses depart from Miami Central Station. Link to map and directions to Miami Central StationGreyhound bus service throughout continental United States
megabus low-cost express bus service to Orlando and Tampa
Things to Do
Do I have time to go to Miami or Miami Beach?Downtown Miami Due to increased security checkpoint wait times, you should allow yourself at least 3 hours between connections if you do not have Priority or Pre✓. A taxi to the city center should take approximately 12-17 minutes and will cost approximately $22. Because traffic to and from the airport can be unpredictable, consider taking the Metrorail Orange Line in lieu of a taxi. It is a 15-minute ride from the airport to the city center and trains run every 10-15 minutes except late nights. A roundtrip is $4.50.
Miami Beach Allow at least 3½ hours between connections due to the possibility of heavy traffic on the highways between the beach and the mainland. A taxi to the beach should take approximately 22-27 minutes and will cost $35 (flat rate) if going south of 63rd Street. For reference, South Beach and most of the tourist spots are south of 23rd Street. Consider taking the 150 Miami Beach Airport Express bus from the airport to the beach. It is a 31-minute ride from the airport to the Lincoln Road Mall and buses run every 20 minutes. A roundtrip is $4.50.
Posts from 2015-2017 have been archived here.
AA Guide: MIA / Miami International Airport, MCT / Connection, etc.
Dec 13, 2021, 9:02 pm
#361
Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: Magic Kingdom
Programs: AA Exp, Radisson VIP, Expedia OneKey Platinum, Hilton Gold, Bonvoy Gold, Hyatt Explorist, Amex Plati
Posts: 446
Global Entry Interview in D customs
Last December I did my Global Entry renewal interview in the D customs offices next to baggage claim. I don't know if they're still doing it but it's worth looking into. It saves you from going over to J.
Dec 13, 2021, 9:48 pm
#362
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: KHOU/KIAH
Programs: AA EXP | Marriott Bonvoy Titanium| Hyatt Globalist
Posts: 11,258
Dec 23, 2021, 4:32 am
#363
Join Date: Nov 2011
Location: LON, BOM
Programs: BAEC Gold, LH SEN, Vistara Platinum
Posts: 177
My wife and I are considering SXM-MIA-LAX in January. I have GE but she doesn't and will go into the non-resident line.
Is it worth considering a 1h 47m connection at MIA? Missing my connection would of course mean an overnight stay before proceeding to LAX.
From the data I've seen on the CBP website, the wait times aren't favorable.
Is it worth considering a 1h 47m connection at MIA? Missing my connection would of course mean an overnight stay before proceeding to LAX.
From the data I've seen on the CBP website, the wait times aren't favorable.
Dec 24, 2021, 7:02 pm
#365
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: Southern CA
Posts: 42
Jan 4, 2022, 12:26 pm
#366
Suspended
Join Date: Nov 2019
Location: The part of NC where we have electricity, paved roads, and high school diplomas.
Programs: AA Platinum
Posts: 3,132
The information in this thread saved my connection at MIA last week.
My incoming Finnair flight from Sweden didn't arrive at the E satellite gates until 8:10 PM (originally scheduled 6:55 PM) and my flight to RDU was scheduled to depart at 9:11 PM.
I wasn't exactly confident about making it to the gate in time...
After the long transfer from the E satellite to D FIS I made it through Global Entry immigration at 8:30 PM.
While my priority tagged bagged certainly didn't come out first (no priority tagged bags among the first ~40 bags), I received my bags at 8:45 PM. Still wouldn't work for my 9:11 PM departure, but at 8:45 PM I was notified that the RDU flight was delayed until 9:30 PM.
I still had a chance, but I needed to get through security quickly.
According to the TSA checkpoint waiting time data available from the airport website, the FIS checkpoint had TSA Pre open, and the waiting time was only 5 minutes. But when I got there was only one very long line and the overhead monitors indicated 30+ minutes to make it through security. One of the airport staff moving the dividers around confirmed that TSA Pre wasn't available there.
After reading this thread I knew that I could use one of the other checkpoints instead, and knowing that my flight would depart from D9, I went through the regular arrival flow and ended up downstairs since I couldn't backtrack to access the "Crew / flight rebooking" exit, went back upstairs, and ran to checkpoint 2 which, again according to the TSA checkpoint waiting time information, had TSA Pre available. When I got there I saw a sign that TSA Pre had moved to CP 1, but TSA Pre "Light" was available at CP 2. Of course, according to the TSA waiting time info online, CP1 wasn't supposed to be open at all...
I made it through security and made it to the gate at 9:10 PM, 5 minutes before the updated 15-minute cutoff time.
Had I not read this thread and known about the option to use a different checkpoint, I would likely have stayed in the FIS checkpoint lane and not made it to the gate in time for the 9:30 PM departure.
My incoming Finnair flight from Sweden didn't arrive at the E satellite gates until 8:10 PM (originally scheduled 6:55 PM) and my flight to RDU was scheduled to depart at 9:11 PM.
I wasn't exactly confident about making it to the gate in time...
After the long transfer from the E satellite to D FIS I made it through Global Entry immigration at 8:30 PM.
While my priority tagged bagged certainly didn't come out first (no priority tagged bags among the first ~40 bags), I received my bags at 8:45 PM. Still wouldn't work for my 9:11 PM departure, but at 8:45 PM I was notified that the RDU flight was delayed until 9:30 PM.
I still had a chance, but I needed to get through security quickly.
According to the TSA checkpoint waiting time data available from the airport website, the FIS checkpoint had TSA Pre open, and the waiting time was only 5 minutes. But when I got there was only one very long line and the overhead monitors indicated 30+ minutes to make it through security. One of the airport staff moving the dividers around confirmed that TSA Pre wasn't available there.
After reading this thread I knew that I could use one of the other checkpoints instead, and knowing that my flight would depart from D9, I went through the regular arrival flow and ended up downstairs since I couldn't backtrack to access the "Crew / flight rebooking" exit, went back upstairs, and ran to checkpoint 2 which, again according to the TSA checkpoint waiting time information, had TSA Pre available. When I got there I saw a sign that TSA Pre had moved to CP 1, but TSA Pre "Light" was available at CP 2. Of course, according to the TSA waiting time info online, CP1 wasn't supposed to be open at all...
I made it through security and made it to the gate at 9:10 PM, 5 minutes before the updated 15-minute cutoff time.
Had I not read this thread and known about the option to use a different checkpoint, I would likely have stayed in the FIS checkpoint lane and not made it to the gate in time for the 9:30 PM departure.
Jan 5, 2022, 2:59 am
#367
Join Date: Sep 2017
Location: DCA/IAD & BUF
Posts: 1,402
I'm arriving today on Flight 556 from SVG, 830pm, currently at D11.
Can't make a connecting flight to DCA tonight, so will be on either the 630 or 830 flight tomorrow morning. Both are currently scheduled to depart from Terminal D.
Flying F for both (not sure that matters), no pre-check or GE. Have 1 large checked bag and 1 fairly large carry-on. I have mobility limitations and need to use wheelchair assistance for MIA and DCA.
I haven't been through MIA since I've had to start using the wheelchair in large airports or have had to spend a night on a connection since needing wheelchair assistance.
My question is - will using the MIA airport hotel in Terminal E be the best option in my situation, or will it actually be easier to use an off site hotel? In terms of ease of getting to AA check in tomorrow morning, i.e. curbside drop-off/priority checking access? (It seems like wheelchair assistance would take me on arrival into MIA through luggage pickup to customs, and pretty much to the hotel entrance in Terminal E (??), but I'm not sure how/if that will work in reverse for departure?)
Can't make a connecting flight to DCA tonight, so will be on either the 630 or 830 flight tomorrow morning. Both are currently scheduled to depart from Terminal D.
Flying F for both (not sure that matters), no pre-check or GE. Have 1 large checked bag and 1 fairly large carry-on. I have mobility limitations and need to use wheelchair assistance for MIA and DCA.
I haven't been through MIA since I've had to start using the wheelchair in large airports or have had to spend a night on a connection since needing wheelchair assistance.
My question is - will using the MIA airport hotel in Terminal E be the best option in my situation, or will it actually be easier to use an off site hotel? In terms of ease of getting to AA check in tomorrow morning, i.e. curbside drop-off/priority checking access? (It seems like wheelchair assistance would take me on arrival into MIA through luggage pickup to customs, and pretty much to the hotel entrance in Terminal E (??), but I'm not sure how/if that will work in reverse for departure?)
Jan 5, 2022, 5:04 am
#368
Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: Magic Kingdom
Programs: AA Exp, Radisson VIP, Expedia OneKey Platinum, Hilton Gold, Bonvoy Gold, Hyatt Explorist, Amex Plati
Posts: 446
A few days ago was my first time to use the dedicated security for international to domestic connections. How long has this been in place? I don't remember this being there a year ago, my last such connection at MIA. And I'm pretty sure in earlier years I was always wondering why they didn't have such a thing.
Anyway, it's nice to have s security setup which saves you from having to go out landside after customs. The only thing is there isn't a TSA Precheck lane. They did give me a special card as a precheck person that exempted me from taking off shoes or taking anything out of the bag. But you still have to wait in the ordinary line.
Anyway, it's nice to have s security setup which saves you from having to go out landside after customs. The only thing is there isn't a TSA Precheck lane. They did give me a special card as a precheck person that exempted me from taking off shoes or taking anything out of the bag. But you still have to wait in the ordinary line.
Jan 5, 2022, 5:16 am
#369
Join Date: Oct 2005
Location: UK
Programs: BA GfL & GGL, FB Platinum, MB Titanium, Hilton Diamond
Posts: 2,403
I’ll be arriving into MIA from JFK on AA466 at 8:20pm.
I’ll then be connecting to LAX on AA2468 at 9pm.
This is all part of a single itinerary.
I’m surprised that a 20 minute connection was allowed. Could it be that it will be the same plane as both flights are operated by a B772?
If different planes then I may have a tough time making the connection especially if the gates are far away.
I’ll then be connecting to LAX on AA2468 at 9pm.
This is all part of a single itinerary.
I’m surprised that a 20 minute connection was allowed. Could it be that it will be the same plane as both flights are operated by a B772?
If different planes then I may have a tough time making the connection especially if the gates are far away.
Jan 5, 2022, 6:03 am
#370
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: RDU <|> MMX
Programs: AA EXP 2MM, SK EBS
Posts: 12,483
I’ll be arriving into MIA from JFK on AA466 at 8:20pm.
I’ll then be connecting to LAX on AA2468 at 9pm.
This is all part of a single itinerary.
I’m surprised that a 20 minute connection was allowed. Could it be that it will be the same plane as both flights are operated by a B772?
If different planes then I may have a tough time making the connection especially if the gates are far away.
I’ll then be connecting to LAX on AA2468 at 9pm.
This is all part of a single itinerary.
I’m surprised that a 20 minute connection was allowed. Could it be that it will be the same plane as both flights are operated by a B772?
If different planes then I may have a tough time making the connection especially if the gates are far away.
As always just be proactive, if youre sitting at JFK and the flight to MIA starts to get even the slightest bit delayed I would ask there to be rebooked straight to LAX.
And it most likely will not be the same plane, AA needs more than 40 mins to turnaround a 777 arrival and departure.
Jan 5, 2022, 7:10 am
#371
Suspended
Join Date: Nov 2019
Location: The part of NC where we have electricity, paved roads, and high school diplomas.
Programs: AA Platinum
Posts: 3,132
Jan 5, 2022, 7:15 am
#372
Suspended
Join Date: Nov 2019
Location: The part of NC where we have electricity, paved roads, and high school diplomas.
Programs: AA Platinum
Posts: 3,132
A few days ago was my first time to use the dedicated security for international to domestic connections. How long has this been in place? I don't remember this being there a year ago, my last such connection at MIA. And I'm pretty sure in earlier years I was always wondering why they didn't have such a thing.
Anyway, it's nice to have s security setup which saves you from having to go out landside after customs. The only thing is there isn't a TSA Precheck lane. They did give me a special card as a precheck person that exempted me from taking off shoes or taking anything out of the bag. But you still have to wait in the ordinary line.
Anyway, it's nice to have s security setup which saves you from having to go out landside after customs. The only thing is there isn't a TSA Precheck lane. They did give me a special card as a precheck person that exempted me from taking off shoes or taking anything out of the bag. But you still have to wait in the ordinary line.
When I connected international-to-domestic last week the line was very long (30+ minutes waiting time according to the monitors) at the D FIS checkpoint. It was much faster to use checkpoint 2 with TSA Pre "Light."
Jan 5, 2022, 8:48 am
#373
Join Date: Sep 2017
Location: DCA/IAD & BUF
Posts: 1,402
I'm arriving today on Flight 556 from SVG, 830pm, currently at D11.
Can't make a connecting flight to DCA tonight, so will be on either the 630 or 830 flight tomorrow morning. Both are currently scheduled to depart from Terminal D.
Flying F for both (not sure that matters), no pre-check or GE. Have 1 large checked bag and 1 fairly large carry-on. I have mobility limitations and need to use wheelchair assistance for MIA and DCA.
I had to spend a night on a connection since needing wheelchair assistance.
My question is - will using the MIA airport hotel in Terminal E be the best option in my situation, or will it actually be easier to use an off site hotel? In terms of ease of getting to AA check in tomorrow morning, i.e. curbside drop-off/priority checking access? (It seems like wheelchair assistance would take me on arrival into MIA through luggage pickup to customs, and pretty much to the hotel entrance in Terminal E (??), but I'm not sure how/if that will work in reverse for departure?)
Can't make a connecting flight to DCA tonight, so will be on either the 630 or 830 flight tomorrow morning. Both are currently scheduled to depart from Terminal D.
Flying F for both (not sure that matters), no pre-check or GE. Have 1 large checked bag and 1 fairly large carry-on. I have mobility limitations and need to use wheelchair assistance for MIA and DCA.
I had to spend a night on a connection since needing wheelchair assistance.
My question is - will using the MIA airport hotel in Terminal E be the best option in my situation, or will it actually be easier to use an off site hotel? In terms of ease of getting to AA check in tomorrow morning, i.e. curbside drop-off/priority checking access? (It seems like wheelchair assistance would take me on arrival into MIA through luggage pickup to customs, and pretty much to the hotel entrance in Terminal E (??), but I'm not sure how/if that will work in reverse for departure?)
Last edited by cmtlatitudes; Jan 5, 2022 at 3:35 pm Reason: Mind blank- have been through MIA recently, but not the airport hotel
Jan 5, 2022, 8:50 am
#374
Join Date: Sep 2017
Location: DCA/IAD & BUF
Posts: 1,402
Jan 10, 2022, 11:05 am
#375
Join Date: Dec 2008
Posts: 590
minimum layover for customs in MIA
So my flight from antigua to MIA to RDU was changed - I know only have a two hour layover in MIA (5pm to 7 pm on a Sunday). From my past history (It has been several years) that seems like a very tight fit -what are others experience more recently?