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.
Feb 6, 2022, 9:15 pm
#391
Join Date: Sep 2000
Location: DCA/IAD
Programs: AA EXP; 1W Emerald; HHonors Diamond; Marriott Gold; UA dirt
Posts: 7,816
That won't happen. Ever. AA wouldn't even do it when I had separate tickets and both tickets were AA flights on AA metal.
Feb 7, 2022, 6:43 am
#392
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: RDU <|> MMX
Programs: AA EXP 2MM, SK EBS
Posts: 12,483
You really just exit baggage claim and turn right and walk until you get to H. 5-10 mins depending on how fast you walk. You can pull up the MIA map within the AA app to see exactly where to go.
Feb 7, 2022, 10:40 am
#393
Join Date: Oct 2002
Location: DFW
Programs: OWE AA EXP;*A TK Gold; Marriott LTT; Hyatt Globalist; IHG Plat; National VIP
Posts: 3,097
Feb 23, 2022, 1:49 pm
#394
Join Date: Dec 2014
Location: New York City + Vail, CO
Programs: American Airlines Executive Platinum, Marriott Bonvoy Ambassador Elite
Posts: 3,226
Baggage wait time situation at Miami
I’m flying to Miami right now, what’s the current wait time like?
Im debating going to the admirals club for a bit first given that it can sometimes be more than an hour wait. I’ve also seen it be 20 minutes or less so I wanted to poll flyertalk.
Im debating going to the admirals club for a bit first given that it can sometimes be more than an hour wait. I’ve also seen it be 20 minutes or less so I wanted to poll flyertalk.
Feb 23, 2022, 4:54 pm
#396
Join Date: Dec 2014
Location: New York City + Vail, CO
Programs: American Airlines Executive Platinum, Marriott Bonvoy Ambassador Elite
Posts: 3,226
it took about 35 minutes today and I did have time to get something to eat. One thing I’ve noticed the past few times at Miami, including today is that they don’t scan bags coming off the aircraft…they only scan right as bags are arriving at baggage claim.
Feb 26, 2022, 8:38 am
#397
Join Date: May 2012
Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Programs: IAMAW Local 368/HAL 2 Star Mariner
Posts: 740
All domestic connecting bags are scanned by their transfer support driver as they need to know the correct location to bring the bag in the correct timeframe. Here in MIA we refer to this as LTS - line transfer support.
Feb 26, 2022, 8:39 am
#398
Join Date: May 2012
Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Programs: IAMAW Local 368/HAL 2 Star Mariner
Posts: 740
Also, what’s going on with the long looping security lines that start at the D checkpoints and extend all the way to the E departure hall? In 8 years of working at MIA I’ve never seen such congestion for TSA screening.
Mar 9, 2022, 2:36 pm
#399
Join Date: Aug 2011
Location: St. Louis, MO, USA
Programs: AA PPro, Mariott Gold Elite, Lowly kettle across every other loyalty program.
Posts: 778
When I last went through MIA on 2/19 it was a stressful end to a great vacation. Saturday, bad weather=delays, so there were a lot of people trying to fight their way through the crowds to connect onward, which made for a ridiculously uncivil experience. No TSA pre-check line, 2 scanner lines open. I had 2 laptops and a tablet which needed to be put in separate containers, so I grab 3 containers, and the person behind me puts her stuff in 2 of them, so I had to fight my way back to the empty containers while people are trying to push me forward. It took about 1 hour to get through the TSA, with lots of jostling and pushing from pax. No way is that MCT reasonable, even with GE, and TSA pre-check doesn't do any good without a TSA pre-check line.
I wasn't one of those panicked pax; I booked a 3:30 connection, and when it changed to 2:00, I changed it back to the later connection just because I didn't trust MIA. Never using MIA as the I->D point again, if I can help it.
I wasn't one of those panicked pax; I booked a 3:30 connection, and when it changed to 2:00, I changed it back to the later connection just because I didn't trust MIA. Never using MIA as the I->D point again, if I can help it.
Mar 9, 2022, 4:36 pm
#400
Join Date: Feb 2022
Programs: AAdvantage
Posts: 949
When I last went through MIA on 2/19 it was a stressful end to a great vacation. Saturday, bad weather=delays, so there were a lot of people trying to fight their way through the crowds to connect onward, which made for a ridiculously uncivil experience. No TSA pre-check line, 2 scanner lines open. I had 2 laptops and a tablet which needed to be put in separate containers, so I grab 3 containers, and the person behind me puts her stuff in 2 of them, so I had to fight my way back to the empty containers while people are trying to push me forward. It took about 1 hour to get through the TSA, with lots of jostling and pushing from pax. No way is that MCT reasonable, even with GE, and TSA pre-check doesn't do any good without a TSA pre-check line.
I wasn't one of those panicked pax; I booked a 3:30 connection, and when it changed to 2:00, I changed it back to the later connection just because I didn't trust MIA. Never using MIA as the I->D point again, if I can help it.
I wasn't one of those panicked pax; I booked a 3:30 connection, and when it changed to 2:00, I changed it back to the later connection just because I didn't trust MIA. Never using MIA as the I->D point again, if I can help it.
I would avoid connecting at that airport anytime after 6PM and if you can't give yourself at least 3 hours. The gate situation at MIA is crazy. We waited nearly 3 hours a few weeks ago for an open gate.
Mar 9, 2022, 4:56 pm
#401
Join Date: Sep 2000
Location: DCA/IAD
Programs: AA EXP; 1W Emerald; HHonors Diamond; Marriott Gold; UA dirt
Posts: 7,816
Yesterday's trip through Miami immigration, customs, and receheck into the D concourse took 40 minutes from the moment I stepped off the plane to the moment the sliding doors closed behind me in the D concourse.
Centurion Lounge was about 90% full, but no wait list (mid afternoon).
Centurion Lounge was about 90% full, but no wait list (mid afternoon).
Apr 19, 2022, 8:53 am
#402
Join Date: Apr 2022
Posts: 5
Tight Connection in MIA
I am new to this site so am not 100% sure if this is the right place for this question--- please let me know where to post if this isn't the right one.
We are traveling via AA from STL to ELH (Bahamas) and connecting through MIA. The connection was already tight but AA changed our flight times to make it only 49 minutes. There is only one flight per day from MIA to ELH so if we miss it, we are delayed for a full day. There are no earlier flights from STL to MIA on that day. The only other STL-ELH option is through CLT with a 65 minute connection, so not a lot better. We are flying first/business class so will be nearer the front of the plane for quicker deplaning. I know it surpasses the minimum connection time of 45 minutes, but just barely. I am not sure if AA is any more likely to hold the plane from MIA to ELH given the once per day flight circumstance but wouldn't want to bank on that. Appreciate any insight you all may have. I typically fly SWA due to direct flight availability from STL and don't fly AA enough to have experience with how things flow. How worried should I be?
We are traveling via AA from STL to ELH (Bahamas) and connecting through MIA. The connection was already tight but AA changed our flight times to make it only 49 minutes. There is only one flight per day from MIA to ELH so if we miss it, we are delayed for a full day. There are no earlier flights from STL to MIA on that day. The only other STL-ELH option is through CLT with a 65 minute connection, so not a lot better. We are flying first/business class so will be nearer the front of the plane for quicker deplaning. I know it surpasses the minimum connection time of 45 minutes, but just barely. I am not sure if AA is any more likely to hold the plane from MIA to ELH given the once per day flight circumstance but wouldn't want to bank on that. Appreciate any insight you all may have. I typically fly SWA due to direct flight availability from STL and don't fly AA enough to have experience with how things flow. How worried should I be?
Apr 19, 2022, 9:00 am
#403
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: RDU <|> MMX
Programs: AA EXP 2MM, SK EBS
Posts: 12,483
I am new to this site so am not 100% sure if this is the right place for this question--- please let me know where to post if this isn't the right one.
We are traveling via AA from STL to ELH (Bahamas) and connecting through MIA. The connection was already tight but AA changed our flight times to make it only 49 minutes. There is only one flight per day from MIA to ELH so if we miss it, we are delayed for a full day. There are no earlier flights from STL to MIA on that day. The only other STL-ELH option is through CLT with a 65 minute connection, so not a lot better. We are flying first/business class so will be nearer the front of the plane for quicker deplaning. I know it surpasses the minimum connection time of 45 minutes, but just barely. I am not sure if AA is any more likely to hold the plane from MIA to ELH given the once per day flight circumstance but wouldn't want to bank on that. Appreciate any insight you all may have. I typically fly SWA due to direct flight availability from STL and don't fly AA enough to have experience with how things flow. How worried should I be?
We are traveling via AA from STL to ELH (Bahamas) and connecting through MIA. The connection was already tight but AA changed our flight times to make it only 49 minutes. There is only one flight per day from MIA to ELH so if we miss it, we are delayed for a full day. There are no earlier flights from STL to MIA on that day. The only other STL-ELH option is through CLT with a 65 minute connection, so not a lot better. We are flying first/business class so will be nearer the front of the plane for quicker deplaning. I know it surpasses the minimum connection time of 45 minutes, but just barely. I am not sure if AA is any more likely to hold the plane from MIA to ELH given the once per day flight circumstance but wouldn't want to bank on that. Appreciate any insight you all may have. I typically fly SWA due to direct flight availability from STL and don't fly AA enough to have experience with how things flow. How worried should I be?
And there are dedicated connection question threads for each AA hub, FYI:
AA Guide: MIA / Miami International Airport, MCT / Connection, etc.
Apr 19, 2022, 9:01 am
#404
Join Date: Jan 2005
Location: BMI
Programs: AA EXP, Delta, Amtrak, Hertz PC
Posts: 657
Hmm - A bit between a rock and a hard place. 49 minutes is enough time to transit Miami but it is a little tight. All things equal I would probably take the 65 minutes in CLT over 49 in Miami, but neither is a great option.
Apr 19, 2022, 9:26 am
#405
Join Date: Apr 2022
Posts: 5
I posted this in another location and was directed to this active thread, so am reposting. Sorry for those that see it twice.
We are traveling via AA from STL to ELH (Bahamas) and connecting through MIA. The connection was already tight but AA changed our flight times to make it only 49 minutes. There is only one flight per day from MIA to ELH so if we miss it, we are delayed for a full day. There are no earlier flights from STL to MIA on that day. The only other STL-ELH option is through CLT with a 65 minute connection, so not a lot better. We are flying first/business class so will be nearer the front of the plane for quicker deplaning. I know it surpasses the minimum connection time of 45 minutes, but just barely. I am not sure if AA is any more likely to hold the plane from MIA to ELH given the once per day flight circumstance but wouldn't want to bank on that. Appreciate any insight you all may have. I typically fly SWA due to direct flight availability from STL and don't fly AA enough to have experience with how things flow. How worried should I be?
We are traveling via AA from STL to ELH (Bahamas) and connecting through MIA. The connection was already tight but AA changed our flight times to make it only 49 minutes. There is only one flight per day from MIA to ELH so if we miss it, we are delayed for a full day. There are no earlier flights from STL to MIA on that day. The only other STL-ELH option is through CLT with a 65 minute connection, so not a lot better. We are flying first/business class so will be nearer the front of the plane for quicker deplaning. I know it surpasses the minimum connection time of 45 minutes, but just barely. I am not sure if AA is any more likely to hold the plane from MIA to ELH given the once per day flight circumstance but wouldn't want to bank on that. Appreciate any insight you all may have. I typically fly SWA due to direct flight availability from STL and don't fly AA enough to have experience with how things flow. How worried should I be?