YYC / Global Entry / 1/2 hr to gate?
 

Say you got to the airport at 1150, for a 1220 departure; you've got Global Entry/Nexus.

Doable?

Doable? I'd say so.

Should you do it? I'd say 40-45 minutes just to be safe.

I have a backup flight that would be a connection, and this would be a refundable fare. So if I make it, it works better, if not, not the end of the world.

Tks.

What's the lineup like that time of day? Early December.

Given that they're well within their right to close the door at T-20, and I've seen them do that at YYZ, I'd say that's REALLY pushing it.

I can not respond about YYC, as I do not fly trans-border from there very often (maybe once in the last 10 years or so).

But YOW, which has a smaller airport - your are giving yourself no leeway if something happens - you are taking no account of contingencies - ie unexpected delays (even with nexus/GE) - I would personally give yourself one hour if you have no checked luggage. Of course, with checked luggage, the minimal required check-in time is indeed one hour before flight departure.

I would say no. To be at the gate 15 min before departure, that leaves you only 15 min to get through security and immigration and whatever walking/running necessary to get through the airport. That's just too tight. Murphy's Law will get you.

I'd say too tight. YYC is notoriously slow, even with every priority line helping you along.

@ YYC, Transborder, no baggage, 30 mins, once on a connection, made it 20 mins from but they waited for me, typically doors get closed @ 5-10 min mark these days, so good luck.

YYC USA entry hall typically slow even with Nexus

I made it. 1135 in Calgary downtown. Doors closed at 1220. Here's what I've learned/

1. Have a MrsITAG who appreciates the challenge. Has luggage, car, driver, bellhops involved in the challenge. It's a team effort!

2. Have a driver. Not taxi. I will recommend a YYC guy. Took on the challenge with class.

3. Be SE. You know you have options. Lesser people can't do this. LOL.

4. Call Conierge. Get central number (unless people) and express concern. You need a "local person." Mention Ben Smith and explain they screwed up with the new system. They know that, and link you fast.

5. Get call from YYC Concierge. Love this lady! Superstar! While we debate AQM andAQD etc, these are the people that make service shine. She'll meet me outside US departures.

6. Have Global Entry. Enough said. If you don't have this, you are stupid.

7. Tell Mrs. ITAG she needs to get better at the fingerprint part of Global Entry. In a nice tone. Don't spaz her out. Otherwise, she will get mad and your timing will be off. (She fails, every time, with fingerprints. Unbelievable. It will be the death of me).

8. ACCalgary Concierge on the other side of US departures. Superstar again! Seek help to have them move to the front of the line. Try not to look important.

9. Run to gate. Yes, run!

10. Get your upgrade 'cos you are SE. Yay!

(Mrs. ITAG did not her upgrade. She's 50k. But she might still love me. We will see in Newark..

So it can be done.

Thanks AC.