Connecting at AMS
 

Hi all,

I am travelling on CX 271 HKG-AMS arriving at 0635 then reconnecting at 0810 to Copenhagen via KLM 1125 end of this month.

Can anyone give me some heads up on what I will expect? Eg. any immigrations, length of walk to KLM boarding gates, any need to recheck baggage, etc??

Thank you

CX arrives on time (normally), so connection time is no issue. Checking luggage through to Copenhagen should also work. Not sure if CX will give you the KL BP but even then you can easily get it from one of the transit points at AMS. CX arrives at G gates in AMS and KL European flights will leave from the Schengen-area. It's a small walk but nothing to worry about. You will need to go through customs but this will also not be a big topic depending on the passport you use for travelling (HK should be fine)

thanks. I guess one more question. Does this mean, I have to fill out the immigration form for amsterdam?

Can't really answer that one as I travel on a Dutch passport but I don't recall ever seeing any immigration forms being handed out to enter the Netherlands so I guess the answer is NO

There are no immigration forms to fill out in AMS. The walk may actually be quite long, as CX usually arrives at the G-pier (not F); at least, I've always seen the CX 744 parked at the G-pier close to SQ, MH and UA/CO. The CPH flight will likely depart from the C or B-piers (sometimes also the higher D gates, higher in number as well as one level up), and that walk may take a while, and you'll have to pass through immigration and security to access the Schengen area. I've seen some long lines at immigration recently, but since I use the biometric Privium system I can't judge how long the wait is. If you're flying in J or F there are now dedicated fast-track immigration lines at well when you come from landside, but I'm not sure about the airside immigration.

The airport is well signposted so you shouldn't have any problem finding your way around. If the CX flight is on time you won't have to worry about your connection at all.

Done it once
 

I flew HKG-AMS-OSL, first leg CX and second on SK in early September 2011. All in C.

Checking bags through to CPH is no problem. Your BP for AMS-CPH you must get from the SK transit-counters. When I transitted, there was no cooperation across Star Alliance, so you really must go to the SK counter to get it.

To get there, you must pass through the Schengen border-control. I faced massive lines when I went through. This was followed by security, with equally impressive lines. At that time there was no fast-track for C-passengers. As other posters report, this seems to be in place now - but since you will likely not yet have your onward BP I'm not sure how you would access the fast-track. Maybe you can get something onboard CX or use the CX BP.

While the transit and all sucks, there are not many airports around where you can bring back DIY-flowers for the wife! Tulip bulbs are on sale everywhere, and went down a treat when I got back home. :D

You can get your connecting flight BP at HKG if you're on a KL flight to CPH. Bagage will be checked through to CPH.

There is a fast track passport control and security check lane to enter the Schengen (C and B gates, upper D gates) area, with access for C class pax and short connections, i.e. those listed on the screen only. The fast track is to the left side of the security checks/passport desks.

You will have plenty of time at AMS.

You mean, I can get my BP when I check in with CX in HK?

Correct. If your KLM connecting flight is part of a single booking/on the same PNR you will be issued your BP at HKG check in.

Sorry folks perhaps it was my fault for not making things clearer.

Basically I have an award tix for CX from HKG-AMS...i bought a KLM C Class tix from AMS-CPH. Essentially, it is on seperate bookings. I assume CX will check my bags directly to CPH right? Thus

1) Is it possible to get KLM BP if I checkin online?

2) Possible to get BP if i checkin with Cathay or if I go to KLM counter In HK?

If I need to get BP in AMS, where is the KL transit counter? Is it b4 passport control ?

Thanks

Check in online will work.
You might also try to have them link your tickets and have your BP issued by CX but that might take more effort. You will have to explain to them what you want to ensure your luggage gets checked through.
Transit desks are all over AMS airport, close to where the gates connect to the main building. Just follow the T-signs

Since you're in C, get a seat pre-assigned in KLM.com's manage my booking.

If CX can't check you in by having your bookings linked, check-in in the HKG lounge or at AMS at any of the transfer counters. No need to print your BP at HKG because you can print it later at one of the transfer machines or pick it up at the counter.

Do get your BP before you will pass immigration and security as you will need it to clear immigration.