Trip to PPT - advice needed
 

I'm going to PPT via LAX. The flight leaves LAX at 11:55PM.

There are two options for a connecting flight from SLC. One that leaves at 5 PM and one that leaves at 8:25 PM.

Obviously the 8:25 PM is the most convenient because it means the least amount of wait time in LAX.

However, I'm wondering if I should take the 5:00 PM in case there's issues with the 8:25 PM one which would mean I would miss my connecting flight to PPT.

Pricing is the same for either. What would you do?

It depends on what's at the end of the PPT flight. Something non-refundable? If so, I'd probably take the earlier for peace of mind.

No, PPT is final destination.

The earlier flight, if not one earlier than that. There is no way to predict what is a "safe" connection. What you have to accept is that there is less than daily service to PPT. Thus, you may have a very long multi-day delay if you misconnect and that presumes availability.

Also, depending on the circumstances of the delay in getting to LAX, and all airlines to like to make the cause your problem, you could very likely be on the hook to completely take care of yourself in the states.

That is not what he meant.

He meant if your hotel arrangements/tours/etc are not refundable in BOB/PPT/Moorea/ETC, you shouldn't risk it.

Thanks for everyone responses - I'll go for the earlier flight.

plus AF out of LAX to PPT is only 3x week. If you miss the flight and it happens to be the last flight of the week, then your vaca will be a bust. Hopefully, you have Bora Bora on your itin.

I'll be a recent "I should have taken the earlier flight" guy.

I was going from PDX to LAX to catch a flight going to Brisbane. My flight was initially delayed, and then flat out canceled. At the point of cancellation, the only flights left were via a connection on all departing airlines. DL took care of me and put me on a plane the following afternoon zig zagging across Australia.. But by the time I finally left PDX, the other 3 people I was supposed to be traveling with had arrived in BNE.

Even when it looks like you have enough time, you realistically may not. On an international departure to the South Pacific, always make sure you have enough time.