IAD/Dulles Terminals
 

I'm considering flying into IAD to then go overseas via British Airways. I'm curious about flying in on DL and then connecting to BA. How much hassle will I have in terms of my luggage? I doubt I'll be able to check through out of Milwaukee all the way to my final destination.

So if I have to go get my bags at the main terminal and then recheck with BA, that could be a grand hassle. Any input or suggestions are welcomed.

Also, what about returning back to the US. What can I expect relative to customs and then continuing on via DL to Milwaukee?

i would presume BA cooperates with all us majors and milwaukee is even an int'l airport, you and baggage will be checked all the way through.

when we fly out of DCA, (not an int'l airport) we get checked all the way through.

if you are doing this on two separate tickets, you should call to confirm transfers.

Yes it will be two separate tickets as the IAD departure will be on BA using miles and DL doesn't partner with them and I'll be paying for that ticket.

p.s. added 2:10p cdt . . . called DL and they said I could check my bags all the way through from DL to BA so that is great news! I will probably get my bags at IAD coming back, however . . . since I'm thing about overnighting in NoVA to visit my sister on my return.

Thanks again!

You'll have to get your bags at IAD on your return to go through customs. The only difference is where you get them. If you're connecting, they'll be at the midfield terminal. Otherwise, they'll be at the main terminal.

There is NO DIFFERENCE for passengers arriving at IAD on BA (or any other non-Star Alliance carrier). Whether the passenger is connecting or not, all passengers from those flights go to IAB in the Main Terminal.

Ok whether I do my bags on the return to IAD at the midfield or main terminal, how much time do I need to do that and get my bags rechecked with DL for an ongoing flight to Detroit/Milwaukee? I'm not sure if I'll be able to do the connection to get home that same day/night . . . or if I'll have to stay in NoVA and fly home the next morning/afternoon.

(Again, I'm booking these as two separate trip itineraries, on separate airlines.)

I'd allow three hours, minimum. And remember that if they're two separate tickets and your incoming BA service is delayed so you miss your onward DL flight, you have no recourse with DL. It's a risk.

Thanks Bear. Right now, my preferred itinerary has me with 3 hrs exactly, but if something changes and my flight into IAD has to be later, then that will require me to overnight in NoVA as there isn't anything on DL to MKE later in the evening. I have family in the area, so that wouldn't be terrible other than after 2 wks abroad, on a holiday weekend, I'll be ready for home!