Two hour turn in MEL: is it possible?
#31
Join Date: May 2012
Location: ORF, RIC
Programs: UA LT 1K, 3 MM; Marriott Titanium; IHG Platinum
Posts: 6,880
Transit was easy!
My LAX-MEL was delayed by 30 min, which shortened my lounge time. Took a shower at ANZ. The transit security was quick; I was the only one there.
Thank you for the info.
Edit: Before arrival, FA gave out “Express Pass” for immigration. I hesitated to take one because I did not need one. I took one anyway. Lol!
Thank you for the info.
Edit: Before arrival, FA gave out “Express Pass” for immigration. I hesitated to take one because I did not need one. I took one anyway. Lol!
Last edited by Kmxu; Jun 11, 2019 at 10:26 am
#32
#33
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Original Poster
Join Date: Apr 2006
Location: Los Angeles, California
Programs: United, American, Hyatt, Hilton, Hertz, Marriott
Posts: 14,736
Really well. It’s a breeze to navigate MEL. I’ve always had 24L on a United B789. It has taken me between 11 and 16 minutes to get from the seat to the NZ Lounge (clock starts when the MEL agent gets on the horn to welcome us.) The security check has always been open with at most one person ahead of me. After the NZ agent calls the flight, if you’re GS or 1K, you can delay about 10 minutes before going back to the gate—GS and 1Ks have separate, pre-boarding “pens.” It’s the easiest MR I’ve done.
If you want even even more miles, BUR or ONT or SNA via SFO or DEN back to LAX then on to MEL, sometimes price out $10 to $40 more, but add from 2,000 to 3,000 more BIS miles. I haven’t done this bookend option yet; I just found it.
MEL is a great MR—when the price is right.
I’m actually now returning from a series of MRs to HKG. It does involve an overnight stay, but it’s a fun trip.
If you want even even more miles, BUR or ONT or SNA via SFO or DEN back to LAX then on to MEL, sometimes price out $10 to $40 more, but add from 2,000 to 3,000 more BIS miles. I haven’t done this bookend option yet; I just found it.
MEL is a great MR—when the price is right.
I’m actually now returning from a series of MRs to HKG. It does involve an overnight stay, but it’s a fun trip.