After arriving at JFK on an international flight, what happens with my through-checked baggage? [duplicate]

I have booked a flight from Athens to Raleigh-Durham. I have to change airplanes 3 times. The first two flights are with Qatar Airways and the third with American Airlines. My final destination is Raleigh-Durham.

Do I have to collect my baggage and go through Customs and Immigration at the JFK airport before getting the flight to Raleigh-Durham? Do I have to re-check my bags?

The e-ticket says under the baggage allowance that my baggage will be send from ATH to RDU.

Best Answer

If you enter the US at JFK, you will have to pick up your luggage there after passport control and pass customs. After it, you will be able to drop off your baggage again to be transferred to your final flight (given that it has been checked through, i.e. RDU appears on the baggage tag).

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Do you have to recheck baggage on connecting flights International?

If you're connecting in the U.S., they require everyone from international flights to re-check their baggage upon the first landing point.

What happens to checked baggage connecting flight?

When you purchase a connecting flight, checked baggage is usually forwarded to your final destination, and will change planes when you do. The agent at check-in will usually ask if you want your luggage checked through to your last stop.

Does my checked baggage go to final destination International?

Transfer with the same airline or with a partnerYour baggage is almost always sent to your final destination. There are some exceptions, such as North America, Australia and South Africa. If you have a transfer there, you must always collect your luggage at the baggage claim and check in again for the next flight.

Do I need to recheck my luggage at JFK?

Yes, all internationally arriving passengers must claim their luggage at JFK. Recheck counters are available just outside Customs for any bags that are checked to their final destination.

What Happens to Your Checked Luggage at the Airport

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