Connecting through Chicago O'Hare
I am flying from Tokyo to Toronto through Chicago. Do I have to clear customs and claim my baggage in Chicago? I am flying with American Airlines. The flight is NRT - ORD - YYZ
Best Answer
Yes, everyone who arrives at a US airport on a flight from Japan (or any other place outside the US that does not have preclearance) has to pass through immigration, then pick up their checked baggage (if any) and carry through customs.
It doesn't matter that the next thing you plan to do after clearing customs is to take another flight out of the US.
There is one small relief: if you're traveling on a single itinerary, then the baggage tags on your checked luggage will usually be good for both flights, so you can hand the bags back to the airline at the transfer baggage drop right after customs, and don't need to stand in line to get new tags.
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Do I have to go through customs for a connecting flight in Chicago?
Checked baggage (Re-check) Regardless of whether your final destination is within the US or abroad, all passengers must go through a customs inspection when entering the United States.Can I transit through Chicago airport?
The Airport Transit System (ATS) is a free 24-hour rail system that transports passengers to Terminals 1, 2, 3 or the Economy Parking Lots. Passengers who are unable to recheck their luggage in Terminal 5 will need to recheck their bags directly with their airline at the corresponding domestic terminal.How long do you need for a connecting flight in Chicago?
Try to schedule domestic connecting flights with at least 1.5 hours cushion time. For international flights, leave at least 2.5 hours.Connecting in Chicago Airport | Connection Xpert | Chicago O’Hare (ORD)
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