Layover times at US airports for international flights

Layover times at US airports for international flights - Cheerful female manager checking time on wristwatch standing with bags near bus station

In January, I will fly from Germany to the US, and will change from an international flight to a US domestic flight. On the way to the US, I have 3:20 hours at Newark (with change of terminal), and on the way back, I have 1:10 hours at Chicago ORD.

Are those times sufficient assuming that the flights are on time (United + Lufthansa)?

Further, is it correct that I have to retrieve and re-check my bag upon entering the US at Newark? Does the same apply for my change from domestic to international flight on my way back at ORD, or will the bag be checked through automatically?






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How long of a layover do you need for international flights?

The recommended layover time for international flights is generally longer, as you will have to go through customs and immigration before boarding your next flight. In most cases, a 30-minute layover for domestic flights and an hour for international flights is considered a minimum, or short, layover.

Is 2 hours enough time for international flight layover?

At a minimum, I'd say you should plan for one hour for domestic layovers and two hours for international layovers. What is this? But this is not a hard, fast rule! If you have to go through security again on a domestic layover, you might need more time.

Is a 45 minute layover too short international?

Security-clearance programs are available at select U.S. and international airports. As a rule of thumb, on domestic routes, you need a minimum of 45 minutes between flights. That's because you don't have to go through security, customs, and immigration.

Do I have to go through security again for connecting international flight?

Yes, a security check is mandatory when you take a connecting flight. This is because there is a time lag between getting off one aeroplane and getting on-board another to reach your destination.



A Basic Guide to Layovers




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