US Customs (especially at FLL)

[erub]

Is the time to clear customs included in the flight time? Would 45 mins be enough time to catch a flight on another airline after arriving (coming in on Spirit, would need to change to another ticket on Southwest). Otherwise I'm going to be stuck spending the night in an airport (probably 7 hours in ATL, that appears to be the cheapest).

 

[nace186]

that would be a very tight schedule...I don't think you'll be able to make it. Once you get out of custom, I think you'll have to get your luggage first and then check it in again at Southwest. This process will probably takes 30 minutes or so.

 

[MixMasterTang]

I have no experience with FLL, but with only 45 minutes I would not risk it even if you have no checked bags (but especially not if you do have checked bags). FLL is a much smaller airport that I have cleared customs at, but at ORD, MSP, DTW, MEM, IAD, ATL and DFW I probably only cleared customs in 45 minutes (from the time the plane touched down) less than 25% of the time.

 

[wiredspider]

No way, custom usually takes a while anyway, plus your arrival might be delayed too.

 

[MotionMan]

Originally posted by: erub
Is the time to clear customs included in the flight time? Would 45 mins be enough time to catch a flight on another airline after arriving (coming in on Spirit, would need to change to another ticket on Southwest). Otherwise I'm going to be stuck spending the night in an airport (probably 7 hours in ATL, that appears to be the cheapest).

No.

MotionMan

 

[BoomerD]

We'll be sure to let them know you're coming...be prepared for an extra-special welcome...


"Anal-Cavity search in aisle 1!"