V-Flyer

I finally battled my way through the "Yes, we have no availability" game and booked JFK UC on 3rd May (Saturday) arriving 16:40.

Two questions.

What's JFK immigration like on Saturday afternoons? I think last time I was there, it was a weekday afternoon.

And, should I risk trying to get a connecting flight to LAX at 19:10 that same evening, or am I playing with forces I cannot comprehend?

In sincere appreciation etc.

L

Done this flight twice without much success in relation to short immigration queue times about 2 & 3 hrs respectively ,that said neither flight was on a Saturday but I don't think I would be risking a connecting flight myself ,seems a bit tight to me , doing the 45 again next month so I will report back

Like Blacky, I would also advise you not to risk it. At times, at JFK, we've had to queue in the corridors waiting for the queue in the immigration hall to move on a bit. Then there's also the customs queue after baggage claim.

Last May, I was on the 45 in Y and didn't get out of the airport until 7

I think that probably settles it. Last flight to LAX is 7:10 pm. Looks like I'm spending a night at the Hampton or Fairfield.

Thanks for the replies

L

We're getting in on the 11.30am on Thursday 1st May. Hoping as it's earlier the queues won't be ridiculous.

JFK offers quick connect to those passengers with connecting flights within three hours. When you step off the aircraft show boarding pass or ticket to ground staff so you can get a voucher and skip the lines at immigration!

Hmm, I wonder if I should depend on that for my connection. CBP are quoting maximum wait times at T4 for May last year of 216 minutes, with an average of 123.

I would be concerned that JFK immigration descends into chaos and they sometimes hold up non US citizens in favour of US citizens when it gets really busy.

Tricky decision.

L

If you're all on one ticket/PNR then do it. If you misconnect the airline will have to rebook you.

If you're booking 2 separate tickets I'd be wary of taking on the risk of potentially having to buy a new ticket.

Who is the connecting flight to LA with?

I havent booked yet. If I choose Virgin America, will the benefit you describe be honoured?

Also, if I miss the 19:10, I'm there for the night and I doubt they will pay for the hotel.

L

I don't think it's possible to add a connecting flight to an existing PNR. You would have had to book both at the same time to be guaranteed a connection.

As others have said though, if you show proof of your connecting flight when you arrive at JFK they should fast track you.

That could be tight regardless of PNRs - although taking the second flight from T4 (or via the DL transfer) would obviously help.

Saturdays are generally quieter in my experience but you are always at the mercy of another plane disembarking right before yours.

Hmm, I have traveled to JFK only once and stayed 4 hours on immigration and missed my flight to LAX. I would suggest you to keep in mind that possibility and to be ready to spend the night at the airport. I booked a last-minute room with http://new-york.hotelscheap.org/jfk-airport.html and I'd recommend them but it isn't impossible to sleep at the airport, as long as you don't get robbed. Have a nice stay!