Newark Connection Time
Contributors to this thread:International
From: SableSlayer
13-Nov-20
How much connection time should one allow when returning from RSA through Newark including de-planning, Immigration/Customs, baggage claim, bow claim with TSA, re-checking baggage, going to domestic flight terminal, early morning TSA security, finding connection gate etc.?
From: jkirkus
13-Nov-20
If that is your final destination give it up to two hours to get out. I have gotten through when connecting on from Jordanian Air to Austin in 45 minutes as well. Newark is hit or miss I’m afraid, it’s just one of those airports that has a lot of issues. I remember sitting on a 757 on my birthday in 1996 being number 18 for take-off while a FEDEX hulk was still smoldering on the adjacent runway after a crash there the night before, so they only had one runway open. Beast of a day. All five crew got out safely though.
From: Firehuntfish
13-Nov-20
I would recommend a minimum of 2 hours... 3 or more to be comfortable, especially when traveling with bows and guns in a busy airport like Newark. Bow cases are now going to the same Customs office as guns, and there may be a line depending on how many hunters were on your flight. I have experienced wait times anywhere from 15-20 minutes and as long as 2 hours in Atlanta to clear guns and bows at Customs. Also consider that your flight may arrive late. Better to relax and kills some time in an airport restaurant or bar than to miss a connecting flight... Safe travels!
From: wildwilderness
13-Nov-20
Is it worth changing a 2 hour layover to a longer one?
Looking at flights I would still arrive at my final destination at the same time, just a shorter connection at the next airport.
From: Highlife
13-Nov-20
Shorter connection time for flights = lost luggage IMO
From: jkirkus
13-Nov-20
The problem is that Newark is your customs airport, that will take the longest amount of time to clear, then you have to get your bags rechecked. Sometimes they do this the other side of customs. You have to figure Covid keeps traffic down, may help you there. Your connections will have bags through to final destination, that can usually be handled. What is your connection airport?
From: Jim in PA
13-Nov-20
2 hours might be a little close if you have to change terminals but you should be ok. I have come through customs in Newark with a gun several times and had no issues, In fact they were pleasant to deal with. JFK on the other hand I avoid like the plague. I live an hour away and usually call my wife to come get me when we land and I am waiting for her most of the time.
From: SableSlayer
13-Nov-20
I would be connecting to Denver through Newark. I normally connect through Atlanta and only allowing two hours can cut it a little close. The biggest delay varies with the number of hunters waiting to get their guns and bows out of the TSA office. However, in the past they have always asked for archers to come forward to claim their bows first before processing the rifles. Does Newark process bows first, guns first or first come first served?
From: SableSlayer
14-Nov-20
Thanks for the input!
From: jkirkus
15-Nov-20
I have never had an issue at Denver. When is your flight? This winter? Spring? sorry if I missed that. If you give yourseff and bags at least 60 minutes, weather permitting, Denver should be an ok connection. Atlanta, JFK, Dallas or O'Hare, all out on a limb. Hope this helps you plan.
John