Do I need to pick up my luggage on a connecting flight in USA?

Do I Need to Collect My Luggage on a Connecting Flight in the USA?

In the United States, the need to collect baggage on a connecting flight depends on whether the flight is domestic or international.

Domestic Connecting Flights

For domestic connecting flights within the United States, you typically do not need to collect your luggage. Once you arrive at your first destination, proceed to the gate for your connecting flight. Your luggage will be automatically transferred to the next plane.

International Connecting Flights

For international arrivals in the US, regardless of the airline you are flying with, you are always required to collect your luggage. This is because all international passengers must go through US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) upon arrival.

Procedure for International Connecting Flights

1. Disembark from the plane and proceed to baggage claim: You will need to collect your luggage from the baggage claim area of your arrival airport.
2. Clear US Customs and Border Protection (CBP): Present your passport and fill out any necessary paperwork at the CBP checkpoint. You may be subject to an inspection of your bags.
3. Recheck your luggage: Once you have cleared CBP, proceed to the check-in counter of the airline you are connecting with. Recheck your luggage for your connecting flight.

Exceptions

There may be some exceptions to the general rule that international passengers must collect their luggage. If you are flying on a single ticket with a participating airline, and your luggage is checked all the way through to your final destination, you may not need to claim it. However, it is always best to check with your airline for specific details.

Conclusion

Remember, if you are arriving on an international flight in the US, you must always retrieve your luggage and recheck it before continuing your journey, regardless of whether you have a connecting flight booked.