Transfer time 1:30 hours for international transfer

Question

Hello.

I ask for information if 1:30 hour is enough for international transfer at Atlanta Airport. We will fly from Venice, Italy to Atlanta and then transfer to another flight from Atlanta to San Jose, Costa Rica. Both flights are operated by Delta. We will have 1 checked baggage per person and 1 small rucksack per person. Must we pick up the baggage after arrival in Atlanta and check it again for the next flight to San Jose or not - it is checked for the whole route at Venice Airport? Generally, what looks like the procedure?

Thank you.

Kind regards.

Ales

Answer

Hello Ales,

Here’s a detailed overview of what to expect for your international transfer at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) with a 1 hour 30 minutes connection:

1. Baggage Handling

Since both flights are operated by Delta, it is very likely that your checked baggage will be tagged through from Venice to San Jose, Costa Rica. You should confirm this at check-in in Venice.
If your baggage is tagged through, you will not need to pick it up in Atlanta; it will automatically be transferred to your connecting flight.
Your carry-on/rucksack will travel with you, as usual, and you’ll keep it with you through the connection.

2. Immigration and Customs

Even with checked baggage through, you will need to go through U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in Atlanta because it’s your first entry point into the United States.
Typically, you will deplane and follow signs for “International Arrivals” to go through passport control.
After clearing immigration, you may need to pass through baggage claim to confirm the baggage, even if it is tagged to the final destination. Many travelers only have to walk through the customs checkpoint after grabbing their bag, then drop it again at a re-check counter if it’s tagged through.

3. Security Screening

After customs, you will go through TSA security again before proceeding to your domestic (or onward international) departure gate.
This process can take some time depending on lines, so a 1:30 hour connection is tight but generally feasible if flights are on schedule.

4. Recommended Procedure

Upon landing in Atlanta, follow signs for “International Arrivals”.
Go through immigration/passport control.
Pick up checked baggage if required by CBP, then proceed through customs.
Drop off the baggage at the re-check counter for your Delta flight to San Jose.
Go through TSA security for your next flight.
Proceed to your departure gate.

Tips:

Try to sit near the front of the aircraft on the Venice-Atlanta flight to deplane quickly.
Monitor the time closely, and use the Delta app or ask flight attendants for guidance if your incoming flight is delayed.
If your connection is tight, Delta personnel can assist with expediting the process for tight transfers.

In summary, 1 hour 30 minutes is generally enough for an international-to-international transfer at ATL, especially with Delta flights. The main steps will be immigration, customs, re-check of baggage (if necessary), and TSA screening before heading to your next gate.