arrival from Pittsburgh

Question

we're booking a flight from Pittsburgh to Cancun with a 1 1/2 hour layover at the Atlanta Airport. From what I can tell of the Atlanta Airport map is that we would land at Concourse A. I think we leave out of Concourse F for Cancun.

Is an hour and a half enough time for making the flight? We do not check bags.

Answer

For your flight from Pittsburgh to Cancun with a 1.5-hour layover at Atlanta Airport, it is generally possible to make the connection, especially since you don’t have checked luggage. However, there are a few important considerations:

Atlanta Airport Layover Considerations:

Distance Between Concourses: You are landing in Concourse A and departing from Concourse F. The distance between these two concourses is significant, and you will likely need to take the Plane Train, which connects all concourses in the airport. This train runs every 2 minutes, but it can still take 10-15 minutes to travel between concourses.
Security and Boarding Time: Even though you don’t have checked luggage, you still need to go through security checks, particularly if you’re switching terminals or concourses (though sometimes the security check is in your departure concourse). After security, you will also need to account for the time it takes to get to your departure gate in Concourse F, which could be a longer walk depending on the gate's location.
Flight Delays: Keep in mind that a 1.5-hour layover does not allow much buffer for flight delays, and delays in your arrival from Pittsburgh could make your connection more stressful. However, airlines typically schedule layovers with a bit of a buffer to accommodate these situations, and in many cases, they may prioritize connecting passengers if there are delays.

Tips to Ensure a Smooth Connection:

Be Prepared to Move Quickly: As soon as you land, check the time and head directly to the Plane Train. Follow signs for Concourse F, and use the train to save time.
Monitor Flight Status: Keep an eye on the status of your Cancun flight. If the gate changes, it’s better to know early so you can adjust your route within the terminal.
Stay in Touch with Airline Staff: If you’re feeling rushed, notify the flight attendants or gate agents. Sometimes, they can provide helpful information or expedite your boarding process.

Conclusion: A 1.5-hour layover in Atlanta Airport is doable, especially without checked bags. However, it will be tight, and you’ll need to move quickly. If you feel unsure, you can always ask the airline about the typical connection time at Atlanta Airport for your specific flight combination, or they may offer guidance if delays occur.