Domestic terminal to international questions

Question

I thought I had posted this earlier but don’t think I did.

We are flying in from Norfolk VA (Delta) and out to Manchester UK with Virgin Airlines. The turnaround is 55 mins. Our travel agent and Virgin says this is perfectly OK. Do we go through security damaging or emigration? Our lads are panicking! Is it possible?

Second question. We’ve both got arthritis which means we ca walk but could not run to a gate. The rep has booked special assistance. We don’t want wheelchairs but a buggy and fast track would be helpful.

Thanks in advance.

Answer

For your flight from Norfolk, VA to Manchester, UK with a 55-minute layover at Atlanta Airport (ATL), here’s what you need to know:

1. Security and Immigration: Since you’re flying internationally (from the U.S. to the U.K.), you’ll need to go through U.S. Customs and Immigration when you land at Atlanta, even though you’re connecting from a domestic flight (Norfolk to Atlanta) to an international flight (Atlanta to Manchester). In this case:

You will not need to go through security again at ATL, but you will need to go through Immigration (Customs) and possibly collect and recheck your luggage (depending on whether your bags are checked through to Manchester).
If your bags are not checked through to Manchester, you will need to pick them up at baggage claim, go through customs, and then drop them off for recheck. This can take some time, and with only a 55-minute layover, it may feel tight.
If your bags are checked through, the process will be faster, and you won’t need to pick them up.

While a 55-minute layover is technically possible, it’s important to know that ATL is a large airport with busy security lines, especially at peak times. Your travel agent and Virgin Airlines are correct that it’s a tight but feasible connection, but you’ll need to move quickly. In the case of a delay or if you miss your flight, Virgin Airlines should assist you in rebooking you on a later flight.

2. Special Assistance for Arthritis: Since you mentioned that you and your travel partner have arthritis, and while you do not need a wheelchair, you have requested a buggy and fast track for assistance, this is a good plan. Here’s how it works:

Make sure to confirm your special assistance request directly with Delta and Virgin Airlines. They can arrange for you to have a buggy (a cart or mobility assistance) to help you get to your connecting gate quickly.
At ATL, once you land from your Norfolk flight, there should be staff available to help escort you through the airport. They’ll provide assistance in getting you to the right immigration lines, help with any necessary re-checks, and assist in getting to your next gate as efficiently as possible.
Fast track through security is typically part of special assistance, so you’ll be able to bypass long lines at security and immigration. This should help you get through the airport faster without the need to run.

To make sure everything runs smoothly:

Contact your airlines (Delta and Virgin) to confirm your special assistance arrangements in advance and make sure they know you’re connecting to an international flight.
Give yourself time to get to your gate and keep an eye on the flight’s status in case of any delays.
Ask for any additional support at the gate if needed, such as a mobility device or help with directions.

In summary, your 55-minute connection is possible, but you’ll need to be quick. Special assistance should help with getting through the airport, but confirming your needs in advance with both airlines is essential. Good luck, and safe travels!

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