FLL/Short layover

Question

Is 1 hour and 45 minute layover too short for a Flight next May on a Friday night. We arrive at terminal 4 and have to go through customs, no checked luggage just carry on. Our connection flight leaves from terminal 3. The airline is Jet Blue.

Answer

A 1 hour and 45 minute layover at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) on a Friday night can be tight, but given your circumstances — no checked luggage and both flights on JetBlue — it is generally manageable. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you plan and feel confident.

Customs and Immigration

Since you are arriving on an international flight at Terminal 4, you will need to go through U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Even with just carry-on luggage, processing can take anywhere from 20 minutes to over an hour depending on passenger volume. Friday nights are usually moderately busy, but not the peak of holiday travel, so expect a possible wait of 30–45 minutes. Using Mobile Passport Control or Global Entry (if eligible) can significantly speed up the process.

Terminal Transfer

Your connecting flight departs from Terminal 3. FLL has a SkyTrain / shuttle service connecting Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 4. The shuttle is free and runs every few minutes, but walking times to the shuttle and between terminals can add 10–15 minutes.
Allow an extra buffer for security screening at Terminal 3 before your departure. JetBlue security lines are generally efficient, but Friday evenings can have moderate congestion.

Other Considerations

No checked luggage is a big advantage; you will skip baggage claim, saving 10–15 minutes.
Keep your boarding passes ready and monitor your flight status. If your arrival flight is delayed by more than 30 minutes, the layover could become stressful.
Stay near the gate after clearing customs and security to avoid unnecessary walking or delays.

Recommendations

Move efficiently through customs, have documents ready, and use any expedited programs available.
Take the SkyTrain / shuttle promptly to Terminal 3 without stopping at shops or lounges along the way.
Monitor your connecting flight in real time using the JetBlue app or airport monitors.

Bottom Line

1 hour and 45 minutes is generally sufficient for this connection at FLL if everything goes smoothly, especially since you have only carry-on luggage and both flights are with JetBlue. It is not overly comfortable but should be doable. Allow extra attention to timing and be prepared to move quickly through customs, terminal transfer, and security.

FLL/Short layover

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