Changing Planes in Houston or Atlanta?

[Cynthiagayle01]

Instead of heading to Jackson, MS to fly Southwest (Non-stop, just love that flight) we might have to fly out of our home airport (Monroe, LA). If we do, there are no nonstop flights to Orlando. We will have to change planes in either Houston or Atlanta. I'm not looking forward to baggage fees or this changing airplanes stuff, however we might have to do it. We've never been to either of these airports before. Are they really big and hard to navigate? It might be a delta or continental flight. Any help would be greatly appreciated. I'm really hoping to be able to do Southwest instead, but who knows right now.

Is changing planes difficult? Do they take your bags from one plane to another or do you have to? Thanks again.

 

[DebbieB]

Instead of heading to Jackson, MS to fly Southwest (Non-stop, just love that flight) we might have to fly out of our home airport (Monroe, LA). If we do, there are no nonstop flights to Orlando. We will have to change planes in either Houston or Atlanta. I'm not looking forward to baggage fees or this changing airplanes stuff, however we might have to do it. We've never been to either of these airports before. Are they really big and hard to navigate? It might be a delta or continental flight. Any help would be greatly appreciated. I'm really hoping to be able to do Southwest instead, but who knows right now.

Is changing planes difficult? Do they take your bags from one plane to another or do you have to? Thanks again.

I haven't connected in Houston but have connected many times in Atlanta. If you choose Atlanta, allow at least an hour between flights. I find Atlanta easy to get around. Their concourses are lined up in a straight line and if you have to switch concourses, you can either walk or take a train.

http://www.delta.com/traveling_checkin/airport_information/airport_maps/atlanta.jsp

They will move your bags. The only issue with connecting is if your first flight is late you have to worry if you will make the second one. One advantage with Atlanta is they have almost hourly flights to Orlando. I travel alot for business and tend to favor Atlanta because of the number of flights, if there's a problem there's options.

 

[OKW Lover]

Changing planes in Houston (I assume IAH) can be as long as ATL. Its a big airport and you could have to walk some distance to the next flight.

As far as your luggage goes, checked bags will be transferred for you. You are responsible for your carryon of course.

 

[dudspizza]

Changing planes in Houston (I assume IAH) can be as long as ATL. Its a big airport and you could have to walk some distance to the next flight.

As far as your luggage goes, checked bags will be transferred for you. You are responsible for your carryon of course.

Especially if you come in on a commuter plane such as an ERJ or something and connect to a full size plane. I had a long walk that included a tram ride when I connected in Houston. I had 45 or so minutes and made it fine, but I didn't waste any time getting there.

Personally, if I have a choice, OP, I am connecting in Atlanta. 2 reasons pop to mind. #1 Atlanta is very easy to navigate, IMO. #2 Atlanta is at least headed east from LA, while Houston would be flying west to go east..... no very far, but it is.

Duds