First time flying with connecting flights, need info!

[motherof4]

We are flying out of Buffalo on January 4th, via Jet Blue with connecting flight into JFK then onto MCO. Never flew connecting before, what happens with our bags, do we need to claim them at JFK then put them on the next leg of our flight, or do they automatically do that for us? Also when we get to JFK do we have to get another boarding pass or will they give that to us when we leave from Buffalo?

 

[Bob P]

You can check your bags all the way through and there will be no need to see them at JFK.

Also you will get your boarding passes for both southbound flights when you check in at Buffalo...or better yet, check in from home and you'll have them with you when you arrive at the airport!

 

[Sandi]

Welcome to the world of connecting flights. There is almost nothing direct from where I fly, so connecting is what we do. It's not difficult and you'll do fine.

At Buffalo, they will provide boarding passes to you for both of your flights. Hang onto them. You will need the first to get to JFK and the second to get to MCO. In Buffalo, they will also check your bags all the way through to your final destination. You do not need to do anything about your bags at JFK. It works well almost always. Sometimes there is a screw up however, so be sure to pack what you absolutely must have for an overnight in your carry on (medicines, change of underwear, swimsuit, etc) just in case.

Sometimes the flight crew will list off the connecting gates shortly before your first flight lands. If you catch the info, great. If not, don't worry too much. When you get into your gate at JFK, look for the departure monitors and find your flight. Then, depending on the amount of time you have before your next flight leaves, either hoof it to your connecting gate, or stroll over there.

Good luck. JFK is a big airport and can be a little overwhelming. If you need help, ask an airline crew person and they will give directions, etc.

 

[motherof4]

Thanks, that awsome! I was worried with 4 children and anyways you get the picture! We are also using DME, what a luxury not to worry about our luggage!

 

[debster812]

DS and I did this in April of last year. From BOS to Ft Myers, but a JetBlue connection through JFK.

The terminal where JetBlue is is pretty expansive, but not HUGE. You could easily walk end to end in about 10 minutes, maybe 20 with 4 kids in tow . There's a decent selection of places to grab a bite to eat (food court style) and the people watching is nothing short of SPECTACULAR. My 9YO suburban child was goggle eyed at some of the sites.

Be prepared for some delays. Flying down we had none, flying home, we sat on the tarmac, in line for takeoff for nearly an hour. Not JetBlue's fault, the weather was horrible. A few extra snacks in someone's back would be a good idea here.

It's really pretty easy.

 

[lost*in*cyberspace]

Be prepared for some delays.

I second this. JFK/JetBlue and delays go hand in hand. I've never NOT had a flight delay there.

I would take a routing through just about any other airport (except another one in the NYC area) to avoid JFK.

 

[lustergirl]

I have flown JetBlue into NYC- they have their own hub, so you want have to go far to catch your connecting flight. If you are staying at a disney owned resort you won't have to worry about your luggage- it will magically appear in your room in a couple of hours after checking in. In seven days I am flying southwest non-stop out of Buffalo. This is my first time with Southwest, hopefully more flights to come. I love to fly non-stop- you don't have to worry about rushing to your next gate for your connecting flight or sitting in another airport waiting for like ever. I will touch down in Orlando in just a little over 3 hours- woohoo!!!!!!

Good Luck from a Buffalonian.