Inexperienced Flyer Question

[mkymouse1928]

I am booked on Airtran from MCO to DAY for my return flight. I was originally supposed to have aprox 1 hr layover in ATL, but several weeks ago my flight was changed to a 25 min layover in BWI. I originally accepted the change, but as I have been reading up on things, I think this might not be a very good scenario. It won't be a big deal if my luggage doesn't make it as I can easily get that the next day, but my travelling companions will have two checked car seats which they will need for the drive home. Should I see about changing my flights? Can I even switch at this point since I already accepted the change? Oh, this is for October 16th so only a couple of weeks away.

Advice, please?

 

[GoodFairies]

As far as airports go, BWI is on the smaller side. But I still don't think 25 minutes is enough time to transfer planes, even if the gates were very close together, because of the amount of time it takes to deboard the plane and get the carseats from gatecheck. There is no window for first plane even being a few minutes late, let alone really late. I would try to change it.

 

[Cdn Friends of Pooh]

I would agree - try and change your flight. Most airlines usually start boarding 30 min before scheduled take off time. If your flight is late, or even if it isn't, it does take time to deplane and get to your next gate. Cut it too close and your seat could be given to someone on stand-by.

Airports set minimum connecting times, which is called a "legal connection," and that can be as little as 45 minutes between arrival and the departure of your connecting flight. But if you accept the minimum, any delay for any reason can mean you'll miss your flight.

I'd never try a connection under 45 min, even at a smaller airport