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Baltimore international airport arrivals
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What to Expect
Disembarkation and Immigration
Upon disembarking at O'Hare International Airport, passengers experience a smooth flow towards the immigration area. However, several reviews on platforms like Google Reviews and Skytrax mention long waits at certain times of the day, with wait times exceeding 2 hours during the busiest days. This has caused some travelers to miss their connecting flights. While immigration staff are recognized for their efficiency, travelers recommend planning for long layovers to avoid issues.
For international flights, several passengers highlight that long immigration lines can worsen if multiple international flights arrive at the same time. In such cases, it's recommended to plan connections with at least 4 hours of layover time, especially during peak travel seasons, as noted by Skytrax users.
Baggage Claim
The signage to the baggage claim area is well marked, but some passengers report that the baggage collection process can be frustrating due to a lack of organization during peak times. Recent reviews on Skytrax mention that bags are sometimes removed from the carousel before passengers arrive, causing confusion. However, services like free luggage carts and the availability of ATMs and currency exchange services in this area are appreciated, especially by those arriving from international flights.
Some travelers have reported significant delays in baggage delivery, leading to long waits, particularly during peak hours or when multiple international flights arrive at the same time. A Yelp review mentioned that the wait time to collect luggage from an international flight can exceed 50 minutes, adding frustration to the arrival experience.
Transfer to the Public Area
Upon exiting to the public area, passengers are greeted with several transportation options, including taxis, shuttles, buses, and rideshare services. However, some reviews on Google and Yelp mention that signage for these transportation options can be confusing, making it difficult for travelers to navigate. It has been noted that the exit from the terminals to rideshare areas, particularly in Terminal 2, requires walking outside the building, which can be inconvenient, especially in winter or bad weather.
Passengers who opted to stay at the airport due to long layovers or early connections have reported that some areas of the airport, such as Terminal 5, are quieter and less crowded, making them ideal for rest. However, those who attempted to sleep in areas like Terminal C mentioned that noise levels were extremely high, making rest difficult. Additionally, it was noted that the temperature in these areas can be quite cold, so bringing warm clothing is recommended.
Flight Connections
Passengers with connecting flights find moving between concourses to be relatively easy, thanks to the availability of the People Mover and the transfer bus. However, during peak times, the distances can be challenging, especially in Terminal 5, where some passengers have reported long walks and delays. A recent TripAdvisor review suggests that for international connections, it's advisable to have at least 3 hours of layover, especially if you need to go through immigration and recheck your luggage.
General Opinions
Most travelers appreciate the efficiency of O'Hare airport in terms of infrastructure and the variety of services offered. However, areas for improvement include better organization at baggage claim and clearer signage in the public area. Reviews also mention that, while the airport is well-connected, high passenger traffic can lead to congestion and delays in gate assignments. Despite these issues, the airport remains one of the main international hubs, offering a solid range of services for those arriving or connecting.
Recommendations after arriving at Baltimore-Washington airport (BWI)
Carry on luggage
Don't forget your personal belongings and carry-on baggage on the aircraft.
Connecting Flights
In case you expect a connecting flight and arrive in the early hours, the airport has 24-hour cafe options. If your are coming from another country and the connecting flight is domestic, you must collect your checked baggage (in case you have checked baggage) and do migrations. Other wise if your final destination is outside the United States, you don't need to do so.
Checked baggage
If BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport is your final destination and you have checked luggage, go to the baggage claim area and look for the carousel that corresponds to your flight. In some cases there may be two flights sharing the same carousel. If your luggage is missing, go to your airline counter or ask for help to the airport staff.
Customs
Follow the signals to pass migration control. If you are a foreigner, depending on your nationality, you will need to present a valid passport and visa (as applicable) and hotel reservation or address and phone number and name of the person where you will stay. Get ready for some questions that may be asked (they do not always ask) and just answer what they ask without giving additional explanations that may compromise you.
Arrivals hall
When you get to the public area, if a private driver is waiting for you, it will surely be with some sign and your name. If you want to search for a taxi, just look for the authorized ones and not the ones that some stranger can offer you.
Meet and greet services
Royal Airport Concierge serves The Meet and greet at BWI. Greeters will meet you at the aircraft or the air bridge carrying identifying signs. They will then provide porter service at baggage claim. They will also facilitate contact with the driver waiting for you outside the airport, arrange a meeting point and escort you and your group to the transportation vehicle of your choice.
FAQs
For other inquiries, review the answers to the Frequently Asked Questions made by passengers.
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