SMF to HNL via LAX
 

In April we're flying AA from SMF to Honolulu via LAX, with a plane change. We have 2-1/2 hours between flights and don't have information yet on where the second flight leaves from. Do you think we have enough time? We have TSA pre-check in case we have to go through security twice.

Sure (assuming your SMF/LAX flight isn't delayed 2 hours . . .) The AA SMF flight lands at the small remote terminal and from there they run continual shuttles to both main terminals AA flies out of. You'll remain airside and won't have to go through security at LAX.

Thanks for the info. Good to know about the small remote terminal so it's not a surprise.

Well...as it turns out, I found a Hawaiian Airlines flight from SMF--a new listing--that leaves at a respectable hour (no 5 a.m. for us!) and goes to Maui and then Honolulu, with a short-stopover. Much nicer plane, too. So Goodbye AA and LAX!

I *adore* Hawaiian Air. MUCH better for oh so many reasons!

We also like flying Hawaiian from SMF. That said, we found a better deal flying Hawaiian non stop to Lihue from Oakland in March.

The only problem with flying on Hawaiian is that at SMF we'll be flying out of terminal B, which I loathe.

>>we'll be flying out of terminal B, which I loathe<<

Why is that?

T-B has much better restaurants, amenities, seating areas. I mostly fly AA, and I hated it when they moved from B to A (they used to be in B but moved to the old USAirways Gates in A after he merger was complete)

They are starting to upgrade Terminal A but it is really a poor step sister to B.

How do I hate Terminal B? Let me count the ways...the check-in area on the second floor instead of the first, the people-mover (pushing and crowding), the security lines...

Much prefer Terminal A: smaller and easier to navigate.

Well once I am ON the plane... I like Hawaiian Air best.

>>the people-mover (pushing and crowding)<<

I've never seen pushing and crowding on the shuttle -- it is usually half empty.

>>the check-in area on the second floor instead of the first<<

I guess escalators just don't bother me much . . .

The last time we were on the shuttle it was packed--probably the time of the year. As for escalators, no, I don't like them.