65 Minute terminal change in CDG?
 

AirFrance has a flight that arrives from the US into CDG terminal 2E at 6:25 AM and departs for Hamburg from terminal 2D at 7:30 AM. Is this something a new international traveler should risk or should we book the 11:10 AM to Hamburg instead?

You can manage the terminal change. I had 55 mins. only not 65 mins. so you can do it well. Just be prepared to walk a bit and know that not all escalators and elevators are always working so stairs are the only option. I'm not sure what you mean about the 11:10 a.m. flight.

I would not allow just 65 minutes between flights. It will take you at least a 1/2 hour to 45 minutes to deplane, bus to the terminal, go through immigration. Then you need to find your way to terminal 2D. It is quite a walk. In July it took us 1 hour 45 min. to get from 2D to 2E and to the plane. Only stopped to go to the bathroom. Also if your plane is late in arriving..the next one will not wait.

If this is your first trip to CDG I would NOT do this...book the 11:15 just to ease your stress.

Hi R,

I get antsy about anything less than 90 min.

If you go for the 07:30, you stand a very good chance of ending up on the 11:10 anyway - if there is still room.

I would book that flight.

You can fill the time at CDG by having a late breakfast and window shopping.

((I))

Air France always books hair-raising changes, and they usually ensure that you make them by helping you through the terminal and making sure people board quickly. I've made 45-minute transfers and lived to tell about it.

That said, if you're going to be a nervous wreck abaout it, book the later flight.

You're also functioning on the assumption that your plane INTO CDG will be on time.

If it weren't for the customs hurdle, I'd risk it, but since you have to do that, I'd probably go for the later flight.

Jules

Don't count on deplaning at 6:25. It takes awhile. J.

Don't try it. It's a gamble. There are several previous threads about the difficulties and risks inherent in under 2 hour transfers at CDG. You will run a good chance of waiting for a later flight and hoping your luggage gets to you.

Hi ragdoll, I agree with all the posters here that suggest you book the 11:10am to Hamburg. I just recently read an article that a survey was done and CDG was considered one of the worst airports for getting around in and catching your next schedule flight.

Taking the 11:10am flight will allow you to be relaxed if your flight is later in arriving, if getting through immigration takes time etc. And being able to walk around, getting something to eat etc. (we all know how terrible airline food is) will no doubt have you taking your 11:10am flight to Hamburg in much better shape physically and mentally. Have a wonderful trip!

For whatever reason, getting through immigration last week at CDG was time consuming -- over half an hour.

Thanks to all! I think we'll try the 11 AM flight ;)