I read many complaints on one of the air travel websites about this airport--how much walking there is even within the new terminal 4, etc. so am concerned about how early to get there, and this then affects my flight choice.

Have narrowed down my choices to: #1) Madrid-Atlanta-LAX on Delta with 4-hour layover in Atlanta leaving Madrid at 11:00 a.m. versus #2) Madrid-CDG-LAX on AF with a 4-hour layover in Paris, leaving Madrid at 12:35 p.m.

First choice saves me $25. However my concern is do I need to get to the airport more than 2 hours in advance for a transatlantic flight? Choice #2 is in-Schengen on the first leg to Paris. So in that case, maybe I only need 2 hours in advance, or should I get there earlier anyway--is 2-1/2 hours early enough at Madrid?

There are options with shorter layovers in both Atlanta and Paris but I could find none that were over 2 hours--so between 1 hour and 30 minutes or so for either one and 4 hours, I chose the long layovers just to keep my stress level down and since I'm really not in such a big hurry.

What say you, Fodorites?

It's all a personal choice. I prefer the CDG-LAX option as it's one long flight without having to change on the US east coast and I can usually sleep.

If you are flying international you really should be at the airport a couple of hours early regardless of whether it's via Paris or not.

I wouldn't worry about a 1.5 hour layover in CDG either - I've done it numerous times without missing a connection. But I'm not an anxious flyer when it comes to stressing out about connections. If you are then I'd understanding wanting the long layovers.

You are right to be wary of the sprawling new terminal at Madrid Barajas. The big concern is for travellers who are transferring to or from the older terminals, a substantial shuttle-bus ride away. But that's not you. What does your airline advise? Probably on the ticket, and certainly on its website, the carrier will state how early you should get to the terminal. That time may seem generous but better safe than sorry.
As to Atlanta versus CdG, Atlanta's layout is marginally easier to navigate while Paris offers slightly more exotic refreshments (although one food court in Atlanta had a cocktail pianist last year, very cool.)
For me, a 1.5 hour transfer between planes is a nail-biter anywhere. If the "layover" is merely a pause in an on-going route, you're staying on the same plane with no worries. If changing planes, then there will be more tension.

American based international carriers require you to be at the airport at least 2-1/2 hours before your scheduled departure to give you enough time to check in, clear security to enter the airport and possibly another security check before you board your flight.

If you're a premium frequent flyer or flying First/Business class, arriving two hours before departure is generally enough.

Why would anyone push their luck re: arrival times.. what's an additional 1/2 hour??? Get to MAD early and relax.. Can never tell about traffic, unforseen incidents etc, etc. Stressed out is not a good way to start a long trip.

So I think CDG is going to be my choice--thanks everyone. The food is WAY better, having been to both.

I guess the question still remains for me--splitting hairs, but for those who know Madrid airport--should I give it 3 hours in advance or is 2-1/2 ok. I have will be going in the cheap seats. The Delta/AF rep on the phone today said 2 hours is fine, but it didn't sound like she knew anything about Madrid specifically. Thanks again everyone!

2-1/2 hours should be fine. Never trust the Delta/AF rep, they do not travel like you and I and everyone else.

Thanks again to everybody for your help!

2-2.5 hours for a Schengen flight should be more than enough time.

MORE than enough especially since you are NOT in T4.. you are in the older smaller terminal T1 and it is nothing compared to T4.

You will LOVE the new terminal at CDG ,( although there be prepared to walk.. if you have ANY sort of bad foot, do get a wheel chair ordered)

The terminal has fabulous shopping which I have never been able to enjoy very much due to my shorter connection times. Enjoy it! There are nice places to rest, too and limited free wifi.

T4 is for Iberia flights and their affiliates.