Customs in Miami Airport??
 

Posted this to the airline forum as well but thought someone here might know...we are traveling from Latin America to Europe, passing through the Miami airport. Do we have to go through passport control and customs in Miami or can we simply go to the gate for our European flight..using American Airlines from Honduras and then British Airways to London. In the past I know you just went right to your gate but with the new security procedures, I want to make sure we allow enough time. Have a two hour space between flights as of now. Thanks. Ana

Ana, I'm not familiar with Miami airport so I don't know how much time you need there but you will HAVE to go through customs and immigrationon after any flight arriving from abroad(except Canada as you go through customs there). The same procedure after your flight from Europe

Nowadays I have been told that everyone who enters the USA - be it in transfer or for a stay - has to go through customs, paspoortcontrol etc.

Yes, you will have to go thru immigration upon arrival, then claim your baggage, go thru customs, then give your baggage to the connecting flight personnel (provided your bags are already checked to your destination). Then, you will proceed on to your next gate for your flight to Europe.

I just want to add that this information I gave you comes from our personal experience when flying many times since 9/11 to/from Europe, Latin America, Canada. It is not difficult procedure and you will be directed or just follow "Transfer" signs. Have fun

In Montreal, Canada you would go through US customs right there at the Canadian airport. But this is only additional information that has nothing to do with your trip.

Don't know what others' experiences have been, but the two times we've had flights from Europe connecting through Miami, our luggage has not made it to the 2nd plane despite the fact that we had at least 3 hours between planes. AA both times. Customs a that airport is a zoo. Awful!

Thank you all so much for the help. I think that I will pay the fee to change my ticket to allow a 6 hour layover in Miami rather than run the risk of missing the flight to London or arriving without luggage. Better to sit in the airport and relax than worry myself silly. Thanks. Ana