57 minutes and counting

Question

I have 57 minutes between arriving on a Delta flight from Tampa and leaving on a Virgin Atlantic flight to Manchester. The airline say this is do able, but I’m seriously worried that it isn’t. Any ideas as to how to expedite this? I’m ok using the plane train, but any other suggestions?

Answer

Having only 57 minutes between a Delta flight from Tampa and a Virgin Atlantic flight to Manchester at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is a tight connection, but it is possible. Here’s what you can do to help expedite the process and make sure you don’t miss your next flight:

1. Check the Arrival Gate and Departure Gate Information:

Before you arrive, check the arrival and departure gates for both flights. ATL is a large airport, and you’ll want to know whether your Delta flight and Virgin Atlantic flight are departing from the same terminal. Typically:

Delta flights often arrive at Terminal South (Domestic Terminal),
Virgin Atlantic flights usually depart from Terminal F (International Terminal).

Make sure to confirm your gate information as soon as you land so you can plan your route accordingly.

2. Use the Plane Train:

Since your Delta flight is likely arriving at Terminal South and your Virgin Atlantic flight will depart from Terminal F, the Plane Train is the fastest way to transfer between terminals. It runs frequently and takes just a few minutes to get from one terminal to the other. As soon as you exit the Delta flight and clear passport control and customs (if required), follow the signs to the Plane Train. This will save you a lot of time compared to walking or using a shuttle bus.

3. Streamline the Immigration and Security Process:

Use Global Entry or TSA PreCheck: If you have Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, this will help you expedite the security and immigration process. Global Entry allows expedited re-entry into the U.S. for international flights, and TSA PreCheck allows you to bypass some security steps for faster screening.
Electronic Boarding Pass: Make sure you have your Virgin Atlantic boarding pass ready ahead of time. If you haven’t already checked in for your Virgin flight, do so as soon as you land to save time.

4. Ask for Assistance:

If you feel like time is running short, don't hesitate to ask airport staff or Delta/ Virgin Atlantic gate agents for help. In some cases, if you’re running late, they may be able to assist you with faster routing, or they can notify your departure gate that you’re on your way. Some airports provide priority lanes or escort services for passengers with tight connections.

5. Be Prepared for Delays:

While 57 minutes is doable, it’s still a tight window. Make sure to mentally prepare for the possibility that your inbound flight could be delayed, which would give you even less time. It’s a good idea to have a backup plan in mind, such as asking the gate agent what your options are if you miss the connection (e.g., rebooking on a later flight).

Summary:

With 57 minutes between your Delta flight from Tampa and Virgin Atlantic flight to Manchester, the key is to move quickly. Use the Plane Train to get between terminals as quickly as possible, and take advantage of any expedited security or immigration services available (like Global Entry or TSA PreCheck). Be sure to check gate information and ask for assistance if needed. Although it’s a short connection, it is doable with some quick planning and movement.