Transit Miami Airport - ESTA

Question

Hello

I Will be flying from Bogota to Lisbon this Sunday: Bogota-Miami with Avianca and Miami-Lisbon with TAP. I have 4,5 hours between the flights. I booked the entire trip with TAP, but apparently I have to check-in the first flight directly on the Avianca website.

Will I have to collect my bags in Miami for the connecting flight with TAP?

Do I have to clean customs? I applied for a transit ESTA; I hope that is ok?

Can anyone give me Some advice please? Thank you!

Answer

When connecting through Miami (MIA) from Bogota to Lisbon with two separate airlines (Avianca and TAP), there are a few important points to keep in mind regarding baggage, customs, and transit procedures.

First, because your flights are on separate airlines and not on a single ticket, it is likely that you will need to collect your checked baggage in Miami. Most international passengers arriving in the U.S. must clear customs and immigration before connecting to their next flight, even if their final destination is abroad.

Customs & Immigration: Yes, you will need to go through U.S. Customs and Border Protection at Miami. This includes passport control and possibly answering questions about your travel.
Baggage: Since you are flying separately, your checked bags from Avianca will typically not be automatically transferred to TAP. You will need to collect them after clearing customs and then check them in again with TAP for your flight to Lisbon.
ESTA / Transit Visa: A valid ESTA is required for all travelers entering the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program, including for transit. This is correct for your situation, and you should have no issue entering with a transit ESTA as long as it is approved and valid.
Time Considerations: Your layover of 4.5 hours should be sufficient for immigration, baggage claim, and checking in with TAP, but you should move efficiently and account for potential lines at customs, especially on a busy day.

Tips for a smooth connection:

Have your TAP boarding pass ready or check in online in advance if possible.
Keep all travel documents, passports, ESTA approval, and any COVID or health requirements accessible.
Follow signs for “Connecting Flights – International” after customs, but remember that you must first pick up your luggage due to separate tickets.
If your baggage is delayed or you are concerned, contact TAP and Avianca staff immediately for guidance.

In summary, you will clear U.S. customs, collect your bags, and then check in for your TAP flight to Lisbon. Your transit ESTA is appropriate and should allow you to enter the U.S. for this connection without issues.

Transit Miami Airport - ESTA

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