Connecting time in LAX with checked baggage seperate ticket

Question

I booked a one-way ticket from Shanghai to Los Angeles to Calgary on Flightnetwork, with checked baggage. The first segment is operated by China Eastern Airlines, and the second segment is operated by WestJet. After calling the travel agency’s customer service, I found out that these are two separate itineraries with different check-in reference but ONE e-ticket number. When I contacted China Eastern Airlines, they said they might not be able to check my baggage through to Calgary. My layover time in LAX is 3.5 hours. Will I have enough time to catch my second flight?

Answer

You’re dealing with a common situation when connecting on separate tickets, especially internationally. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you plan for LAX with checked baggage and a 3.5-hour layover.

1) Baggage transfer:

Since your tickets are technically separate itineraries—even if they share one e-ticket number—China Eastern Airlines may not be able to check your baggage through to Calgary. Most likely, you will need to:

Claim your checked baggage upon arrival at LAX.
Go through U.S. Customs and Immigration with your baggage.
Drop off your baggage again at the WestJet check-in counter for your Calgary flight.

2) Time considerations at LAX:

3.5 hours is generally sufficient, but it depends on a few factors:

Immigration and customs wait times can vary; lines can be long during peak hours.
Re-checking baggage for a separate ticket will add time.
Walking between terminals if your flights arrive and depart from different terminals (LAX is large and can take 15–30 minutes to get between some terminals).

3) Recommended steps:

Upon arrival at LAX, follow signs to U.S. Customs and Immigration. This is mandatory regardless of baggage.
Claim your checked baggage at baggage claim.
Check the terminal and counter for WestJet. If it’s in a different terminal, consider taking the LAX shuttle or taxi between terminals.
Check in for your WestJet flight and drop off your baggage.
Proceed through security again to reach your departure gate.

4) Tips to ensure smooth connection:

Check terminal maps and WestJet counter locations in advance.
Have all documents (passport, boarding passes, baggage claim tags) ready to speed up processing.
If possible, carry a small carry-on with essentials in case there are delays with baggage recheck.
Monitor flight arrival times and any potential delays on your China Eastern flight.

Conclusion:

3.5 hours is generally adequate for this type of connection at LAX, but it’s not stress-free. You’ll need to claim and re-check your baggage, clear customs, and navigate terminals. If either flight is delayed, your margin decreases. Being prepared, moving efficiently, and knowing your terminal layout are key. If you want extra peace of mind, contacting WestJet and China Eastern again to confirm baggage transfer rules and terminal info is recommended.