Question re flying from MBJ to Canada via US?

[nutz4travel]

We've always connected through an airport in Canada, cleared customs etc when landing from MBJ. If we fly home via Charlotte lets say, would they check our bags through to Ottawa or would we have to clear customs there? I know we'd still have to clear customs when we land in Canada, just wondering what the procedure would be at the US end and I'm hoping someone here has done it.

I only ask because the flights home in May are a LOT cheaper with the US carriers....

Thanks

[brownsd54]

We flew from MBJ to Atlanta and then on to Winnipeg in December. When you land in Charlotte you'll have to collect your bags and clear customs there. You'll then have to re-check your bags for the onward flight to Canada. Remember if you buy duty free in MBJ, you'll have to leave room and same some weight in you checked bag as you won't be able to pass security to make you connection.

My experience in Atlanta was great. Immigration, customs, security, and airport staff were so friendly and helpful. The Canadian system can learn a few things about customer service from our American friends.

[nutz4travel]

Thanks brownsd54 - for some reason that's what I thought would happen... We connected through Heathrow without having to clear customs, but I didn't think that was the case in the US.

[caribbeanprlgrl]

We have always been told by all airlines here in North America, and we have flown with many, that your first port of entry you must claim luggage and then recheck them in. It has always held true for our flights. Before we started to fly Air Canada we would have to have a stopover in the US and we always had to claim our luggage and recheck them. Our first time to Jamaica we had to do this 5 times going there and 5 times coming home. What a nightmare!! We said we didn't care how much tickets were for a more direct flight we would be willing to pay it if we went to JA again. With Air Canada we go from Edmonton to TO then on to Sangster, same on return. Hope this helps you out.