Quick check on a GRU connection:
Looking at Azul AD8781 from Punta del Este arriving ~6:50pm, then United to IAH at 9:45pm. Separate tickets, carry-on only.
Both flights seem to use Terminal 3, but I assume I still need to clear immigration and re-enter security.
Is ~2h55 enough in practice at GRU? Any issues with evening immigration lines or United check-in cutoffs?
Trying to gauge how risky this is — appreciate any insight.
The cheapest UAL ticket for tomorrow from GRU to IAH is $1900+. If you miss getting to your flight that is an an indication of what is awaiting you to get home ( the next day)
How many in your party?
I would be looking at getting to GRU earlier.
This is where the Clint Eastwood/ Dirty Harry "Are you feeling lucky.... well are you? " gets inserted.
My $0.02
I do frequent transfers in GRU but usually from the US to a domestic flight within Brazil and vice versa.
It is one of the worst airports I've been.
I have a feeling that you will have to go through immigration/customs, and exit thru the baggage claim. Then go to the terminal with the United check-in desk so they can review your ticket, visa/passport, etc. to the US. It is a long walk from where you exit to where the check-in desks are, and they don't have the "moving walkway".
Not having to wait for checked luggage is huge. It will save you time for sure and one less thing to maneuver during connectiong.
After United check-in, you will need to go through security, passport control and then to gate.
3 hours would be the bare minimum for me. Is there an earlier flight from Punta del Este? Check Gol Airlines and LATAM.
I usually fly Delta and within Brazil I fly a partner airline. When I arrive at GRU for my flight to the US, if on same ticket, I go through connection lane that takes me directly to passport control. But this is coming from within Brazil. If a different airlines not partner, than I have to exit, retrieve my checked luggage, go to check-in desk of Delta, and go through regular security and passport control.
Have you tried looking at a single ticket with a different stop than GRU? You might be able to connect in Montevideo or Miami or Panama City (quick Google search). If United is your go-to airline, go to their website and see what they offer. They might have a partner airline with a different flight route.
And Brazil requires a visa for Americans (not sure if you are). Unless you have one already, I would avoid it if you are only connecting in Brazil. Different story if you go visit. Fantastic country. Awful airports.
And lastly about immigration lines, I think the delay might be leaving GRU as most international flights to the US are evening ones if I recall. When will you be traveling?
