I have a flight arriving at 06:30 (AM) to Madrid via an Iberia flight. As I have not taken an overnight flight to Europe in years (ugh) and likely won't be sleeping, I am having a car pickup (love pampering on occasion). Anyway, I'm wondering what the general amount of time it takes from wheels on the ground to the exit of the international arrivals area at that time of day and on a Thursday. As I am checking my trekking poles I will need to await a checked bag as well as go through immigration, etc. I know car services try to time their pickups according to the flight, but I'd like a general idea of timing, if possible. How long has it taken you at this airport in the early morning from an international flight?
Posted by
Hudson Valley
2267 posts
I know the route well. While I've gotten to the curb faster and slower, I'd estimate it averages about 45 minutes.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23626 posts
That is like asking how long will that football game be? It depends. Only been through Madrid three time -- once was super quick at about 45 minutes and others were closer to an hour and a half but we didn't check luggage either. It will greatly depend on the amount of traffic at that time.
Posted by
OP
Cape Ann, Massachusetts
3336 posts
Thanks Scudder and Frank.
I do know it depends on traffic and that is why I included the time. This is also why I asked for a "general idea of timing".
Posted by
Hudson Valley
2267 posts
Wray- that time is rush hour for arrivals from the Americas. Hustle from the plane to passport control- every person you pass is a minute saved in line.
Posted by
OP
Cape Ann, Massachusetts
3336 posts
Thanks Scudder! That's good to know. Fortunately, I'm at the front of the plane on this trip, so at least I can be in front of my other passengers.
Posted by
Hudson Valley
2267 posts
Iberia's business class is one of my favorites among the European carriers. Enjoy! The cabin crews even stand in the way, assuring that the front cabin disembarks first! (But still hustle down that long corridor, past the arrivals from Quito, Dallas, Charlotte, Caracas, etc...)
Posted by
OP
Cape Ann, Massachusetts
3336 posts
Scudder, That's good to hear about Iberia's business class. I'm looking forward to it!