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Geneva Airport, Nervous Connection

Hello All,
I'll be traveling from Pittsburgh to Porto. First, Pittsburgh to Montreal (3.5 hr layover), then Montreal to Geneva (2.5hr), Geneva to Porto.
My 2.5 hr connection in Geneva has me very nervous. I looked at the map, seems I both arrive/depart from "Terminal 1".

Generally, I book long layovers but this time was unavoidable. Will 2.5hr give me enough time to transfer? I'm not clear if I'll need another security screen during this time?

Thank You... I hope someone with a little experience can help me out? Greatly appreciated.

Posted by
23268 posts

I think you are fine assuming every thing is one ticket. International flights tend to be on time and often a little early. You will have to go through immigration (passport control). If you are running short, advise one of the personnel in the area as there is generally a special line for people with short time. You stay behind security.

Posted by
2 posts

Thank You!!!
I did book a single reservation but I arrive on Air Canada and depart on Swiss. Thank you for the advice. Remaining behind security is a big relief... Thx

Posted by
1653 posts

2.5 hours is not a tight connection by European standards. Connecting through Europe you will often even be offered connections as short as 30 minutes! The airlines like to offer those as the competition is fierce. They do expect these to work. 2.5 hours is something I would not worry about.

You will not have to go through security again. Your luggage will be checked through. You will go through immigration in Geneva as that is where you enter the Schengen Area. Customs will be in Porto after you pick up your luggage, but unless you have something to declare you will just take the green lane there.

Air Canada and SWISS are both Star Alliance. They cooperate well. If you were to miss your connection due to a delay they will just find an alternative for you.