I’m not sure what the deal is, but I’ve been noticing very tight connecting times at IAD when doing flight searches to the east coast recently. That might seem scary for the inexperienced travelers, but I can assure you that (in most situations) a 1 hour layover is enough time at Dulles:
- For domestic to domestic connections, a 1 hour layover is more than enough time.
- Domestic to international connections will require about an hour.
- However, 1 hour will not be enough time for international to domestic connections.
Hopefully that was all you needed to alleviate your concerns. However, if I’ve all I’ve done was rattle your anxiety, keep reading. I’ll show you why making connections at IAD isn’t all that bad…
The reason why a 1 hour layover is enough time at the Dulles Airport (most of the time)
The nice thing about the Dulles airport is that all gates in all terminals are connected behind the main security checkpoint. This means that you can freely move between all terminals relatively quickly.
Not only that, airlines are fairly well grouped at IAD. Chances are extremely slim that you’ll have to run across the entire length of the airport to reach your connecting flight. Sure, there are occasional situations when that will be required, but it’s not as common as you might think.
If you do have to haul *** from one end of Dulles to the other in a short amount of time, the above-ground shuttles and underground train system (AeroTrain) makes it easy.
Reasons why a 1 hour layover might not be enough time
The main reason why a 1 hour layover might not be enough time in Dulles for a domestic to domestic connection is if you’re a slow walker. Having difficulty understanding public transportation might make it difficult as well.
Although it is possible to walk from the main terminal to terminal A and B, there’s no way to walk between terminals A and B to C and D. In those cases, you’ll have to walk to the nearest train or shuttle station and catch a ride to your destination gate.
For most people, this won’t be a problem. However, if your mobility is limited (or you easily get confused), it could add some extra time.
It should also be noted that a 1 hour layover at IAD won’t be enough time for an international to domestic connection. All arriving international passengers must go through passport control and customs prior to retrieving their baggage and re-checking it. That will take more than an hour.
What is the minimum layover time for domestic flights at IAD?
Honestly, if you’re flying United, the minimum layover for domestic flights at IAD (in my opinion) is 35 minutes. Yes, that will be cutting it close, but chances are pretty good that you’ll make it. If you’re flying in on one airline and departing out on another (assuming you have a carry-on only and you have checked in online), give yourself at least 45 minutes.
What is the minimum layover time for international flights at IAD?
Minimum layover times for international flights at IAD depend greatly on whether you’re coming or going. These are my personal time estimates based on my own experience:
Connecting TO an international flight
Connecting from a domestic flight to an international flight at Dulles will take about an hour. You will not have to go through any additional security checks board the plane, but you will be required to be onboard earlier than you would for a domestic flight.
Connecting FROM an international flight
Connecting from an international flight to a domestic flight at Dulles will take a minimum of an hour and a half. Going through the customs and immigration process will take some time. Not only that, you’ll have to retrieve (and re-check) your baggage before continuing on to your domestic connection.
A brief overview of the terminal layout at the Washington Dulles International Airport
The Washington Dollis International Airport is weird. I don’t necessarily mean that in a bad way, but it always seems to throw me for a loop whenever I’m there.
There are three main buildings at IAD:
- The main terminal contains all airline ticketing counters as well as a small number of gates (Z gates and H gates)
- Terminals A and B are grouped together in one building
- Terminals C and D are grouped in another
The main terminal is nothing short of beautiful. It’s an elegant and grand structure, probably one of the most iconic airport buildings in all of the US. Unfortunately, the other two terminals are depressingly sterile and soulless.
Walking time between all terminals at IAD
Moving between terminals at the Dulles Airport is relatively easy. However, it’s important to note that because there’s no way to walk between terminals A and B and C and D, getting around will take a little longer than you might expect from just looking at the terminal map.
The good news is that the above ground shuttles and the underground train are extremely efficient and easy to use. Getting from one end of IAD to the other is relatively quick given its large size. Here are my personal time estimates:
Main Terminal to:
- Z Gates: 2 minutes
- H Gates: 2 minutes
- A Gates: 7 minutes to walk / 6 minutes via the AeroTrain
- B Gates: 7 minutes to walk / 6 minutes via the AeroTrain
- C Gates: 7 minutes via the AeroTrain / 14 minutes via the shuttle
- D Gates: 17 minutes via the AeroTrain / 10 minutes via the shuttle
Z Gates to:
- Main Terminal: 2 minutes
- H Gates: 2 minutes
- A Gates: 5 minutes to walk / 4 minutes via the AeroTrain
- B Gates: 5 minutes to walk / 6 minutes via the AeroTrain
- C Gates: 5 minutes via the AeroTrain / 14 minutes via the shuttle
- D Gates: 14 minutes via the AeroTrain / 8 minutes via the shuttle
H Gates to:
- Main Terminal: 2 minutes
- Z Gates: 2 minutes
- A Gates: 5 minutes to walk / 4 minutes via the AeroTrain
- B Gates: 5 minutes to walk / 6 minutes via the AeroTrain
- C Gates: 5 minutes via the AeroTrain / 14 minutes via the shuttle
- D Gates: 14 minutes via the AeroTrain / 8 minutes via the shuttle
A Gates to:
- Main Terminal: 7 minutes to walk / 6 minutes via the AeroTrain
- Z Gates: 5 minutes to walk / 4 minutes via the AeroTrain
- H Gates: 5 minutes to walk / 4 minutes via the AeroTrain
- B Gates: 3 minutes to walk
- C Gates: 5 minutes via the AeroTrain
- D Gates: 8 minutes via the AeroTrain / 5 minutes via the shuttle
B Gates to:
- Main Terminal: 7 minutes to walk / 6 minutes via the AeroTrain
- Z Gates: 5 minutes to walk / 6 minutes via the AeroTrain
- H Gates: 5 minutes to walk / 6 minutes via the AeroTrain
- A Gates: 3 minutes to walk
- C Gates: 8 minutes via the AeroTrain
- D Gates: 12 minutes via the AeroTrain
C Gates to:
- Main Terminal: 7 minutes to walk / 14 minutes via the AeroTrain
- Z Gates: 5 minutes to walk / 14 minutes via the AeroTrain
- H Gates: 5 minutes to walk / 14 minutes via the AeroTrain
- A Gates: 5 minutes via the AeroTrain
- B Gates: 8 minutes via the AeroTrain
- D Gates: 3 minutes to walk
D Gates to:
- Main Terminal: 17 minutes via the AeroTrain / 10 minutes via the shuttle
- Z Gates:14 minutes via the AeroTrain / 8 minutes via the shuttle
- H Gates: 14 minutes via the AeroTrain / 8 minutes via the shuttle
- A Gates: 8 minutes via the AeroTrain / 5 minutes via the shuttle
- B Gates: 12 minutes via the AeroTrain
- C Gates: 3 minutes to walk
As I noted earlier, the need to use the train or a shuttle might be confusing for some passengers. In that case, a little extra time will be needed.
How long of a layover do you need at the Dulles Airport for a no-stress connection?
Unlike many other airport layover guides that I’ve written, my ideal connection times for IAD are considerably low. It’s just not a very fun airport to hang out in in my opinion, and the less time that I have to spend there the better. The following are my time estimates for no stress connections at Dulles:
Domestic to domestic layovers
A layover of less than 1 hour to go from one domestic flight to another at IAD is perfectly sufficient. The only reason why you would want to choose an itinerary with a longer connection time is if you want to get something to eat between flights. Otherwise, there’s really no reason to hang around.
Domestic to international layovers
I tend to think an hour and 25 minutes would be the perfect amount of time for a layover between an inbound domestic flight and outbound international flight at IAD. Not only will this give you enough time to be on board your connecting flight earlier, but it’ll also give you a chance to grab a bite to eat in the terminal before your long international segment. Because hey – food isn’t exactly what it used to be on airplanes these days.
International to domestic layovers
2 1/2 hours is what I would want for a no-stress international to domestic layover at IAD. This amount of time might be overkill for most people, but I personally like to walk around and stretch my legs after a long international flight. A layover at this length will allow me to walk around doing the old-man stretches that have become a necessity in my advanced years.
Useful tips for making a 1 hour layover at IAD
By far the best advice I can give you for making a one hour layover at IAD is to not worry about it. As long as you’re flying domestically, there are very few reasons why one hour won’t be enough time.
However, if you’re going from an international flight to a domestic flight, I can assure you that one hour is going to be extremely stressful.
No matter what your particular situation is, here are a few tips that’ll make tight connections at the Dallas airport easier to handle:
- Make every effort possible to book your flights on the same airline (or at least the same airline alliance). By doing so, you very likely won’t have to walk very far to your connecting gate.
- Don’t get distracted trying to find something good to eat if you’ve got a tight connection. There are very few decent food options available at IAD (just my opinion), so if you’ve just got to eat, grab the first thing you see that looks acceptable and plan on finding something better at your destination.
- Be prepared for the crowds. The two satellite terminals at the Dulles airport are thin and narrow, and they tend to get overcrowded at certain times of the day. Seating will be limited, and you’re probably going to feel frustrated trying to find a relaxing oasis. As long as you know this ahead of time, the rage you’ll most certainly feel will be easier to deal with once you’re there.
Hello – thank you for this article. I was having some bad anxiety about the short layover during an upcoming trip and this helped to alleviate some of my concerns!!
Glad you found this helpful Kelli! Short layovers at IAD are generally very easy, so you’ll be fine. Have a good trip!
Hi scot i coming with my wife at united from Tel Aviv to Houston at IAD. Do u think the 3 hours layover is it enough time to get the flight to Houston
Hi Ishaq – yes, even if you have checked luggage, three hours will be plenty of time to get through the entire customs and immigration process at IAD. You’ve got nothing to worry about!
Hi, I’m flying in from Aruba (which has a US customs pre-clearance) and I have a layover of 1 hour and 15 minutes to Frankfurt. Both flights are operated by United Airlines and both the arriving and departing flights are in terminal C, which I assume should give me enough time to get on the next flight. Would my checked in luggage also make it?
Hi Jonathan – yes, 1 hour and 15 minutes will be plenty of time. As you said, you’ll go though US customs and immigration before leaving Aruba (which is going to save you a lot of time upon arrival at the Dulles Airport).
Once you arrive at Dulles, it’ll be a matter of walking from one plane to the next with no additional security checks. Your luggage will automatically be transferred. Have a good trip!
This is so helpful! I’m flying United from Munich to IAD with a 1 hour 20 minute layover before heading to Atlanta. 2 days after Christmas. And our seats are at the very back of the plane—we’re flying with 2 kids so we’ve got those 2 rows of 2 seats at the back. We’re strictly carry-on, so no baggage recheck. What do you think? Will we make it?
Hi Malinda! 1 hour and 20 minutes will be tight since you’ll be last off the plane, but you’ll make up a lot of time by not having to claim (and then recheck) any luggage. You’ll make it if you hustle!
Hello, I’m flying from Vienna to Washington IAD, got 3h layover, is it possible to make it on time with immigration check? I got only carry on backpack so I guess I don’t need to recheck a baggage right?
Thank you
Hi Christina – yes, 3 hours will be more than enough time. As a matter of fact, you’ll likely have so much time before your connection that you’ll be bored out your mind. IAD isn’t a very exciting airport!
And you are correct – as long as you only have a carry on, you won’t have to re-check anything. Have a good trip!
Hi Scott, thank you for such an informative article. I’m concerned now because I have a 40min. connection time from a United Airlines domestic flight to a United Airlines international flight. My seat into IAD is 5 rows from the back of the plane. Will I have enough time to get off plane and make connection?
Hi Melody – you’re very welcome! Yes, 40 minutes will be tight, but it’s certainly doable. There are no extra security checks you’ll need to go through to get on an international flight, so if you hustle, it’ll be ok. Also, the gate agents for your international flight will be aware of any passengers with tight connections, and may be willing to hold the flight for a few minutes to give everyone time to arrive.
Hi Scott, I think you’ve stopped my hyperventilation, but I just want to double-check.
54 min layover between domestic flight and international flight to Grand Cayman.
Two mobile adults.
Carryon only.
Sitting at the back of an Embraer 175.
Enough time? OR should I invest in more expensive seats near the front of the plan?
Hey Andrea – that’ll be easy! I assume you’re flying United, so in that case, you (probably) won’t have to walk all far to get from one plane to the next. UA does have a hub at IAD, but it’s not all that gnarly compared to other hubs.
I’d probably recommend splurging for better seats if you were flying in on a larger aircraft, but the E175 is small enough to not have to worry about it. No need for hyperventilation!
Thanks so much! You’ve put my mind at ease. LOVE your site!!!
I’m thinking about EWR to CDG with 1.5 hour layover at IAD and this article really helps me with decision-making. But still apprehensive about my checked luggage. Will traveling Polaris business class give additional assurance?
Hi Lani – yes, an hour and a half at IAD won’t be any issue at all (especially if you’re fling Polaris). I’m not sure if it will give you any extra protection, but considering that 30 minute connections are legal at Dulles (and United can – and does – transfer bags from one plane to the next in that amount of time), you’ll be fine. Enjoy Paris!
Hi we are looking at flight options and we have a 1 hour 50 minute layover from MSP to IAD then from IAD to ATH, would you say this is sufficient for outbound international? Would we have to go through security again or retrieve checked bags?
Hi Jolene – yes, that will be more than enough time! You won’t have to go through security again (or retrieve your checked bags) when you arrive at IAD. Just walk from one plane to the next.
Hi, we have a 2 hour 20 minutes layover in IAD for Berlin to Cancun with United. Would that be enough time? and since we got our tickets on United’s website, I hope we wouldn’t have to get our luggage and check in again.
Hi Kay – that will be plenty of time, but you will have to retrieve your luggage before going through customs (and then re-check it afterwards). It’s a requirement for all passengers entering the US.
Thank you Scott for such an honest and precise article. I am traveling late April from IAH to Paris (CDG) flying United and the layover at IAD is ONE HOUR and 25 Minutes. According to current flights I have checked status they are from Concourse C to D. According to your experience that time will be more than enough, right?…Thanks again!
Hi Gilberto – yes, that will be plenty of time! The transfer from C to D doesn’t take long – you’ll have lots of time to relax and shop / get something to eat before your flight to CDG. Have a good trip!
Thank you for the guide. But what I’m missing or is missing? Transfer from international to international.
Flying VIE-IAD Then IAD-PTY. Austrian to B-gate and Copa from A-gate. We have 1h53m transfer time.
Do we go through security? Check our bags? or can we just go gate to gate?
Hi Adam – International to international connections will require going though the full customs and immigration procedure. Upon deplaning, you will first go though passport control. Then you’ll have to retrieve your luggage before going through customs. After that, you’ll have to re-check your bags to your final destination (there’s usually a bag drop area right outside of the customs exit). From there you’ll go through the security checkpoint to re-enter the terminal.
2 hours will be tight, but as long as you keep moving, you’ll make it.
Hi Scott, sorry for asking again, I think I wasn’t exact by previous question. I’m flying from Vienna to IAD. I got there 3h transfer time to catch next flight to Guatemala.
Do you think its possible to make it on time with all security check/immigration control?
Thank you
Hey Christina! Yeah, 3 hours will be enough time even if you’re transferring to another international flight. Once you clear US customs / immigration upon arrival at IAD from Vienna, you’ll go directly back into the terminal to catch your flight to Guatemala. It’ll be just as easy (and quick) as connecting to a domestic US flight.
Hi Scott!
I really need your opinion on this one.
Would a 1hr40min layover in Dulles be enough time from a United Domestic to an International flight with United partner (Austrian Airlines)? The only other option is 6hr30mins and I feel that is too long, especially with my 5yo. Right now we have ours booked for the longer layover, but I am looking to change it – if you think that 1hr40mins is enough time.
In addition to that, coming back from our trip (Vienna – Washington), we will have a 2hr layover. Would that be enough time for immigration, baggage, get to our gate etc? I think we have done this once with a 2hr15min layover and we made it no problem a few years back, but it’s hard for me to remember clearly and this is the first time I travel independently with my young child.
I do feel a little nervous and my kid will be on a stroller due to a minor disability – so that helps a bit if we need to walk fast.
Hope to hear back from you.
Warm regards and thank you!
Hey Nicole! Yeah, an hour and 40 minutes will be more than enough time to make a domestic to international connection. Even if you have to do a terminal change, it’ll be fast and easy since there will be no additional security checks to go through. IAD is kind of a bland airport as well, so the less time the better IMHO.
And yup – 2 hours to make an international to domestic connection won’t be an issue either. You won’t have a lot of time to spare though, so just try to get through customs / immigration as fast as you can (greased up wheels on the stroller will help lol). Have a good trip!
Haha. Thank you Scott! I really needed the reassurance 🙂
This article helps a lot!
Pleasant travels to wherever you head to next!
Hey, back just to ask one more question.
Typically are United flights on time in the afternoon? I forgot to ask this yesterday. Departing from Knoxville to Washington. It will be an afternoon flight, 2:30pm. With an 1hr40min transit before my next flight to Austria, should that be enough time? If there were a delay, what were to happen or do you think that wouldn’t happen?
I know it’s hard to predict, but just the typicality of the situation based on experience or knowledge.
Thanks again!
Hey Nicole – yeah, it’s hard to predict if a particular flight will be on time or not. One way to check is to go to google flights and do a flight search for that exact flight you will be flying on. Along with all the flight details (time, price, etc) it’ll show you average on time performance. It’s not a prediction of what will happen, but you can use that info to get a general idea of what to expect.
You’ll definitely have enough time – even if your arriving flight is slightly delayed.
If something bad happens and you completely miss your Austrian Airlines flight, you will automatically be rebooked on another flight. Make sure you download the United app to your phone before you leave, as you will be able to see real-time updates on your itinerary (should they happen).
You’re gonna do great!
Thank you so much for explaining all this. All your information really helps! I will definitely look into it.
All the best!
In May we are looking at flights on United from Tampa to Lisbon with a 1 hour layover at Dulles. The flight arrives in Dullus at 9:15 pm. Should I book or is it too close? What happens if we miss the flight?
Hi Mary – 1 hour will be enough (you won’t have to go through security to reach your connection). Missing the flight won’t be the end of the world IMHO, as United (and it’s partner airlines) have a lot of European-bound flights departing Dulles every evening. You’ll automatically be put on an alternate flight if for whatever reason you miss the one you were originally booked on. Just log into the United app on your phone and you’ll see the updated itinerary.
If things go really bad (meaning they can’t find a flight to put you on that night) they will pay for a hotel stay so you can fly out the next day.
You’ll make it though. United runs a very efficient operation at Dulles, so you’ve got nothing to worry about. Have a great trip!
Hi Scott – great article but leaves me very worried! Travelling from the U.K. (four adult with four checked bags) to Dulles on Saturday 1st April, arrival 11.05am, then due to catch a connecting flight to Orlando at 12.32pm (both with United). With only a 1hr 27min connection, be honest do I need to panic? Any advice would be great please!
Hey Jason – no need to panic, but you will need to hustle! It’s a makable connection for sure, but you will need to move fast (no bathroom breaks until you get through haha).
If it makes you feel any better, missing your connection won’t be the end of the world. United will have no issues at all finding another flight to Orlando to put you on instead. Good luck!
Thanks and appreciated!
Hi Scott,
your article helped me a lot to decide if 1h 20min would be enough between a domestic flight from Columbus, OH to Washington (gate A) and an international flight from Washington to Munich (gate C).
As I understand, I don´t have to go through customs at IAD when arriving and I also don´t need to pass secure check (even when switching from A to C?). Can you tell me the fastest way to get from A4 to C1? I know its by taking the Airtrain but which level am I arriving, which level is the train (outside secure check?) and where to go once on the train to terminal C?
Thanks for your help!
Hi Kira – 1 hour and 20 minutes won’t be an issue at all. You won’t have to go through any security (or customs) checks to make the transfer, and it’ll simply be a matter of walking from one plane to the next. And you are correct – the train will be the fastest way to move from A to C.
The train is on the lower level, and it’s not hard to find (especially from the A gates). Just follow the signs, and you’ll be directed to a set of escalators and elevators leading to the train platform.
Once you arrive at the C gates, go up one level and turn left. Gate C1 will be the first gate you see. Have a good trip!
You are a saint! Here’s my question. Is 55 minutes in the afternoon enough to connect at Dulles? Flight from Austin arrives 4:25 pm. Flight to Frankfurt (LH) departs 5:20 pm. Afternoon flights are often delayed so who knows if I would actually arrive IAD at 4:25. I am trying to get a seat near the front of the first plane. I don’t want to worry about this for the next 2 months. Thank you!
Good news: you’ve got nothing to worry about. 🙂 IAD is really easy to navigate, and it’ll take just minutes to move from one terminal to the next (if you need to). There are no additional security checks to go through, and all it takes is just walking from one plane to the next.
Taking the train to move between terminals is often the fastest, but it may be a bit of a walk to the nearest platform/station (depending on where your arriving flight is parked). The above-ground trams are fast too, so if you run into a tram stop before reaching the train, take that instead.
And yes – sitting near the front of the plane for your arrival into IAD will help cut down on th time needed to make the transfer. Have a good trip!
I will be flying on a Friday LUFTHANSA LH 5931 to IAD from Germany. My connecting flight to TPA operated by United it is schedule a 5:37 PM LH9064 .Di I need to worry about transferring from Term A to Term C after custom?
Hi Marius – no, it won’t be an issue at all. There is a centralized customs and immigration at IAD, and getting to terminal C after going through that process is super easy (the train is probably the fastest way). Have a good trip!
Do I need to check out -collect my luggage and check it back on the united flight after custom?
Yes, immediately after going through passport control, you will be required to claim your luggage before going through customs. After customs, there will likely be a baggage drop area of some kind where you can re-check it with United for your flight to Tampa.
Update on my IDA stop. Almost 3 H in line for TSA. They stoped the line for none US, for 45 min. So we missed our flight. We got great help from the Lufthansa group…after they realized that we flew in business. If you fly in business, tell them straight away. They sat us up with Hotel, food and a direct flight next day. The family was very happy!
Wow, 3 hours! That wouldn’t have been fun at all – but at least you were able to get everything sorted out.
Hello Scott,
I will be flying United flight 1986 from Seattle to Dulles arriving at D16 at 8:56 pm. I have a connecting United flight 924 on to London leaving at C3 at 10:00 pm. What do you think, Enough time?
Hi Wendy! Oh yeah – that’ll be easy (you’ll have plenty of time to spare). You actually won’t even need to physically change terminals, since Terminals C and D at IAD coexist in one building. Terminal D occupies one end of it, and C the other end. It’s just a matter of walking from one end end to the other. No trains / trams / security checks.
Have a great trip!
Hi Scott, do you think arriving at 915pm from UA4280 and flying UA 924 at 10pm is possible? Thanks!
Hey Samy – yup, totally possible! United Express to United connections are very quick and easy. You’ll just walk from one plane to the next (no need to go through any security checkpoints).
Appreciate your concise information //Flying united from abroad and landing at Dulles , 3:50 pm- need to catch domestic united flight at 5:18(one hour and 40 minutes). I know i will b in the same terminal, but can u advise on the process btw flights. Specifically, can i pass thru customs and p u luggage, all in that terminal, and have enough time to make connecting flight?
Yup, an hour and 40 minutes is enough. Keep in mind that you’re not likely going to have a lot of time to spare once you get through the entire customs and immigration process though.
FYI, the process will consist of: going through passport control > retrieving your checked luggage > going through customs > re checking your checked luggage with United > going through security to get back into the terminal.
You’ll be fine as long as you keep moving!
Hey Scott, I am arriving from London on CHRISTMAS EVE to Dulles. The flight arrives at 3:40pm. I would like to take a direct flight to Detroit that leaves at 5:15pm. I know that is just 1 hour and 35 minutes but I have GLOBAL ENTRY. Is this too stressful a connection? Is Christmas Eve quiet or busy?
Hi Tina! I’d do it. Christmas Eve will be busy, but not as busy as the 22nd or 23rd IMHO. Most people will be where they need to be for the holidays by then, so I think you stand a really good chance of pulling it off without any issues. Especially with Global Entry!
That said, it’s probably wise to have a plan B if for whatever reason you misconnect.
So if flying with Global Entry, 1 hour 30 minutes should be enough time to go from an international flight to a domestic flight at IAD? Thanks for your help!
Hi Ann – yup, that won’t be a problem at all. Global Entry FTW!
Hi and thanks for this great information! We are arriving at Dulles on United, and have 1 hour and 8 minutes to connect to our Lufthansa flight to Munich…do you have any info on which terminals we may be coming in on/ going out on? My husband has asthma and has a foot problem…he refuses a wheelchair, any suggestions? TIA… Kelly
You’re very welcome Kelly! United occupies terminals C and D at the Dulles Airport. It’s basically one long building split into two halves.
Lufthansa operates out of terminal A. The fastest way to get to it from C or D is via the underground train. The good news is that you won’t have to go through security to get into A.
And yes, an hour and 8 minutes is going to be plenty. Have a good trip!
Great article! I have a 60 min layover domestic to international but I have to get from a Z gate to a C gate. Both flights are United but it looks like it couldn’t get much farther. Would you suggest taking the shuttle over the train? Looks like based on your time stats that the shuttle would be quicker. I’ve never been to IAD and my fingers are crossed that my first flight remains on time. Thanks again for writing a solid article.
Thanks Zack! Honestly, it’s going to take the same amount of time whether you take the train or the shuttle. I’d personally take the shuttle because it might be a few minutes faster. It’ll definitely be a lot more fun too, since you’ll get a close-up look at all the planes on the drive over.
1 hour will be plenty of time. Have a great trip!
Hello!
I’m flying from Tokyo to Houston with an 80 minute layover at Dulles. I will have to go through customs and recheck my bags. I’ll be in premium economy on the Tokyo to Houston leg. Do you think I’ll have time to make it?
Hi! If I’m being perfectly honest, an hour and 20 minutes is going to be a little tight. You’ll probably make it, but you will have to hurry.
I assume you’re flying United (or ANA) because of the connection at Dulles. The good news is that both IAD and IAH are hubs for United Airlines – which means that it will be extremely easy for them to rebook you on another flight if you miss your original one.
You’ll be fine no matter what IMHO.
Hello Scott ! Your detailed information is so helpful ! I am trying to figure it out arriving from Madrid in AA / Iberia to go to Charlotte with AA…..1 1/2 only between flights….Do you know Where is the International terminal to go Domestic AA ? I am trying to tell someone the map to “run” or hustle as you put it to make it….Thank you !
Hi Nelida! The international arrivals facility at IAD is located in the main terminal. American Airlines operates in and out of Terminal B. An hour and a half is going to be a bit tight to make an international to domestic connection IMHO – but it won’t take long to get to Terminal B once through the customs and immigration process.
Hustling will be required! 🙂
Hi Scott, we have a United flight from Cancun arriving at 20:30 PM at IAD and our connecting flight to Frankfurt is scheduled for 10PM. I guess gates will close 15 minutes before the departure time?
My last times at immigrations in the US where around 1 hour, so plus claiming and checking baggages that seems pretty close. What do you think? Thanks, David
Hi David – yes, you’re probably not going to have a lot of extra time once you make it through the customs and immigration process. You’ve got 2 1/2 hours though, so a lot is going to have to go wrong for you to miss your connection. Just keep moving as fast as you can, and you’ll be fine. Have a great trip!
Hi Scott! Congrats on the great text! I have a doubt: I will have a long connection time at IAD between two international flights – both arrive and depart from Terminal C. As I am a Prority Pass member, I would like to use one of the VIP lounges in Terminals A or B. Is it possible to make this journey between terminals without having to go through security? Thank you very much!
Thanks Jose! Yep, you can move freely between all terminals at IAD without having to go through security.
Hi Scott, thanks for this insight! We had originally booked our connecting flight from Cancun, MX to Toronto, CAN via Houston(IAH), but United just modified the flight and our layover(3hr) in Houston will now be 4.5 hours. We have the opportunity to modify our UA itinerary and choose a shorter connection. What I see from IAD connections would be 1h 45m layover. Would this be too tight of a connection? I’m still confused as to the process for security/immigration when doing this type of connection (International[MEX] > US > International [CAN] and what amount would be required for us to pass through these connections.
Maybe I should still stick with a Houston layover and modify our itinerary where our layover would be just over 2 hours? I was also concerned on weather related delays and IAH would be more ideal for the winter time frame. What would be the best option for a family of 4?
Hi Lee – because you’re going to have to go through US customs and immigration (and there will be 4 of you), your original 4 1/2 hour layover in Houston is going to be your safest bet. I would stick with that.
Two hours is cutting it too close in my opinion. Yes, you’ll most likely make it, but I can guarantee that it’s going to be a stressful experience. Trying to get an entire family through customs, immigration, and then security again is no simple task (especially if the lines are long)!
Hi, Scott! I’ll be traveling next month. It will be a connecting flight from Montreal CA to Raleigh NC and my layover in AID will be 1 hour and 22 minutes. The terminals are not yet determined. Would it be enough time? All I have will be my personal item and carry on. Thank you for answering!
Hi Lia – you’re very welcome! One hour and 22 minutes will be more than enough time. You’ll go through US customs and immigration prior to leaving Montreal, so you won’t have to do anything upon arrival at Dulles.
In addition, all terminals are connected behind the security checkpoint, so you won’t have to go through security (no matter where you arrive and depart from). Have a great trip!
Hi Scott! This is helpful information, thank you. I have a flight next week and I booked two separate airlines unfortunately. I am flying a smaller airline and then I am landing in IAD and have about an hour before boarding a United Airlines flight (landing at 11:35 and United flight leaves at 12:54). However, there is a high chance that I will have to get my bag from baggage claim after the first flight and then go to my next flight. I do have TSA Pre Check. My question is do you think it is possible to go to baggage claim after the first flight, through security, and then to my next flight with an hour layover? I think Pre Check will help but I have never been to IAD before. Thanks for your help!
Hi Brianna – you’re very welcome! Not gonna lie, but you’ve got your work cut out for you. I think you can make it as long as your inbound flight is on time, but it’s going to be very close no matter what.
I highly recommend ditching the idea of checking bags! Going carry-on only will bypass the need to exit (and then re-enter) the secure area. You’ll be able to walk from gate to gate without going through security if all you have is a carry-on bag.
Hi. We are flying United from SFO in Oct (a Sunday) to IAD. Layover is 1 hour and 15 minutes. Then taking Lufthansa to Frankfort. I have some mobility issues. Not sure how close the gates will be. Enough time? I can walk but I’ll be slower. Should I ask for wheelchair assistance? Thx
Hi Lucy – 1 hour and 15 minutes should be plenty of time (even if you need wheelchair assistance). You’re very likely going to have to change terminals, but it’s a very simple process at IAD. You can either go above ground via inter-terminal shuttles or underground via the train. The shuttles are usually faster – but it all depends on where your arriving and departing gates are in relation to one other.
Definitely ask for wheelchair assistance! It’ll make the process a whole lot smoother.
HI Scott,
Three seniors flying from JAX to IAD on United to catch a international flight to Munich on Lufthansa.
United Airline from Jax Arrives @ 9:20pm for international flight to Munich on Lufthansa @ 10:30pm. Will we make it . Help and advice Greatly appreciated. Joe Roy
Hi Joe! One hour should be plenty of time as long as your inbound flight is relatively close to on time. Note that you will have to do a terminal change, but it’s no biggie at IAD. You can either take the underground train or one of the above ground shuttles, and neither involve going through any security checkpoints. Have a great trip!
Hi Scott – flying North Carolina to IAD, then IAD to Toronto Pearson – totally carry on – i have two options – Departing Raleigh gives me 59 minutes, departing Charlotte gives me 47 – I’m thinking take the 59 minute layover – doable do you think?
Thank you!
Hi Lynn – definitely go with the 59 minute layover! IAD is simple enough that you could get away with 47 minutes (if everything goes right), but I personally wouldn’t risk it.
Hi Scott,
We have a 1hour 5mins layover at IAD, arriving from Nashville and departing on an international flight to Dublin at 10.15pm. Both flights are United.
Thank you for your help.
Hi Christine – that’ll be easy! United uses concourses C and D at IAD, which is essentially one building (D is on one end and C is on the other). Walking between the two takes just minutes, and you’re not going to have to go through any security checkpoints. Have a great trip!
Hi Scott, Thank you for your post! I’m flying from Austin to Dulles to London and returning London to Dulles to Austin. United has said they have linked my flights, but will I still need to retrieve my checked bag in Dulles for both trips? Also, I’m flying Polaris Business class to and from London. I have a 5 hour layover from Dulles to London and almost 2.5 hour layover from my London flight connecting to Austin. Will I be able to easily get to the Polaris Club from my connecting flights? Thanks for any help you can give!
You’re very welcome Helen! No, you will not need to retrieve your luggage on the way to London (it will transfer automatically). You are going to have to retrieve it on the way back though. You’ll do this immediately before going through customs. The good news is that your luggage will already be tagged through to Austin, so the only thing you’re going to have to do is drop them at the baggage drop Area (which you’ll see immediately after you exit customs). In other words, you won’t have to take the time to manually check them in.
You’ll have plenty of time to check out the lounge on the way to London. Coming back might be a different story depending on how long it’ll take you to get through customs and immigration.
The new Polaris lounge at IAD is fantastic by the way. I haven’t been in there myself (yet), but from what I have seen and heard, it’s one of the best lounges in the United network. Have a great trip!
Hi there, would you be able to advise if 1 h 36 mins is enough to connect from an international flight to another international flight at Dulles please? One flight is with Lufthansa and the other one is with United. Many thanks in advance!
Hey E! That’s going to be a little tight since you’ll have to go through the full US customs and immigration process (as well as going through security to get back into the terminal).
I highly advise doing carry-on luggage only. Having checked luggage means that you’ll need to retrieve it before going through customs (and then recheck it afterwards).
An hour and a half is possible if things aren’t busy, but be prepared to hit the ground running just in case. Good luck!
Hi Scott, thank you for the helpful info! I have an upcoming flight that will be arriving at gate A6C in Concourse A, and have just a little over 50 minutes to go to gate C6 to catch my connecting flight. (It is domestic and have no issue with walking fast). Are the gates A1A to A6F at the end of the terminal for smaller jets only? How far of walk from A6C to the Aerotrain station? Thanks in advance.
You’re very welcome Ben! Yes, that end of concourse A is basically the commuter terminal (where all the regional jets park). The good news is that the nearest train stop is located very near to those gates – it shouldn’t take more than five minutes to reach a normal walking pace.
50 Minutes will be easy(ish)! 🙂
Hi Scott, I am glad I found this article but I am still having some concerns about my layover. I am still waiting to book a flight for my boyfriend and I. The one United flight we are looking at is flying from Pittsburgh to Hartford, CT with a 46 minute layover at IAD. Both of us are very experienced travelers but with that being said I have had to run through the airport before to not miss a flight in O’Hare. I want to avoid taking a 1 hour layover in Charlotte because I have been there a few times, but as far as IAD, neither of us have been there. I know typically flights take off late from PITT and I am very worried about rushing through IAD to get on the flight to CT. After looking at the airport map I see that United flies out of almost all the terminals. What is your advice? Should we look at other layovers or go for it?
Thanks and regards,
Sophia Ferraro
Hi Sophia – yeah, United Airlines runs a fairly big operation at IAD. 46 minutes is definitely at the lower end of what I would consider a “safe” connection (at least one that doesn’t require running). And you’ll definitely be running if your flight from Pittsburgh arrives late.
The good news is that the layout of IAD is extremely simple – especially if you’re connecting from one United flight to another.
If it were me, I’d definitely choose this over a one hour connection in Charlotte.
Hi Scott. Great article. United changed flight times after we booked and now we have to get off a United flight from Cincinnati (UA6052) and get on a United flight to Frankfurt, Germany (UA 989) that departs just 57 minutes after we arrive from Cinci. What do you think? If the Cinci flight is delayed … what would United do?
Thanks Jonathan! You’ll be fine IMHO. I wouldn’t start worrying until it gets below 40 minutes, so you’ve still got enough wiggle room for minor delays.
The good news is that you’ll automatically rebooked (on either United or Lufthansa) if your flight arrives from Cincinnati too late to make the connection. If they can’t get you on another flight that evening, they’ll put you up in a hotel for the night at no cost to you. They’ll get you there!
Thanks Scott! Great help.
Hello & thank you for continuing to monitor comments here. I’m flying from Norfolk, VA to Dulles on the afternoon of Monday, November 4th. The layover is 1 hour 35 minutes for a flight to Frankfurt, Germany. Both flights were booked through United but the intl. leg is operated by Lufthansa. I have only carry-on luggage & TSA PreCheck. Based on your previous comments here, I’m expecting you to say I won’t have to go through security again & that I’ll have plenty of time, but I also know circumstances sometimes change in airports. What’s your recommendation based on the latest info, please? Thank you for your time.
Hi – and you’re very welcome. You will have plenty of time, and you will not have to go through security to reach your connecting gate. 🙂 Yup, you pretty much nailed it lol.
In all seriousness, nothing has changed. Connecting from domestic United to Lufthansa at Dulles is an extremely simple process. An hour and 35 minutes is far more time than you’ll need for this – which is good because it’ll give you time to stretch and get something to eat before the flight to Frankfurt.
Nothing to worry about. Have a great trip!
Flying United from Syracuse to Dulles. Only have a 52 minute layover for connecting United to Key West. is 52 minutes enough time? we are late 60s with carry ons. Thank you
That’s a pretty easy connection even if you had checked luggage (since they would take care of that for you).
The nice thing about flying United through Dulles is that everything is fairly well grouped together. You’re not going to have any issues at all IMHO (even walking at a leisurely pace). Have a great trip!
Hi! I’m booking tickets from South Africa to the US (I’m a US citizen). Do you think 1 hr 50 min is long enough for a connection from international to domestic (on United), or should I book the 6 hr layover? I don’t have global entry; I will be carrying on my luggage.
Thanks so much; this blog is so helpful!
Thanks CR! I think that should be plenty of time with carry-on luggage only. I would definitely choose the 1:50 layover as opposed to the 6 hour layover.
6 hours at Dulles would be brutal!
This was a great article, and the detailed information is fabulous…but lets up the ante.
Flying into IAD from a small regional airport (AVP) on a United Embraer jet where you’ll have to check a carryon at the gate. Connecting in Dulles on to SFO or LAX with a 1 hour, 3 minute layover window.
Why do I feel this will be a tight connection even if it’s an entirely United itinerary? Will the inbound Embraer jet land at an untied terminal completely on the other end of the outbound United terminal?
Thanks! That’s a very easy connection at IAD. The Express flights park very near to the mainline flights (in the same terminal), so even if you have to wait for your carry-on bag, you’re not going to have to go far to reach your connecting gate.
You’ll have to hustle of course, but you’ll make it.
Hi there! I am flying from Canada (YUL) to IAD and IAD to Tokyo (HND). The layover at IAD is 1h21min. Would that be enough? Both flights are with United.
Yep, that’s a super easy connection (one that’ll provide you with plenty of time to grab a decent meal before the flight). Keep in mind that you’ll be going through US customs and immigration prior to departing YUL, so you’re not going to have to do anything at Dulles. You won’t even have to go through security again.
Scott,
We won’t fly very often, but are on a return flight from Buffalo to Jacksonville, Florida going thru IAD. We originally have a 1 1/2 hour layover, but now it has been shortened to 1 hour 2 minutes. We are 70, but not any real mobility issues. Should I be worried. Both flight are on United.
Barbara
Hi Barbara – you’ll be OK. Switching from one United flight to another at Dulles is extremely easy (easier than most other United hubs IMHO). Even if you have to change terminals, it’s not going to take all that long to reach your connecting flight. Have a great trip!
Hi Scott,
Thank you for a great article but obviously hoping for some reassurance. Flying united business from BOS > IAD > HND>SGN. Connection from IAD>HND is the tightest with 50min. Not sure which terminal united domestic flights fly into IAD and which terminal united international flights leave out of. Hoping they’re close and that this connection won’t be an issue. Any advice would be most appreciated.
You’re very welcome Ngoc! United uses terminals C and D at IAD, and the good news is that everything is very well interconnected. Going from the farthest end of C to the farthest end of D doesn’t take all that long. It one of United’s smallest hubs actually.
As long as your connecting flight from Boston arrives relatively close to on time, you won’t have anything to worry about. I’ve had some gnarly connections at IAD on United before (30-40 minutes), and it has always worked out. You’ll be fine.
Have a great trip – sounds like a fun one!