MAD/Self-transfer guide · MAD

Self-transfer guide · MAD

Plan baggage collection, check-in and the route between separate flights.

Separate tickets: check the actual route

For separate tickets, check both terminals and your baggage arrangements. If you must collect and recheck bags, allow for entry formalities, the public transfer, check-in and security again. The shuttle or APM ride time is not a safe connection allowance.

Confirm bags and boarding passes

Ask each airline whether bags are checked through and where the next boarding pass is issued. Have the bag-drop, check-in and boarding deadlines for your onward flight.

Allow for the full route

Include arrival delays, border control, baggage reclaim, terminal travel, bag drop and security. This guide does not calculate a safe connection time or promise missed-flight protection; check your booking terms.

Visa & entry

Collecting bags, using the public terminal shuttle or reaching a landside hotel can require entering Spain. Check your exact connection with the airline before travel; do not assume that every international transfer stays airside.

Check entry and transit
Official sources & review

Requirements may change; confirm your travel-date rules with the authority.

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