Checking in
Washington Dulles International Airport is in Virginia,a 45-60 minute drive from central DC. A new public transport option,the Metro Silver Line,opened in 2022,with direct service to the airport.
Inside the terminal,it’s a dream run,with no lines at the check-in counter,passport control or security scanning. It’s eerily quiet,more staff than passengers. Past security,I take the air-train to Terminal A for departure,with plenty of time to spare.
Baggage
It depends on the fare category booked,with different allowances for Economy Basic,Economy Classic and Economy Full passengers. I’m booked on an Economy Classic ticket,so the first checked bag up to 50 pounds (23 kilograms) is free. A second checked bag would cost $US55 ($83);additional bags cost a whopping $US150. Economy and Premium Economy passengers may take one item of carry-on luggage,weighing up to 10kg,plus one personal item into the cabin at no charge.
Loyalty scheme
ConnectMiles. Panama’s Copa is a StarAlliance member,so passengers can elect to earn points for this flight on participating member airlines. I enter my Thai Airways Royal Orchid membership number.