Q:

Transit through Miami en route from Sint Maarten to Costa Rica by air

Flying from Princess Juliana International Airport, Saint Maarten though Miami International Airport, USA to Costa Rica.
Can I not check my bags all the way through on American Airlines (both legs)?
If no, will I need time to clear Customs and will I have to check my bag in at the counter in Miami?

A:

If it's on one ticket, your baggage will be checked through. However, in the US, you still need to collect it after passport control and take it through customs.
The difference is, if it's already tagged to Costa Rica, you can drop it off at the special drop-off before the exit into the public area, rather than having to take it to the ordinary bag drop desk

