Airports Buzzing: Current Travel Trends And Insights

With travel back in full swing, many airports are experiencing long lines and delays. Security screenings and unforeseen circumstances can cause high wait times at airports. To avoid the crowds and make your travel experience smoother, it's essential to stay informed about airport conditions and plan accordingly.

Security wait times at airports

Average Security Wait Times:

According to data from 2023, the average security wait times at some of the busiest airports in the United States range from 4 minutes to 25 minutes. For example:

• John F. Kennedy International Airport, New York: 22 minutes, 48 seconds.
• San Francisco International Airport, California: 25 minutes, 36 seconds.
• Miami International Airport, Florida: 22 minutes, 42 seconds.
• Baltimore/Washington International Airport, Maryland: 4 minutes.
• San Antonio International Airport, Texas: 6 minutes, 6 seconds.

Factors Affecting Wait Times:

The length of security wait times is influenced by multiple factors:

• Passenger Volume: Airports that serve as major hubs for international and domestic passengers, such as JFK in New York, often experience longer wait times due to the high volume of travellers.
• Infrastructure and Layout: The design and infrastructure of an airport can impact wait times. Efficient layouts and advanced security technologies, like those at Newark Liberty International Airport, can help reduce wait times.
• Staffing: Adequate staffing by the Transportation Security Agency (TSA) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is crucial in maintaining smooth and timely security checks.
• Flight Schedule: Peak travel seasons and flight schedules can influence wait times. Busier periods, such as holidays and weekends, tend to result in longer lines.

Real-Time Wait Time Information:

To make informed travel decisions, passengers can take advantage of real-time wait time information provided by various sources:

• Official Sources: The TSA and CBP provide data on wait times at airports. The My TSA application offers real-time updates on airport delays and security wait times.
• Third-Party Sources: Websites like iFly.com provide comprehensive guides to specific airports, including security wait times, checkpoint locations, and hours of operation.

Expedited Security Programs:

To expedite the security screening process and reduce wait times, travellers can enrol in trusted traveller programs such as:

• TSA PreCheck: This program allows eligible travellers to experience expedited screening, including keeping shoes and light outerwear on, at participating airports like JFK in New York.
• CLEAR Plus: CLEAR Plus is available at select airports, offering faster security lane access. For example, at JFK Airport, CLEAR Plus lanes are located at Terminal 4.

Planning and Preparation:

To minimise the impact of security wait times on your travel experience, consider the following tips:

• Arrive Early: It is generally recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance of your flight's departure time, accounting for potential delays at security checkpoints.
• Check Wait Times: Before departing for the airport, check the latest security wait times for your specific terminal and plan accordingly.
• Enroll in Expedited Programs: If you frequently travel, consider enrolling in trusted traveller programs like TSA PreCheck or CLEAR Plus to streamline your security screening process.
• Follow Guidelines: Familiarise yourself with TSA guidelines on permitted items to avoid delays caused by prohibited items.
• Use Off-Airport Services: To save time, consider using off-airport parking lots or bag storage services like Bounce, which can be reserved through platforms such as Way.com.

TSA PreCheck and CLEAR Plus expedited screening programs

As of January 2025, there are ongoing airport delays across the US, with some of the longest lines reported at Miami International, Jacksonville International, and Ft. Lauderdale-Hollywood International airports.

To avoid long lines at security, travellers can sign up for expedited screening programs such as TSA PreCheck and CLEAR Plus. These programs are especially useful for frequent flyers and are available at most major US airports.

TSA PreCheck

TSA PreCheck is a program that allows travellers to experience expedited security screening at participating airports. Members can leave their shoes, light outerwear, and belts on, and keep laptops and 3-1-1 compliant liquids in their carry-on bags during security checks. TSA PreCheck is available at over 200 airports and is recognised by more than 90 airlines.

To enrol in TSA PreCheck, applicants must complete an online application, visit an enrolment location for fingerprinting, document and photo capture, and pay the relevant fees. The cost of enrolment varies depending on the provider and the method of application (online or in-person). For example, enrolment through Telos costs $70, while enrolment through IDEMIA costs $58.75 online and $66.75 in person.

CLEAR Plus

CLEAR Plus is a paid membership program that allows travellers to move through airport security faster by using their face, eyes, or fingers to verify their identity at a CLEAR Pod. Family members under 18 can join the member in the CLEAR Lane for free, and up to three adults can be added to the member's account. CLEAR Plus is currently available at 58 airports nationwide, with access to over 100 CLEAR Lanes.

CLEAR Plus can be bundled with TSA PreCheck, offering travellers the fastest route to their gate. With this bundle, travellers can save money on their first year of CLEAR Plus membership, paying a total of $199 for five years of TSA PreCheck and one year of CLEAR Plus.

How to prepare for security checks

Going through security checks at the airport can be stressful and time-consuming, especially if you are unsure of what to expect. Here are some tips to help you prepare and make the process smoother:

Keep Travel Documents Handy

Always have your passport, ticket, and other necessary documents readily available. This will speed up the process and avoid unnecessary delays. Keep them in an easily accessible place, such as a folder or envelope, to ensure a quick presentation when needed.

Pack Liquids Properly

Ensure that all liquids are in containers no larger than 100ml and are packed in a transparent, resealable bag. This complies with international safety guidelines and makes it easier for security staff to check. Include items such as shampoo, conditioner, hand sanitiser, and other toiletries.

Stow Electronic Devices Properly

Laptops, tablets, and other large electronic devices must be checked separately. Pack them so they are easily accessible and can be quickly removed from your hand luggage. Place them in a separate bin or container during the security screening process.

Wear Comfortable Clothing and Shoes

Opt for comfortable clothing and shoes that are easy to take off and put on. Avoid metal accessories, such as belts or jewellery, to speed up the security check. Metal objects may set off the metal detector, requiring additional screening.

Pack Hand Baggage Neatly and Organised

Arrange your hand baggage so that all items that need to be scanned, such as liquids and electronics, are kept in easily accessible places. Good organisation saves time and reduces stress. Keep items neatly arranged to facilitate a smoother screening process.

Arrive at the Airport Early

Allow ample time for the security check by arriving at the airport early, ideally at least two hours before departure. This will enable you to go through all the necessary steps without feeling rushed. Many airports offer the option to book a time slot for check-in, providing additional convenience.

Medication and Medical Devices

If you are carrying medication or medical devices, have the relevant prescriptions or medical certificates ready for inspection. This will facilitate easier checks and prevent any misunderstandings or delays.

Familiarise Yourself with Security Guidelines

Research and understand the specific security guidelines of the airport and the airline you are travelling with. These guidelines can vary, and knowing them in advance will help you avoid surprises and ensure a smoother journey through security.

Be Prepared for Additional Screening

If you are selected for additional screening, remain calm and cooperative. This may include a pat-down procedure or the use of a hand scanner. Such measures are implemented for security purposes, and your cooperation will facilitate a quicker resolution.

By following these tips, you can better prepare for security checks at the airport, making your travel experience more relaxed and stress-free.

Apps to check airport delays and wait times

With airports getting busier and security checks getting more rigorous, it's always a good idea to check airport delays and wait times before you travel. There are several apps that can help you with that. Here are some apps to help you check airport delays and wait times:

MyTSA

The Transportation Security Administration's official app, MyTSA, provides 24/7 access to the most frequently requested airport security information. With this app, you can check delay information at your favourite airports across the nation. You can also see how busy the airport is likely to be on your specific day and time of travel based on historical data. MyTSA also has a "Can I Bring?" feature that lets you quickly search which items you can bring through the checkpoint onto the airplane. Additionally, you can discover which airports and airlines support TSA PreCheck® and learn how to sign up. The app is available for download on iTunes and Google Play.

App in the Air

App in the Air is a comprehensive app that allows you to track crowdsourced TSA wait times, keep tabs on boarding and landing times, receive real-time updates for delays, and check if your carry-on luggage is the right size. The app also pulls all your itineraries and mileage points from your email (with your permission) and puts them in one place.

MiFlight

MiFlight is a simple and straightforward app that provides wait times by airport and by checkpoint area. It presents a pretty picture to represent your destination, and that's about it.

IFly

IFly is a website that provides a comprehensive guide to security wait times at New York Kennedy Airport (JFK). It includes information on the locations and hours of operation of security checkpoints, as well as expedited screening programs such as TSA PreCheck and CLEAR Plus. iFly also offers a flight tracker to keep an eye on the status of a specific flight.

While these apps can be helpful, it's important to note that their wait times are crowdsourced, and their accuracy and timeliness depend on updates from users. Therefore, it's recommended to use these apps as guidelines rather than exact information. Checking the official airport websites and following the TSA's recommendations for arrival times is still essential for travel planning.

How to find lost items at airports

It can be stressful to lose something at the airport, but knowing what to do when you realize something is missing can save you a lot of time and effort. Here is a guide on how to find lost items at airports:

Items Lost in Terminals & Parking Areas

If you lose something in the airport terminal or parking area, excluding the security checkpoint line, you should contact the airport's lost and found department directly. You can usually find their contact information on the airport's website. Some airports, like Vancouver International Airport (YVR), have a specific location for their lost and found, such as the Customer Service counter on Departures Level 3 of the International Terminal.

Items Lost within Security Areas

If you lose an item at a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoint, you should promptly contact the airport's Lost and Found. The TSA website has a list of contacts for every airport in the country, arranged by state. They will direct you to the lost and found at the airport where you left your item, and you can describe the item and arrange for its return.

Items Left Onboard an Aircraft

If you lose something onboard an aircraft, you should contact the airline directly. Visit the airline's website or the departure airport's website to obtain the airline's lost and found phone number. Provide your name, contact information, and a detailed description of the lost item. It is a good idea to follow up persistently if your item is not immediately found, as airline recovery rates can vary.

Lost Luggage

If your checked luggage is lost, you should first head to the airline's lost luggage office, usually located within the baggage claim area. If it is not there or is not open, go to the airline check-in counter to file a lost luggage report. Provide a detailed description of your luggage, and you will receive a tracking number for your report. Depending on the airline and your location, you may be entitled to compensation for delayed or lost luggage.

Remember, the sooner you report a lost item, the better your chances of recovering it. Stay calm and patient, as many items left behind at airports are eventually recovered.

Frequently asked questions