Immigration Checks: What To Expect When Landing In Albuquerque

Albuquerque Sunport Airport (ABQ) is located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and is known for its distinctive Pueblo Revival architectural style. The airport features a Main Terminal, which includes Concourses A, B, C, and an International Arrivals gate. While the majority of flights depart from Concourses A and B, the International Arrivals gate is used for occasional international flights and houses U.S. Customs on its lower level. This is where immigration checks would take place for passengers arriving on international flights. In addition to standard security and customs checks, the airport also offers a TSA PreCheck program and Global Entry for expedited clearance.

Albuquerque Sunport Airport's security and screening processes

Albuquerque Sunport Airport is committed to ensuring a smooth and efficient security screening experience for all passengers. The airport has implemented several measures and guidelines to achieve this.

Security Checkpoints

Albuquerque Sunport Airport has security checkpoints located throughout the airport. The main security checkpoint is in the main terminal, near the ticket counters. There are also additional checkpoints in Concourse A and Concourse B for passengers travelling through those gates. It is recommended that passengers arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure time to allow for security screening.

TSA PreCheck

The airport offers a TSA PreCheck program, which provides expedited security screening for enrolled travellers. The dedicated lane is located at the main security checkpoint in the main terminal. The TSA PreCheck lane typically has wait times of less than five minutes. The program costs $85 for a five-year membership.

Liquids and Electronic Devices

Passengers are advised to place liquids and gels in containers of 3.4 ounces or less within a single, one-quart zip-top plastic bag. This bag should then be placed in a screening bin, separate from the carry-on luggage. All laptop computers and other electronic devices must also be placed in a screening bin.

Prohibited Items

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) prohibits explosive materials, flammable items, and other hazardous materials in checked baggage. Firearms may be transported but must be unloaded, locked in a hard-sided container, and declared to the airline.

Baggage and Vehicles

All baggage and vehicles are subject to search at any time by the Albuquerque Aviation Police. It is important not to leave bags unattended, as they will be confiscated and may be destroyed.

REAL ID Act

From May 7, 2025, anyone aged 18 or over who plans to fly domestically or visit certain federal facilities will need a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification. This is in accordance with the REAL ID Act passed by Congress in 2005, which sets minimum security standards for identification documents.

The location of passport and immigration control

The passport and immigration control area at Albuquerque Sunport Airport is located in the main terminal, near baggage claim. This is where all international passengers must go to have their passports and visas checked before entering the United States. The airport has several customs and border protection officers on duty to assist passengers with the immigration process.

The main terminal is also where you'll find the security checkpoint, near the ticket counters. There are also additional security checkpoints in Concourse A and Concourse B for passengers travelling through those gates.

If you're arriving at the airport, there is a VIP service that can meet and assist you from the aircraft to the baggage claim area, and even escort you to your chosen transportation outside the airport.

For a smoother experience at the airport, it's recommended that you allow extra time to navigate between concourses, especially during peak travel hours, and to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to clear security.

The airport's TSA and TSA Pre Checkpoints

The TSA and TSA Pre Checkpoints at ABQ Airport are located in the main terminal. It is recommended that passengers arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure time to allow for security screening. The TSA PreCheck lane is also located at the main security checkpoint in the main terminal.

The TSA checkpoint is a standard security screening process. All items must be removed and placed on the X-ray belt for screening. This includes taking out your laptop and following the 3-1-1 liquids rule.

The TSA PreCheck is an expedited screening process for eligible passengers. Passengers can keep their shoes, belts, and light jackets on, and their laptops and liquids can remain in their carry-on bags. Passengers can apply for TSA PreCheck online or in person at an enrollment center. The cost is $85 for five years.

In addition to the main security checkpoint, there are additional security checkpoints in Concourse A and Concourse B for passengers travelling through those gates.

Global Entry Enrollment Center

The Albuquerque Sunport Airport does have an immigration check area. The passport and immigration control area is located in the main terminal, near baggage claim.

The Albuquerque Sunport Airport is also home to a Global Entry Enrollment Center. Global Entry is a program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travellers entering the United States. The enrollment center is located in the main terminal, and appointments can be made online.

To apply for Global Entry, you must first create a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account and log in to complete the application. There is a $120 non-refundable fee required with each application, payable by credit card or electronic bank transfer. Once your application is conditionally approved, you will be instructed to schedule an interview at the Global Entry Enrollment Center.

For the interview, you must bring a valid passport and another form of identification, such as a driver's license or ID card. Lawful permanent residents must present their machine-readable permanent resident card. Conditionally approved applicants can also opt for an interview upon arrival at certain international airports, including Calgary International Airport, Toronto Lester B. Pearson International Airport, and Vancouver International Airport.

CLEAR Lanes

If you are travelling through Albuquerque, you can still take advantage of other programs to speed up the security screening process. The airport offers a TSA PreCheck program, which allows eligible passengers to use a dedicated fast-track lane. The TSA PreCheck lane is located at the main security checkpoint in the main terminal, and passengers can keep their shoes, belts, and light jackets on, as well as leave laptops and liquids in their carry-on bags. The cost for a five-year PreCheck membership is $85, and enrollment can be done online or in person.

In addition to TSA PreCheck, the Albuquerque Sunport Airport provides a range of services and amenities to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. The airport has clear signage directing passengers to their respective concourses and gates, and information desks are strategically placed throughout the terminal for assistance. Moving walkways and elevators also help travellers move between different levels and concourses efficiently.

For those with tight connections or needing real-time updates on gate changes, the information desks are incredibly helpful. The staff can provide updates on gate changes and advise on the quickest routes between concourses. Additionally, the airport offers an interactive map that passengers can access on their mobile devices to easily navigate to their gates, locate amenities, and find restaurants and lounges.

Frequently asked questions