Jacksonville Airport: Managing Busy Travel Hubs Efficiently

Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is a relatively small airport, so security lines are rarely very long. In fact, passengers with TSA pre-check can get through security in under three minutes, and even those without rarely have to wait longer than 15 minutes. However, it's worth noting that the airport does experience occasional gate hold and taxi delays of up to 15 minutes.

Security wait times

To ensure a smooth travel experience, it is recommended that travellers arrive well in advance of their flights to accommodate potential wait times and check-in procedures. Each airline sets its own recommended and required arrival times, so travellers should check these details with their airline.

The airport has a single main terminal with one security checkpoint that services both Concourses A and C. After security screening, passengers can access all gates in both concourses. The airport offers efficient security screening, and travellers can use the JAX Flight Tracker to stay informed about potential delays.

TSA PreCheck is available at the main terminal and can significantly reduce wait times. While there isn't an enrollment centre at Jacksonville International Airport, several are located nearby. TSA PreCheck passengers can enjoy expedited screening, typically not needing to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, and light jackets. TSA PreCheck at Jacksonville International Airport typically operates from 4:00 AM to 7:00 PM on Tuesdays and from 3:00 AM to 7:00 PM on all other days, although these hours may vary based on operational needs.

Small airport size

Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is considered a medium-sized airport. While there is construction on the road leading to the airport, which can cause some confusion, the airport itself is small. This means that once you clear security, it's a short walk to your gate. In fact, the terminals are so compact that you won't have far to go to get to your flight, even if you arrive a little late.

According to passengers, the longest wait at JAX TSA is around 15 minutes, and the regular line is rarely longer than the PreCheck line. On a 'busy' day, there might be 20 people in the security line. One passenger mentions that they have flown in and out of JAX around 10-12 times and has never seen a very long line. They also mention that an hour is plenty of time to get through security, even without TSA PreCheck, which takes no more than 3 minutes.

While nationwide, longer TSA lines and delays mean that overall passenger satisfaction is stagnant, in Northeast Florida, JAX fares pretty well. When compared to airports of similar size, it is near the top of the list. In the latest JD Power national survey, the only medium-sized airport that did better was Indianapolis, with Jacksonville International coming in second with a score of 831.

So, while JAX may see a record number of passengers, the small airport size means that travellers can get through security and to their gates quickly and efficiently.

Parking availability

One option for travellers is to book parking in advance through a third-party website such as SpotHero. This can be helpful for securing a spot during busy travel times. SpotHero offers various parking options, including long-term parking and covered garages, with daily rates starting at $7.

For those who prefer not to book in advance, there is also the option of on-site parking at the airport. The airport's parking facilities are conveniently located close to the terminals, which means that even if you have to park in a lot that is a short distance away, you won't have to walk far.

It is recommended that travellers give themselves ample time for parking, especially during peak travel times. While the airport itself is small, and security lines move quickly, finding a parking spot and making your way to the terminal can take extra time. Giving yourself a buffer of 30 minutes to an hour for parking is generally considered sufficient.

Overall, while the Jacksonville International Airport may not have the most extensive parking options, travellers can still find convenient and affordable parking by booking in advance or using the on-site parking facilities. With a small airport size and quick security lines, the parking process is generally efficient and straightforward.

Gate hold and taxi delays

Jacksonville International Airport is a relatively small airport, and travellers generally do not experience long lines and delays. However, it is always good to be prepared for any potential delays, and understanding these can help ensure a smooth travel experience.

One source states that the longest they have waited at TSA in the Jacksonville International Airport is 15 minutes, while another mentions that the regular line is never very long and that TSA PreCheck typically takes 3 minutes or less. The airport's small size also means that once you clear security, it is a short walk to your gate.

Despite the generally efficient processing of passengers, gate hold and taxi delays can still occur. On March 16, 2025, the airport experienced gate hold and taxi delays of 15 minutes or less.

To stay informed about potential delays, passengers can check the JAX Flight Tracker before heading to the airport. Additionally, TSA PreCheck is available at the main terminal, significantly reducing wait times. Passengers with TSA PreCheck do not need to remove their shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, and light jackets, expediting the security screening process.

TSA Pre Check

Jacksonville International Airport offers efficient security screening for travellers. The airport features a single main terminal with one security checkpoint that services both Concourses A and C. After security screening, passengers can access all gates in both concourses.

TSA PreCheck is available at the main terminal and can significantly reduce wait times. While there isn't an enrolment centre at Jacksonville International Airport, several are located nearby. TSA PreCheck passengers can enjoy expedited screening at JAX, typically not needing to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, and light jackets.

TSA PreCheck at Jacksonville International Airport operates from 4:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and from 3:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. However, these hours may vary based on operational needs.

It is recommended that travellers arrive well in advance of their flights to accommodate for potential wait times and check-in procedures. Wait times at JAX can vary due to factors such as weather, TSA staffing, and airport construction. Forecasts are made using flight volume data and TSA staffing models, aiming to be within five minutes in accuracy.

Frequently asked questions