Key West Airport: A Busy Tropical Gateway

Key West International Airport (EYW) is a bustling airport that offers security checkpoints equipped with advanced technology. While wait times at EYW can fluctuate, particularly during peak travel periods, the airport generally has manageable security wait times, with digital displays providing real-time wait information. Passengers are encouraged to arrive 2 to 3 hours before their scheduled flight departure to accommodate parking, checking in, and security procedures.

Security wait times

The security wait times at Key West International Airport (also known as KW Airport or EYW) can vary, with some travellers reporting that the security line can be slow for an airport of its size. However, others have noted that arriving one hour before their flight time was sufficient, especially if they already had their boarding passes. It is generally recommended that passengers arrive two to three hours before their scheduled flight departure to account for parking, checking in, and security.

The airport has TSA PreCheck lanes available at all security checkpoints, offering a more streamlined screening process for enrolled passengers. Digital displays at each checkpoint also provide real-time wait information to help travellers manage their time more effectively.

To ensure a smooth and efficient security screening experience, it is advisable for travellers to stay updated on any potential flight delays or changes and to follow the recommended arrival times set by their respective airlines. Checking the airport's website or using online tools like iFly's Flight Tracker can provide valuable insights into current wait times and help travellers make more informed decisions about their arrival time at the airport.

While it is important to allow adequate time for security, passengers can also take advantage of the airport's amenities once they have cleared security. The interactive Key West airport terminal map can guide travellers to their gate while also showcasing the various restaurant and shopping options available. Additionally, free Wi-Fi is provided, allowing travellers to stay connected and entertained during their time at the airport.

TSA PreCheck availability

Key West International Airport (EYW) is a bustling airport with TSA PreCheck lanes available at all security checkpoints, offering a more streamlined screening process for enrolled passengers. The TSA emphasizes the integration of variable security protocols, so expedited screening cannot be assured for any traveller. However, the availability of TSA PreCheck can significantly enhance the travel experience by providing a swift and seamless security check process.

Passengers at Key West International Airport are encouraged to arrive 2 to 3 hours before their scheduled flight departure to account for parking, checking in, and security. While the airport's security wait times are generally manageable, with digital displays providing real-time wait information, these estimates can fluctuate, particularly during peak travel periods.

The TSA PreCheck lane at Key West International Airport offers several benefits, including a separate line to show ID and a scanner lane where passengers can keep their shoes on and leave items in their bags. This can result in a time saving of around 5 minutes compared to the standard security process.

It is important to note that TSA PreCheck is not available at all airports, and even at Key West International Airport, it has only been recently introduced. The availability of TSA PreCheck at Key West International Airport is a positive development, contributing to a more efficient and convenient travel experience for enrolled passengers.

Off-airport parking

The EYW airport is located in the City of Key West in Monroe County, Florida, United States, about 2 miles (3.2 km) east of the main commercial centre of Key West. The airport is relatively small, and while the security line can be slow, travellers report that arriving one hour before their flight is usually fine, especially if they already have their boarding passes. However, it is recommended to arrive 2 to 3 hours before your scheduled flight departure, taking into account the time needed for parking, checking in, and going through security.

The EYW airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options. The short-term lot offers free parking for the first hour, then charges $6 for 1 to 2 hours, $9 for 2 to 3 hours, $12 for 3 to 4 hours, and a daily maximum of $19. The weekly maximum rate is $114, and the lost ticket minimum is $19. This lot is located west of the Main Terminal, with an entrance on the right side of Faraldo Circle. It is a short walk to the Arrivals Area, and there is no vehicle clearance limit.

The long-term garage charges $3 for 0-60 minutes, $6 for 1 to 2 hours, $9 for 2 to 3 hours, $12 for 3 to 4 hours, and a daily maximum of $23. The weekly maximum rate is $138, and the lost ticket minimum is $23. This garage is located east of the Main Terminal on the left side of Faraldo Circle, with elevator access to the Main Terminal and a short walk to the Arrivals Area. The vehicle clearance limit is 10' 8".

To save time at the airport, it is recommended to use the iFly Flight Tracker to check for any potential flight delays and to use the interactive Key West airport terminals map to navigate to your gate and find restaurants and shops along the way.

Peak travel periods

Key West International Airport (EYW) is a bustling airport that offers security checkpoints equipped with advanced technology, ensuring swift security checks. However, wait times at EYW can fluctuate, especially during peak travel periods.

Another factor affecting peak travel periods is the time of year. Key West, located in Florida, is a popular winter destination for those seeking warmer weather. As a result, the airport tends to be busier during the winter months, especially around the holiday season in December. The summer months can also be busy, as families with children take advantage of school holidays. So, if you're travelling during these peak seasons, it's worth factoring in some extra time at the airport.

Additionally, specific events and festivals in Key West can impact the airport's busyness. For example, the city hosts several popular festivals throughout the year, including the Key West Food and Wine Festival, the Key West Pride Festival, and Fantasy Fest. These events attract large crowds, so it's worth checking the local calendar before your travel dates to see if they coincide with any major events.

Finally, flight schedules can also influence peak travel periods. For instance, American Eagle has had a 6:00 a.m. flight out of EYW for years, which may contribute to early morning congestion at the airport. Similarly, there may be other regularly scheduled flights that create busier times throughout the day. Therefore, checking the flight schedules and planning your travel accordingly can help you avoid some of the crowds.

Flight times

Key West International Airport (EYW) is located at 3491 South Roosevelt Boulevard, in the southeast corner of the island of Key West. It is the only airport in the Keys with commercial flights and is operational 24 hours a day, year-round. The airline counters open two hours before scheduled departures, and the airport recommends that passengers arrive at least two to three hours before their departure time. This accounts for the time needed for parking, checking in, and going through security. The average checkpoint wait is 15 to 20 minutes, but these times are estimates and can fluctuate, particularly during peak travel periods.

There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to flight times and wait times at Key West International Airport. Firstly, it is a small airport, but it is growing and expanding. In 2021, the airport saw a record-setting 1.4 million passengers, and an impressive 450,000 passengers in the first quarter of 2024 alone. Therefore, it is advisable to allow plenty of time when travelling through this airport.

To make the most of your time at the airport and ensure a smooth experience, it is recommended to check for any potential flight delays before heading to the airport. This can be done using tools like iFly's Flight Tracker, which provides the latest updates on arrivals and departures at EYW. Additionally, TSA PreCheck is available at all security checkpoints and offers a more streamlined screening process for enrolled passengers. The operating hours for TSA PreCheck at the airport are typically Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 5:00 am to 7:00 pm, and Thursday and Sunday from 5:00 am to 9:00 pm.

Once you have passed through security, there are a variety of amenities available at the airport. These include places to grab a bite, shops to peruse, and free WiFi to connect to. There is also a beach bar, a bar in the baggage claim area, and several seating areas with plugs for charging electronic devices. If you have time before your flight, you can also explore the nearby area, as the airport is just a ten-minute drive from both Old Town and New Town, and the ocean is just across the street.

Frequently asked questions