Las Vegas Airport: Managing High Traffic And Tourism

Las Vegas McCarran Airport, also known as Harry Reid International Airport, is one of the busiest airports in the world. In 2023, it was ranked as the fifth busiest airport in terms of aircraft movements (takeoffs and landings) and twelfth busiest for total passengers. With a record 57.6 million passengers in 2023, the airport experienced a 9.4% increase in passenger traffic compared to 2022. To navigate the airport efficiently, travellers can take advantage of resources such as security wait time estimates, real-time flight trackers, and guides detailing security checkpoint locations and hours. These tools can help travellers plan their arrival time and ensure a seamless journey through the airport.

Las Vegas McCarran Airport security wait times

Las Vegas McCarran Airport, now known as Harry Reid International Airport, is the ninth busiest airport in the US, serving over 52 million passengers per year. The airport has two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, and features slot machines and gambling for travellers aged 21 and over.

The security wait times at Las Vegas Airport can vary, with most sources estimating an average wait time of 25-30 minutes during busy periods. The busiest time of day is typically between 4 a.m. and 5 a.m., with an average reported wait time of 23 minutes. However, it is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance of your flight, as wait times can fluctuate due to unforeseen circumstances.

To ensure a smooth and efficient security screening process, travellers can enrol in expedited screening programs such as TSA PreCheck and CLEAR Plus. TSA PreCheck is available at the security checkpoints in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. It allows enrolled travellers to keep their shoes, light outerwear, and belts on, and carry laptops and compliant liquids inside their carry-on bags during security checks. CLEAR Plus uses biometric technology to confirm travellers' identities and is available at several locations across the airport, including the C Gates Annex Checkpoint, the C/D Gates Checkpoint, and the D/E Gates Checkpoint.

The security checkpoints at Las Vegas McCarran Airport have varying hours of operation depending on their location. The C Gates Annex Checkpoint in Terminal 1, serving Concourses A, B, and C, is open from 4:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The C/D Gates Checkpoint is open from 4:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and the D/E Gates Checkpoint in Terminal 3 is open from 4:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. These times may change based on flight schedules and other factors.

To avoid long security wait times at Las Vegas McCarran Airport, travellers can use real-time wait time information and arrive at the airport early. Additionally, enrolling in expedited screening programs like TSA PreCheck and CLEAR Plus can help speed up the security process.

TSA PreCheck at Las Vegas Airport

TSA PreCheck is available at Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport, providing expedited security screening for enrolled travellers. The service is available at the security checkpoints in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.

The TSA PreCheck enrolment process can be completed in 10 minutes at the new location in Terminal 1, Level 2, near the Aviation Museum. The process includes fingerprinting, document and photo capture, and payment. Once approved, passengers can keep their shoes, belts, and jackets on, and leave laptops and liquids inside their bags during security checks.

For those with early morning flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport around 4:30 am if checking in a bag, and 4:45 am if carrying hand luggage only. The airport has varying security checkpoint hours depending on the location, with some open from 4:00 am to 8:00 pm, and others from 4:00 am to 10:00 pm.

The TSA PreCheck service is aimed at select frequent flyers of participating airlines and members of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Trusted Traveller programs. It is important to note that TSA PreCheck hours are subject to change based on operational needs, and unpredictable security measures may be implemented.

Las Vegas Airport is the seventh-busiest passenger airport in the U.S., handling a record of 57.6 million arriving and departing passengers in 2023. The airport features an innovative "innovation checkpoint" for testing new security technologies, such as the new passenger self-screening system unveiled by the TSA in 2024.

CLEAR Plus expedited screening

Las Vegas McCarran Airport can be a very busy airport, with long lines at security. However, there are ways to expedite the security process and make your travel experience smoother. One option is to enrol in CLEAR Plus, which offers a faster, easier, and more seamless way to get through airport security.

CLEAR Plus is an annual membership service that uses biometric technology to confirm your identity and speed up the security process. With CLEAR Plus, you can access designated CLEAR Lanes at TSA checkpoints in over 50 airports nationwide, including Las Vegas McCarran Airport. CLEAR Plus allows you to verify your identity using your face, eyes, or fingers, so you don't have to wait to show your ID at airport security. This can save you a significant amount of time, especially during peak travel times.

Here's how it works: simply scan your boarding pass, verify your identity at a CLEAR Pod, and a CLEAR Ambassador will bring you to the front of the security line for your screening. Family members under 18 can join you in the CLEAR Lane at no additional cost, and you can add up to three adults to your account for a fee. CLEAR Plus also offers exclusive member offers and benefits, such as expedited passport services, easier luggage shipment, and global medical transport.

Enrolling in CLEAR Plus is easy and can be done entirely online or at an airport enrolment location. Military service members and government employees are eligible for CLEAR Plus at a discounted rate. It's important to note that CLEAR Plus is currently only available to US citizens and legal permanent residents aged 18 and older with a valid government-issued photo ID.

By enrolling in CLEAR Plus, you can significantly reduce your security wait times at Las Vegas McCarran Airport and make your travel experience more enjoyable and stress-free. In addition to CLEAR Plus, TSA PreCheck is another expedited screening option available at the airport, allowing passengers to keep their shoes, light outerwear, and belts on during security checks.

Las Vegas Airport flight and gate connection times

Las Vegas Airport, also known as Harry Reid International Airport, is one of the busiest airports in the US, serving over 50 million passengers annually. It is open 24/7, with two terminals: Terminal 1 for domestic flights and Terminal 3 for international and some domestic flights. The terminals are not connected, so passengers are advised to check ahead to avoid having to shuttle between them.

Security and Gate Connection Times

The security wait times at Las Vegas Airport can vary, and it is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance. The TSA recommends travellers arrive at the airport with ample time before their flight's scheduled departure.

There are three security checkpoints in Terminal 1 and one in Terminal 3, each with different operating hours. The C/D Gates Checkpoint in Terminal 1 is open from 4:00 am to 10:00 pm, while the C Gates Annex Checkpoint in Terminal 1 is open from 4:00 am to 8:00 pm. The D/E Gates Checkpoint in Terminal 3 is also open from 4:00 am to 8:00 pm. The TSA PreCheck lane hours differ from the standard checkpoint lanes, so it is important to check their schedule.

For a stress-free connection, it is advisable to use the CLEAR Plus service, which uses biometric technology to speed up the security process. CLEAR Plus lanes are available at the C Gates Annex Checkpoint, the C/D Gates Checkpoint, and the D/E Gates Checkpoint.

In addition to security wait times, it is important to consider the time required to get between gates, especially when connecting between Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. The airport provides a free tram service that connects the terminals and gates within the secure area. The tram has three coloured lines to help passengers identify the correct route.

When planning flight and gate connections, it is also worth noting that certain shops, restaurants, and lounges within the airport may have limited operating hours.

Las Vegas Airport's ranking in the world's busiest airports

Las Vegas Airports' Ranking Among the World's Busiest Airports

Las Vegas is a major tourist destination, and its airport, Harry Reid International Airport (formerly McCarran International Airport), has experienced a significant increase in passenger traffic in recent years. In 2023, the airport handled approximately 57.6 million passengers, a 9.4% increase from 2022 and a remarkable 10.6% increase compared to 2019, the last full year before the pandemic. This surge in passenger numbers propelled Harry Reid International Airport into the ranks of the world's busiest airports.

Ranking Based on Total Passengers

When it comes to total passenger traffic, Harry Reid International Airport ranked 12th in the world in 2023. Here is a list of the top 12 busiest airports by total passengers:

• Atlanta, USA (ATL): 104,653,451
• Dubai, UAE (DXB): 86,994,365
• Dallas/Fort Worth, USA (DFW): 81,755,538
• London, UK (LHR): 79,183,364
• Tokyo, Japan (HND): 78,719,302
• Denver, USA (DEN): 77,837,917
• Istanbul, Turkey (IST): 76,027,321
• Los Angeles, USA (LAX): 75,050,875
• Chicago, USA (ORD): 73,894,226
• New Delhi, India (DEL): 72,214,841
• Las Vegas, USA (LAS): 57,600,000 (estimated)

Ranking Based on Aircraft Movements

However, when it comes to aircraft movements (takeoffs and landings), Harry Reid International Airport climbed to the 5th busiest airport in the world in 2023, with 611,806 takeoffs and landings. This ranking highlights the unique nature of operations in Las Vegas, with a significant number of private planes and tour helicopters contributing to the high volume of aircraft movements.

• Atlanta, USA (ATL)
• Chicago, USA (ORD)
• Dallas/Fort Worth, USA (DFW)
• Denver, USA (DEN)
• Las Vegas, USA (LAS)

Historical Rankings

Harry Reid International Airport has consistently improved its ranking among the world's busiest airports. In 2021, it was the 10th busiest airport globally, with 39.75 million passengers. In 2020, it ranked 22nd, and in 2019, it was 30th, with an all-time high of 51.5 million passengers.

Impact on Local Economy

The high volume of passenger traffic at Harry Reid International Airport has a significant impact on the local economy. The airport generates over $30 billion annually and supports approximately 250,000 jobs, both directly and indirectly. Additionally, the airport contributes to around $12 billion in annual visitor spending.

Frequently asked questions