Msp Airport: Current Busiest Times Explained

Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) is one of the biggest and busiest airports in the US. Despite this, it has some of the shortest security wait times, with an average of 10 minutes according to a study by Planetare. However, wait times can vary, and during peak times, they can be as long as 50 minutes. TSA PreCheck and CLEAR programs are available at MSP to help expedite the security process for enrolled travellers. MSP Airport has also introduced the optional MSP RESERVE program, which allows passengers to reserve a time at the TSA Security Checkpoint screening area.

TSA PreCheck

Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport is one of the biggest and busiest airports in the US, with average security wait times of 20-25 minutes. During peak times, the wait can be as long as 50 minutes. To skip these long queues, travellers are recommended to use expedited screening facilities like TSA PreCheck.

With TSA PreCheck, travellers can enjoy benefits such as keeping their shoes, light outerwear, and belts on during the security check. This can significantly reduce their overall security wait times.

To enrol in TSA PreCheck, applicants can choose from a list of TSA-approved partners based on cost, locations, and additional benefits. The enrolment process can be completed online or in person at one of the many enrolment centres, with select locations open 7 days a week. Children 17 and under can join an adult with TSA PreCheck when the indicator appears on their boarding pass.

By planning ahead, packing properly, and familiarising themselves with TSA guidelines, travellers can further ensure a smooth experience at airport security checkpoints.

CLEAR expedited screening

Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport is one of the biggest and busiest airports in the US, with average security wait times of 20-25 minutes, and up to 50 minutes during peak times. To reduce wait times, travellers can take advantage of expedited screening programs such as TSA PreCheck and CLEAR.

CLEAR is an expedited screening program that uses an identity verification platform to make security checks safer and easier for travellers. CLEAR is available at select airports, including Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, where travellers can skip the security line from 4:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. CLEAR Plus is a similar program that is run by a private company and is available at Orlando International Airport, Sacramento International Airport, and Newark Liberty International Airport.

CLEAR uses biometrics, such as eye or fingerprint scans, to verify a traveller's identity, allowing them to move more efficiently through airport checkpoints without having to queue to present their ID to security staff. This can help travellers save time and avoid long lines at the airport. CLEAR also offers additional benefits, such as expedited passport services and easier luggage shipment.

To enrol in CLEAR, travellers can visit the CLEAR website or app to sign up and verify their identity. Once enrolled, travellers can use CLEAR to skip the security line at participating airports and enjoy a faster, more streamlined security screening process. CLEAR is a useful option for frequent flyers who want to save time and hassle during the security screening process at busy airports like MSP.

In addition to CLEAR, travellers can also consider other expedited screening programs such as TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, which offer express security lanes and expedited customs checks, respectively. These programs can help travellers navigate crowded airports more quickly and efficiently, reducing wait times and improving the overall travel experience.

Average security wait times

The average security wait time at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) is around 10 minutes according to a study by Planetare. However, other sources suggest the average wait time is between 15 and 25 minutes. During peak times, especially on weekends or during holiday seasons, the average security wait time can increase to 50 minutes.

MSP Airport has two terminals, Terminal 1 Lindbergh and Terminal 2 Humphrey, with a dedicated TSA PreCheck facility available at both. TSA PreCheck is an exclusive passenger screening that expedites journeys, allowing passengers to keep their shoes, light outerwear, and belts on during the check. Passengers can also keep 3-1-1 compliant liquids, gels, and aerosols in their carry-on bags, as well as their laptops. Knowing where and when to look for TSA PreCheck can significantly reduce security wait times.

In addition to TSA PreCheck, MSP Airport also offers CLEAR, an expedited screening facility that uses biometric technology to identify travelers through fingerprints or iris recognition. Kiosks are available at both the North and South checkpoints in Terminal 1.

To obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information, travellers can directly contact the Minneapolis-St.Paul Airport or refer to their website for real-time TSA wait time information. It is always recommended to give yourself a time buffer to get through security, as actual wait times may vary.

Peak times

Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport is one of the biggest and busiest airports in the US. Despite this, it has some of the shortest security wait times, with an average of 10 minutes. However, during peak times, particularly on weekends and during holiday seasons, these wait times can increase significantly, with an average security wait time of 20-25 minutes, and a maximum of 50 minutes.

Additionally, certain days of the week and times of the year can also be considered peak times at MSP Airport. For example, weekends tend to be busier than weekdays, with more leisure travellers passing through the airport. Similarly, holiday seasons, such as summer and winter breaks, can result in a significant increase in passenger traffic, leading to longer wait times.

To avoid long wait times during peak periods, MSP Airport offers several expedited screening programs. One such program is TSA PreCheck, which allows pre-approved travellers to go through a dedicated security lane, keeping their shoes, light outerwear, and belts on, and carrying compliant liquids, gels, and aerosols in their carry-on bags. Global Entry is another program that facilitates expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk international travellers upon arrival in the United States. These programs can significantly reduce security wait times, making it more convenient for travellers passing through MSP Airport during peak periods.

Real-time TSA wait time info

As one of the biggest and busiest airports in the US, Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) has some of the shortest security wait times, with an average of 10 minutes according to a study by Planetare. However, during peak times, especially on weekends and holidays, the average security wait time can be as long as 50 minutes.

To get real-time TSA wait time information, you can refer to the official website of the Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport, which provides a dedicated page for security screening. This page includes information on TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, as well as a link to the TSA website for travellers who want to enrol in the TSA PreCheck programme. Additionally, the website provides a map of the airport's campus, allowing travellers to easily navigate the security checkpoints.

The airport also offers a programme called MSP RESERVE, which is a free and optional service that gives passengers control over their journey while maintaining the same high-security standards as all TSA lanes. This programme does not require a paid membership.

Furthermore, travellers can take advantage of expedited screening facilities like PreCheck and CLEAR to skip long queues. PreCheck members can keep their shoes, light outerwear, and belts on during the security check, and carry compliant liquids, gels, and aerosols in their carry-on bags. CLEAR, on the other hand, uses biometric technology to identify travellers through fingerprints or iris scans.

It is recommended to plan ahead and be aware of the security procedures to ensure a smooth and efficient journey through MSP Airport's security checkpoints.

Frequently asked questions