A Buzzing Hub: Myrtle Beach Airport's Busy Schedule

Myrtle Beach International Airport is known for its efficient security screening process, with travellers praising its short lines. The Transportation Security Agency (TSA) recommends that passengers arrive at the airport 2 to 3 hours before their flight's scheduled departure. However, some travellers have reported arriving just 30 minutes before boarding and still having time to get through security and enjoy some food and drinks. The airport currently handles around 4,000 travellers a day, but this number is expected to increase to 14,000-16,000 per day during the summer months.

Wait times

The airport's small size contributes to its efficiency, with travellers commenting that it usually takes no more than 15 minutes to get from the front door through TSA. The boarding process typically begins 30 minutes before departure, so arriving at the security check beforehand is advisable. MYR has a main security checkpoint equipped with modern technology, including new checkpoint scanners that improve efficiency for both passengers and TSA staff. These 3D scanners allow screeners to examine luggage without opening bags, and passengers no longer need to remove laptops, food, and drinks from their baggage.

To expedite the security process, travellers can enrol in TSA Pre-Check or Global Entry programmes, which offer faster and easier screening. Registered TSA PreCheck passengers typically wait less than 5 minutes to pass through security. However, it's important to note that expedited screening cannot be assured for any traveller, as protocols may vary.

While current wait times are available online, they may not accurately reflect the actual wait upon arrival due to fluctuating factors. Digital displays at the airport provide real-time wait information, but travellers are advised to arrive 2 to 3 hours early, considering parking and other variables.

TSA security checks

Myrtle Beach International Airport is known for its efficient security screening process, despite its high traffic. The airport sees millions of travellers every year, with a record of over 3.8 million travellers in 2024, and an expected increase to 12,000 travellers per day in 2025. The TSA generally recommends arriving at the airport 2 hours before your scheduled departure, but travellers should prepare for rush hour airport traffic, which typically occurs between 6 am and 10 am.

TSA security measures are in place to ensure the safety of all passengers throughout the travel process. The security checkpoint is open daily from 4 am until the last departing flight has closed. The TSA recommends passengers arrive 2-3 hours before their scheduled departure for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights.

To speed up the security process, travellers can enrol in the TSA Pre-Check programme, which offers expedited security screening for pre-approved, low-risk travellers. This programme is available at varying hours throughout the week. On Mondays and Fridays, it is open from 4 am to 9 pm; on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, it operates from 4 am to 7 pm; and on Sundays, it is available from 4 am to 9 pm. These hours can change based on operational needs. With TSA Pre-Check, most passengers wait 5 minutes or less at security.

In 2024, the TSA began testing new checkpoint scanners at Myrtle Beach International Airport. These scanners produce a 3D image of baggage, allowing screeners to inspect luggage without opening bags. Travellers do not need to remove laptops, food, or drink containers from their bags. All scanned items must be placed in a bin, including any overcoats or shoes. The bins are designed to the airline specification of a carry-on bag, so travellers should ensure their bags meet the proper specifications.

Airport history

The history of Myrtle Beach International Airport can be traced back to 1948 when, under the Surplus Property Act, the federal government transferred property from a former army base. The city of Myrtle Beach initially decided not to use the property for an airport, but funds from the property still had to be used for that purpose. From 1958 to 1976, the funds were allocated to the Horry County Jetport in Crescent Beach, which later moved to the northeast part of the base after an agreement for joint civilian and military use of the base.

In 1977, the City of Myrtle Beach annexed the area of Myrtle Beach Airport. However, until 1993, both MYR and Myrtle Beach AFB shared the main runway, limiting civil operations to 30 landings per day. This limitation sparked a local business movement advocating for the construction of a new airport. During the 1980s, the airport was served by Piedmont Airlines (later acquired by USAir), as well as Delta and Eastern commuter aircraft.

In the early 1990s, American Eagle became a significant carrier at MYR, operating multiple daily ATR 72 flights to the American Airlines hub at Raleigh–Durham International Airport. Unfortunately, American Eagle abruptly ended its hub at Raleigh–Durham in December 1994, cancelling all services to MYR and other secondary airports in the region. It wasn't until 2010 that American returned to Myrtle Beach, offering a seasonal service to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport.

On April 1, 1996, Myrtle Beach Airport gained international status, with the grand opening of a new international terminal on August 21 of the same year. This development was accompanied by the unveiling of a new logo, designed to reflect the architectural design of the terminal and the allure of the beach.

Myrtle Beach International Airport has experienced notable milestones and challenges over the years. It served as Hooters Air's main hub from 2003 to 2006, and in 2006, AirTran Airways discontinued its service to Atlanta, marking a significant loss as they were the fourth-largest airline serving the airport at the time. Direct Air connected Myrtle Beach to various airports from 2007 to 2012, but their abrupt bankruptcy filing led to another setback, causing a 16% slump in passenger traffic in 2012. However, passenger numbers rebounded in 2013, reflecting the airport's resilience.

In July 2010, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approved a $4.50 passenger facilities charge for all airline tickets to and from MYR to fund a portion of the terminal upgrade costs. In 2022, the airport was designated as a potential launch abort site for the Space Shuttle, although it was never used for that purpose. Additionally, Leadership In Flight Training (LIFT) Academy announced plans to establish flight training operations at the airport, aiming to begin as early as October 2022.

In 2024, Myrtle Beach International Airport achieved a significant milestone, surpassing 3 million arriving and departing passengers, the highest in its history. This record-breaking year highlighted the airport's appeal as a world-class destination and a thriving hub for air travel.

Passenger traffic

The Myrtle Beach International Airport is known for its efficient security screening process. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has introduced new checkpoint scanners to improve the passenger experience. The new 3D scanners allow screeners to better inspect luggage without physically opening bags. This means travellers can leave their laptops, food, and drinks in their bags, saving time. The TSA also hopes to install more scanners in other airports across South Carolina.

In the year ending April 30, 2023, the airport handled 149,968 aircraft operations, averaging 411 per day. The airport's single runway supports air taxi (55%), airline (22%), general aviation (18%), and military (5%) operations. As of 2023, 54 aircraft were based at the airport, including 42 single-engine, 5 multi-engine, 1 jet, and 6 helicopters.

Passenger numbers rebounded in 2010 when American Airlines returned to Myrtle Beach with a seasonal service to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. The airport became international in 1996, with a new international terminal and logo reflecting its beach influence. In 2003, the airport served as the main hub for Hooters Air until 2006. However, when AirTran Airways discontinued its service to Atlanta in 2006, it caused another slump in passenger traffic as they were the fourth-largest airline serving the airport.

Wait times at the airport can vary, especially during peak travel periods. The TSA recommends arriving 2 to 3 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight. However, some travellers report arriving just 30 minutes before boarding and still having time for food and drinks. The small size of the airport contributes to shorter wait times, with an average of 10-15 people in line for TSA security checks.

Airport facilities

Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) is a small, efficient airport with a range of facilities for travellers. The airport has been voted the 'Best Small Airport' in the USA by USA Today, thanks to its easy-to-navigate terminal and exceptional amenities. The airport has a range of dining, shopping, and activity options for travellers on the go. The terminal has simple parking options, straightforward ticketing, and an efficient security check area. The gates are easily accessible, and the baggage claim area is streamlined. The airport also offers convenient transportation options, including taxis, hotel shuttles, ridesharing, public transportation, and rental cars.

The airport has a state-of-the-art terminal with many features designed to enhance the travel experience. The passenger experience is one of the best in the country, with friendly staff and a comfortable atmosphere. The terminal has high-speed Wi-Fi available throughout the airport at no charge, and there are two ATMs located in the baggage claim area and upstairs near the Subway restaurant. The airport also has a quiet room designed for passengers with special needs to destress, accessible in the baggage claim area.

Security checks at the airport are efficient, with TSA recommending passengers arrive 2 hours prior to their scheduled departure for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights. The TSA security checkpoint is open daily from 4:00 a.m. until the last departing flight has closed. Travellers can also enrol in TSA Pre-Check for a faster and easier travel experience. The airport has six checkpoint scanners, with RFID bins that are scanned along with the luggage. This new system is more efficient for both passengers and TSA staff, reducing the need for bag checks.

The airport has a variety of dining options, including Nacho Hippo and Subway. There are also relief areas for pets located outside Door 6 on the lower level and upstairs in Concourse B. The airport offers professional skycap services, providing assistance from the curb to the gate. For travellers with infants, there are Mamava lactation suites located between Concourse A and B, providing a private space for nursing mothers.

Frequently asked questions