Airport Traffic: Current Wait Times And Crowds

Are you wondering how busy the airport is right now? There are a number of factors that can affect how busy an airport is, from general arrival and departure delays to demand for parking. Luckily, there are some helpful tools available to help you check how busy your airport is, such as the MyTSA app, which provides 24/7 access to frequently requested airport security information, including delay information and how busy the airport is likely to be based on historical data.

Delays at the airport

Real-time Information:

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) offer valuable resources for travellers. The My TSA application provides real-time updates on airport delays, allows you to confirm permissible items through security, and offers helpful tips for a seamless security check experience. Similarly, the CBP provides estimated wait times for border crossings, which can be checked before you travel.

TSA Screenings:

TSA screenings are thorough security checks that can sometimes result in extended wait times. These checks are necessary to ensure the safety of travellers, but it's advisable to arrive at the airport earlier than usual to account for potential delays.

Airport-specific Delays:

Delays can vary across different airports. It's advisable to check the status of your specific airport of departure and arrival. For instance, as of January 12, 2025, several major airports in the United States, including Portland International Airport (PDX), Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), and San Francisco International Airport (SFO), among others, were experiencing general arrival and departure delays of 15 minutes or less.

Departure and Arrival Delays:

In some cases, delays can be more significant. For example, certain airports may experience taxi delays for departures or airborne holding delays for arrivals, ranging from 16 to 45 minutes or even exceeding 45 minutes. It's important to stay updated on such delays to manage your expectations and make any necessary arrangements.

Tips for Travellers:

To mitigate potential delays, it's recommended to arrive at the airport earlier than usual, especially if you're travelling during peak hours or busy seasons. Additionally, consider downloading helpful applications, such as My TSA and Border Wait Time, to stay informed about wait times and security procedures.

Security wait times

Enroll in Trusted Traveller Programs:

Enrolling in programs like TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, or Global Entry allows you to use dedicated lanes and keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on, significantly reducing your wait time. These programs are especially useful if you're a frequent flyer.

Plan Your Travel Days:

Weekends, including Fridays during the summer months, are typically the busiest travel days. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are usually slower, so if possible, book your flights midweek to avoid the crowds.

Choose the Right Time of Day:

Airports tend to be busiest on weekdays during the early morning and early evening. Mid-day is generally the slowest time, so if you can time your arrival for between 1 pm and 4 pm, or after 10 pm, you may encounter shorter lines. However, mornings, especially between 5 am and 8 am, tend to have the longest lines as travellers catch early flights.

Check Real-Time Wait Times:

Many airports post real-time security wait times on their websites or apps. You can also use apps like MyTSA, App in the Air, or MiFlight to check delay information and historical data on airport busyness. While these apps rely on crowdsourced data, which may vary in accuracy, they can still give you a good idea of what to expect.

Arrive Early:

As a general rule, it's recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight. This gives you a buffer to account for any unexpected delays and ensures you can reach your gate on time.

Pack Smart and Dress for Efficiency:

Make sure your carry-on luggage complies with TSA rules and avoid overstuffing your bag, which may lead to extra screening. Wear slip-on shoes and minimal accessories to speed up your trip through the scanner.

Have Your Documents Ready:

Keep your ID and boarding pass easily accessible to avoid fumbling at the front of the line. This helps to streamline the security process and reduces wait times for everyone.

By following these tips and staying informed about security wait times, you can significantly reduce the time spent in line and start your trip with less stress and more efficiency.

Customs wait times

On average, passengers can get through customs in about 15 minutes or less, but this can vary significantly. For example, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) has the longest average wait time of nearly 32 minutes, whereas Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) boasts the shortest average wait time of just over 5 minutes.

To reduce wait times, passengers can enrol in pre-travel clearance schemes like Global Entry, which offers expedited processing through designated lanes for approved "low-risk" flyers. These programmes can be especially useful for international passengers, who often experience longer delays than US citizens.

Additionally, certain days of the week and times of day tend to be busier than others. Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays are generally the best days to travel, while Wednesdays through Saturdays tend to be the worst. Early morning flights often result in longer wait times, with 4 out of the 5 longest average wait times occurring before 8 am. Conversely, clearing customs later in the evening typically leads to shorter waits, with 3 out of the 5 shortest average wait times happening after 9 pm.

To help plan your travel, you can utilise resources such as the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) official app, MyTSA, or commercial alternatives like App in the Air and MiFlight. These apps provide crowdsourced information on airport security wait times, though their accuracy depends on timely updates from users. Checking the airport's website can also be helpful, as many now provide frequent updates on security wait times.

Taxi stand wait times

The taxi stand wait times at an airport can vary depending on several factors, including the time of day, the number of arriving flights, and the availability of taxis. Here are some insights and estimates regarding taxi stand wait times:

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York:

At JFK Airport in New York, the indoor taxi stand efficiently manages a high volume of taxis, dispatching approximately 2,500 cabs daily. While they strive to keep the line moving, wait times can fluctuate based on arrival traffic and demand. It's advisable to check real-time updates for the most accurate estimation of current taxi stand wait times.

General Estimates and Factors Influencing Wait Times:

Several airports and travel-related organizations provide tools and resources to help passengers estimate wait times, including taxi stand wait times. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) offers the My TSA application, which provides valuable information. With the app, you can check delay information, predict airport busyness based on historical data, and access other travel tips. Additionally, the TSA website and similar platforms offer wait time estimates for security screenings, which can impact your overall experience, including the time it takes to reach the taxi stand.

It's worth noting that factors such as flight delays, peak travel times, and special events can influence taxi stand wait times. During periods of high traffic, such as holiday seasons or major events in the area, you may experience longer wait times. Conversely, during off-peak hours or when there are fewer arriving flights, wait times may be shorter.

To ensure a smoother experience, it's recommended to stay informed about the latest travel updates, utilize available applications, and consider alternative transportation options if necessary. By planning ahead, you can better manage your time and navigate through the airport efficiently, minimizing potential delays.

Car parking availability

To manage the high demand for airport parking, some airports implement pre-booking systems, allowing travellers to reserve a parking spot in advance. This strategy helps alleviate the stress of finding parking upon arrival at the airport and ensures a guaranteed space for those who plan ahead. However, it can also lead to challenges for travellers who have not pre-booked, reducing their parking options.

The availability of parking spots can vary depending on several factors, including the time of day, day of the week, and season. For instance, airports may experience higher parking demand during peak travel times, such as holidays or special events, making it more challenging to find available spots. Conversely, during off-peak times, travellers may find more parking options readily accessible.

Additionally, the availability of parking at airports is influenced by the efficiency of transportation systems within the airport premises. Efficient transportation options, such as subway systems or shuttle services, can help alleviate parking congestion by encouraging travellers to opt for these alternatives instead of driving to the airport and requiring parking. This reduces the strain on parking infrastructure, making it more manageable for airports to accommodate the parking needs of travellers.

To ensure a smooth travel experience, it is advisable for passengers to stay informed about the parking situation at their departure airport. Checking the airport's official website or using mobile applications that provide real-time parking availability updates can be valuable tools for travellers. By staying informed, travellers can make informed decisions, such as allowing for extra time or considering alternative transportation methods if parking availability is limited.

Frequently asked questions