Jazmin Li
The Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport (MSP) is a hub for Delta and is located in a fairly big business region. The airport features two terminals, with Terminal 1 being much larger than Terminal 2. The general recommendation is to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight to account for parking, security, and check-in. However, some travellers have reported that 90 minutes is more than enough time, especially if you are not checking luggage. It is important to consider the day and time of travel, as security lines can vary significantly, and peak travel times may require additional time.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Recommended arrival time | 2 hours before the flight |
| Minimum arrival time | 1 hour before the flight |
| Arrival time without checked luggage | 45 minutes before the flight |
| Arrival time with checked luggage | 75 minutes before the flight |
| Arrival time with TSA Pre-Check | 45 minutes before the flight |
| Time to take the Light Rail | 30-40 minutes |
| TSA wait times | Available on the MSP website |
| Terminal 1 parking | Full on Mondays |
| Terminal 1 | 7 concourses and 117 gates |
| Terminal 2 | 1 concourse and 14 gates |
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What You'll Learn
Terminal 1 vs Terminal 2
Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 at Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport (MSP) differ in size and the amenities they offer. Terminal 1 has seven concourses and 117 gates, while Terminal 2 has one main concourse and 14 gates. Both terminals have two security checkpoints, but the TSA checkpoints at Terminal 1 are open 24 hours a day, whereas Terminal 2 often shuts down one checkpoint during lower-demand times, and both checkpoints are closed from 10 pm to 3:30 am. Terminal 1 has four lounges, whereas Terminal 2 has none. Terminal 2 has six airlines, which makes the task of getting to your gate much simpler and shorter once you've gone through the security checkpoint.
If you are driving to the airport and parking, be aware that the Terminal 1 parking ramps can fill up on Mondays, in which case you will be directed to park at Terminal 2. Driving to Terminal 2, parking, finding the light rail platform, and returning to Terminal 1 can add 30-40 minutes to your journey. You can check the current parking availability on the MSP airport website.
If you are checking in luggage, you will need to give yourself extra time, especially during peak travel times and for international flights. You can check luggage at both terminals: at Terminal 1, check-in and bag check services are in the Ticketing Lobby on Level 2, whereas at Terminal 2, you can check in and obtain a boarding pass in the Ticketing Lobby on Level 1.
The general recommendation is to arrive at the airport two hours before your flight, but this may not always be necessary. One source recommends arriving 75 minutes before your flight if you are not checking bags, and 90 minutes if you are. Another source recommends arriving 45 minutes before your flight, but only if you are a frequent traveller at the airport and know it well. If you are not used to airports in general, it is recommended that you add at least an hour to your arrival time. You can also take advantage of the MSP Reserve program, which allows you to reserve a time at the security checkpoint for free.
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TSA Pre-Check
If you have TSA PreCheck, you can show up at MSP Airport as little as 45 minutes before your flight. However, this is not recommended if it is your first time at the airport.
TSA PreCheck is a service offered by the Transportation Security Administration that allows travellers to undergo expedited screening at the airport. It is available at MSP Airport at both the North and South checkpoints in Terminal 1.
To use TSA PreCheck, travellers must first enrol in the program and obtain a TSA PreCheck boarding pass. They can then proceed to the designated PreCheck lanes at open checkpoints. If a PreCheck lane is not available, travellers can show their PreCheck boarding pass to receive expedited screening in a standard lane.
In addition to TSA PreCheck, MSP Airport also offers a free program called MSP RESERVE, which allows passengers to reserve a time in the security line. This program provides passengers with more control over their airport journey while maintaining the same high standard of security as all TSA lanes.
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Parking availability
To ensure a smooth parking experience, it is recommended to check the current parking availability at the MSP Airport website before departing for the airport. This way, you can be aware of any potential delays due to parking ramp closures or high parking demand. Additionally, if you are a frequent traveller or have a good understanding of the airport layout, you may be able to save some time by choosing the most convenient parking option.
Another factor to consider is the efficiency of the security checkpoints at each terminal. Terminal 1 has seven concourses and 117 gates, while Terminal 2 has a more manageable size with only 14 gates. Consequently, the security process at Terminal 2 is often faster, and it may be a better option for those seeking a quicker parking and security experience. However, it is worth noting that Terminal 2 has fewer dining options, so if you're looking for a bite to eat before your flight, Terminal 1 might be a better choice.
Furthermore, real-time security wait times are available on the MSP Airport website, enabling you to make an informed decision about your arrival time. By taking into account the parking availability, terminal differences, and security wait times, you can optimise your parking experience and overall journey when travelling through MSP Airport.
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Security wait times
The Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport (MSP) has two terminals, with the majority of gates located in Terminal 1. Both terminals have two security checkpoints, but Terminal 2 has fewer gates and is generally faster to get through. The TSA checkpoints at Terminal 1 are open 24 hours a day, while Terminal 2 often shuts one checkpoint down during lower-demand times, with both closed from 10 pm to 3:30 am.
The time to get through security at MSP can vary greatly, from as little as 20 minutes to up to 2 hours. The airport's website recommends arriving at least 2 hours early for domestic flights, but some sources suggest that 90 minutes is usually sufficient. If you are not checking bags and have TSA Pre-Check, you may be able to arrive as little as 45 minutes before your flight, although this is not recommended for first-time travellers.
To expedite your security screening process, it is essential to follow the TSA's 3-1-1 rule and know what items to remove from your carry-on and pockets beforehand. Being prepared and organised can significantly reduce your time in the security line and minimise potential delays.
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Peak travel times
If you're travelling on a Monday, it's worth noting that it's not uncommon for the Terminal 1 parking ramps to be full, in which case you'll be directed to park at Terminal 2. This can add 30-40 minutes to your journey time, so be sure to plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time.
The TSA checkpoints at Terminal 1 are open 24 hours a day, while Terminal 2 often shuts one checkpoint down during lower demand times, and both are closed from 10 pm to 3:30 am. Terminal 2 has just six airlines and 14 gates, so the task of getting to your gate is much simpler and shorter once you've been through the security checkpoint. However, it has been known to be understaffed, so check the real-time security wait times on the MSP website before you leave for the airport.
If you're not checking bags, you can afford to arrive at the airport a little later, but if you are checking bags, it's recommended that you arrive at least 90 minutes before your flight.
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Frequently asked questions
The website for the Minneapolis St Paul International Airport recommends that passengers arrive at least 2 hours before their domestic flight. However, some travellers say that 90 minutes is more than enough time, especially if you are not checking bags. If you are checking bags, give yourself 75 minutes, and 90 minutes if you are checking bags.
MSP Airport has lots of shops to browse and decent food. You can also get some steps in if you arrive early for your flight.
Terminal 1 has seven concourses with 117 gates, while Terminal 2 has one main concourse with 14 gates, making it quicker to get through. Terminal 1 has more food options than Terminal 2.
There is a free train that connects the two terminals, as well as a shuttle for those with mobility limitations.
MSP Airport has a real-time security wait time tracker on its website that you can check before you leave home.
