Imagine rushing through the airport, with your hands full of luggage, boarding pass in hand, already late for your departure, and then it hits you: a long, slow-moving queue for the security screening process at the airport. Sounds familiar? For many travelers, airport security is the most stressful part of the journey, but if you are planning to travel through the US’s one of the largest and busiest hubs, i.e., the Las Vegas/Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), you are in luck. We have compiled all the information about airport security checkpoints, their locations, what you need to know before you arrive, and who to contact in an emergency in this post.
So, stop worrying about the airport security wait times and other things. Go through this comprehensive blog post and learn everything about Las Vegas Airport Security Wait Times easily. Your seamless journey awaits you!
What Are The Las Vegas Airport Security Wait Times?
A security wait times at the Las Vegas Airport are the time that travelers need to get to their designated terminal, complete their security screening, and undergo baggage handling procedures. These timings depend on several factors, including terminals, time of the day, airline traffic, and seasonal demand of a destination. However, the airport recommends arrival timings for the passengers for both domestic and international aviation. These are as follows:-
- Domestic Flight Departures: At the Las Vegas Airport, passengers are recommended to reach the airport at least 2 hours ahead of their scheduled departure time.
- International Flight Departure: The recommended arrival time is 3 hours ahead of the departure schedule for passengers who are traveling on international routes.
On average, passengers may experience wait times ranging from 5 to 15 minutes, while during peak travel seasons, the Las Vegas Airport Security Wait Times can extend to 30-40 minutes. Moreover, early mornings, late afternoons, weekends, and winter festivals typically lead to longer wait times.
Note: The airport clearly stated that passengers should check with their particular airlines to get real-time information about their airline’s security wait times.
LAS Vegas Airport Security Checkpoints: Locations & Opening Hours
The Las Vegas/Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) features 5 TSA security checkpoints across its two main terminal areas: Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. These checkpoints serve both domestic and international travelers, and offer separate lanes, including TSA PreCheck lanes.
Travelers can check out the location and opening hours of these LAS airport security checkpoints and eliminate the fear of getting lost in the airport on the departure date & navigate these counters like a pro.
| Las Vegas Airport Security Checkpoint Areas | Hours Of Operation |
| A/B Gates | 3:15 AM to 1 AM |
| C Gates (Primarily for Southwest Airlines) | 3:05 AM to 10 PM |
| C/D Gates | 24 hours |
| Terminal 3 level 2 (D & E) | 3:30 AM to 1:30 AM |
| Innovation Checkpoint(Terminal 3, Level Zero) | 5 AM to 1:30 PM |
Facing Issues? Here’s How To Connect With LVMPD Airport Bureau
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) Airport Bureau provides dedicated law enforcement and security support at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS). The presence of this service at the LAS airport is directed by the U.S. aviation security law to ensure the safety and security of the passengers.
Locations of LVMPD Airport Bureau Offices
There are two physical LVMPD Airport Bureau stations available at Las Vegas Airport. They are:-
| Terminal 1 | South end, Mezzanine Level, above the Southwest Airlines ticket counter. |
| Terminal 3 | On the 2nd floor at the far east end of the building (international terminal side). |
Contact & General Info
To contact the LVMPD Airport Bureau at LAS, passengers can use the contact details below. It includes the bureau’s main office address, phone number, email address, and mailing address.
- LVMPD Airport Bureau Location: 5757 Wayne Newton Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV 89111
- Phone: (702) 261-4900
- Email: MetroPDAirport@lvmpd.com
- Mailing Address: P.O. Box 11629, Las Vegas, NV 89111
The bureau office generally operates between 6:00 AM and 4:00 PM (Monday to Friday). The office remains closed on weekends and major holidays.
Know Before You Go: Tips For A Hassle-Free Security Screening
For a stress-free checkpoint experience at LAS, passengers should know before they arrive at the airport what they can bring in their carry-on luggage and allow themselves plenty of time to use the kiosks. You can check out the below for a smoother experience.
- Arrive Early: The airport authorities recommend you arrive at least 3 hours ahead of their international flight schedule and 2 hours before your domestic departure.
- Use TSA PreCheck: To access expedited & less crowded security lines at LAS, make sure that you have booked your flight ticket with a TSA PreCheck service. This allows you to use designated lanes at the airport with flexibility in the screening procedure.
- Pack Smartly: Follow TSA liquid rules and keep electronics easily accessible.
- Dress Strategically: When you appear at the airport, make sure that you are dressed simply. Avoid belts, heavy jewelry, and shoes that are difficult to remove.
- Remember the TSA 3-1-1 Rule: Want to know what you can bring at LAS? If so, always remember the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule for liquids in your carry-on. The rule states that each liquid container must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, and should fit into one quart-sized plastic bag carried by one traveler. To get complete information about baggage & the prohibited items list, you can check out the TSA official website.
- Get Your Travel Documents Ready: Ensure you have all necessary travel documents, including your boarding pass and valid photo identification such as a REAL ID or passport. According to TSA rules, children under 18 are not required to provide any kind of identification when traveling within the United States. Moreover, you can contact your airline to address any queries about specific ID requirements for travelers under 18.
Conclusion
Now that you know all about Las Vegas Airport Security Wait Times, start preparing for your journey with practised ease. Travelers will find various security checkpoints at the airport with designated TSA PreCheck lanes for their comfort and speedier screening process. Passengers can also plan their time exploring the Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) accordingly, so that they do not rush things when completing the kiosks. By knowing when to arrive at the airport, you can streamline your travel and enjoy a stress-free voyage. Happy travels!
FAQs
At the Las Vegas airport, passengers are advised to arrive at least 2 hours ahead of their departure time in case of a domestic flight and at least 3 hours ahead if they are traveling internationally.
Of course! The Las Vegas International Airport has specific TSA PreCheck lanes available for passengers to enjoy speedy screening.
Las Vegas/Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) has 5 TSA security checkpoints in Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.
The security checkpoints available in Terminal 1 at C/D Gates are open 24 hours. However, all the other checkpoints have specific opening hours. You can check these times at the airport’s official website for your convenience.
The screening process at Las Vegas airport hardly takes 5 to 15 minutes to complete during normal passenger traffic.
