BTN News: Traveling by air in the United States can be stressful, especially if you find yourself stuck in long security lines. In 2024, knowing which airports have the longest TSA wait times can save you from unexpected delays and missed flights. According to a recent study by SOAX, which analyzed wait times using Qsensor data across 31 major U.S. airports, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport tops the list for the longest security wait times. This article explores the busiest airports, the best and worst times to fly, and strategic tips for a smoother travel experience.
The Airport with the Longest TSA Wait Time in the U.S.
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) claims the top spot for the longest average TSA wait time in 2024, clocking in at nearly 16 minutes. The study reveals that Wednesdays, particularly at 5 a.m., are the busiest times to navigate security at FLL, with wait times reaching up to 24 minutes and 51 seconds. If you’re planning to fly out of Fort Lauderdale, aim for early Monday mornings around 2 a.m. when security wait times are at their lowest, averaging just 34 seconds.
Which Other Airports Have the Longest Security Wait Times?
Navigating security at major airports can be a challenge. The study ranked several airports based on their average TSA wait times:
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT): 15 minutes, 6 seconds
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): 14 minutes, 29 seconds
- San Diego International Airport (SAN): 14 minutes, 14 seconds
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK): 12 minutes, 54 seconds
- Harry Reid International Airport (LAS): 12 minutes, 1 second
- Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS): 11 minutes, 49 seconds
- Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC): 11 minutes, 39 seconds
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO): 11 minutes, 23 seconds
- Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI): 10 minutes, 31 seconds
These airports show consistently high wait times, and travelers should plan accordingly to avoid frustration and delays.
Travel Smart: Best and Worst Days to Fly
Avoid the Rush:
The experts suggest avoiding flying on Wednesdays, particularly at peak morning hours, as TSA lines are at their longest. For those looking to bypass the crowds, consider booking flights for Mondays in the early hours of the morning, when wait times tend to be shorter.
Plan for Efficiency:
Booking your flight during off-peak times, like late nights or early mornings, can make a significant difference in your travel experience. For instance, travelers at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport can enjoy a nearly non-existent wait time if they opt for a 2 a.m. flight on a Monday.
Airports with the Shortest TSA Wait Times
Not all airports have lengthy wait times. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is known for its efficient TSA lines, with an average wait time of just 6 minutes and 5 seconds. Similarly, Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) boasts some of the shortest waits in the country, averaging just 3 minutes and 49 seconds.
Strategies to Reduce Your TSA Wait Time
- Check Real-Time Updates: Use mobile apps or airport websites to check live TSA wait times before heading to the airport.
- Enroll in TSA PreCheck or CLEAR: Frequent flyers can benefit from expedited security screening programs.
- Travel Light: Fewer items in your carry-on means faster processing through security checks.
- Arrive Early: Even at airports with shorter wait times, it’s wise to arrive well in advance of your flight.
Final Thoughts: Optimize Your Travel Experience in 2024
Understanding the busiest airports and the times to avoid can make a significant difference in your travel experience. With Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport topping the list of the longest TSA waits, planning around these peak times is key. Meanwhile, airports like Dallas-Fort Worth and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta provide smoother, faster security experiences. Wherever you’re flying from, knowing these insights can help you save time and reduce stress during your journey.
