Complete LAS Airport Guide: Harry Reid International Airport
Your comprehensive guide to navigating Harry Reid International Airport (formerly McCarran International Airport) in Las Vegas, Nevada. Get practical information to move from curb to gate with confidence and minimal stress.
Airport Overview
Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) is the primary commercial airport serving Las Vegas and the surrounding metropolitan area. With over 50 million passengers annually, it ranks as the 7th busiest airport in the United States. The airport operates 24 hours a day and serves as a major hub for Southwest Airlines and an important focus city for several other carriers.
Terminals & Concourses Layout
Terminal 1
- Concourse A: Gates A1-A15 (Southwest Airlines primary hub)
- Concourse B: Gates B1-B19 (Domestic flights, various carriers)
- Concourse C: Gates C1-C21 (Domestic and some international flights)
Terminal 3
- Concourse D: Gates D1-D21 (International and domestic flights)
- Concourse E: Gates E1-E18 (International flights, customs facilities)
Important: Terminal 2 was demolished in 2016. There is no Terminal 2 at LAS airport.
Security Checkpoints & Wait Times
Security checkpoint wait times vary significantly throughout the day. Peak congestion typically occurs:
- Morning rush: 6:00 AM - 9:00 AM
- Afternoon rush: 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM
- Weekend peaks: Generally higher volume Friday-Sunday
TSA PreCheck and CLEAR
TSA PreCheck is available at all security checkpoints in both terminals. CLEAR is also available and can significantly reduce wait times during peak periods. Consider enrolling if you're a frequent traveler through LAS.
Inter-Terminal Transportation
Moving between Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 requires exiting the secure area and using the inter-terminal shuttle or ground transportation:
Landside Transfer Options
- McCarran International Airport Shuttle: Free shuttle runs every 5-10 minutes
- Walking: Approximately 15-20 minutes via covered walkways
- Taxi/Rideshare: Available but generally unnecessary for terminal transfers
Airside Connections
Limited airside connections are available through the D-gate area for eligible passengers. Always allow 30-45 minutes minimum for terminal transfers, especially during peak travel times.
Accessibility Services
Harry Reid International Airport is fully ADA compliant and offers comprehensive accessibility services:
Physical Accessibility
- Elevator access to all levels in both terminals
- Wheelchair-accessible restrooms throughout
- Designated parking spaces close to terminal entrances
- Accessible shuttle services between terminals
Assistance Services
- Wheelchair assistance: Available upon request through your airline
- Electric cart service: For passengers who need assistance walking long distances
- Visual assistance: Guide service available for visually impaired passengers
- Hearing assistance: TTY phones and assistive listening devices available
Service Animal Relief Areas
Both terminals feature indoor and outdoor relief areas for service animals, with waste disposal stations and fresh water available.
Dining & Shopping Near Gates
Terminal 1 Highlights
- Concourse A: Wenzel (local brewery), Burger King, Starbucks
- Concourse B: Pink Taco, Chili's Too, Nathan's Famous
- Concourse C: Wolfgang Puck Express, Earl of Sandwich, local Vegas-themed shops
Terminal 3 Highlights
- Concourse D: Pub at Monte Carlo, Burger King, extensive duty-free shopping
- Concourse E: International dining options, luxury retail, spa services
Hydration Stations
Water bottle refill stations are located throughout both terminals, typically near restrooms and gate areas. This is especially important given Las Vegas's dry desert climate.
Ground Transportation
Rental Cars
The Rental Car Center is located off-airport and accessed via dedicated shuttle buses that depart from both terminals every 3-5 minutes. Allow 15-20 minutes total travel time to reach rental car facilities.
Public Transportation
- RTC Transit: Bus routes 108 and 109 serve the airport
- Taxi service: Available at designated areas outside both terminals
- Rideshare: Uber and Lyft pickup zones are clearly marked
Hotel Shuttles
Many Las Vegas hotels provide complimentary shuttle service. Check with your hotel for schedules and pickup locations, which are typically found outside Level 1 of both terminals.
Lounges & Premium Services
Available Lounges
- Centurion Lounge (Terminal 3, Concourse D): American Express members
- Club at LAS (Terminal 1): Priority Pass access
- USO Lounge (Terminal 1): Active military and families
Premium Services
- Spa services available in Terminal 3
- Phone charging stations throughout both terminals
- Free WiFi with no time restrictions
- Nursing rooms for traveling families
Insider Tips for LAS Navigation
Pro Travel Tips
- Download the LAS app: Real-time gate information and airport maps
- Check gate changes: LAS is known for frequent gate changes, especially for Southwest flights
- Plan for crowds: Sunday evenings and Monday mornings are typically the busiest
- Pre-security food: Limited dining options before security in Terminal 1
- International connections: Allow minimum 2 hours for international connections requiring customs clearance
Current Construction & Updates
As of 2025, Harry Reid International Airport continues to undergo expansion and modernization projects. Current construction includes:
- Terminal 3 concourse extensions for additional international capacity
- Enhanced security checkpoint technology implementation
- Improved baggage handling systems
- Sustainability upgrades including solar panel installations
Ready to navigate LAS with confidence?
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Information Sources: Harry Reid International Airport official website, TSA.gov, airline partner data, and verified traveler reports. Information is current as of January 2025.
Disclaimer: Airport layouts, services, and procedures may change. Always verify current information with official airport resources or your airline before travel.