Atlanta Airport Security Wait Times: Updates

The average security wait time is between 2 to 5 minutes at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Atlanta Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world. In a year, it caters to over a hundred million passengers, and sometimes passengers witness crazy Atlanta security wait times. 

Atlanta Airport has three security checkpoints with gates inside the airport. Usually, passengers arrive quickly in the security lines. If you are traveling with Atlanta Airport need not worry. You can complete the security process quickly, and you can reach out to the TSA officer inside the airport for your assistance.  

Overview of the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport offers its passengers a low-cost fare service located in the south of downtown Atlanta, Georgia. It operates 150 domestic and 75 international destination flights with an average of 2700 arrivals and departures. Atlanta airport is huge, covering over 150 acres of land; it has 192 gates that can confuse you sometimes, especially if you are traveling to or from the airport for the first time. 

It is one of the world’s busiest airports, so you should consider arriving here early to get through the security wait times at Atlanta Airport. Arriving early will allow you to enjoy your layover time, especially when you are traveling internationally. 

To offer you an amazing journey with Atlanta Airport, we have provided you with all the essential information on Atlanta security wait times at the airport. 

What is the Wait times at Atlanta Airport Security? 

You can check the security wait times at Atlanta Airport in the details provided in the table below. 

• The airport has a single checkpoint for international passengers, allowing for a more efficient and less time-consuming check-in experience.
• Those who arrive during the pre-check timing of 6:30 AM – 9:30 AM and 12:30 PM – 5:30 PM can complete the check-in process even more quickly.
• Atlanta Airport security wait times at checkpoints may vary depending on the number of passengers. 
• To ensure an easy and stress-free experience, passengers must arrive 3 hours before their scheduled departure time at the airport. 

Domestic and International Terminals at ATL Airport

The Atlanta airport operates two terminals, domestic and International terminals. The domestic terminal you can locate is on the airport’s west side, and on the east side, it operates the international terminal. Overall, there are 192 gates at the airport spread across seven concourses: T, A, B, C, D, E, and F. 

At the terminal north upper level near the American Airlines ticket office, you can find the Atlanta Airport Lost and Found, open on weekdays from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. 

You can move between these concourses using the Transportation Mall equipped with moving walkways and the Plane Train.

ATL Airport Security Checkpoints – Location and Hours

Atlanta Airport, known as ATL, is the world’s busiest airport. Due to its high traffic, the airport has several checkpoints, which can often result in long lines. There are two main security wait times at Atlanta Airport, one for international travelers and one for domestic passengers, each with two sub-checkpoints labeled North and South. Most of these checkpoints utilize “smart lanes” to expedite screening. It’s important to note that the hours of operation may vary.

Note:– For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at Atlanta Airport security wait times at least 2 hours before departure, and for international flights, it is recommended to arrive at least 3 hours before departure. 

Quick Security Screening Programs are Available at Atlanta Airport

I have listed below all the security programs that can help you reduce your wait times at ATL airport. Feel free to use this information to expedite your security process.

TSA PreCheck Terminal – The security wait times at Atlanta Airport can vary during the day, especially on busy travel days and holidays. To avoid any inconvenience, it’s advisable to check the current wait times at Hartsfield Jackson Airport and ensure that you arrive early for TSA security checks.

1. You can participate in the TSA Pre program to speed up your security checkpoint experience at the ATL airport. The TSA PreCheck lanes are available at all security checkpoints but may have different hours than the terminal operating hours. It’s best to check the TSA Pre-schedule for the specific hours on the day and time of your travel.
2. To enroll in TSA PreCheck, you can visit the enrollment center located near Gate A19 at Concourse A. The enrollment center is open Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM, and 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM for ticketed passengers.
3. There’s another enrollment center available before security in the Terminal South ticketing area, which is open from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM on Saturdays only. Once enrolled in TSA PreCheck, you can enjoy reduced wait times at the ATL airport. In most cases, you won’t have to remove your shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, and light jackets. Please visit the TSA website for more information about the program and enrollment. 

CLEAR Lanes –Clear is available at the Atlanta airport. With CLEAR lanes expedited security screening, you can save time during your travels. You’ll find the CLEAR enrollment center at the Domestic Terminal North. Once enrolled, you can access CLEAR lanes at the Domestic Terminal South. You can use CLEAR to get out of the Atlanta airport faster by using the “Fast Lane” at the Hertz Rental Car Center. 

CLEAR Plus Atlanta security wait times lanes are located in the following terminals:

• Domestic Terminal North
• Domestic Terminal South
• Main Terminal

Fast Track– For those with TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, fast track lanes are available at all security checkpoints in ATL Hartsfield. Dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes are also located in the domestic terminal’s North and South security checkpoints. If you’re not a member of these programs, you can apply to enjoy the benefits of the fast-track lanes for fast security wait times.  

Global Entry Enrollment– The U.S. Customs and Border Protection offers this program, enabling pre-approved, low-risk travelers to undergo expedited clearance upon arrival in the United States. To apply for Global Entry, travelers must complete an online application, undergo a background check, and have an in-person interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. Atlanta Airport security wait times Global Entry Enrollment Center is located in the International Terminal, Concourse F. It’s highly recommended to schedule an appointment in advance to avoid long wait times.

Helpful Tips After your Security Screening

Here are some helpful tips and resources to make your journey smoother after passing through the security wait times at ATL airport. 

After passing through Atlanta security wait times, use the official interactive terminal map to navigate to your gate. You can also find restaurants and shopping options along the way.

You can use off-airport parking lots as a low-cost alternative to parking within the airport facility. These lots are pretty far away from the terminals but offer lower costs. You can reserve a spot here.

If you have some free time before your flight, grab a bite, shop, or use the free wifi to catch up on emails.

If you need help finding something in the terminal area, see the contact information you need for lost and found here.

If you need a quick way to get to your destination from the airport after arriving from another city, call one of these taxi or limo service providers.

Atlanta Airport Security Wait Times (FAQs)