Skip to main content
Chase logo, links to Chase home
Sign in
Credit Card Marketplace

Tips for TSA Wait Times at Atlanta Hartsfield Jackson Airport

Time to read min

    Quick insights

    • TSA wait times at Atlanta Hartsfield Jackson Airport (ATL) can vary throughout the day and time of year.
    • Peak travel times include 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. daily and days before or after long weekends or holidays.
    • There are five security checkpoints at ATL serving passengers on domestic and international flights.

    Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is a significant airport hub, not only in the United States, but globally. It is known, in part, for its status as one of the busiest airports in the world with thousands of flights departing and arriving daily.

    This high volume can impact security checkpoint wait times, especially during peak travel periods. In this article, learn about the factors that can affect security screening wait times as well as some ways you may be able to expedite the process.

    TSA wait times at ATL Airport

    The airport has five security checkpoints spread across in its two terminals. Checkpoints are open at different times and provide different levels of security screening:

    • Domestic Terminal Main: Open 24 hours for standard screening.
    • Domestic Terminal North: Open 3:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. for standard and priority screening.
    • Domestic Terminal Lower North: Open 3:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. for standard and CLEAR standard screening.
    • Domestic Terminal South: Open 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. for TSA PreCheck® and CLEAR with PreCheck screening.
    • International Terminal Departures: Open 4:30 a.m. to 12 a.m. for standard screening and 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. for TSA PreCheck.

    Security checkpoint hours are subject to change.

    TSA wait times at ATL can vary throughout the day. Peak travel times are from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. as well as days before and after holidays and long weekends. Wait times can increase during these periods. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) staffing levels can also affect how quickly passengers are able to get through security checkpoints.

    How early to arrive at ATL

    The airport’s website recommends following arrival guidelines provided by the TSA. It recommends passengers arrive at the airport at least 2 hours prior to their departure time for domestic flights. The recommended arrive time is 3 hours prior to departure for international flights.

    Checking wait times at ATL airport

    You can check wait times at ATL a few different ways, including:

    • ATL website: The airport’s website provides real-time updates on security wait times for each security checkpoint.
    • MyTSA app: The TSA has a mobile app, called MyTSA, which provides estimated wait times at security checkpoints at airports across the U.S.
    • Social media: The airport's official social media accounts may provide updates on wait times, especially during peak travel periods.
    • Third-party sites: Some third-party websites use historical data and real time traveler updates to provide information about wait times at various airports.   

    You may be able to get an idea of security wait times at ATL, but they may not always be accurate. Consider check multiple sources, if possible, especially during peak travel times or major holidays, when wait times can fluctuate significantly. Arriving at the airport well in advance of your flight can help you avoid potential issues that can arise from fluctuating security wait times.

    Ways to expedite wait times at ATL

    The airport participates in a few programs that can help to expedite security and screening processes at the airport. They include:

    TSA PreCheck

    TSA PreCheck is a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) run by the TSA. TSA PreCheck status can help streamline your airport experience by allowing you to access designated security screening lanes. You must enroll in the program, pay a fee and be approved before you can use designated TSA PreCheck lanes at the airport.

    CLEAR Plus

    CLEAR is a private security company that offers a membership called CLEAR Plus. CLEAR Plus uses biometric data to help expedite the identity verification part of the security screening process. Once verified, travelers can proceed to luggage screening lanes.

    CLEAR Plus can be used in conjunction with TSA PreCheck, but they are separate programs.

    What to do at ATL

    The airport offers a variety of dining, shopping and entertainment options for travelers, including:

    • Dining: ATL boasts more than 150 dining choices spanning fast food to fine dining.
    • Shopping: The airport features a wide range of shops, from high-end boutiques to popular retail stores where you can shop for last-minute travel essentials or treat yourself to luxury goods.
    • Lounges: Relax in one of the several airline lounges at ATL, which offer a quiet place to sit, eat or catch up on work. Access might require a membership, premium class ticket or a day pass.
    • Relax: If you’re looking to unwind before your flight, there are many places to enjoy a variety of spa services including massages, manicures, pedicures and facials. You can also find shoeshine services and chiropractors at ATL.

    In summary

    Passengers arriving at ATL during peak travel times may experience longer than average wait times when getting though TSA security screening. Peak travel times include 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. and days before or after holidays and long weekends.

    You can check the ATL website for real time security wait times or use the MyTSA to get an idea of historical average wait times at the airport. Having CLEAR Plus and/or TSA PreCheck may help provide expedited security screening experience.  

    Find a credit card

    Topics:

    What to read next