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Tips for TSA wait times at Nashville International Airport

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    Quick insights

    • The time of day and year can affect how long passengers wait in security screening lanes at Nashville International Airport (BNA).
    • Local events like the CMA Music Festival bring an influx of travelers and cause longer wait times at the airport.
    • BNA has one main security checkpoint but occasionally opens additional security during peak travel times.

    BNA is a significant transportation hub, serving as a gateway not only to the city of Nashville but also to a broader region known for its music and culture. The airport has consistently experienced passenger traffic growth over the past few years and is considered one of the fastest growing airports in the U.S.

    For the millions of passengers passing through BNA each year, wait times may be top of mind when arriving the airport. In this article, we discuss the factors that can cause longer wait times at security screening checkpoints as well as ways you may be able to speed up your time going through security.

    TSA wait times at BNA

    BNA has one terminal with five concourses. Once through the central security checkpoint in BNA’s grand lobby, passengers can head to any concourse.

    Most passengers will pass through BNA’s central checkpoint for security screening, which opens daily at 3:30 a.m. BNA also has extra security lanes that can open during peak travel times to help reduce wait times.

    Typically, early morning and late afternoon are peak travel times at BNA, as well as holidays and spring break. Travelers can expect longer wait times during these periods.

    In addition, local events like the CMA Music Festival can bring an influx of travelers to Nashville which may affect wait times at the airport. Nashville is also a popular bachelorette party destination, so it’s common to see these groups in and around the city especially in the spring and summer months.

    As part of an ongoing construction plan, the airport has been undergoing significant expansion and renovation projects. These developments aim to address the airport’s increasing passenger demand but may also temporarily affect the flow and organization of security checkpoints.

    How early to arrive at BNA

    BNA offers domestic and international flights. For passengers traveling domestically, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recommends passengers arrive at the airport at least 2 hours prior to their departure time. For international flights, the recommended arrival time is 3 hours prior to departure.

    Checking wait times at BNA

    There are a few ways to check TSA wait times at BNA, including:

    • BNA website: The airport website provides real-time updates on TSA wait times. These times are approximate.
    • MyTSA app: The MyTSA app provides general wait time estimates for U.S. airports, including BNA.
    • 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 may use historical data and real time traveler updates to provide information about wait times at various airports.  

    Keep in mind, these tools provide estimates and actual wait times can change while you’re at the airport. 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 BNA

    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 BNA airport

    Nashville is a city known for its live music scene, and that spirit carries over to its airport. BNA features live music performances on stages located throughout the terminals. In addition to live music, at BNA travelers can experience a variety of shopping and dining options, including some local favorites.

    For those looking for relaxation, there are massage and spa services available as well as a meditation rooms where travelers can stretch and sit in a quiet space. There are also a few airport lounges, but travelers may need a membership or pay a fee to enter.

    In summary

    Passengers arriving at BNA during peak travel times may experience longer than average TSA security screening wait times. To address increasing passenger demand, BNA has been undergoing significant expansion and renovation projects.

    If you want to check wait times prior to your arrival at the airport, you can download the MyTSA app to review general wait time estimates based on historical data or check the airport’s website for real-time information.

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