Traveling through Atlanta-Hartsfield Jackson International Airport means you’ve got to deal with ATL security wait times. Unfortunately, the airport is known for notoriously long wait times due to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints being backed up with travelers.
Why Are TSA Wait Lines So Long Right Now?
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), the world’s busiest airport by passenger volume, is currently facing extended TSA security wait times primarily due to ongoing staffing shortages among TSA officers.
These shortages have been exacerbated by a partial federal government shutdown that began Feb. 14, causing TSA employees to miss two full paychecks — although they have gotten paid now.
As a result, average wait times at main checkpoints have climbed to 20–30 minutes during peak hours, with some lines exceeding 40 minutes as early as 6 a.m.
How Long Does It Take To Get Through TSA At Atlanta’s Airport?
Here are the average wait times at Atlanta’s airport:
| AM Times | Time Taken | PM Times |
|---|---|---|
| 8 am – 9 am | 16 Minutes | 8 pm- – 9 pm |
| 9 am – 10 am | 16 Minutes | 9 pm – 10 pm |
| 10 am – 11 am | 5 Minutes | 10 pm – 11 pm |
| 11 am – 12 pm | 23 Minutes | 11 pm – 12 am |
Annual Passenger Traffic:
- Pre-COVID-19: In 2019, over 110 million passengers passed through Atlanta’s airport, making it the busiest airport globally in terms of both passenger numbers and total flights.
- Pandemic Impact: During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, passenger traffic dropped significantly, with around 42 million passengers.
- Recovery: In 2021, passenger numbers began to recover, with approximately 75 million passengers.
- Recent Years: By 2022, ATL handled around 93.7 million passengers, continuing its recovery from the pandemic and retaining its status as one of the world’s busiest airports.
- In 2023, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport recorded approximately 104.7 million passengers, maintaining its position as the world’s busiest airport by passenger traffic.
Best Tools to Check TSA Wait Times at Atlanta Airport (ATL)
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the world’s busiest, so knowing current TSA security wait times can save you stress and help you arrive at the right moment. Here are the most reliable tools available right now:
1. Official ATL TSA Wait Times Tracker (Best Real-Time Option)
- Link: atl.com/times/
This is the airport’s own real-time dashboard. It provides minute-by-minute updates on wait times at different checkpoints (Domestic North, South, International, etc.). It’s the most authoritative source when it’s actively updated — but it goes down a lot.
2. MyTSA App (Official TSA Tool)
- Download: Available on iOS and Android
- Website: tsa.gov/mobile
The MyTSA app shows current and historical wait times, crowd levels, and lets users submit their own reports (GPS-verified at the airport). It also includes security tips and what you can bring through screening.
3. AJC Atlanta Wait Times Tool (Crowd-Sourced Reports)
- Link: atlwait.ajc.com/
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution built this user-reported tool. Travelers at the airport can submit their wait times via GPS, helping create a live picture of conditions. Great supplement when official displays are delayed or paused.
4. Airline Apps & Websites (Delta & Others)
Delta frequently shows estimated wait times for ATL on its app and airport wait times page. Other airlines may also pull similar data. Check your airline app before heading out.
5. Additional Helpful Resources
- OnAirParking TSA Wait Times: — Aggregates data for ATL specifically.
- Reddit r/Atlanta Megathreads: Real-time passenger reports during peak periods or disruptions.
Pro Tip: Combine tools — check the official ATL site first, then cross-reference with MyTSA and AJC for the most accurate picture. Peak times are usually 5–9 a.m. and 4–7 p.m. Arrive 2–3 hours early for domestic flights and earlier for international.
How To Speed Through TSA Checkpoints at the Airport
Getting through TSA quickly at the airport can save time and reduce stress. Here are some strategies to help you expedite the security screening process:
Read our guide on whether TSA PreCheck is worth it.
1. Enroll in TSA PreCheck or Global Entry
- TSA PreCheck: This program allows you to use dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes, which often have shorter lines and require less hassle (you don’t need to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, or light jackets). The enrollment process includes a background check and in-person interview. Once approved, it’s valid for five years.
- Cost: $78 for a 5-year membership.
- Global Entry: If you travel internationally often, consider Global Entry, which includes TSA PreCheck benefits as well as expedited customs processing when entering the U.S.
- Cost: $120 for a 5-year membership.
2. Use CLEAR
- CLEAR: CLEAR is a private service that allows you to bypass the ID check lines by verifying your identity using biometric data (fingerprints and eye scans). You’ll still need to go through physical screening, but it can dramatically shorten your wait time before the screening process.
- Cost: $189 annually (discounts may be available for certain credit cards or frequent flyer programs).
- Tip: CLEAR + TSA PreCheck is one of the fastest combinations to get through security.
3. Travel During Off-Peak Times
- Early Mornings or Late Nights: Airports are generally less crowded early in the morning or late at night, making security lines shorter.
- Avoid Peak Days: Busy travel days, such as Fridays, Sundays, and holiday travel, tend to have longer wait times. Traveling on midweek days (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) can be less hectic.
4. Check Wait Times in Advance
- Use the MyTSA app or websites like FlightAware to check real-time security wait times at your airport. Some airports, including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, have their own apps that provide wait times for TSA security checkpoints.
5. Be Prepared for Screening
- Pack Smart: Place your liquids, electronics, and other items that need to be screened separately in easily accessible parts of your carry-on to avoid digging through your bag in line.
- Liquids: Follow the 3-1-1 rule (3.4-ounce containers in a 1-quart bag per person).
- Electronics: Remove larger electronics like laptops from your bag unless you’re in TSA PreCheck.
- Dress for Efficiency: Wear slip-on shoes and avoid metal objects like large belt buckles or jewelry. Place these items in your carry-on until after you pass through screening.
- ID and Boarding Pass: Have your ID and boarding pass (or mobile boarding pass) ready before reaching the checkpoint to keep things moving smoothly. Going abroad? Have your passport.
Final Word
Travel wait times in Atlanta will likely continue to trend upwards as global travel demand increases. Hartsfield-Jackson remains a crucial hub for domestic and international flights, especially given its role as a major connecting point for Delta Air Lines.