Current Average TSA Wait Time at PHL

Current average wait time

The current average PHL TSA wait time is around 14 minutes. Wait times are reported for individual checkpoints and can vary considerably between terminals.

If you plan to use a specific checkpoint, check its current wait time, as delays can change significantly throughout the day. Check the latest PHL security status shortly before leaving for the airport and again when you arrive.

PHL TSA wait times AM

Assuming PHL TSA wait times are lower in the early morning could result in a longer wait. The security wait times at PHL are higher between 4 a.m. and 5 a.m., at around 64 minutes on average. Therefore, travelers with early morning flights should allow extra time and arrive at the airport earlier.

PHL TSA wait times PM

Afternoon and evening passenger volumes can also affect TSA processing times. Flight schedules, holidays, weekends, and unexpected operational issues can cause wait times to increase.

The best approach is to check the live checkpoint status rather than assume that a particular time of day will always be faster.

PHL TSA checkpoints by terminal

Philadelphia International Airport has seven TSA checkpoints across the terminal building. While A-West has two TSA checkpoints, D and E share a single checkpoint.

Checkpoint availability and hours can change, so verify the current status before heading to security.

Checkpoint hours

Similar to PHL TSA wait times, the operational hours also vary across checkpoints.

• A-West 1: 3 p.m.–5:30 p.m. on Sunday, Monday, Thursday, and Friday; closed on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday.
• A-West 2: 5 a.m.–10:15 p.m.
• A-East: 4:15 a.m.–8:15 p.m.; PreCheck until 6:30 p.m.
• B: 3:30 a.m.–9:15 p.m.
• C: 4:15 a.m.–8 p.m.
• D/E: 3 a.m.–10:45 p.m.; PreCheck from 3:45 a.m.–8 p.m.
• F: 4:30 a.m.–9:15 p.m.

The above-mentioned schedules are subject to change based on factors such as staffing, peak hours, holidays, and weather events.

TSA PreCheck

TSA PreCheck is available at A-West 1, A-East, C, and D/E. Terminal C’s TSA checkpoint is designated for TSA PreCheck passengers only.

PHL also introduced TSA PreCheck Touchless ID at A-West 1, A-East, C, and D/E. Eligible travelers enrolled in TSA PreCheck can use dedicated screening lanes and potentially reduce their wait times at PHL.

How much time to budget before your flight

PHL TSA wait times are only one factor of the time required before departure. Travelers need to consider time for parking, arriving at the terminal, airline check-in, checked-bag drop, security screening, and the walk to their gate.

Domestic flights

For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before departure to allow time for check-in, security, and boarding.

If you are flying during peak travel times, consider allowing additional time so that you do not risk missing your flight.

International flights

Travelers departing on international flights are advised to arrive three hours before their scheduled departure time. International trips might have additional documentation or baggage requirements. Therefore, arriving at the terminal only a few minutes before the scheduled flight time can create unnecessary risk, especially when PHL TSA wait times are longer.

There is no separate international TSA checkpoint at PHL. Departing international passengers can choose to go through any of the seven TSA security checkpoints across the terminals. Travelers departing on international flights should allow additional time to reach Terminal A, as they need time to complete CBP processing as applicable.

Tips to get through PHL TSA faster

If you think PHL TSA wait times are a hurdle, follow these simple steps to make your airport visit easier.

• Check the live TSA wait time before leaving.
• Have your boarding pass and acceptable ID ready.
• Know TSA’s baggage rules before you arrive.
• Consider TSA PreCheck if you are eligible. Dedicated PreCheck lanes can help expedite the TSA screening process.
• Check whether Touchless ID is available for your trip.
• Consider another checkpoint when appropriate. Since all terminals are connected after security, travelers can walk to the other terminals without exiting the security area.
• Do not cut your arrival time close. A short wait shown online can increase before you reach the airport.
• Allow enough time to reach your gate after clearing TSA security.

If you arrive early, you can use the time to get food, shop, visit a lounge if eligible, or explore the airport. PHL has restaurants, shops, and services throughout its terminals.

Arriving by car? Plan your parking

Travelers arriving at the airport in their own vehicle should plan parking in advance to avoid circling the parking lots at the last minute. Finding a spot by driving up to the lots directly can be difficult. PHL offers onsite parking options near the terminals that can be reserved in advance. But onsite lots fill up quickly and are expensive, especially for long-term parking.

If you are looking for an affordable parking option near the airport, you can opt for offsite lots. Find several parking lots within 1-3 miles of PHL Airport and choose the most convenient one through Way. Browse the available offsite Philadelphia Airport Parking and book the one that fits your preference in advance.

These reservations can help reduce parking-related delays. With a booking confirmation in hand, you can complete the check-in at the lot in no time, park the car, and start your trip to the airport with little or no waiting. Travelers looking for easy travel from the lot to the airport can find lots like Park & Jet Parking - Philadelphia (PHL) Airport Parking that offer affordable parking along with 24/7 free shuttle service.