A guide to TSA wait times at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)
Quick insights
- Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) has two terminals with a total of three security checkpoints.
- Estimated security wait times for both security checkpoints are listed on the airport’s website.
- AUS offers TSA PreCheck® and CLEAR services, which can reduce wait times for enrolled travelers.
Austin, TX is known for its live music, barbeque and artsy culture. Whether you're heading out on a trip or passing through AUS, you may be curious about how long you need to get through security screening.
In this article, we discuss how to determine TSA wait times at AUS, what can cause longer wait times and how you may be able to speed up getting through security.
Security checkpoints at AUS
AUS has two terminals—the main terminal, called the Barbara Jordan terminal, and the smaller South Terminal. The main terminal has three security screening checkpoints: Checkpoint 1, Checkpoint 2 West and Checkpoint 2 East. There is one security checkpoint in the South Terminal.
The checkpoints typically open daily at 3 a.m., and passengers can reach all gates once going through any security checkpoint in the main terminal (hours are subject to change).
In the main terminal:
- Passengers with a CLEAR Plus membership should use Checkpoint 1
- Travelers with TSA PreCheck status should use Checkpoint 2 West
- Travelers who need to use general security screening can use Checkpoint 1 or 2 East
Checkpoint 2 West generally remains open until the last flight at AUS and accommodates all passengers after all other checkpoints close.
TSA wait times at AUS
AUS has seen a steady increase in air travel over the past few years, which has partially coincided with Austin’s population and economic growth.
As a result, the airport typically sees high passenger volumes regularly throughout the week, with Thursday, Friday, Sunday and Monday being the busiest travel days. Mornings tend to be the busiest time of the day. Austin gets many visitors in the summer and fall, so this may cause longer wait times during these periods.
How early to arrive at AUS
AUS recommendsOpens overlay that passengers traveling domestically arrive at least 2.5 hours prior to their departure time, and 3 hours prior for international flights. Those who are checking luggage, traveling with small children or traveling in a large group are advised to add extra time.
How can I check AUS TSA wait times?
The AUS website does not display estimated security screening wait times, but there are still some third-party options you may choose to consult:
- MyTSA app: The MyTSA appOpens overlay provides general wait time estimates for U.S. airports, including AUS.
- Third-party sites: Some third-party websites may use historical data and real-time traveler updates to provide up-to-date 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 early may help you avoid potential issues that can arise from fluctuating security wait times.
Ways to expedite wait times at AUS
AUS offers TSA PreCheck and CLEAR services, which may reduce wait times for enrolled travelers. These services can offer a more streamlined security process by allowing travelers to bypass the longer lines associated with standard security checks.
TSA PreCheck
TSA PreCheck can help streamline your airport experience by allowing you to access expedited 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. Approved travelers should have a TSA PreCheck logo displayed on their boarding pass. TSA PreCheck must be renewed every 5 years.
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.
There are CLEAR enrollment ambassadors at AUS, so travelers can apply for membership at the airport if they’d like. No appointment is necessary, but travelers will need to bring a photo ID and proof of citizenship or lawful permanent resident when applying.
What to do at AUS
AUS has a variety of dining and shopping options and amenities that provide a hat tip to Austin’s food, music and art scene. Passengers can experience food options ranging from barbecue, pizza, and sushi to Tex-Mex, all within easy reach. In addition, there are also several locally owned stores offering unique souvenirs.
Austin is known as “The Live Music Capital of the World,” and that carries over to AUS as well. Travelers can catch local musicians at one of the airport’s seven live music stages Monday through Friday. You can also find large-scale, permanent art installations and rotating galleries inside the terminal that house short-term exhibitions featuring local artists and organizations.
In summary
AUS has two terminals: The Barbara Jordan Terminal and the South Terminal. The Barbara Jordan Terminal is the main terminal and has three security checkpoints. The smaller South Terminal is not connected to the main terminal and has one security checkpoint.
AUS recommends passengers arrive at least 2.5 hours ahead of their flight’s departure time. For international flights, passengers should arrive 3 hours ahead of time.
The airport is bustling with travelers most days, but typically experiences the highest passenger volumes on Thursday, Friday, Sunday and Monday. Mornings are the busiest time of the day. Travelers can expect longer wait times for security screening during these periods. TSA PreCheck and CLEAR services may reduce wait times for enrolled travelers.
