A guide to TSA wait times at LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
Quick insights
- LGA has three terminals, each with their own security checkpoint.
- Estimated security wait times for each terminal are listed on the airport’s website.
- LGA offers TSA PreCheck® and CLEAR services, which can help reduce wait times for enrolled travelers.
LGA airport is one of the three major airports in the New York City metropolitan area. Located in the Queens neighborhood of New York City, LGA is named for the former Mayor Fiorello La Guardia. The airport offers some international flights, but mainly offers flights to destinations across the U.S.
In this article, we discuss how to determine wait times at LGA, what might cause longer wait times and how you may be able to speed up getting through security.
TSA wait times at LGA
LGA has three terminals, each with its own security checkpoint. Security checkpoints are located in the following terminals just beyond the ticketing counters:
- Terminal A, Level 1
- Terminal B, Level 3
- Terminal C, Level 3
Typically, peak travel times at LGA are from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. during the week. The airport also tends to see an influx of passengers around holidays and long weekends. Travelers can expect longer wait times for security screening during these periods.
How early to arrive at LGA
For passengers traveling within the U.S., the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recommends arriving 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.
How can I check LGA TSA wait times?
Here are some ways you can check TSA wait times at LGA:
- LGA website: The airport websiteOpens overlay provides real-time updates on TSA wait times at each terminal’s security checkpoint (note that these times are approximate). The site also includes estimated travel times from security checkpoints to the gates in each terminal.
- MyTSA app: The MyTSA appOpens overlay provides general wait time estimates for U.S. airports, including LGA.
- 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. Arriving at the airport early can help you avoid potential issues that may arise from fluctuating security wait times.
Ways to expedite wait times at LGA
LGA offers TSA PreCheck and CLEAR services, which may help reduce security wait times. These services allow for a more streamlined security process by enabling enrolled 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.
What to do at LGA
The airport has several services and amenities spread throughout the airport and its three terminals. See the airport website for a complete listOpens overlay of the shops, dining options and amenities throughout LGA.
Some amenities include:
- Animal relief stations
- Nursing suites
- Worship spaces
- Lounges
There also is complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the airport.
In summary
LGA has three terminals, each with its own security checkpoint. The airport’s website provides estimated wait times for security screening in each terminal; wait times are listed for both standard security and TSA PreCheck lanes.
Typically, peak travel times at LGA are from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Travelers can expect longer wait times for security screening during these periods. Those who have a TSA PreCheck or CLEAR membership may experience reduced wait times.
