A guide to TSA wait times at Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)
Quick insights
- PIT has one terminal with one security checkpoint serving all four concourses.
- Estimated security wait times for each terminal are listed on the airport’s website for standard screening as well as travelers with priority, CLEAR and TSA PreCheck® status.
- PIT offers TSA PreCheck and CLEAR services, which can reduce wait times for enrolled travelers.
In November 2025, PIT officials welcomed travelers to a brand new $1.7 billion terminal. It was the culmination of years of work to modernize the airport, including streamlining its security experience.
If you’re passing through PIT, 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 PIT, what might cause longer lines and how you may be able to help speed up the security process.
TSA wait times at PIT
PIT has one terminal and four concourses (A, B, C and D). The airport’s one security checkpoint is on level three of the terminal, just beyond the ticketing counters. It is closed from 10:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. daily (hours subject to change).
Peak travel times at PIT are typically in the early morning between 5 a.m. to 8 a.m., as well as during holiday travel periods. Travelers can expect longer wait times for security screening during these periods.
How early to arrive at PIT
For passengers traveling domestically, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) generally 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.
How can I check PIT TSA wait times?
Here are some ways you can check TSA wait times at PIT:
- PIT website: The airport websiteOpens overlay provides real-time updates on TSA wait times for standard screening, priority screening and members with CLEAR and TSA Precheck status. Note that these times are approximate.
- MyTSA app: The MyTSA appOpens overlay provides general wait time estimates for U.S. airports, including PIT.
- 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 might 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 PIT
PIT offers TSA PreCheck and CLEAR services, which may help reduce wait times for enrolled travelers. These services allow for a more streamlined security process, bypassing the longer lines associated with standard security checks.
TSA PreCheck
TSA PreCheck can potentially streamline your airport experience by allowing you to access expedited security screening lanes.
You must enroll in the program, pay a fee and receive approval 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.
There is a TSA PreCheck enrollment office at PIT on the arrivals level of the terminal.
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 PIT
PIT has several services and amenities spread throughout the airport and its four concourses. See the airport website for a complete list of the shopsOpens overlay, dining optionsOpens overlay and amenitiesOpens overlay at PIT.
Passengers traveling through PIT may find comfort and entertainment while waiting to board their flight, including:
- Animal relief stations
- Nursing rooms
- Kidsport play area in Concourse C
- Presley's Place Sensory Sensitivities Room in Concourse A
- An interfaith reflection room on the mezzanine floor of the main terminal
- USO Center in Concourse C
- Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the airport
Additionally, PIT is home to permanent and rotating art installations throughout the airport. There is also a performance art program that brings in acts featuring music, dance and spoken word. The PIT stage is located in the center of the post security terminal (performance schedules can usually be found on the PIT website).
In summary
PIT has one terminal and four courses. There is one security checkpoint in the terminal that leads to all concourses and gates. It is open daily from 2:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. (hours subject to change). Travelers can check estimated wait times on the PIT website.
Peak travel times at PIT are typically in the early morning from 5 a.m. to 8 a.m., as well as during holiday travel periods. Travelers can generally expect longer wait times for security screening during these periods. TSA PreCheck and CLEAR services may reduce wait times at PIT for enrolled travelers.
