Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is not only the busiest airport in the United States but also one of the busiest in the world. With thousands of flights operating daily and millions of passengers moving through its terminals each year, security screening at ATL can feel unpredictable. Some travelers breeze through in minutes, while others face long, crowded lines that test their patience.

Understanding how security wait times fluctuate—and knowing how to plan ahead—can make a significant difference in how smooth your travel day feels. From average wait times to peak hours and fast-track services, here’s everything you need to know about navigating security at Atlanta Airport.

Average Security Wait Times at ATL

On most regular days, travelers passing through ATL’s standard TSA security checkpoints can expect wait times ranging from 15 to 30 minutes. According to current estimates, Security Wait Times at ATL Airport currently average around 15–20 minutes, though this can change quickly depending on the time of day and overall travel demand.

Security lines tend to move faster during late mornings and early afternoons, while early mornings and evenings are often the most congested. ATL handles a high volume of business travelers and connecting flights, which contributes to these daily peaks.

Busiest and Least Busy Times of Day

Security wait times at ATL vary dramatically by hour. Overnight and very early morning hours (between midnight and 5:00 AM) often see the shortest waits, sometimes under 10 minutes. Surprisingly, between 5:00 AM and 6:00 AM, wait times can briefly drop close to zero before sharply increasing as the morning departure rush begins.

The busiest window is typically:

• Early morning: 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM

• Late afternoon and evening: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM

During these periods, wait times can climb past 20 minutes and may exceed an hour on holidays, long weekends, or during major travel seasons like summer and Thanksgiving.

Midday travel, particularly between 9:30 AM and 1:00 PM, often offers the smoothest security experience.

How the Airport’s Size Affects Security Lines

ATL’s massive layout plays a major role in security efficiency. The airport has multiple checkpoints across domestic and international terminals, and not all of them experience the same traffic levels. Choosing the right checkpoint—especially if you’re familiar with the terminal layout—can save valuable time.

Frequent travelers often monitor checkpoint congestion and avoid the main domestic checkpoints during peak hours. Even a short walk to a less crowded screening area can significantly reduce waiting time.

Expedited Screening Options at ATL

One of the easiest ways to avoid long security lines at Atlanta Airport is by enrolling in an expedited screening program.

TSA PreCheck

TSA PreCheck allows approved travelers to use dedicated lanes where shoes, belts, light jackets, laptops, and liquids can remain in bags. Most PreCheck passengers clear security in under 10 minutes, even during busy times. ATL offers TSA PreCheck at all major checkpoints, with operating hours varying by terminal.

CLEAR

CLEAR uses biometric identification—such as fingerprints or facial recognition—to verify travelers, allowing them to skip the ID check line altogether. CLEAR is available at select domestic checkpoints and is especially helpful during peak travel hours.

Many frequent flyers combine CLEAR + TSA PreCheck for the fastest possible experience.

International Arrivals: Customs and Immigration Wait Times

For travelers arriving from international destinations, clearing U.S. Customs and Border Protection at ATL typically takes 30 to 45 minutes, which is an important factor when considering overall ATL security wait times. However, when multiple international flights land simultaneously, wait times can exceed an hour, significantly increasing total processing time for arriving passengers.

To speed up the process, travelers can use:

• Global Entry: Automated kiosks for pre-approved travelers

• Mobile Passport Control (MPC): A free app that allows advance submission of travel details

• Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP): A newer facial recognition system that has reduced wait times by approximately 22%

These options help streamline arrivals and reduce congestion in the international terminal.

Conclusion

Security wait times at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport can range from just a few minutes to well over an hour, depending on when you arrive and how busy the airport is. As one of the world’s busiest travel hubs, ATL requires travelers to be strategic about timing, preparation, and checkpoint selection.

By understanding peak hours, using expedited screening services like TSA PreCheck or CLEAR, and arriving with enough buffer time, you can significantly reduce stress and start your journey on a more relaxed note. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a first-time visitor, being informed is the key to navigating ATL efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does security usually take at ATL?
Most passengers spend 15 to 30 minutes going through security on normal days.

When are security lines the longest at Atlanta Airport?
Lines are busiest between 5:00 AM–9:00 AM and 4:00 PM–8:00 PM.

Does ATL have TSA PreCheck at all checkpoints?
Yes, TSA PreCheck lanes are available at all major ATL security checkpoints.

Where is CLEAR located at ATL?
CLEAR is available in the domestic terminal at both North and South checkpoints.

How long does customs take at ATL for international arrivals?
Customs usually takes 30–45 minutes, but it can be longer during peak arrival times.

What time should I arrive for my flight?
Arrive 2 hours early for domestic flights and 3 hours early for international flights.

Are food items allowed through security?
Solid foods are allowed, but liquids must follow the TSA 3-1-1 rule.