Atlanta Airport Security Wait Times (ATL)

Planning a trip through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)? As someone who flies through ATL regularly, I know how unpredictable security lines can be — especially during peak hours. Here’s a traveler’s guide to help you plan ahead and breeze through security at both the Domestic Terminal and the International Terminal.

Whether you're flying Delta, Southwest, or an international airline, this page gives you real-world tips and wait time estimates based on time of day, terminal, and whether you have TSA PreCheck or CLEAR.

ATL Security Wait Times by Terminal

Click below to jump to the terminal you're departing from:

Domestic Terminal Security Info

International Terminal Security Info

Domestic Terminal Security – North & South Checkpoints

Heading out on a domestic flight from ATL? You’ll be using the Domestic Terminal North or South checkpoint, depending on your airline. Here’s what to expect:

  • Peak hours (6–9am & 4–7pm): Wait times can reach 45–60 minutes
  • Off-peak hours: Typically around 20–30 minutes
  • TSA PreCheck: Often under 10 minutes, even during busy times

Tip: If you're flying Delta, both checkpoints work, but the South is often a little faster!

ATL Domestic Terminal Security
ATL International Terminal Security

International Terminal (Concourse F) Security Info

Flying internationally out of ATL? You’ll go through security at the Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal (Concourse F). I always give myself extra time here because international screening includes passport checks.

  • Standard security: 20–45 minutes typical wait
  • CLEAR lane: Usually under 5 minutes
  • Peak international hours: Up to 60 minutes during evening waves

Remember: Passport control and customs take additional time when you're flying into ATL from abroad.

Live Atlanta Airport Security Wait Times

Real-Time Update: Current security wait times as of

Current Security Wait Times

Domestic Terminal

  • North Checkpoint 25-40 mins
  • South Checkpoint 15-30 mins
  • TSA PreCheck 5-10 mins

International Terminal

  • Main Checkpoint 20-35 mins
  • CLEAR Lane 2-5 mins

How Busy Is ATL Today?

Moderate Crowding
Based on current passenger volume and historical data
  • Peak Hours Today: 6:00-9:00 AM | 4:00-7:00 PM
  • Special Notes: Regular weekday operations
  • Delta Operations: Normal schedule - expect busier gates in Concourses B and C

Terminal-Specific Wait Time Details

Domestic Terminal Security

The Domestic Terminal features two security checkpoints:

  • North Checkpoint: Services Concourses T, A, and B
  • South Checkpoint: Services Concourses C and D

Current South Terminal (Domestic) Wait: 15-30 minutes

Delta Passenger Tip: Use South checkpoint for quicker access to Delta's main concourses (B, C, D)

International Terminal Security

The Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal handles:

  • All international arrivals
  • Most international departures (Concourses E and F)

Current TSA Wait Times: 20-35 minutes for standard screening

Pro Tip: Even if flying internationally with Delta, check your gate as some flights depart from domestic concourses

ATL Security Checkpoint Summary Table

Terminal Checkpoint Standard Wait TSA PreCheck CLEAR Best Time to Travel
Domestic North 30–60 mins (peak) < 10 mins Yes Midday (10am–2pm)
Domestic South 20–45 mins < 10 mins Yes Late evening
International Main Hall (F) 20–45 mins Some flights Yes Early afternoon

How to Avoid Long Security Lines at ATL Airport

As someone who's missed a flight once at ATL (never again!), here are my top tips for avoiding long lines and stress:

1. Enroll in Expedited Security Programs

  • TSA PreCheck: Available at all checkpoints
  • CLEAR: Available at North, South, and International checkpoints
  • Airline priority lanes: Some premium and elite flyers get faster access

2. Know the Peak Times to Avoid

  • Monday mornings: 5am–8am
  • Friday afternoons: 3pm–6pm
  • Holiday weekends

3. Arrive Early — Don’t Risk It!

  • Domestic flights: Arrive 2 hours early
  • International flights: Arrive 3 hours early

4. Check Real-Time Wait Times

Check live updates on the official ATL Airport website or via the ATL app.

Final Tips for ATL Security

  • Download the MyTSA App for general U.S. airport wait times
  • Use the Plane Train to move between concourses quickly
  • Keep ID and boarding pass handy for fast processing
  • Review TSA rules on carry-ons before packing

Security lines at ATL can get long — but with a bit of planning, you’ll be through in no time. Safe travels!

Frequently Asked Questions – ATL Security Wait Times