Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) TSA Security Wait Times
Philadelphia International Airport offers a relatively efficient security screening process, with average wait times around 17 minutes. For TSA PreCheck holders, this waiting time typically reduces to about 5 minutes.
COVID-19 Updates
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, TSA protocols have been adjusted at major US airports, including Philadelphia Airport. These changes may result in longer wait times, so travelers are advised to allow extra time to reach their flights.
Flight Delays
Stay informed about any potential delays at PHL by checking flight status using iFly's Flight Tracker.
Security Checkpoint Information
PHL offers six security checkpoints located at terminal entrances. Once screened, passengers can access all terminals without needing to exit and re-enter security. This airport has TSA PreCheck lanes, see hours of operation below.
Terminal A-West Checkpoint
This checkpoint serves all passengers, excluding those with TSA PreCheck access.
Terminal A-East Checkpoint
This checkpoint serves all passengers, including those with TSA PreCheck access.
Terminal B Checkpoint
This checkpoint serves all passengers, excluding those with TSA PreCheck access and operates 24 hours daily.
Terminal C Checkpoint
This checkpoint is dedicated to passengers with TSA PreCheck access.
Terminal D/E Checkpoint
This checkpoint serves all passengers, including those with TSA PreCheck access.
Terminal F Checkpoint
This checkpoint serves all passengers, excluding those with TSA PreCheck access.
TSA PreCheck at PHL
TSA PreCheck lanes are available at Terminal A-East, Terminal C, and Terminal D/E. TSA PreCheck passengers can enjoy expedited screening, typically reducing wait times considerably.
TSA PreCheck Operating Hours:
- East Checkpoint: Daily: 4:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- West 7 Checkpoint: Monday and Thursday: 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Tuesday, Friday and Sunday: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Wednesday: 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Saturday: 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Terminal C Checkpoint: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday: 4:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Tuesday: 4:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Terminal D/E Checkpoint: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday: 3:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Wednesday: 4:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Terminal F Checkpoint: Monday, Friday, and Sunday: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday: 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Saturday: 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM
The Transportation Security Agency (TSA) advises that the hours for TSA PreCheck may vary depending on operational requirements. Furthermore, TSA emphasizes the integration of variable security protocols across the airport, ensuring that expedited screening is not assured for any traveler.
About PHL Security Wait Times
Security wait times at PHL are estimates and can vary based on several factors. Travelers are advised to arrive at the airport well ahead of their flights to accommodate security screening and airline check-in procedures, adhering to the recommended arrival times set by each airline.
Last updated:
TSA Pre Check at PHL
Terminal A
East Checkpoint
Terminal BC
Terminal C Checkpoint
Terminal DE
Terminal D/E Checkpoint
Tips, Help & Resources
iFly.com can help you get to, through, and between airports around the world. Here are some things you may need to know that can assist you during your journey specific to PHL:
- Once you get through security, pull up the interactive Philadelphia airport terminals map to navigate to your gate, and see all the PHL restaurant and shopping options along the way.
- Remember that a great low-cost alternative to parking within the PHL airport facility is to use an off-airport parking lot. They offer lower costs, a bit further away from the terminals.
- If you have some time before your flight's departure, be sure to grab a bite, peruse the shops, or jump on the free wifi.
- The next time you need to fly from the Philadelphia area, don't forget to check nearby airports to compare with PHL airports' flight fares.
Philadelphia Airport wait times Q&A
Find more help here for your journey through the airport