Vegas Bound? A Traveler’s Handbook to Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) – Terminals, Transport & Tips

Harry Reid International Airport (IATA: LAS), formerly known as McCarran International Airport, is the primary commercial airport serving Las Vegas and Clark County, Nevada, USA. As a major gateway to this world-renowned entertainment destination, LAS handles a significant volume of domestic and international passengers and cargo. Its official website for the most current information is harryreidairport.com.

Airport Layout: Terminals & Getting Around

LAS features two main passenger terminals:

  • Terminal 1 (T1): Primarily serves domestic airlines. It houses the A, B, C, and some D Gates.
  • Terminal 3 (T3): Handles all international flights and a number of domestic carriers. It uses the remaining D Gates and the E Gates.

Key Points on Terminals:

  • Shared D Gates: The D Gates concourse is accessible from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 post-security.
  • Inter-Terminal Shuttle: A free courtesy shuttle runs between Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 approximately every 20-30 minutes for passengers needing to connect between terminals (pre-security).
  • Airport Tram System: An automated tram system connects the main terminal areas with satellite gate concourses (e.g., C and D gates from Terminal 1; D gates from Terminal 3). All gates are accessible post-security without needing to exit and re-clear security if you are on a connecting flight within the same secure area.

Airlines by Terminal (General Guide – Always Confirm with Your Airline):

It’s crucial to verify your airline’s operating terminal and gate prior to arrival at LAS, as assignments can change.

  • Terminal 1 typically hosts: Advanced Airlines, Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Avelo Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, New Pacific Airways.
  • Terminal 3 typically hosts:
    • International Carriers: AeroMexico, Air Canada, Air France (may have T1 check-in aspects), Air Tahiti Nui (may have T1 check-in aspects), Avianca, British Airways, Condor, Copa Airlines, Edelweiss Air, Eurowings, Fiji Airways (may have T1 check-in aspects), Flair Airlines, Icelandair, Jetlines, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Korean Air, Virgin Atlantic, Viva Aerobus, Volaris, WestJet. (Other international airlines like Cathay Pacific, China Airlines, JAL, Qantas, Qatar Airways have also been listed with potential T1/T3 operations, likely involving the D gates).
    • Domestic Carriers: Alaska Airlines, Breeze Airways, Frontier Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Sun Country Airlines, United Airlines.
  • JSX: Operates from a separate private terminal located at 1516-A Haven St, on the opposite side of the runways from the main terminals.

Ground Transportation: Getting To & From LAS

LAS offers a wide array of transportation options to the Las Vegas Strip, downtown, and surrounding areas:

  • Taxis:
    • Locations: Available at designated taxi ranks.
      • Terminal 1: East side of baggage claim, outside exit doors 1-4.
      • Terminal 3: Level Zero, on the west end of the building for domestic travelers and the east side for international travelers (e.g., near door 52).
    • Regulation: Services are regulated by the Nevada Taxicab Authority. All taxis accept credit cards. Maximum of six passengers per cab.
  • Ride-Sharing (Uber & Lyft):
    • Authorized providers for LAS. Request rides via their respective apps.
    • Pick-up Locations:
      • Terminal 1: Level 2 of the parking garage. From Baggage Claim, take an elevator near Door #2 up to Level 2 and cross the pedestrian bridge to the parking garage.
      • Terminal 3: Valet Level of the parking garage.
    • Drop-off Locations:
      • Terminal 1: Level 2 of the parking garage.
      • Terminal 3: Valet Level of the parking garage.
  • Shuttles:
    • Group shuttles offer an economical way to reach most major hotels and resorts, typically making multiple stops.
    • Locations:
      • Terminal 1: West side of baggage claim, outside door exits 7-13.
      • Terminal 3: Level Zero. West end for domestic travelers, east end for international travelers (outside doors 51-54 and 55-58 respectively).
  • Rental Cars:
    • The consolidated Rent-A-Car Center is located about 3 miles (approx. 5 km) from the airport at 7135 Gilespie Street.
    • Dedicated blue and white Rent-A-Car Center shuttle buses transport passengers between the airport terminals and the facility.
      • Terminal 1: Shuttles are on Level 1, at the center median outside doors 10 and 11.
      • Terminal 3: Shuttles are on Level Zero, outside doors 51-54 (west side) and 55-58 (east side).
  • Public Transportation (RTC – Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada):
    • Scheduled public bus services are available, offering an affordable way to reach various parts of Las Vegas. Routes and pick-up locations are clearly marked at the airport.
  • Limousines & Private Car Services: Numerous companies offer pre-arranged and walk-up limousine and private car services.

Airport Services and Amenities

LAS is known for its unique Vegas flair and comprehensive traveler amenities:

  • Dining & Shopping: A wide variety of restaurants, cafes, fast-food outlets, bars, and retail shops (including duty-free in T3) are available throughout both terminals, both pre- and post-security.
  • Slot Machines: True to its Las Vegas setting, hundreds of slot machines are located throughout the airport’s gate areas, concourses, and even near baggage claim, offering a last chance to try your luck.
  • Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi access is available throughout all public areas of the airport. Connect to the “LAS-WIFI” network.
  • Lounges: “The Club at LAS” offers lounge access for eligible passengers in Terminal 1 (Concourse D, near Gate D33) and Terminal 3 (Concourse E, near Gate E2). Amenities typically include complimentary snacks and beverages, Wi-Fi, showers, and comfortable seating. Other airline-specific lounges may also be available.
  • Kids Play Area: An aviation-themed interactive play area for children is located in the D Gates concourse.
  • Charging Stations: Available throughout the terminals to charge electronic devices.
  • Information Desks: Located in the baggage claim areas of Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, as well as other key points, for assistance.
  • Baggage Services: Baggage claim areas are located on the ground level of both terminals. There are generally no luggage storage facilities (lockers) available at LAS.
  • Mailboxes: U.S. Postal Service drop boxes are located near certain gates.
  • Smoking Areas: Smoking and vaping are prohibited inside airport buildings except in designated, enclosed gaming lounges (e.g., in B, C, and D Gates concourses, and the Bud Track Lounge in the Esplanade). Outdoor smoking areas are available near ticketing and baggage claim.
  • Art Program: The airport features an extensive art program with various exhibits throughout the terminals.
  • Special Assistance: Services are available for passengers with disabilities. It’s recommended to coordinate with your airline in advance.

Parking at LAS

Various parking options are available at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 3:

  • Short-Term Parking: Ideal for picking up or dropping off passengers. Rates are hourly, with a higher daily maximum (e.g., around $36/day).
  • Long-Term Parking: More economical for extended stays (e.g., around $18/day).
  • Economy Parking: Offers the lowest on-airport daily rates (e.g., around $12/day), usually with shuttle service to the terminals.
  • Valet Parking: Available for added convenience (e.g., around $30/day).
  • Off-Airport Parking: Numerous private facilities near the airport offer parking, often at competitive rates, with shuttle services to LAS. Parking rates are subject to change; always check the official airport website for current pricing.

Travel Tips for Harry Reid International Airport

  • Know Your Terminal: Before heading to the airport, confirm which terminal your airline uses.
  • Arrive Early: LAS can be very busy, especially during peak travel seasons and major conventions. Allow ample time for check-in, baggage drop, and security screening (generally 2 hours for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights).
  • Security: Be prepared for TSA security screening. Check TSA guidelines for prohibited items and liquids.
  • Navigate with Ease: Follow airport signage carefully. The airport’s website also offers maps and directories.
  • Stay Hydrated: Las Vegas is in a desert climate; drink plenty of water.
  • Check Flight Status: Monitor your flight status with your airline or via the airport’s website before and during your travel.

For travelers from Canada, Terminal 3 will be your arrival and departure point for most flights. Standard U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) procedures will apply upon arrival. Ensure all your travel documents are in order.

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