10 Tips to Save You Time in the TSA Line

Pittsburgh International Airport is undergoing its busiest time in almost a decade.

Naturally, more flights and busier travel periods mean longer TSA lines.

More than 970,000 passengers traveled through PIT in June – the highest passenger total in a single month since July 2005. Next year, PIT will have a brand-new terminal with a more efficient security experience.

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Since these numbers started climbing earlier this year, TSA has encouraged passengers to arrive even earlier than the typical two hours before flights, at least for morning flights. But that’s not the only way to ensure you speed through security lanes and make it to your gate with plenty of time to spare before takeoff.

Until then, use these tips to make your next journey through the airport a lot quicker.

No. 1. Sign up for TSA PreCheck.

Travelers with PreCheck do not have to remove their shoes, belts and electronic equipment from bags – saving time in the security line. With this option, passengers typically move more quickly than standard security lines. With multiple options, signing up is easier than ever.

No. 2. Reserve your parking online in advance.

PIT allows all passengers to reserve parking spots online, guaranteeing a spot in a preferred lot. By reserving your parking in advance, you can spend less time worrying if your preferred lot is full, giving you a stress-free, convenient start to your airport experience.

No. 3. Check in online with your airline before you arrive at PIT.

Most airlines allow you to check in for your flight at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure time. This helps you avoid the lines on the ticketing level. Your airline’s app or website is also a helpful resource for getting updates on any potential changes to your departure time.

No. 4. Check with your airline to learn when its ticketing counter opens.

For early morning flights, reach out to your airline to find information on what time ticket counters open so you can plan your airport arrival time accordingly.

No. 5. Sign up for CLEAR.

CLEAR allows passengers to move up to the TSA security checkpoint in a priority lane, and travelers using CLEAR do not have to produce an ID at the checkpoint. CLEAR now provides the opportunity for passengers to sign up for TSA PreCheck at the checkpoint. With both CLEAR and TSA PreCheck, passengers have the quickest route through the security checkpoint.

No. 6. Leave extra time if you need to check a bag.

If you know you need to check a bag when you travel, give yourself additional time to do so at the ticketing level. Or if you are able, consider a carry-on to save time.

No. 7. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

PIT’s Information Desk is staffed with customer care agents who are available to answer all your questions. Also be sure to look out for the friendly ambassadors in the blue vests roaming the terminals or at the Ambassador Desk on the Baggage Claim level. Like PIT’s customer care agents, their roles are to ensure all passengers have a safe experience from start to finish.

No. 8. Review the TSA rules before you arrive at PIT.

Make sure you know what items are prohibited at the TSA security checkpoint. By planning ahead and packing accordingly, the security screening process moves faster for you and everyone in line behind you.

No. 9. Book a mid-day flight if your schedule allows.

Early morning travel, especially from 4 – 7 a.m., is historically the busiest time to travel at PIT. If your schedule allows, consider booking a mid-day flight to avoid the early morning crowds.

No. 10. Familiarize yourself with airport signage.

To help you avoid any confusion in the security lines, look around for any signage directing the lines or ask an airport team member or volunteer to help you understand each sign. For example, signs direct TSA PreCheck travelers to PIT’s alternate checkpoint between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m. Monday through Friday.