Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) TSA Security Wait Times & Checkpoint Info
The security wait times at Philadelphia International Airport keep changing throughout the day, depending on the passenger traffic. The general PHL security wait times range between 3 to 10 minutes. However, during the peak hours, holidays, and special events, the wait times may extend up to 30 to 45 minutes. But enrolling in expedited programs like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry and using Mobile Passport Control (MPC) for arrivals may help to reduce the wait times and security checkpoints.
Expected Wait Times at PHL Security Checkpoints and Their Operating Hours Passengers can expect between 3 to 10 minutes of security queue time at Philadelphia Airport during non-peak hours.
| Security Checkpoints | Operating Hours | Standard Waiting Time |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal A-West | 5:00 am to 10:00 pm | 3 minutes |
| Terminal A-East | 4:15 am to 8:15 pm | 3 minutes |
| Terminal B | 3:30 am to 9:15 pm | 9 minutes |
| Terminal C | 4:15 am to 8:00 pm | 2 minutes |
| Terminal D/E | 3:30 am to 11:30 pm | 7 minutes |
| Terminal F | 4:30 am to 9:15 pm | 3 minutes |
What Are the Average PHL Airport Security Wait Times
On average, the PHL security wait times can be around 10 to 20 minutes. However, during peak hours such as early morning and late afternoon, the wait time often exceeds 30+ minutes.
| 4 am to 5 am | 5 mins |
| 5 am to 6 am | 17 mins |
| 6 am to 7 am | 24 mins |
| 7 am to 8 am | 10 mins |
| 8 am to 9 am | 10 mins |
| 9 am to 10 am | 15 mins |
| 10 am to 11 am | 4 mins |
| 11 am to 12 pm | 0 min |
| 12 pm to 1 pm | 7 mins |
| 1 pm to 2 pm | 10 mins |
| 2 pm to 3 pm | 15 mins |
| 3 pm to 4 pm | 10 mins |
| 4 pm to 5 pm | 9 mins |
| 5 pm to 6 pm | 13 mins |
| 6 pm to 7 pm | 13 mins |
| 7 pm to 8 pm | 9 mins |
| 8 pm to 9 pm | 0 min |
| 9 pm to 10 pm | 20 mins |
| 10 pm to 11 pm | 6 mins |
| 11 pm to 12 am | 24 mins |
What are the Estimated PHL TSA Wait Times
Generally, under normal conditions, the average TSA wait times at PHL Airport are around 15 minutes, though this can extend to 40 minutes or more during peak hours like early mornings, late afternoons, and holidays.
Average TSA Security Wait Times at PHL
How to expedite TSA Wait Times PHL?
Passengers can enroll in expedited security screening programs like TSA PreCheck to pass through TSA PreCheck lanes at PHL quickly. Enrolled travellers don’t need to remove shoes, belts, light jackets, laptops, or compliant liquids during security screening, which speeds the checkpoint process.
| TSA PreCheck Lane Location | Operating Hours | Wait Times |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal A-East | 4:15 am to 5:00 pm | 2 minutes |
| Terminal D/E | 3:45 am to 8:00 pm | 6 mins |
*PHL and TSA announced temporary closures of the Terminal A-West and Terminal F checkpoints beginning Wednesday, November 5, 2025.
Philadelphia Airport Customs and Immigration Wait Time
For international arrivals, the expected wait times range between 9 minutes and 25 minutes, depending on international flight arrivals and staffing levels. International passengers can enroll in Global Entry, use Biometric Exit Screening, and Mobile Passport Control to clear the immigration process faster.
Global Entry: It speeds up clearance through US customs for pre-approved, low-risk travelers returning from international travel. Global Entry kiosks are available in the Customs Arrivals area on the 3rd floor of Terminal A-West.
Mobile Passport Control (MPC): It is a free CBP app that allows eligible travellers to submit passport and customs info via smartphone to speed processing on arrival. MPC lanes can move faster than paper lines with less Philadelphia airport customs wait time, but are separate from Global Entry.
Biometric Exit Screening: PHL has implemented biometric exit screening technology on 25 boarding gates, in Terminals A-East and A-West, in cooperation with federal partners. This system helps U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) verify the identity of passengers departing on international flights quickly and securely. The technology works by matching a traveller’s facial scan with the photos already stored in government records. Under the CBP’s Air Exit program, federal law requires biometric exit screening for most foreign nationals, except Canadian citizens who do not need a visa to enter the United States and travelers holding diplomatic or government visas.
Wingmate: A Guest Pass at PHL
The PHL Wingmate Pass is a special program allowing non-ticketed guests to access the secure side of the airport to spend time with family or friends at gates, shops, and restaurants. Approved visitors must apply online in advance and undergo the same TSA security screening as ticketed passengers.
How to Reduce PHL Airport Wait Times
Passengers can follow the tips below to avoid PHL security checkpoint delays.
- Arrive at least 2 to 3 hours early at the airport.
- Keep the boarding pass and documents ready.
- Travel with carry-on only where possible.
- Enroll in the TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Program.
- Know and separate liquids and electronics before the line.
- Use the TSA app for PHL live updates.
Knowing the PHL airport security line times, travellers can plan accordingly. Passengers should allow extra time and use expedited programs to shorten PHL airport security line times. Flyers can check the PHL airport wait times through the PHL airport official website and MyTSA.
Frequently Asked Questions
On average, it may take 10 to 30 minutes to clear the Philadelphia airport security screening process.
Passengers can check PHL security wait times on the Philadelphia airport website and through through MyTSA app.
Yes, TSA PreCheck lanes are often available at the A-East and D/E checkpoints, and Terminal C is sometimes designated as TSA PreCheck-Only.
For domestic flights, allow at least 2 hours, more during peak times, and for international flights, allow 3 hours early to avoid delay.
The busiest times are typically early morning and late afternoon, especially on Mondays, Fridays, and holidays.
Passengers can enroll in TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, and check live wait time at PHL before boarding to reduce PHL airport TSA wait times.
Currently, CLEAR lanes are not available at Philadelphia International Airport. Travelers can still use TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, Biometric Exit Screening, and Mobile Passport Control for faster screening options.