5 US Airports With The Longest Security Lines In 2026

Airport security remains an important part of the air travel experience, with passengers often having to factor checkpoint queues into their journey before reaching the departure gate. While some airports consistently move travelers through screening within minutes, others have significantly longer average waits. Delays can also affect passengers who arrive with limited time to check baggage, complete document checks, or reach a departure gate before boarding closes.A 2026 study by Travel Bulletin examined security wait times at 50 of the busiest airports in the US, using historical estimates from the MyTSA app alongside Transportation Security Administration (TSA) passenger throughput figures. Covering approximately eight weeks between mid-June and mid-August, the findings revealed substantial differences between airports.