Location and Overview:
Harry Reid International Airport, located in Las Vegas, Nevada, serves as the primary gateway for the Las Vegas Valley. It is approximately five miles south of downtown Las Vegas in the unincorporated area of Paradise, covering 2,800 acres. The airport was previously known as McCarran International Airport but was renamed in honor of Harry Reid, a former U.S. Senator from Nevada, in December 2021.
Facilities and Terminals:
Terminal 1 houses domestic flights with concourses A, B, C, and a satellite concourse D. It features a 6,000-space parking garage, multiple security checkpoints, and a variety of shopping and dining options. Terminal 1 is not connected to Terminal 3, requiring an automated transit system for access to Concourse D.
Terminal 3 serves both domestic and international flights, including all foreign flag carriers and some domestic carriers. It boasts a state-of-the-art ticketing/check-in area, a significant customs and border protection facility, and includes the E Gates. Terminal 3 also features a large duty-free store among its amenities.
Airlines and Operations:
LAS is a focus city for several airlines, including Allegiant Air, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Spirit Airlines. The airport has been pivotal in adopting a common-use approach for airport resources, which has become a model in the U.S.
Traffic and Statistics:
In 2022, Harry Reid International Airport saw an all-time high of 52.6 million passengers, showcasing its significant role in both tourism and air travel in the region.
Unique Features:
Reflecting the spirit of Las Vegas, the airport features slot machines, making it one of the few airports where gambling is available. For luxury travelers, the airport hosts The Centurion Lounge, accessible to American Express cardholders, offering a premium experience with dining options like smoked whitefish.
Recent Events and Sentiment:
Recent posts highlighted operational challenges like a security ground stop due to a nearby shooting at UNLV and significant delays due to weather conditions, indicating the airport’s vulnerability to external events. Public sentiment is mixed; some appreciate its proximity to the Las Vegas Strip, while others criticize its infrastructure, describing it as old and slow.
Management and Governance:
The airport is owned by Clark County and operated under the Clark County Department of Aviation, with a focus on innovation and excellence in aviation management.
Access and Connectivity:
The airport’s location makes it highly accessible to major attractions in Las Vegas, with various transportation options available, including limousines for international travelers.
