McCarran International Airport

The airport, which many travellers still habitually call McCarran (although it was officially renamed Harry Reid International Airport in 2021), is not just a transport hub, but a true prelude to the excitement of Las Vegas. It is one of the few places on the planet where the chime of coins and the flashing lights of slot machines greet you literally at the aircraft steps, even before you collect your luggage.

Thanks to its incredible proximity to the city centre, a breathtaking view of the famous Strip neon lights and the replica of the Eiffel Tower opens up from the window upon landing. The airport is renowned for its efficiency and unique atmosphere, which instantly tunes you into the wavelength of entertainment.

Airport Features and Advantages

• Excitement upon Arrival: This is the main highlight of the air harbour — more than 1,400 slot machines are installed right in the terminals. You can try your luck while waiting for a flight or immediately upon arrival.
• Aviation Museum: The terminals house exhibits from the Howard Cannon Aviation Museum. Here you can learn about the history of flights over the Nevada desert and view unique archival exhibits for free.
• Convenient Logistics: The airport is located practically within the city. A taxi ride to most hotels takes only 10–15 minutes, which is a rarity for major international hubs.
• Relaxation Zones: For those tired of the noise, comfortable lounge areas and even a fitness centre with shower cabins are provided, where you can freshen up after a long flight.

Below you will find contact information for Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), formerly known as McCarran, which serves Paradise and Las Vegas.

• Official Website: harryreidairport.com
• Information Desk Phone: +1 (702) 261-5211
• Airport Address: 5757 Wayne Newton Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119, USA
• Email: For most enquiries, it is recommended to use the contact forms available on the airport's official website.
• Social Media: The airport actively maintains pages on social media, for example, on X (formerly Twitter) under the handle @LASairport.
• Lost and Found Information: If you have lost personal items within the airport premises (excluding the aircraft), you can contact the Lost and Found service at +1 (702) 261-5134. For luggage lost during a flight, you must contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Service: For general information, use the information desk phone number. For questions related to your flight, tickets, or check-in, please contact your airline representatives.

McCarran Airport (LAS) is located in immediate proximity to the main entertainment centres of Paradise and Las Vegas, so getting to it is effortless. Depending on your budget, time, and preferences, you can choose one of several convenient methods.

Public Transport The most budget-friendly way to get to the airport is to use buses operated by the RTC (Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada). Routes such as Route 108, Route 109, and the Centennial Express (CX) connect the airport with the Strip area, the city centre, and other parts of the Las Vegas Valley. Stops are located at Terminal 1 (Level Zero) and Terminal 3 (Departures level). This is an excellent choice for economical travellers, but the journey may take longer due to stops.

Taxi and Transfers Taxis and ridesharing services (such as Uber or Lyft) are the most popular and fastest way to reach the airport. A trip from the centre of the famous Strip will take just 10–20 minutes depending on traffic. Taxi ranks are located at the exits of both terminals. Special waiting zones are provided for ridesharing services, usually located on the parking levels. Although more expensive than the bus, it is the most convenient option, especially if you have a lot of luggage.

Car Rental If you are returning a rental car, you need to follow the signs to the McCarran Rent-A-Car Center, which is located a few kilometres from the terminals. From there, free branded shuttles run to the terminals around the clock at intervals of a few minutes. Allow an extra 20-30 minutes for returning the car and taking the shuttle to your departure terminal.

Airport Parking For those arriving by private car, McCarran Airport provides numerous parking options: Short Term, Long Term, and Economy. Valet Parking services are also available. The further the parking is from the terminal, the cheaper it is. For long trips, it is recommended to book a parking space online in advance to get a more favourable rate. There is also a free waiting area (Cell Phone Lot) for those picking up passengers.

McCarran Airport (LAS), officially known as Harry Reid International Airport, has a well-thought-out and efficient structure designed for a huge passenger flow. The airport consists of two main, separate terminals — Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 3 (T3). It is extremely important to check in advance which terminal your flight departs from, as they are not connected by pedestrian walkways.

Terminal 1 (T1) mainly serves domestic flights within the USA and is the base for major airlines such as Southwest, American Airlines, Delta, and Spirit. Its structure includes the main building with check-in and baggage claim areas, as well as four satellite gate zones: A, B, C, and D. An automated shuttle train (tram) transports passengers to gates C and D, making movement quick and convenient. D Gates are shared with Terminal 3 for some domestic and international flights.

Terminal 3 (T3) specializes in serving all international flights, as well as some domestic ones operated by carriers such as Alaska, Frontier, JetBlue, and Hawaiian Airlines. This modern terminal has its own parking, check-in, security screening, and baggage claim areas. All gates here are combined into one zone — E. Terminal 3 is designed for comfortable passage through customs and border control.

Free shuttle buses run between Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. Stops are located on Level 0 (Level Zero) of both terminals. The trip takes about 15-20 minutes, so if you have a connecting flight involving a transfer between terminals, be sure to allow extra time. Navigation inside each terminal is intuitive thanks to numerous signs. Departure and check-in zones are usually located on the upper levels, while arrival and baggage claim zones are on the lower levels.

It is recommended to allow standard time for check-in and security screening: at least 2 hours for domestic flights and 3 hours for international ones. During peak hours, especially on days of major events in Las Vegas, waiting times at control points can increase significantly. The main advice for travellers is to always check your terminal and gate number in advance and, if you are driving, use the parking garage corresponding to your terminal (T1 Garage or T3 Garage).

The history of Harry Reid International Airport (formerly McCarran) is inextricably linked with the phenomenal growth of Las Vegas. It all began in 1942, when a small airfield called Alamo Airport was opened on the territory of the modern city of Paradise. As Las Vegas transformed into the world capital of entertainment, the modest flying field ceased to cope with the flow of tourists. In 1948, Clark County purchased it, naming it after the influential Nevada Senator Pat McCarran — from that moment, the official history of the city's main air gateway began.

A turning point in development was 1963, when a new, modern terminal designed to accommodate jet aircraft was inaugurated. This event coincided with the "Golden Age" of Las Vegas, and the airport became a symbol of glamour and the starting point for unforgettable adventures. In subsequent decades, as the city grew, the airport constantly expanded: in the 1990s and 2000s, new concourses were built, including the famous D Concourse, and technologies advanced for their time were introduced, such as automated trams for passengers and baggage sorting systems.

One of the most massive modernizations in recent history was the opening of Terminal 3 in 2012. This project, costing 2.4 billion dollars, was intended to serve international and some domestic flights, which allowed for a significant increase in the capacity of the air harbour. Thanks to constant development and modernization, the airport has consistently ranked among the top ten busiest in the USA by passenger traffic for many years, becoming a key transport hub for the entire southwest of the country.

From the very beginning, the airport strived to be something more than just a transport node. It became an integral part of the unique experience of visiting Las Vegas. A striking confirmation of this is one of its famous features — the presence of slot machines right in the waiting lounges, allowing travellers to feel the city's atmosphere from the very first minutes. The rich history, which continued for decades under the name McCarran, opened a new chapter in 2021 when the airport received its current name, symbolizing a new stage in its continuous evolution.

McCarran Airport (LAS) offers passengers a wide range of services and amenities to make waiting for a flight as comfortable as possible. Here you will find numerous restaurants, cafes, and dining venues to suit every taste — from fast food establishments to full-service restaurants where you can try dishes from renowned chefs. The airport's shopping area is equally impressive: Duty-Free shops, boutiques of world brands, souvenir shops, and electronics stores are at your service.

For those who want to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Numerous mobile device charging stations are located throughout the terminal, so you can always recharge your gadgets. If you prefer to wait for your flight in a quieter environment, several VIP lounges are available, offering comfortable seating, snacks, beverages, and work areas. Access is possible for business class passengers or loyalty card holders.

Financial services are represented by ATMs, bank branches, and currency exchange points, conveniently located in both terminals. In case of need, passengers can seek medical assistance at round-the-clock medical stations. Pharmacies are also available for purchasing medicines and essential items.

Travellers with children will appreciate special play areas where young passengers can burn off energy before the flight, as well as mother and child rooms. The airport is fully equipped for passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, elevators, specially equipped restrooms, and assistance services that can be booked in advance through the airline.

For business travellers, the airport provides business centres and conference rooms equipped with everything necessary for meetings and work. Although there are no hotels directly within the terminals, many hotels of various levels are located a few minutes' drive from the airport, and free shuttles run to most of them.

Planning a flight from McCarran Airport (LAS), now named Harry Reid International Airport, you can be sure that you won't go hungry. The airport offers a wide selection of establishments for every taste and budget, from a quick snack to a full dinner, reflecting the culinary diversity of Las Vegas itself. Most restaurants and cafes are located in the secure areas (airside) in Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.

Terminal 1

Terminal 1 hosts a huge number of establishments. For a quick snack, world-famous chains such as Shake Shack with its famous burgers and fries, Burger King, and Wendy's are perfect. If you want something fresher, drop by Jamba for a smoothie or Fresh Attractions for ready-made sandwiches and salads. Fans of Asian cuisine will appreciate Pei Wei Asian Diner, where wok dishes are prepared to order. For coffee and pastries, you can head to one of the numerous Starbucks or The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf outlets. For a more substantial lunch, California Pizza Kitchen, Sammy's Beach Bar & Grill offering beach-style food and tropical beverages, or Ruby's Diner in 50s style, offering all-day breakfasts, are suitable options.

Terminal 3

Terminal 3 also offers an excellent selection. For a full meal, you can visit Village Pub or Chili's Grill & Bar, which serve classic American dishes in a casual atmosphere. If you are looking for something refined, pay attention to Wolfgang Puck Express by the famous chef or Chophouse. For barbecue, head to Brookwood Farms BBQ to taste authentic southern flavours. For a quick and filling snack, there is The Great American Bagel Bakery and Port of Subs with made-to-order sandwiches. Of course, popular chains like Starbucks and Jamba are also present here.

Special Diets and Prices

Many establishments offer options for different dietary needs. For example, at Rachel's Kitchen (Terminal 1) and La Tapenade Mediterranean Café (Terminal 3), you can find vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes. Fast-food chains like Burger King also offer vegetarian alternatives. Prices vary from budget fast food to mid-range restaurants, which is typical for major airports. Most establishments open early in the morning and work until late evening to serve passengers of all flights.

Travelling through McCarran International Airport (LAS), the main air gateway to Paradise and Las Vegas, requires a little preparation to ensure everything goes smoothly. This busy airport in the USA serves millions of passengers, so knowing a few tips will help you save time and peace of mind.

Arrival Time and Check-in: McCarran Airport can be very busy, especially on weekends and during major events. It is recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights. To avoid queues, use online check-in on your airline's website and save the boarding pass on your phone. If you travel frequently, consider participating in the TSA PreCheck programme, which significantly speeds up passing through security control.

Security Checks and Hand Luggage: Be prepared for screening. All electronics larger than a mobile phone need to be placed in a separate bin. Remember the rule for carrying liquids: containers up to 100 ml must be packed in a single transparent bag. It is prohibited to carry sharp objects and other dangerous items in hand luggage. To speed up the process, remove outerwear, belts, and large metal accessories in advance.

Seat Selection and Transfers: Want to see a breathtaking view of the Las Vegas Strip from the air? Choose a window seat! If you have a transfer at LAS, study the airport map in advance. A special shuttle bus runs for moving between Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. Leave enough time between flights, especially if you need to go through security control again.

Customs Control: If you are arriving on an international flight, you will have to go through customs and immigration control. To speed up the process, use the Automated Passport Control (APC) kiosks or download the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app in advance. Have your passport and visa ready, and be prepared to answer the officer's standard questions about the purpose of your trip and the duration of your stay.

Saving Time and Money: Prices for food and drinks at the airport can be high. Bring an empty water bottle to fill after passing security, and some light snacks. It is more profitable to book parking and airport transfers online in advance. Instead of a taxi, consider shuttles or ridesharing services, which often turn out to be cheaper.

In Case of Flight Delay: If your flight is delayed, first contact the airline representative for up-to-date information. Find out about your rights to compensation, provision of meals, or a hotel. Fortunately, you won't be bored at McCarran Airport: there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and even the famous slot machines to help pass the time while waiting for departure.