PHL TSA Security Checkpoint Hours: Terminal & PreCheck Guide
May 27, 2024
William Cartwright
SmartPark · PHL departure planning
Know the hours.
Plan your departure.
Check your screening options before travel day, then leave time for bags, security, and the walk to your gate.
See checkpoint hours ↓
Before you leave home
What time does TSA security open at PHL?
PHL checkpoints operate on different schedules, and PreCheck lane hours can differ from general screening hours. Use the table below to plan, then check the airport’s official page again before departure.
Checkpoint hours are only one part of your itinerary. Airline check-in, bag-drop deadlines, boarding times, and the distance to your gate also matter. An open checkpoint does not mean you can arrive just before your flight.
The published schedule
PHL TSA checkpoint hours by terminal
All times below are local to Philadelphia. This is a dated reference, not a live open/closed indicator.
| Checkpoint | Screening hours | PreCheck information |
|---|---|---|
| A-West | 5:00 AM–10:15 PM | A-West 1 listed; separate hours not published |
| A-East | 4:15 AM–8:15 PM | 4:15 AM–6:30 PM |
| B | 3:30 AM–9:15 PM | Not listed |
| C | 4:15 AM–8:00 PM | PreCheck only |
| D/E | 3:15 AM–10:15 PM | 3:45 AM–8:00 PM |
| F | 4:30 AM–9:15 PM | Not listed |
Source: PHL’s official checkpoint-hours page (opens in a new tab). “Not listed” means the airport page does not identify a dedicated PreCheck option at that checkpoint.
Check the lane as well as the terminal
Planning to use TSA PreCheck at Philadelphia Airport?
Review the PreCheck column separately from the overall checkpoint schedule. Do not assume an expedited lane stays open for the entire screening day.
Before travel, check your boarding pass for the TSA PreCheck indicator. If it is missing, contact your airline to review the reservation details. Follow the screening instructions you receive at the airport.
Official TSA PreCheck information (opens in a new tab) · TSA PreCheck checkpoint schedule tool (opens in a new tab)
Build the complete departure plan
How early should you arrive at PHL?
PHL recommends reaching the airport at least two hours before a domestic departure and three hours before an international departure. Check your airline’s instructions and allow additional time for your circumstances. PHL arrival-time guidance (opens in a new tab)
Include driving, parking, and shuttle time before your terminal arrival target.
Follow your airline’s counter location and baggage deadlines.
Choose an operating checkpoint you are eligible to use.
Leave time to walk and be ready for boarding.
My flight leaves very early
Check both the screening schedule and your airline’s check-in opening time. Plan where to drop any checked bags before deciding which checkpoint to use. If your usual entrance is closed, ask airport staff about the appropriate operating option.
My usual checkpoint is closed
Ask staff to direct you to an available checkpoint suited to your boarding pass and screening eligibility. Include the extra walking time and confirm your departure gate. Do not use a shorter-looking line without checking who it serves.
I have a late or delayed flight
Check your airline’s instructions before changing your arrival plan. A flight delay does not automatically change bag-drop deadlines or extend a particular checkpoint’s hours. Confirm your route through security if it is getting late.
I am connecting after an international arrival
If your arrival takes you out through customs, plan for baggage recheck as instructed and another security screening before reaching your next gate. PHL confirms that passengers leaving the customs area need screening for an onward flight.
Tap as you prepare
Your PHL security planning checklist
This checklist is for your use on this page; it does not save your answers.
For packing and screening questions, use TSA’s What Can I Bring? tool (opens in a new tab). Travelers who need screening assistance can review TSA Cares (opens in a new tab) before the trip.
Leave time before the terminal
Plan your SmartPark parking and PHL shuttle
If you are driving to PHL, work backward from your airport arrival target. Include the drive to the lot, check-in, self-parking, and the shuttle transfer.
SmartPark provides offsite self-parking with a complimentary airport shuttle. Confirm your reservation and save the directions before travel. The shuttle’s availability does not determine when TSA checkpoints or airline counters open.
View SmartPark services (opens in a new tab) · Get directions to SmartPark (opens in a new tab)
Quick answers
PHL TSA checkpoint hours: FAQs
Are security checkpoint hours the same as airline check-in hours?
No. Your airline controls its check-in and bag-drop arrangements. Check those separately, especially for an early departure.
Does a published closing time guarantee I can make my flight?
No. You still need time for screening, walking, and boarding, and must meet airline deadlines. Choose your arrival time around the complete process.
Are checkpoint hours the same as wait times?
No. Hours describe the scheduled operating window; wait times describe the queue. Conditions and lane availability may change during that window.
Where should I check for last-minute updates?
Use the official PHL checkpoint page linked above and check your airline’s flight and check-in guidance before leaving.
One less detail on travel day
Have your parking plan ready.
Check SmartPark availability for your dates and leave time for the transfer to PHL.
Check SmartPark availability (opens in a new tab)Published by SmartPark. Hours reviewed October 13, 2026. Schedules and lane availability may change. Website links open in new tabs; section links stay on this page.