Harry Reid Airport (LAS) Survival Guide 2026: Terminals, Rideshare, and Trams

By ThingsVegas | 2026-08-03 | 6 min read read

Navigate Las Vegas' Harry Reid International Airport with our 2026 guide covering terminals, trams, baggage claim, and rideshare pickups.

Planning Context

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Welcome to Harry Reid International Airport

Touching down at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) is the official start of your Las Vegas adventure. As one of the busiest airports in the United States, welcoming tens of millions of passengers each year, it can feel like a city of its own. Between the ringing slot machines greeting you at the gate and the sprawling terminal layouts, knowing exactly where to go can save you valuable time and start your trip off right.

The airport is divided into two distinct, unconnected buildings: Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. Because they are not physically joined, knowing which terminal your airline uses is the single most important piece of information you need before you arrive. Whether you are a seasoned high roller or reading our first-time guide to Las Vegas, mastering the layout of LAS is essential for a smooth arrival and departure.

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Understanding Terminal 1 and Terminal 3

Terminal 1 is the original and primary domestic hub for Harry Reid International. It houses the A, B, C, and D gates and is home to major domestic carriers like Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and Allegiant Air. If you are flying domestically on one of these carriers, you will almost certainly be using Terminal 1. The terminal features a massive central esplanade with shops, dining, and multiple security checkpoints.

Terminal 3 is the newer facility, handling all international flights and a mix of domestic carriers including United Airlines, JetBlue, Alaska Airlines, and Frontier. It houses the E gates and also provides access to the D gates via the airport tram. Because Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 are not connected by pedestrian walkways, you must use the free inter-terminal shuttle bus on Level 0 if you accidentally arrive at the wrong building. Always double-check your terminal before being dropped off.

Navigating the Airport Trams

Harry Reid International relies on an automated people mover system, commonly called the airport tram, to connect passengers between the main terminal buildings and the satellite concourses. There are three color-coded tram lines you need to know. The Green Line connects Terminal 1 to the C Gates, while the Blue Line connects Terminal 1 to the D Gates. If you are arriving at the D Gates and need to claim baggage at Terminal 1, you will take the Blue Line.

The Red Line connects Terminal 3 to the D Gates. It is a quick, efficient ride, but pay close attention to the overhead signs when boarding. Arriving passengers at the D Gates must choose carefully: board the Blue Line for Terminal 1 baggage claim and ground transportation, or board the Red Line for Terminal 3. Taking the wrong tram will send you to the wrong baggage claim area, requiring a shuttle bus ride to correct the mistake.

Baggage Claim and Arrivals Flow

Once you step off the tram or walk from your gate, follow the prominent signs to Baggage Claim. In Terminal 1, baggage claim is located on Level 1, directly below the ticketing level. The area is massive, with multiple carousels, so check the digital display boards to find your flight. You will also find a variety of ground transportation options just outside the doors.

In Terminal 3, baggage claim is also on Level 1, but the layout is more streamlined. Domestic flights claim bags on one side, while international arrivals process through Customs and Border Protection before claiming bags in a secure area. If you are meeting travelers, the designated meet-and-greet areas are located near the escalators leading down to baggage claim in both terminals. There are also cell phone lots available for those waiting to pick up arriving passengers.

Finding Your Rideshare Pickup

Getting an Uber or Lyft at Harry Reid Airport requires a short walk to designated pickup zones located inside the parking garages, not at the arrivals curb. In Terminal 1, the rideshare pickup is on Level 2 of the parking garage. From baggage claim, take the elevator near Door 2 up to Level 2, cross the pedestrian bridge, and you will find the rideshare area to your right.

For Terminal 3, the rideshare pickup is on the Valet Level of the parking garage. From baggage claim, take the elevator near Doors 52, 54, or 56 up to Level 1, cross the pedestrian bridge to the parking garage, and then take the elevator or stairs down to the Valet Level. Be sure to check the license plate and ask the driver for your name before getting in, as recommended by the airport's safety campaign.

Security Checkpoints and Future Upgrades

Las Vegas airport security lines can be unpredictable, especially after major conventions or holiday weekends. Terminal 1 has three checkpoints (A/B, C Annex, and C/D), while Terminal 3 has two (Level 2 and the Innovation Checkpoint on Level 0). The C/D checkpoint in Terminal 1 is open 24 hours, but others have specific operating hours, such as the A/B checkpoint closing at 1:00 a.m. Always arrive at least two hours before domestic flights.

Looking ahead, Clark County has unveiled a multibillion-dollar modernization plan for Terminal 1, aimed at expanding capacity from 39 to 65 gates by replacing the older A and B concourses. Construction is expected to begin around 2029, with completion targeted for 2034. In the meantime, be aware of ongoing roadwork, including lane closures in the airport connector tunnels through December 2026, which may add to your travel time. Planning ahead is the best way to ensure a smooth transition to your hotel.

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Insider Tip: The Best Way to the Strip

While rideshares and taxis are the most popular ways to get to the Strip, the airport also offers shuttle services and public transit. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, the RTC public bus system serves the airport. However, for sheer convenience and speed, a taxi might actually be faster than a rideshare during peak times, as taxis queue directly outside baggage claim, skipping the walk to the parking garage.

Whatever you choose, you will be checking into your room and heading out to see WOW or explore the nightlife before you know it. Confirm the terminal before anyone starts driving to the pickup area.

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