Reno–Tahoe International Airport (RNO), located just minutes from downtown Reno and less than an hour from Lake Tahoe, is the primary airport serving northern Nevada and the surrounding Sierra region. Known for its convenience, short walking distances, and friendly atmosphere, RNO offers nonstop connections to major hubs like Denver, Phoenix, Seattle, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Dallas, and Salt Lake City.

Airlines operating at RNO include Southwest, Alaska, Delta, United, American, Spirit, and Allegiant, providing reliable service for both leisure travelers headed to the mountains and business travelers flying throughout the West.

RNO is a single-terminal airport, making navigation simple and quick. The layout is compact, clean, and easy to understand — an advantage for travelers moving between rental cars, check-in counters, and security.

RNO features one main TSA security checkpoint that services all departing flights. The checkpoint is located on the second floor in the main concourse area, with multiple screening lanes available depending on daily passenger volume.

RNO Security Includes:

• TSA PreCheck for expedited screening
• CLEAR Plus (available during peak travel periods)
• Standard screening lanes
• Priority lanes for eligible passengers

Because RNO is a smaller but busy regional airport, wait times can fluctuate significantly during ski season, holiday weekends, and early morning departures.

Peak Security Times at RNO:

• 5:00–8:00 a.m. (major morning wave)
• 12:00–3:00 p.m. (mid-day departures)
• Winter ski-season Fridays & Sundays
• Summer tourism peaks, especially June–August

The TSA checkpoint typically opens at 3:30 a.m. and continues screening until the final evening flight.

RNO is known for its fast, friendly, and uncomplicated travel experience. Its size allows passengers to move from curb to gate quickly, though lines can build during morning rush hours and peak tourism seasons. During winter months, especially when ski resorts see fresh snowfall, expect longer wait times and plan to arrive early.

If you’re flying out before sunrise, grab your coffee before entering the terminal — early morning lines can move quickly but tend to stack up right at opening.

How do I navigate RNO?

Does RNO have TSA PreCheck?