Las Vegas McCarran International, NV (LAS) LAS: Departure times and transfers

Flying from/to McCarran International Airport

If you are planning to fly to/from McCarran International Airport, check out our tips on what’s the best way to travel between the airport and the city center. It’s always good to know, what’s the most convenient way to get to your destination. You can also find some data on the McCarran International Airport facilities and some local tips on the airport itself.

Arriving at McCarran International Airport (LAS)

McCarran International Airport is the main gateway to the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas. Several airlines fly to and from this major airport, including British Airways, Air Canada, American Airlines, JetBlue, Hawaiian Airlines, and United Airlines. Direct flights are available to McCarran Airport from numerous international airports and most major cities in the USA. The airport is open 24 hours a day during the week and from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekends. It ranks 8th in the world for passenger volume and handles about 500 commercial flights per day. Travelers are beckoned to Las Vegas to discover all that this magical city has to offer, from international shows to gambling and fine dining.

What's the best way to get from McCarran International Airport to the city center?

The RTC bus service stops right outside the airport on the ground level. Travelers just need to walk out the doors and cross the street to get to the bus boarding zone. Tickets for the route 109 bus can be bought from any transport kiosk in the airport before boarding. The bus is the slowest but cheapest option. There are plenty of shuttle services outside baggage claim area 7, and they are among the easiest ways to get to the Strip. There's a fixed price on all shuttles, and they stop at every hotel on the Strip. Taxis are also available and are generally the quickest way to the city center. Those wanting to arrive in luxury can pre-book a limo ride to their hotel that includes champagne and snacks. 

How far is the city center from McCarran International Airport?

McCarran International Airport is located about 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) from Las Vegas city center, otherwise known as the Strip. Taxis are the easiest and fastest way to get to the center. There are taxis available at all of the airport exits, and they park along the Strip for those wanting a trip back to the airport. The rate for the taxis is variable depending on the distance, so travelers wanting a fixed cost may prefer to use a shuttle. A number of hotels in the Las Vegas area also offer free airport shuttles, which may be the most convenient option for most travelers. 

What services are there at McCarran International Airport?

McCarran International Airport offers a wide variety of facilities to keep passengers entertained and comfortable. One of the most popular options is the Aviation Museum exhibits, situated in various sections of the airport. The displays chronicle the history of aviation in Las Vegas and include a few world record-breaking planes. Travelers seeking retail therapy will find over 120 shops to enjoy. There are also around 100 dining locations in the airport, suiting every taste and budget. Restrooms are located conveniently throughout the airport, and maps displaying the location of all amenities can be found at the airport entrances and in the passenger areas. Free WiFi is available in all passenger areas of the airport. The kids' playground near Gate D is the perfect place for restless children to stretch their muscles.

How accessible is the route for those with limited mobility?​

McCarran International Airport is well-equipped for those with limited mobility. The airport strives to provide equal access for all passengers. Free wheelchairs are provided at the airport, and assistance with the wheelchair is available if needed. The airport has elevators to make it easy for everyone to get to any level. Companion care restrooms are situated throughout the airport. It's best for travelers to call the airline at least 24 hours in advance to advise them if anyone in their group has limited mobility. The airline will then arrange for a wheelchair to be available at the airport entrance, and a staff member will be there to provide assistance. Those with heavy luggage or difficulties climbing steps will find conveniently located escalators and ramps. People traveling with comfort animals or service dogs will find comfort stations with water and a small open area in both terminals.

Local tips: what to know before flying to McCarran International Airport

The airport has 110 aircraft gates. Therefore, travelers should make sure to note where their gate is, as the walk between gates is quite long. CLEAR and TSA PreCheck are both available at the airport, and using these services can shorten the time spent passing through security. Travelers should allow enough time to transfer between terminals on the red or blue trains if needed. The trains can get full at peak flight times.