Key Highlights:
- Two terminals: Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) operates Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. Terminal 2 closed after Terminal 3 opened in 2012.
- Terminal 1 airlines: Southwest, Allegiant, American, Delta, and selected regional carriers.
- Terminal 3 airlines: United, Alaska, JetBlue, Frontier, Hawaiian, and international carriers.
- Free shuttle: Inter-terminal buses operate approximately every 20–30 minutes outside security.
- Airport trams: The Green, Blue, and Red lines connect gate areas inside security.
- D Gates: Both terminals connect to the satellite D Gates concourse by tram.
Understanding Las Vegas Airport Terminal 1 vs. 3 is important when checking in, collecting luggage, or transferring between flights. Harry Reid International Airport has two separate terminal buildings, and arriving at the wrong one can add unnecessary travel time.
Terminal 1 handles several major domestic airlines, while Terminal 3 serves international flights and selected domestic carriers. Both terminals also connect to the shared D Gates concourse. Here are the airline assignments, transfer options, shuttle locations, and airport lounge details.
Las Vegas Airport Terminal 1 vs. Terminal 3
| Feature | Terminal 1 | Terminal 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Flight types | Primarily domestic | Domestic and international |
| Gate access | A, B, C, D | D and E |
| Major airlines | Southwest, Allegiant, American, Delta | United, Alaska, JetBlue, Frontier, Hawaiian |
| International arrivals | Generally handled through Terminal 3 | Customs and immigration facilities |
| Security checkpoints | Three | Two |
| Rideshare pickup | Parking Garage Level 2 | Parking Garage Valet Level |
| Terminal transfer | Free shuttle or airside tram | Free shuttle or airside tram |
The terminals have separate check-in areas, baggage claims, and ground transportation facilities.
Which Airlines Use Terminal 1?
Terminal 1 primarily handles domestic airline check-in and baggage claim.
| Airline | Terminal | Typical Gate Area |
|---|---|---|
| Southwest Airlines | Terminal 1 | C Gates |
| Allegiant Air | Terminal 1 | A Gates |
| American Airlines | Terminal 1 | D Gates |
| Delta Air Lines | Terminal 1 | D Gates |
American and Delta passengers generally travel to D Gates using the Blue Line tram after security.
Gate assignments can change, so check your boarding pass before arriving.
Which Airlines Use Terminal 3?
Terminal 3 handles international flights and several domestic airlines.
| Airline | Terminal | Typical Gate Area |
|---|---|---|
| United Airlines | Terminal 3 | D Gates |
| Alaska Airlines | Terminal 3 | E Gates |
| Frontier Airlines | Terminal 3 | D Gates |
| JetBlue Airways | Terminal 3 | D Gates |
| Hawaiian Airlines | Terminal 3 | D Gates |
| British Airways | Terminal 3 | E Gates |
| Air Canada | Terminal 3 | E Gates |
| WestJet | Terminal 3 | E Gates |
| Virgin Atlantic | Terminal 3 | E Gates |
Other international airlines, including KLM, Korean Air, AeroMéxico, and Volaris, also operate from Terminal 3.
Always confirm your airline’s current terminal using the official LAS airline directory.
How to Transfer Between Terminal 1 and Terminal 3
There are two main transfer methods depending on whether you have passed through security.
1. Free Inter-Terminal Shuttle Bus
The airport operates complimentary shuttle buses between both terminals.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Frequency | Approximately every 20–30 minutes |
| Driving time | Approximately 10 minutes |
| Terminal 1 pickup | Level Zero, near the parking garage |
| Terminal 3 pickup | Level Zero, center curb |
From Terminal 1 baggage claim, take the elevator or escalator to Level Zero and follow the shuttle signs.
At Terminal 3, proceed outside baggage claim to the Level Zero shuttle stop.
The shuttle is useful when you arrive at the wrong terminal or need to collect checked luggage.
2. Airport Tram Connections
Once through security, passengers can travel between concourses using automated trams.
| Tram Line | Connection |
|---|---|
| Green Line | Terminal 1 to C Gates |
| Blue Line | Terminal 1 to D Gates |
| Red Line | Terminal 3 to D Gates |
Passengers transferring between Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 can use the Blue and Red tram connections through D Gates.
Follow airport signage and allow enough time for walking, waiting, and reaching your departure gate.
Understanding the D Gates at LAS
The D Gates are located in a separate satellite concourse connected to both terminals.
There is no public vehicle drop-off area directly outside D Gates.
American and Delta passengers generally check in at Terminal 1, while United, Frontier, and JetBlue passengers use Terminal 3.
Travelers without checked luggage may be able to access D Gates through either terminal, provided they already have a valid boarding pass.
Passengers checking bags should always use their airline’s assigned terminal first.
Airport Lounges at Terminal 1 and Terminal 3
Several lounges are available after security.
| Lounge | Location |
|---|---|
| Chase Sapphire Lounge | C Gates |
| American Express Centurion Lounge | D Gates |
| Capital One Lounge | D Gates, near D50 |
| United Club | D Gates, near D35 |
| The Club LAS | D Gates, near D33 |
| The Club LAS | E Gates, near E2 |
Lounge access depends on membership, eligible credit cards, airline status, or available day passes.
Passengers visiting a lounge in another concourse should allow enough time to return to their departure gate.
Conclusion
Las Vegas Airport Terminal 1 vs. 3 differences mainly involve airline check-in, baggage claim, and terminal access. Terminal 1 serves major domestic carriers, while Terminal 3 handles international airlines and selected domestic flights. Free shuttle buses connect the buildings before security, and airport trams provide access between gate areas. Check your airline’s terminal before leaving your hotel to avoid unnecessary transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Walk Between Terminal 1 and Terminal 3?
No. The terminal buildings are separate before security. Use the complimentary inter-terminal shuttle.
Which Terminal Is Used for International Flights?
Terminal 3 handles international arrivals and departing international carriers.
Can You Access D Gates From Both Terminals?
Yes. Terminal 1 connects through the Blue Line tram, while Terminal 3 connects through the Red Line.
How Long Does a Terminal Transfer Take?
The shuttle journey takes approximately 10 minutes, but buses arrive every 20–30 minutes. Allow additional time for walking and security screening.
Keep Reading: