frontier airlines terminal at mccarran airport
If you’re flying into Las Vegas with Frontier Airlines, here’s everything you need to know about the terminal experience at McCarran International Airport.
Disclaimer: Terminology and details may change; always double‑check with the airport or your carrier before you travel.
McCarran International Airport Overview
McCarran International Airport (LAS) sits just 12 miles southeast of downtown Las Vegas and serves as the region’s main aviation hub. The airport consists of two main concourses—Terminal A and Terminal B—connected by the Las Vegas–McCarran Transit Terminal (LVT). Unlike some airports with distinct “airline bldg.” setups, Frontier’s presence is integrated into these concourses, making navigation straightforward for travelers.
Key facts at a glance:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Terminals | A (North) & B (South) |
| Number of Gates | 39 total |
| Carriers | Multiple (United, Southwest, Frontier, Delta, American, etc.) |
| Year Opened | 1993 (Major expansions 2010‑2019) |
| Capacity | ~9 million passengers annually (pre‑COVID) |
Frontier Airlines Operations in Las Vegas
Frontier Airlines operates a sizable sliver of gates in both Terminal A and B, primarily on the “West Side” of each concourse. Their schedule focuses on budget routes to the Southwest, Mexico, Hawaii, and within the U.S. Northwest—great for casual travelers and the age‑of‑budget‑breakfast crowd.
Gate distribution
| Terminal | Gates (Frontier) |
|---|---|
| A | B12, B13 |
| B | B3, B4, B18 |
While Frontier advertises lower fares, boarding often requires early check‑in to secure a good spot due to their “open‑seat” policy. Expect less staffing at check‑in kiosks compared to legacy carriers; the site’s simple layout benefits quick turnovers.
Finding the Frontier Terminal
Terminal and Gate Info
- Terminal A: Located on the eastern side of the airport, just off the freeway entrance, consists of gates B12 & B13.
- Terminal B: On the west side, V-shaped, gates B3, B4 & B18. If you’re coming from the highway, the B side is closer but may have a longer walk if heading to the parking structure that feeds A.
Use the nav signposts traveling from the entrance:
“NEA – Terminal A (North, east), NPB – Terminal B (North, west).”
Check the digital board for real‑time gate updates. Frontier’s site also lists the exact gate as you book.
Baggage Claim and Checkout
Frontier pays its mid‑size aircraft to Baggage‑Carriage partners; as such, the baggage carousel directly next to gates B3, B4, B12, B13, and B18 holds all arrivals. For check‑in, kiosks are available after security across both terminals.
Important: Frontier’s in‑flight services do not include a premium lounge. However, Airline Lounge features may be accessed through third‑party services if you spend extra on a lounge pass.
Transportation to/from the Terminal
| Option | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi/Rideshare | 5–10 min | $21–$35 | Beats the loop bus when carrying luggage. |
| Valet Parking | 10–15 min | $60–$90 (per day) | Conveniences for those who like speed. |
| Loop Bus (Q-1) | 15–20 min | $5–$7 | Standard route between Service Road parking and both terminals. |
| Airport Shuttle (Airport Express) | 10–12 min | $8–$12 | Doubles both directions. |
Use the McCarran app to track real‑time bus positions. For groups travelling to the casinos, free limousine services are often available from certain hotels and can be booked at high‑speed rate.
Airport Services and Amenities at Frontier Terminal
Differentiate between Terminal A & B:
Dining Options
| Term | Restaurant | Menu |
|---|---|---|
| A | Mysterious Foods | Quick bites, tacos, corn soup |
| B | Frontier Food Hall | Mediterranean-Style menu, Italian, Mexican |
| Rapid | NYSALA Bar | All-you-can‑eat noodles |
No high-end steakhouse or premium food is offered; Frontier travelers rely on specialty "quick‑service" shops catering to the budget traveler.
Seating and Wi‑Fi
- Seating: Linear lounge seating – 2‑5 contacts. All seats are flat‑back, no de‑pa.
- Wi‑Fi: Free – “Frontier Wi-Fi” is patched but may have limited bandwidth at peak hours. Use your smartphone’s hotspot if important.
Accessibility and Family Features
Frontier provides:
- Priority boarding (fee-per seat)
- Wheelchair assistance contacts on each gate
- Stroller ramps – located near gates B3/B4 and B12/B13.
The airport’s “Flyackt” program assists with procedural compliance; past 2009 upgrades added ADA‑friendly features across the airport.
Practical Tips for Frontier Passengers
Checking In Early
Frontier’s “Open Seat” methodology means the earlier you complete check‑in, the more seat options you secure. Kiosk use before 10 AM is vital; those who wait might find themselves on the broadway of cramped flights.
Managing Baggage Fees
- Carry‑on: 1 free bag <100 lb (22–23 kg) and 1 checked bag allowed.
- Extra checked: $30 per bag.
- Hand baggage: $15 for the first topping (13 lb/33 kg).
From 2024 revisions, Frontier introduced a “B & B” package covering all this for one price – ideal for frequent flyers.
Security and TSA Tips
- Pack liquids in 3.4‑oz (100‑ml) containers, all in a clear quart‑size bag.
- Arrive 75 minutes early for domestic; 90 minutes for holiday seasons.
- Preferred TSA pre‑check for saving ~20 minutes. Use Band‑A (priority) if buying from U.S.
Airport Lounge Access
- Unlimited lounge for Frontier flyers? No.
- To enjoy lounges, either purchase a LoungeBuddy pass or hop into a Predetermined Price Travel (PPT) lounge if you have a major holiday ticket. Note: these passes vary pricing from $30 to $75 for a day pass.
Comparison with Other Major Airlines at McCarran
| Feature | Frontier | Southwest | United |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frequent Flyer Program | No built‑in; uses Miles & Morepartner | Rapid Rewards | MileagePlus |
| Airline Discount | Low fare, add‑ons | Mid‑range; pockets | Premium, superior lounge |
| Gate Varying | 5 gates | 12 gates | 10 gates |
| Baggage Fees | $30/checked beyond free fee | $30/checked beyond free | $30/checked beyond free |
| In‑flight wifi | Basic free (async) | Free on some | Wi‑Fi purchased |
Frontier sits at the budget end, though its 2024 fare bundles try to level the playing field for frequent flyers on a budget. Southwest outranks airlines on in‑flight entertainment and seat comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Are Frontier TSA PreCheck compatible? | Yes, Frontier sells TSA PreCheck for an additional fee; travelers must sign up ahead of travel. |
| Can I choose a seat on Frontier flights? | You can select a seat if you purchase it; otherwise you’re assigned upon boarding. |
| What are the best early‑morning flight times for Frontier? | Most early flights depart from Terminal B at 5:30‑6:45 AM for Chicago, Dallas, Las Cruces. |
| Do I need a separate key to open my gate if I go to a different terminal? | Keys are not required; gates have automated door systems. |
Conclusion
The Frontier Airlines terminal at McCarran offers a no‑fuss, low‑fare experience that may be ideal if your travel priorities are cost and convenience over luxury. With multiple gates across both terminals, early check‑in, and a clear layout, you can navigate the airport smoothly.
- Plan ahead for check‑ins and baggage fees.
- Leverage the free Wi‑Fi if you can handle bandwidth limits.
- Book transportation in advance via rideshare for time‑saving.
Ultimately, the freedom Frontier offers is priceless—particularly when you’re flying to hotels that are 5 minutes away from their gaming floors. This knowledge ensures your trip begins on the right foot—cheap, swift, and hassle‑free.
Credible Sources
- McCarran International Airport Official Website – https://www.mccarran.com/
- Frontier Airlines – Baggage & Fees – https://www.flyfrontier.com/fees
- SITA – Airport Accessibility Guide – https://www.sita.aero/airport-accessibility
- TSA – Security & TSA PreCheck – https://www.tsa.gov/airport/airport-guide/mcarran
- TravelPulse: Frontier Fare Bundles 2024 – https://www.travelpulse.com/articles/fare-turns/
