Harry Reid International Airport Overview

Harry Reid International Airport (IATA: LAS, ICAO: KLAS) is the main public international airport serving Las Vegas, Nevada. Situated just 8 kilometres (5 miles) south of downtown Las Vegas, it is the gateway to one of the world’s most famous entertainment and tourism destinations. Formerly known as McCarran International Airport, LAS is a significant hub for domestic and international traffic, supporting commercial, charter, cargo, and general aviation operations.

General Information

  • Location: Paradise, Nevada (serving Las Vegas)
  • Country: United States
  • Airport Type: Public, International
  • IATA Code: LAS
  • ICAO Code: KLAS
  • Elevation: 2,181 feet (665 metres)
  • Coordinates: 36°04′48″N 115°09′06″W
  • Timezone: UTC−8 (Pacific Standard Time) / UTC−7 (Daylight Saving Time)
  • Distance from City Centre: Approx. 8 km (5 miles) south of Las Vegas Strip
  • Website: www.harryreidairport.com
  • Operator: Clark County Department of Aviation
  • Services: Scheduled domestic and international flights, charter, business aviation, and cargo

Airport Details

  • Runways: 4
  • Runway Designations and Lengths:
    • 01L/19R: 2,739 m (8,953 ft) – Asphalt
    • 01R/19L: 2,740 m (8,970 ft) – Asphalt
    • 08L/26R: 4,423 m (14,511 ft) – Concrete
    • 08R/26L: 2,745 m (9,008 ft) – Concrete
  • Runway Surfaces: Asphalt and concrete
  • Runway Strength: Capable of supporting all aircraft types, including Code F (e.g. A380)
  • Fire Services: ARFF Category 10
  • Tower Frequency: Available
  • Ground Frequency: Available
  • Navigation Aids: ILS, VOR/DME, RNAV, GPS
  • Customs and Immigration: Full U.S. CBP facility available 24/7
  • Aircraft Types: Commercial, private jets, cargo aircraft, and military flights
  • Terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 (international flights handled at T3)
  • Cargo Facilities: FedEx, UPS, DHL, and Amazon Air operate from dedicated cargo areas
  • Fuel: JET A, AVGAS
  • FBOs: Signature Flight Support, Atlantic Aviation, Henderson Executive Airport (alternative GA option)
  • Equipment: GPU, hangars, de-icing (rare), potable water, lavatory, maintenance
  • Ground Services: Full commercial and business aviation handling

Flight Operations

  • Permit Time: 24–48 hours for international GA arrivals; CBP coordination required
  • Permission Required: Yes, for international and non-scheduled operations
  • Slots: Not required
  • Aircraft Types: All aircraft types supported
  • Alternate Airports:
    • VGT: North Las Vegas Airport (GA only)
    • HND: Henderson Executive Airport (VIP and GA-focused)

Contact Information

Passenger Information

  • Immigration Requirements: A Passport and a visa or ESTA are required for most international arrivals
  • Crew Requirements: Passport, crew licence/ID, visa or ESTA as applicable
  • Transport Options: Taxis, Uber/Lyft, hotel shuttles, car hire, RTC buses
  • Nearby Accommodation:
    • Near Airport: Hyatt Place Las Vegas, La Quinta, Best Western McCarran Inn
    • Las Vegas Strip: Bellagio, Caesars Palace, Wynn, Venetian
  • Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD); all major debit and credit cards accepted

Local Attractions

Las Vegas Strip

Home to iconic casinos, luxury hotels, world-class restaurants, and live entertainment.

Red Rock Canyon

A national conservation area offering scenic drives, hiking, and climbing just west of the city.

Fremont Street Experience

Historic downtown entertainment district with LED canopy, live music, and street performers.

Hoover Dam

Famous engineering landmark on the Nevada–Arizona border, about 45 45-minute drive away.

Lake Mead

A vast reservoir perfect for boating, fishing, and water sports.

Travel Tips

  • Best Times to Visit:
    • Spring (Mar–May) and Autumn (Sep–Nov): Ideal temperatures for exploring
    • Winter: Great for avoiding peak tourism and convention crowds
  • Additional Notes:
    • CBP clearance for private flights is best arranged through Signature or Atlantic FBO
    • High volume of business and charter flights during conventions—book early
    • LAS is 24/7 and rarely affected by weather-related delays
    • Henderson Executive Airport is a popular alternative for private and VIP operations

Harry Reid International Airport combines high-capacity operations with premium handling and fast access to Las Vegas. Whether arriving for business, leisure, or a high-profile event, LAS is a leading destination for scheduled and private aviation.