New York, NY – If you’ve traveled internationally into the United States, you’ve likely found yourself dreading that slow crawl through customs. We’ve all been there—standing in line after a long flight, checking our phones for the latest wait times, wondering if this process could move any slower. With millions of travelers passing through the gates of major U.S. airports each year, the question remains: which airports are the worst offenders for long customs lines?
Well, let’s not rely on vague perceptions—let’s dig into the data and offer some real insights. After looking at trends, we consulted ChatGPT to identify the five U.S. airports notorious for sluggish customs lines, using both historical data and current user feedback. We also uncovered strategies to help you navigate those long waits.
The Top 5 U.S. Airports With the Longest Customs Wait Times in 2024
Before jumping into our list, it’s important to remember that these wait times vary—often dramatically—depending on the time of day, season, and the number of international flights arriving. However, some airports consistently show up on top (or rather, the bottom) of the list when it comes to slow-moving customs lines.
- Miami International Airport (MIA)
As a major hub for Latin American travelers, Miami’s customs area is one of the busiest, with long lines regularly reported by travelers. If you’re coming from or going to South America, brace yourself for the wait. - Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
LAX is a global gateway, and its customs area often experiences congestion, especially during peak travel hours. Despite having more CBP officers on hand, the sheer volume of travelers passing through LAX means you’ll likely spend some extra time here. - John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
A key point of entry for flights from Europe, Asia, and beyond, JFK sees frequent delays at customs. And if you’re arriving during rush hour, prepare for some serious line time. - Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
Located near New York City, Newark is often overshadowed by JFK but faces similar challenges. Travelers report long customs waits that can feel particularly frustrating after a long international flight. - Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
As one of the largest airports in the U.S., DFW’s customs lines can get backed up during peak travel periods. While DFW has made strides in efficiency, there are still times when waits stretch out longer than expected.
Why Customs Wait Times Vary—and What You Can Do About It
The big takeaway here? No airport is inherently fast or slow—it all depends on a variety of factors. You might fly into Miami on a quiet Tuesday morning and breeze through customs in 20 minutes. But on a busy holiday weekend, that same airport could have you waiting in line for over an hour.
The good news? There are ways to take control of the situation. Here’s how to beat the system—or at least minimize your frustration:
- Download the CBP One App: This app gives real-time updates on customs wait times, so you can prepare yourself mentally and even adjust your travel plans if necessary.
- Consider Enrollment in Global Entry: If you’re a frequent traveler, Global Entry can significantly reduce your wait time. It’s an investment upfront, but it’ll pay off in the long run, especially at these notoriously slow airports.
- Time Your Arrival: Look into when your flight is scheduled to land. If you can, avoid arriving during peak hours. For example, flights that arrive between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. tend to experience the longest customs wait times.
Is Bigger Always Slower? The Exception of Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport
Interestingly, the busiest airport in the U.S. doesn’t have the longest customs lines. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) handles over 100 million passengers annually, yet its customs processing times are relatively smooth. Why? For one, the airport’s infrastructure is designed to handle high volumes of traffic, and it benefits from a larger, well-staffed customs area.
This challenges the common assumption that the busiest airports will naturally have the longest waits. Atlanta’s efficient customs process demonstrates that while airport size matters, smart management and ample staffing can make a big difference.
The Bottom Line: Navigating Airport Customs in 2024
Long customs lines are a hassle, but they’re not entirely unpredictable. By being strategic—choosing when to fly, utilizing tools like CBP One, and investing in programs like Global Entry—you can make the process smoother and less stressful.
Whether you’re flying into Miami, LAX, JFK, or another major U.S. hub, remember that these wait times fluctuate. But with a little planning, you can navigate customs like a pro and get to where you need to be faster.
