Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) is the main airport for Las Vegas. It used to be called McCarran International Airport. If you’re flying Southwest, the biggest time-saver is knowing the right terminal, where to check in, and how to find your gate fast.
Southwest Airlines flies from Terminal 1 at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas. Check in and drop bags in Terminal 1, then go through security to reach the Southwest gates. Gate numbers can change, so confirm your gate on the airport screens and in the Southwest app.
Key takeaways
- Southwest uses Terminal 1 at LAS.
- Most Southwest flights use Concourse C (and some B gates) in Terminal 1.
- Southwest checked-bag rules changed in 2025 for many fares—double-check your booking.
- Assigned seating starts for flights on/after January 27, 2026.
- A free shuttle connects Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.
Southwest terminal and gates at LAS
Southwest Airlines operates out of Terminal 1 at Harry Reid International Airport. Southwest check-in and baggage claim are in Terminal 1. You can confirm the latest airline/terminal list on the airport’s official airlines by terminal page.
After security, Southwest flights usually depart from the C gates and sometimes the B gates in Terminal 1. Always check your gate on the airport departure boards, since gates can change.
Check-in and bags
Most travelers check in on the Southwest app or website. At the airport, use kiosks or the staffed counters in Terminal 1 for bag tags and bag drop.
Bag fees: For many reservations booked (or voluntarily changed) on or after May 28, 2025, checked-bag fees may apply. As of 2026-01-06, Southwest has said standard fees for many fares are $35 for a first checked bag and $45 for a second checked bag, with exceptions based on fare and status. Review Southwest’s checked baggage policy before you travel.
Boarding and seating in 2026
Southwest is changing how seating works. Flights departing on or after January 27, 2026 use assigned seats and a new boarding-group setup. Flights before that date may still use the traditional boarding-position style. Follow the instructions on your boarding pass.
Food, shopping, and seating
Terminal 1 has plenty of food and coffee options, plus shops for snacks and travel items. There are also seating areas, charging spots, and Wi-Fi. Walk to your gate area first, then grab food nearby so you’re close if your gate changes.
Shuttle between Terminal 1 and Terminal 3
Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 are separate buildings. If you need to switch terminals, use the airport’s courtesy shuttle bus. It usually runs every 20–30 minutes. See the airport’s inter-terminal shuttle instructions for pickup locations.
Quick tips for travel day
- Arrive early (many travelers plan about 2 hours for domestic and 3 hours for international flights).
- Confirm your gate on the airport screens and in the Southwest app.
- Know your bag allowance before you get in line.
- If you travel on/after January 27, 2026, expect assigned seats and a new boarding flow.
Short history notes
Southwest launched service to Las Vegas on January 31, 1982. The airport’s name was officially changed from McCarran International Airport to Harry Reid International Airport in 2021.
FAQs
What terminal is Southwest Airlines at Las Vegas Airport?
Southwest Airlines operates from Terminal 1 at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas.
Which gates does Southwest use at LAS?
Southwest usually uses Terminal 1’s C gates and some B gates. Your exact gate can change, so check the airport departure boards and your Southwest app.
Does Southwest still offer free checked bags?
It depends on your booking date, fare, and status. For many reservations booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025, checked-bag fees may apply.
Is Southwest open seating still used in 2026?
Assigned seating begins for flights on or after January 27, 2026. Flights before that date may still use the earlier open-seating-style process.
Is there a shuttle between Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 at LAS?
Yes. LAS runs a courtesy shuttle bus between Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, with service about every 20–30 minutes.