Nashville Airport (BNA) Check-in

If you haven’t visited Nashville Airport recently, you might not recognize the space. Massive upgrades have relocated ticketing counters and completely transformed how passengers access their gates. Consequently, you may feel overwhelmed by the ongoing construction and the growing crowds. However, you can relax; whether you are checking oversized gear or flying with a simple carry-on, this step-by-step guide to Nashville Airport’s check-in will help you navigate the lobby and reach your gate with total confidence.

When to Arrive at BNA (Nashville Airport)?

To ensure a seamless journey, BNA recommends arriving early to account for parking, baggage drop-off, and security lines. Use the following guidelines to plan your arrival:

For Domestic Flights: Plan to reach the airport a minimum of two hours prior to your schedule departure time.

For International Flights: Arrive at least 3 hours before your flight to allow for additional processing.

During Peak Seasons: Since holidays and summer months increase passenger volume, you should add an extra 30 minutes to these recommendations.

Nashville Airport’s Check-In and Ticketing as Per Terminal:

Nashville airport splits airline counters between the North and South Ticketing wings. Therefore, you should confirm your specific terminal wing and check the counter opening times before you arrive. By doing so, you complete the necessary prep work to bypass the stress of peak-hour crowds and ensure a smooth start to your trip.

North Ticketing Check-In at BNA Airport:

Several domestic and international airlines operate from North Ticketing, with most counters opening 2 to 3 hours before the first departure.

Airlines using North Ticketing include Aer Lingus, Air Canada, Avelo Airlines, British Airways, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, Icelandair, jetBlue, Spirit Airlines, Sun Country Airlines, United Airlines, Viva Aerobus, and WestJet.
Most of these airlines serve the T-Gates, B Concourse, or the Satellite Concourse.

Notable opening times:

Delta Air Lines opens at 3:30 a.m.
United Airlines opens at 4:15 a.m.
Several international carriers, including British Airways, Aer Lingus, Icelandair, WestJet, and Viva Aerobus, open 3 hours before departure

South Ticketing Check-In at BNA Airport:

South Ticketing mainly serves major U.S. and leisure carriers. Ticket counters at BNA Airport generally open 2 hours before the first flight, with some early morning exceptions.

Airlines using South Ticketing include Alaska Airlines, Allegiant, American Airlines, Contour Airlines, and Southwest Airlines.
These airlines operate from the C, D, T, or Satellite Concourses.

Key opening times:

American Airlines counters open at 4:00 a.m.
Southwest Airlines opens early at 3:30 a.m.

Concourses and Gate Access:

After check-in and security, passengers proceed to their assigned concourses:

T-Gates: Many international and legacy carriers
B Concourse: Delta and United
C & D Concourses: Southwest and American
Satellite Concourse: Select domestic and leisure airlines

Furthermore, always confirm your gate and flight status before heading to security, as concourse assignments may change.

Helpful Tips for a Smooth Check-In:

Here are some tips to keep in mind for a seamless check-in.

First, plan to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic departure or 3 hours before an international flight to ensure you have ample time for security.
Next, streamline your journey by using online or mobile check-in options whenever the airline makes them available.
Additionally, verify the specific opening times for your airline’s ticket counter, particularly if you have an early morning departure.
Finally, save all relevant airline contact numbers in your phone so you can quickly access assistance for any last-minute issues.

Check-in Options at Nashville Airport:

At Nashville Airport, check in via mobile apps, self-service kiosks, airline counters, or curbside. You’ll need a valid ID and boarding pass to navigate the North or South terminals and clear security.

Mobile / Online Check-in:

First, use mobile or online check-in up to 24 hours before departure. You can easily download your boarding pass on your phone. Then, simply proceed to the bag drop or security, saving time and avoiding long counter lines.

Self-Service Kiosks:

Next, visit self-service kiosks located throughout the terminal. These machines let you quickly print boarding passes and check bags using your electronic ticket. As a result, you move faster through check-in without waiting for staff assistance.

Airline Ticket Counters:

Meanwhile, airline ticket counters at BNA Airport provide full, in-person service. Located in the North Ticketing area, which opens earlier, and the South Ticketing area, staff can assist with baggage, seat changes, upgrades, and special travel needs.

Curbside Check-in:

Finally, choose curbside check-in for added convenience. Available with most airlines, this option lets you check bags right at the curb. Consequently, you enter the terminal hands-free and proceed directly to security.

Security Screening at Nashville Airport:

The TSA security checkpoints at BNA generally open daily at 3:30 a.m. CST.

TSA PreCheck®: BNA offers TSA PreCheck lanes to expedite the process. If you aren’t enrolled, the TSA PreCheck Enrollment Office is conveniently located on Level 1 (Ground Transportation Level) of the Main Terminal.

CLEAR: BNA also supports CLEAR, which uses biometrics to expedite identity verification.

REAL ID: Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification (like a passport) is needed to pass through TSA screening.

Conclusion:

While BNA continues to evolve into a major transit center, you can easily master its layout with a few simple steps. To begin, identify whether your airline operates out of the North or South wing. Furthermore, take advantage of mobile or self-service check-in options to bypass long lines at the early-opening counters. In doing so, you effectively manage the challenges of ongoing construction and peak-hour security. As a result, you ensure your journey through Nashville begins on a positive, relaxed note.

FAQs

What time do the ticket counters open at Nashville International Airport?

Most domestic airline counters, such as Southwest and Delta, open as early as 3:30 a.m. However, many international and smaller carriers typically open 2 to 3 hours before their first scheduled departure. It is always best to check your specific airline’s operating hours if you have an early morning flight.

Which ticketing wing should I use for my airline?

BNA is split into North and South Ticketing.
North Ticketing: Delta, United, JetBlue, Spirit, and most international carriers (British Airways, Air Canada, etc.).
South Ticketing: Southwest, American, Alaska, Allegiant, and Contour.

How early should I arrive for a flight at BNA?

The airport recommends arriving at least two hours and three hours early before domestic and international flights respectively. During peak travel seasons, such as summer or major holidays, consider adding an extra 30 minutes to account for longer security and bag drop lines.

Does Nashville Airport have TSA PreCheck and CLEAR?

Yes, BNA offers both TSA PreCheck lanes and CLEAR biometrics to help expedited travelers move through security faster. There is also a TSA PreCheck Enrollment Office located on Level 1 (Ground Transportation) for those looking to sign up.

When do the security checkpoints open?

TSA security checkpoints at BNA generally open daily at 3:30 a.m. CST to accommodate early morning departures.

Do I need a REAL ID to fly out of Nashville?

Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant license or another valid form of identification (such as a passport) will be required for all passengers 18 and older to pass through TSA security in the case of domestic flights.