A Deep Dive into Las Vegas's Airports
Las Vegas is served by a surprising number of airfields, each with a distinct purpose. From the bustling international gateway to quiet executive strips and adventure sport hubs, here’s everything you need to know.
1. Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) – The Main Gateway
Formerly known as McCarran International Airport, LAS is the primary airport for Las Vegas and the one most travelers will use. It's a massive, 24/7 operation that places you right at the heart of the action.
Perfect For: First-time visitors, budget travelers, and anyone staying on or near the Strip.
Why It's Great: Its unbeatable proximity to the Strip (just a 5-15 minute drive) and the sheer volume of flights mean intense competition among airlines. This often leads to incredible deals, with roundtrip flights from many US cities available for under $200 if you're flexible.
Airlines: A huge roster including Southwest, Spirit, Frontier, American, Delta, United, and numerous international carriers.
Terminals: LAS has two main terminals—Terminal 1 (T1) for domestic flights and Terminal 3 (T3) for international and some domestic flights. Note: The terminals are not connected post-security, so plan accordingly if you have a connecting flight. Free shuttles run between them.
Proximity to Strip: Unmatched. You can be at Mandalay Bay in 5 minutes or the Bellagio in 15.
2. Henderson Executive Airport (HSH) – For Luxury & Business
Located about 15 minutes south of the Strip, Henderson Executive is the preferred choice for private jets, corporate travel, and those seeking a discreet, crowd-free arrival. The terminal feels more like a luxury hotel lobby than an airport.
Perfect For: Private flyers, business travelers, and visitors staying in the southern part of the valley (like at M Resort or Green Valley Ranch).
Why It's Great: Zero commercial crowds, lightning-fast processing, and a premium, relaxed atmosphere. It provides quick access to attractions like the Seven Magic Mountains.
Airlines: Private charters and general aviation only. No commercial flights.
Transport: You'll need a rental car, Uber, or pre-arranged private transport as there is no public transit.
3. North Las Vegas Airport (VGT) – The Downtown & Helicopter Hub
If your base is Downtown Las Vegas or you're planning an epic helicopter tour, VGT is a fantastic alternative to the chaos of LAS. It's a general aviation airport with no commercial airline service.
Perfect For: Private pilots, helicopter tour enthusiasts, and travelers staying in Downtown Las Vegas.
Why It's Great: It's the launching point for many scenic helicopter tours over the Strip and to the Grand Canyon (from operators like Maverick and Papillon). You get all the convenience without any of the commercial passenger headaches.
Airlines: None. This airport serves private planes and flight schools.
4. Boulder City Municipal Airport (KBVU) – The Grand Canyon & Hoover Dam Gateway
For the digital nomad focused on exploring beyond the city lights, Boulder City Municipal is a strategic gem. Located about 30 minutes from the Strip, it's the closest airport to the Hoover Dam and a primary base for Grand Canyon air tours.
Perfect For: Grand Canyon explorers, Hoover Dam visitors, and anyone who wants to avoid city traffic.
Why It's Great: This is the most efficient starting point for helicopter and small plane tours to the Grand Canyon. You’ll find operators like Papillon and Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines based here. Plus, you get free parking and virtually no traffic.
Airlines: No major commercial service. Primarily scenic tour operators and private aviation.
5. St. George Regional Airport (SGU) – The Zion National Park Portal
While technically in Utah, SGU is the ultimate airport hack for outdoor-loving nomads. If Zion National Park is your main destination, flying here saves you the 2.5-hour drive from Las Vegas.
Perfect For: Zion visitors, hikers, outdoor photographers, and desert adventurers.
Why It's Great: It puts you on the doorstep of one of America's most beautiful national parks. The airport is small, modern, and incredibly efficient, with minimal crowds. You're also just 15 minutes from the stunning Snow Canyon State Park.
Airlines: Limited but convenient service from United Express, American Eagle, and Delta Connection.
6. Jean Sport Aviation Center (ØL7) – For the Thrill-Seekers
This one is for the adrenaline junkies. Located 30 minutes south of Vegas, Jean is a small airfield dedicated almost exclusively to recreational and sport aviation, most notably skydiving.
Perfect For: Skydivers, private pilots, and anyone seeking a unique thrill.
Why It's Great: It's home to Sky Dive Las Vegas, offering tandem jumps with distant views of the Las Vegas Strip. It’s an unforgettable experience with zero airport crowds.
Airlines: None. This is for skydiving operations and private sport aircraft.
7. Nellis Air Force Base (KLSV) – For Aviation Aficionados
You can't fly into Nellis, but it's a must-know location for any aviation enthusiast. This active Air Force base is home to the world-famous Thunderbirds demonstration team.
Perfect For: Military buffs, aviation fans, and airshow attendees.
Why It's Great: Nellis hosts the massive "Aviation Nation" airshow, which is free to the public and draws huge crowds. It’s a chance to see incredible military aircraft up close.
Airlines: Military operations only.
