TSA Wait Times at Columbia Regional Airport (COU)
COU airport does not have family-friendly "Families on the Fly" lanes yet.
COU airport no longer requires taking shoes off at TSA.
Plan ahead and minimize your wait at Columbia Regional Airport security checkpoints. The data below shows historical maximum wait times by day and hour to help you choose the best time to arrive.
Peak Wait Time
14 min
Fridays at 10 AM
Best Times to Go
Under 5 minutes
18 time slots with minimal wait
Morning Wait Times (AM)
| Hour | Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 AM | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| 1 AM | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| 2 AM | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| 3 AM | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| 4 AM | 8m | 5m | 7m | 7m | 8m | 8m | 7m |
| 5 AM | 8m | 6m | 8m | 8m | 8m | 7m | 9m |
| 6 AM | 9m | 9m | 9m | 9m | 9m | 9m | 9m |
| 7 AM | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| 8 AM | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| 9 AM | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| 10 AM | 9m | 9m | 9m | 12m | 14m | 5m | 12m |
| 11 AM | 8m | 8m | 8m | 9m | 14m | 9m | 14m |
Afternoon & Evening Wait Times (PM)
| Hour | Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 PM | 2m | - | 6m | 4m | 9m | 3m | - |
| 1 PM | - | - | 1m | - | 5m | - | - |
| 2 PM | - | - | - | - | 1m | - | - |
| 3 PM | 6m | 8m | 10m | 10m | 12m | 9m | 12m |
| 4 PM | 3m | 5m | 5m | 5m | 10m | 3m | 7m |
| 5 PM | 5m | 6m | 6m | 8m | 7m | 4m | 9m |
| 6 PM | - | - | - | - | - | 2m | - |
| 7 PM | - | - | - | - | - | - | 4m |
| 8 PM | - | - | - | - | - | - | 1m |
| 9 PM | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| 10 PM | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| 11 PM | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
Wait Time Legend
Tips for COU Security
- Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights
- Consider TSA PreCheck or CLEAR for expedited screening
- Check peak times above and plan to arrive during lower-traffic periods when possible
- Have your ID and boarding pass ready before reaching the checkpoint
- Remove laptops and liquids from bags if you don't have TSA PreCheck
COU TSA Wait Times FAQ
How long are TSA wait times at Columbia Regional Airport?
TSA wait times at COU vary by day and time. Peak waits can reach 14 minutes on Fridays around 10 AM. The best times to go through security are early morning or late evening, with 18 time slots showing waits under 5 minutes.
What is the best time to go through security at COU?
The best times to go through TSA security at COU are typically early morning (before 6 AM) and late evening. Our data shows 18 time slots with wait times under 5 minutes. Avoid Fridays around 10 AM when waits are longest.
Should I get TSA PreCheck for COU?
TSA PreCheck can significantly reduce your wait time at Columbia Regional Airport. PreCheck members enjoy expedited screening with shorter lines, and don't need to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, or light jackets. If you fly more than twice a year, the $78 fee (valid for 5 years) is usually worth it.
How early should I arrive at COU airport?
For domestic flights at Columbia Regional Airport, arrive at least 2 hours before departure. For international flights, arrive 3 hours early. Check the wait time data above to plan around busy periods.