How long does security take at Arlanda?
Why there is no standard time, where to see live queues and how to move faster.
Short answer
Swedavia gives no fixed time for security at Arlanda, because the waiting times shown on its website and app are live and can change quickly. Check the live wait time before you leave and follow Swedavia's general advice to arrive two to two and a half hours before a flight within Europe.
Why
- Swedavia says the security wait times on its website and in its app are real time.
- According to Swedavia, being prepared at the checkpoint, for example by removing outerwear and emptying pockets, makes the process faster for you and other travellers.
- Swedavia says Terminal 5 lets you keep liquids in hand baggage in containers of up to 100 ml, with no one-litre bag needed, while Terminal 2 still asks for liquids in a one-litre bag.
Details
Swedavia says Fast Track is the quickest way through security and is bought through your airline. In Terminal 5 it is beyond the main checkpoint at the far end of the departures hall, and in Terminal 2 it is a separate lane next to the regular one. If you buy liquids in a duty free shop, see how duty free works when flying out of Sweden; for the whole airport, see Arlanda and its alternatives.
Tip
Prepare before you reach the queue: take off outerwear, empty your pockets and have liquids and electronics ready, which Swedavia says speeds things up.
What may differ
Queues vary by terminal and time of day, and Swedavia says mornings are generally busier. Security is open 04:30–21:00 in Terminal 2 and 03:45–22:00 in Terminal 5.
Common misconception
The wait time shown on Swedavia's website can be used to plan when to leave home.
What actually happens
Swedavia answers no to this question on its own security page: the times shown online are real time and can change quickly.
People also ask
- How long does security take at Arlanda Airport?
- How long are the security queues at Arlanda?
Sources
- Swedavia: Frequently asked questions before your journeyChecked at:
- Swedavia: Security control at ArlandaChecked at:
- Swedavia: Security control (English page)Checked at:
This answer is for reference only. Rules can change, so check Swedavia before you travel.
Arlanda and alternativesRelated questions
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Do you get compensation for a delayed Snälltåget train?
Yes, Snälltåget pays 25% of the ticket price if you arrive 60 to 119 minutes late and 50% if you arrive 120 minutes or more late.
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Where does Viking Line leave from in Stockholm?
Viking Line ferries leave from the Stadsgården terminal in Stockholm, at Tegelvikshamn, SE-11630 Stockholm, according to Ports of Stockholm and Viking Line.
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What is the 'försalong' on Destination Gotland?
On Destination Gotland, the försalong is a lounge with reclining seats where films are shown on monitors during the crossing.
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Is the Arlanda Express included in an SAS ticket?
Arlanda Express sells its own train tickets, and its price list, its ticket terms and Swedavia's train page mention no SAS or other airline ticket that includes the ride.