Memphis International Airport (MEM)

Common Complaints

• Excessive Security Wait Times (Peak Hours): This is a major and frequent complaint, with reports of extremely long lines (sometimes 3+ hours) during early mornings, holidays, and peak travel days, leading to missed flights. TSA understaffing is often cited as a cause, and TSA PreCheck lines are not always open or can also experience significant delays.
• Limited Overnight Services and Terminal Closure: The airside concourse closes overnight (from the latest flight until 3 AM), requiring passengers with early morning flights or delays to re-clear security. There are no 24-hour dining options, and comfortable sleeping arrangements are limited, leading to uncomfortable overnight experiences for some travelers.
• Parking Capacity and Signage Issues: While parking is generally affordable, the garages can reach capacity during peak times, and real-time space availability signs may be inaccurate. Some travelers find the initial navigation to parking confusing.
• Lack of Direct International Flights and Lounge Options: Some travelers express disappointment over the reduction in direct international flight routes and the limited availability of premium lounges, with only a Delta Sky Club available for day passes or members, and no Priority Pass lounge mentioned in recent reviews.

Overall, Memphis International Airport has made significant strides in modernizing its facilities, offering a generally clean and traveler-friendly environment. However, passengers should be acutely aware of potential long security wait times during peak hours, and it is highly recommended to arrive a minimum of two hours early for scheduled departures, especially for morning flights, to avoid missing flights.