Las Vegas is a city known for reinvention, and its main gateway is no exception. In December 2021, McCarran International Airport officially adopted a new identity as Harry Reid International Airport (LAS). The renaming was more than a cosmetic change—it reflected shifting values, political debates, and an effort to align Nevada’s busiest airport with a figure more representative of its modern history.
For travelers, though, the first question was simpler: Does this change affect my trip? The answer is mostly no, but the backstory, timeline, and practical details are worth knowing. This guide explains what changed, when, and why, and what you should expect the next time you fly through Las Vegas.
Quick Facts About the Name Change
Before diving into the history and controversies, here are the essential details:
Old vs. New Name (At a Glance)
| Detail | Before (McCarran) | After (Harry Reid International) |
| Official Name | McCarran International Airport | Harry Reid International Airport |
| IATA Code | LAS | LAS (unchanged) |
| ICAO Code | KLAS | KLAS (unchanged) |
| Date of Renaming | — | December 14, 2021 |
| Naming Authority | — | Clark County Commission |
Date of the Official Change
The official rebranding took place on December 14, 2021, marked by a ceremony with Reid’s family, local officials, and community leaders. Although the vote to rename happened earlier in the year, the dedication event symbolized the airport’s transition into its new identity.
Who Authorized the Change
The decision came from the Clark County Commission, which oversees the airport. In February 2021, commissioners voted unanimously to rename the facility in honor of Senator Harry Reid.
Airport Codes Remained the Same
Travelers sometimes assume a name change affects booking codes. In this case, the airport’s IATA code (LAS) and ICAO code (KLAS) remained unchanged. Airlines, TSA, and flight systems continue to use “LAS” in all tickets and boarding passes.
Timeline of Events
The process of renaming an airport is never as simple as swapping out signs. It requires votes, federal approval, logistical planning, and months of implementation. Below is a clear timeline of how McCarran became Harry Reid International.
Early Discussions (2017–2020)
For years, critics had called attention to the legacy of Senator Pat McCarran, after whom the airport had been named since 1948. McCarran had supported aviation in Nevada but was also known for xenophobic and anti-Semitic positions. Activists and politicians argued the airport should represent a figure more consistent with Nevada’s present-day values.
Clark County Commission Vote (Feb 16, 2021)
The turning point came when the Clark County Commission voted 7–0 in favor of renaming the airport after Harry Reid, Nevada’s longest-serving U.S. senator and former Senate Majority Leader. The vote also set the wheels in motion for funding and coordination with the FAA.
FAA Notification & Chart Updates
Shortly after the county’s decision, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) updated its charts and official documentation to reflect the new name. Aviation outlets noted this as the first tangible sign of the change, even before travelers saw new signage.
Dedication Ceremony (Dec 14, 2021)
The official ceremony took place in December, with Reid’s family present. Then-Governor Steve Sisolak and Clark County officials spoke at the event, emphasizing Reid’s influence on Nevada’s growth.
This ceremony is often cited as the airport’s “official birthday” under its new name.
Signage Rollout (2021–2024)
Changing the name of an airport is expensive and time-consuming. Highway signs, terminal signage, wayfinding systems, and even digital maps all required updates. By 2023, many travelers noticed mixed references—while airport announcements used “Harry Reid International,” some physical signs and apps still displayed “McCarran.”
Current Status (2025)
Today, almost all official signage reflects the Harry Reid International brand. Still, occasional outdated references remain, particularly in older travel guides, GPS systems, or archived documents. For most travelers, however, “Harry Reid International” is now the only name they’ll see.
Why Was McCarran Renamed?
Legacy of Pat McCarran
Pat McCarran, a Nevada senator from 1933 to 1954, was once celebrated as a champion of aviation. His name was attached to the airport as recognition of his efforts to develop Nevada’s aviation infrastructure.
But McCarran’s legacy also carried a darker side: historians have documented his role in anti-immigrant legislation and open hostility toward Jewish refugees. Critics argued that continuing to honor him contradicted Nevada’s image as a welcoming, diverse destination.
Why Honor Harry Reid
Harry Reid, who served Nevada for more than three decades, including as Senate Majority Leader, represented a more modern and widely respected figure. Known for his role in passing landmark legislation and his influence in shaping Nevada’s political landscape, Reid was seen as an appropriate namesake for the state’s busiest travel hub.
Public Debate & Reactions
The renaming was not without controversy. Supporters praised the move as overdue recognition for Reid, while critics argued that changing an airport name erases history and costs millions in signage. Others questioned whether airports should be named after political figures at all.
Despite criticism, the measure passed unanimously, reflecting strong political consensus in Clark County.
Broader Context
Airport renamings are not unique to Las Vegas. Washington National Airport, for example, was renamed Ronald Reagan Washington National in 1998. These changes often spark similar debates about legacy, cost, and identity.
What This Means for Travelers
The most pressing question for visitors was simple: Would this change affect their trip?
The short answer is no—but a few practical notes are worth knowing.
Tickets & Reservations
If you booked a flight before or after the change, your reservation was never affected. Airlines automatically updated their systems, and tickets have always used the code “LAS.”
Flight Codes & Apps
The airport code remains LAS, so nothing changed in flight tracking apps, airline booking engines, or TSA documents.
Airport Signage & Wayfinding
Travelers arriving in 2022 and 2023 often noticed a mix of signs—some still bearing “McCarran.” As of 2025, signage across terminals, baggage claim, and roadways has been updated, although occasional exceptions exist.
Rideshare, Taxi, and Shuttle Apps
Google Maps, Uber, and Lyft updated their systems within months of the official renaming. If you type “McCarran Airport” today, it redirects to Harry Reid International.
Parking & Rental Cars
The rental car facility and parking garages transitioned signage more slowly, but all references now match the new name.
Loyalty Programs & Airline Partnerships
Frequent flyer programs and credit card travel portals were unaffected. The name change did not impact miles, points, or loyalty benefits.
Funding and Cost Breakdown
Initial Funding
Renaming came with a price tag of roughly $4.2 million, which was pledged by private donors. This helped ease concerns that taxpayer money would be used during a period of economic recovery.
What the Money Paid For
The funds covered the replacement of highway signs, terminal signage, digital rebranding, and legal paperwork. Large-scale projects, like re-labeling every baggage cart or updating internal systems, were phased in over time.
Transparency Questions
Although officials pledged private funding, critics noted that not all costs could be fully captured—maintenance budgets and future sign updates might still involve public funds. Full breakdowns have not been consistently published.
Comparisons with Other Airports
Compared to renaming projects in Washington D.C. or Houston, the Las Vegas transition was relatively swift and moderately priced. However, the $4.2M cost remains a significant investment for largely symbolic change.
Local & National Reactions
Supportive Voices
Supporters framed the change as both symbolic and practical: aligning Las Vegas with a leader whose political career shaped modern Nevada. Reid’s family attended the ceremony, calling it a fitting tribute.
Criticism and Opposition
Opponents argued that airport names should remain apolitical. Others noted the cost—millions of dollars—at a time when Nevada faced other pressing challenges.
Passenger Awareness
Many travelers arriving in 2022 were confused by lingering “McCarran” references on signs and in conversations. For a transitional period, both names coexisted, leading to occasional miscommunication. Today, confusion has largely faded.
Harry Reid International Airport Today (2025 Snapshot)
Passenger Traffic & Global Ranking
Harry Reid International serves over 57 million passengers annually, placing it among the top ten busiest airports in the United States.
Airlines & Terminals
- Terminal 1: Domestic flights for major U.S. carriers (Southwest, Delta, American).
- Terminal 3: International flights and select domestic carriers.
Economic & Tourism Role
As the gateway to Las Vegas, the airport is critical to Nevada’s tourism industry. Conventions, major sports events, and the booming entertainment scene all depend on LAS.
Future Plans
Officials continue to explore expansion projects, including additional gates and infrastructure improvements. Sustainability measures, like expanded solar facilities, are also in progress.
Practical Guide for Travelers
To make this guide more useful than a standard news story, here are practical details for planning your next trip.
Getting to the Airport
Harry Reid International is only a few miles from the Las Vegas Strip. Highway access is straightforward, and rideshare pick-up points are clearly marked.
Terminals Overview
- Terminal 1: Older, busier, and connected to most domestic carriers.
- Terminal 3: Sleeker, with international gates and modern amenities.
Security & TSA PreCheck
Wait times can spike during weekends or major events. TSA PreCheck and CLEAR lanes are available, and international travelers should plan extra time.
Amenities & Lounges
LAS is famous for slot machines scattered throughout its concourses. Beyond that, travelers will find lounges (Centurion Lounge, airline clubs), diverse dining, and plenty of shopping.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
- The airport is close to the Strip—10–15 minutes by car.
- Expect crowds during convention season (CES, NAB, etc.).
- Don’t be surprised if your first impression of Las Vegas is the sound of slot machines near your gate.
FAQ
Why did McCarran Airport change its name?
To move away from honoring Senator Pat McCarran, whose legacy included racist and anti-immigrant views, and to recognize Harry Reid’s contributions to Nevada.
When was the renaming official?
December 14, 2021.
Do I need to change my flight ticket?
No, all tickets remained valid under LAS.
Did the airport code change?
No, LAS and KLAS are unchanged.
Who paid for the renaming?
Private donors pledged $4.2M, though some ongoing costs may use public funds.
Are there still McCarran signs?
Some lingered until 2023–2024, but the majority are now updated.
Is LAS one of the busiest airports in the U.S.?
Yes, handling over 57 million passengers annually.
Can I still type McCarran into Google Maps?
Yes, it redirects automatically to Harry Reid International.
Sources & Further Reading
- Official Clark County Commission press releases
- FAA chart updates
- Las Vegas Review-Journal coverage
- The Nevada Independent
- Travel + Leisure
- Wikipedia (for historical background)
