Fast Track vs. Standard Security: How Much Time Can You Really Save?

When travelling through an airport, one of the biggest concerns for passengers is how long it will take to clear security. On average, fast track security can save travellers between 15 and 30 minutes compared with standard security, although the exact time depends on the airport and time of travel. 

For families, those with connecting flights, or passengers who prefer a smoother journey, a fast track airport service can provide meaningful benefits beyond time savings, including reduced stress and greater certainty before departure.

1. Reduced stress and uncertainty

One of the most valuable advantages of fast track airport security is the reassurance it offers. Standard security queues can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours. Fast Track access provides a more consistent and reliable experience, allowing passengers to begin their journey with less stress and fewer delays.

2. Shorter and less crowded queues

Fast track lanes are usually less congested, making the process more efficient. This is particularly useful for travellers who may be unfamiliar with airport procedures or who want to avoid long waiting times in crowded areas. A smoother transition through security allows passengers to focus on the rest of their journey with greater peace of mind.

3. Access to additional services with Dragonpass

Beyond reduced waiting times, Dragonpass members can combine Fast Track access with other premium services such as entry to airport lounges. This combination allows travellers to maximise their time at the airport, moving seamlessly from an efficient security process into a more comfortable pre-flight environment with food, drinks, and quiet space.

Security waiting times vary widely across airports, and the busiest international hubs often experience the longest queues. Here are the busiest airports that members can use a Dragonpass Fast Track with to save time during airport security:

• Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas (MAD) Standard security wait time of 25 minutes. Estimated saving: 10-15 minutes during busy periods. (Fast Track likely reduces queue time by about 40-60%).

• Singapore Changi (SIN) Standard security wait time of 15 minutes. During busy periods, it is around 54 minutes. Estimated saving: 10-20 minutes when the queue is heavy.

• London Gatwick (LGW) Standard security wait time of 10-16 minutes under usual conditions. Estimated saving: 5-8 minutes under typical traffic, more during peaks.

• John F. Kennedy Intl (JFK) Standard security wait time of 15-30 minutes for standard security. During peak hours, it may go to 30-45+ minutes. Estimated saving: 5-10 minutes or 10-20+ minutes in busy periods.

• Istanbul Airport (IST) Standard security wait time of 30 minutes. Estimated saving: 15-25 minutes during busy periods. (Fast Track likely reduces queue time by about 80%).

• Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) Standard security wait time of 30 minutes. Estimated saving: 15-20 minutes at peak departure times, where the average wait time is 30 minutes.

• King Khalid International Airport (RUH) Standard security wait time of 30 minutes in moderate traffic. Estimated saving: 15-25 minutes under this type of traffic, more during peaks.

• Lester B. Pearson International Airport (YYZ) Standard security wait time of 27 minutes. During busy periods, it is around 40 minutes. Estimated saving: 15-25 minutes for standard waiting times and 30+ minutes when the queue is heavy.

• Narita International Airport (NRT)  Standard security wait time of 20-30 minutes. Estimated saving: 10-20 minutes.

Across major airports globally, standard security times typically average between 20 and 40 minutes, while fast track services can reduce the wait to fewer than 15 minutes in many locations. For travellers at large airports, this can mean a significant improvement in both time and travel experience.

The cost of fast track security varies depending on the airport. In the UK, for example, the service is generally priced between £5 and £12 per person. In some international airports, fees can be higher, particularly in premium terminals.

When compared with Dragonpass memberships, travellers benefit not only from access to fast track security but also from lounge access and other services. This makes the overall value more cost-effective, especially for frequent travellers who use airports multiple times each year.

1. Travelling with family

Families often require more time at security due to things such as strollers, liquids and children’s items. Fast Track access helps to reduce the stress of keeping everyone together in long queues, making the airport experience more manageable and positive, helping families look forward to their travels.

2. Connecting flights with limited transfer time

For passengers with tight connections, avoiding delays at airport security is critical. Using a Fast Track pass ensures a quicker transition between flights, reducing the risk of missed connections. This also alleviates added stress for flyers to ensure a smooth process and overall journey.

3. First-time or infrequent flyers

Travellers who are less familiar with the airport environment can often find long queues and busy airports overwhelming during travel days. A Fast Track pass simplifies the travel process, creating a more structured and predictable experience for nervous or unfamiliar flyers.

4. Maximising time at the terminal or lounge

Some passengers prefer to spend their time in comfortable surroundings, whether that means shopping, dining, or accessing an airport lounge. Fast Track allows them to minimise time spent in airport security queues and focus on enjoying the facilities available before boarding their flight.

Ultimately, is fast track security worth it? Yes, fast track security can reduce waiting times by an average of 15 to 30 minutes, while also offering a more reliable and less stressful airport experience. For families, business travellers and those with tight schedules, it can be a worthwhile investment. With Dragonpass, members not only gain access to fast track security but also enjoy additional benefits such as entry to premium airport lounges, making the journey more efficient and comfortable from start to finish.