Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) serves over 4 million passengers annually. Winter weather impacts both flight operations and the roads leading to the terminal at 2001 East Plumb Lane. Delays at the airport often correlate with heavy traffic and hazardous road conditions in the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains.
Before Leaving for the Airport
Check flight status directly with the airline before departing. Weather across the nation impacts flight schedules at RNO. If driving from the mountains or the Lake Tahoe basin, verify road status immediately. Mountain passes often implement chain controls that significantly increase travel time.
Cameras on the primary route to Reno-Tahoe International Airport.
If traveling from the west, check I-80 road conditions for closures or chain requirements. Travelers coming from the south should review US-395 road conditions before departure. If approaching from Incline Village, monitor SR-431 Mt Rose road conditions for potential closures. For local conditions within the city, refer to Reno city cameras road conditions.
Airport Arrival and Security
Passengers are encouraged to arrive at least 90 minutes prior to scheduled domestic departures. International flights require two hours. This time allows for parking, airline check-in, and security screening.
At the security checkpoint, empty pockets, remove shoes, and remove jewelry. TSA requires removing electronic devices larger than a cell phone—including laptops, tablets, and handheld game consoles—from carry-on bags. Place these items in a bin with nothing on or under them. The TSA 3-1-1 rule applies to carry-on liquids, gels, and aerosols: these must be in a one-quart plastic baggie, one baggie per customer, placed in its own bin.
Airport parking areas may reach capacity during peak travel periods. Airport staff may open or close overflow parking areas based on demand. Watch for signage and follow the airport on social media for updates regarding vehicle traffic and parking availability.
Winter Driving Requirements
Caltrans manages mountain pass closures and chain controls. When chain controls are established, signs indicate the required level:
- Requirement 1 (R-1): Chains are required on all vehicles except passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks under 6,000 pounds gross weight equipped with snow tires on at least two drive wheels. Vehicles using snow tires must still carry chains.
- Requirement 2 (R-2): Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles except four-wheel/all-wheel drive vehicles with snow-tread tires on all four wheels. Four-wheel/all-wheel drive vehicles must still carry traction devices.
- Requirement 3 (R-3): Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles. No exceptions.
Chains must be installed on the drive wheels. If utilizing a professional chain installer, request a receipt and note the installer's badge number. Installers are independent business people and are not permitted to sell or rent chains.
If travel is delayed by weather, keep the gas tank full. If stalled, stay with the vehicle to conserve fuel and maintain warmth, but remain alert to potential exhaust or carbon monoxide issues. Carry an ice scraper, a snow brush, and a shovel to clear the vehicle. Keep warm blankets, extra clothing, food, and water inside the car.
Caltrans Highway Information Network (CHIN) provides updated road conditions at 800-427-7623. Caltrans QuickMap also provides real-time traffic, lane closures, and chain control information.