Among the world's busiest airports, Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) holds a distinctive position. As the primary aviation gateway to Las Vegas, Nevada, it operates under the IATA code LAS and ICAO designation KLAS . Situated at an elevation of 2,181 feet, its geographic coordinates (36° 4' 48.20" N, 115° 9' 8.10" W) place it uniquely within the Mojave Desert landscape.
More than just a transit point, LAS serves as a critical nexus in global air travel. The airport facilitates thousands of daily flights, connecting passengers from every continent. Whether travelers arrive for business conventions, leisure pursuits, or personal visits, the facility accommodates diverse itineraries with operational precision.
The airport's infrastructure reflects its strategic importance. Modern terminals equipped with advanced navigation systems ensure efficient passenger processing, while its air traffic control tower manages one of North America's most complex flight patterns. The 24/7 operational model caters to Las Vegas's around-the-clock tourism economy.
Aviation analysts note that LAS occupies a special position in transportation studies. Its geographic location creates unique atmospheric conditions for flight operations, while its single-runway configuration (supplemented by parallel taxiways) presents interesting case studies in high-capacity management. The facility's growth mirrors Southern Nevada's economic expansion, having evolved from a regional airfield to an international travel hub.
For transportation researchers and industry professionals, Harry Reid International Airport offers valuable insights into high-volume airport operations, passenger flow dynamics, and the interplay between aviation infrastructure and tourism economies. Its continued development remains closely watched by aviation authorities worldwide.