The leftmost lane's blockage starts farthest; then the second-to-the-left lane, and the rightmost lanes are always fastest. How come? The conclusion it seems, does not require deep understanding of traffic theory: more cars arrive through fast lanes than through the slow lanes; more cars means more congestion.

In a general airport security setting, the "fastest" lane is typically the one designated for TSA PreCheck or Priority/Fast Track members, as these travelers have been pre-vetted and do not need to remove shoes, laptops, or liquids, which speeds up the physical screening process significantly. However, if you are stuck in standard lines, there are several "pro-tips" to identify the quickest route: lanes to the far left or far right are often less crowded because humans tend to gravitate toward the center. Furthermore, look for lanes populated by solo business travelers rather than families with small children; business travelers are typically more experienced with the "security theater," have their electronics ready, and move through the metal detectors with much higher efficiency. Avoid lanes with strollers or large groups, as these often require manual inspections and multiple passes through the X-ray machine. Ultimately, while dedicated priority lanes are the only "guaranteed" way to save time, choosing a lane with seasoned travelers can make a substantial difference in your wait time.