Letter: McCarran could use better system for locals

Monday, March 27, 2006 | 7:23 a.m.

I read with interest the Sun's March 24 article on SpeedCheck Plus for visitors to Las Vegas who are using McCarran International Airport.

I was wondering if it had ever been discussed that a system for local residents needed to be in place. The airport has raised the parking fees to force people to park in the remote parking lot. That being said, for someone to park for more than one day, it makes it more feasible to park in the remote lot.

If you show up at the airport with baggage that has to be checked, the shuttle bus service not only drops you off on the lowest level but also on the other side of the terminal from baggage check-in. This is not too bad if you have only one bag to contend with. If you are going away for more than a few days, the chances are likely that you will have two bags and a carry-on. This is even worse if you have children with you.

It appears to me it would be a lot more convenient for the passengers if they had a check-in at the parking lot or the shuttle bus would at least drop you off at the ticket counter area.

I will have to say that it is not too bad when you return because you only need to get your bags, go downstairs and get on the shuttle bus. The shuttle bus drivers are really nice about dropping you off at your car, so returning is a far better experience.

Tom Harris, North Las Vegas