I really like the north checkpoint, commonly referred to as the N Terminal security checkpoint or even the Alaska security checkpoint since only alaska planes use the N terminal. Sure it has its flaws but it is twice as fast as using the central checkpoint or the international checkpoint at the other end of departures. There is the TSA Pre line, where you pay a yearly fee to have a smaller line and not have to remove your shoes. There is a line between that and general boarding where they randomly select lucky souls I go through pre-check without having paid the fee. There are two general boarding lines, one of which shares TSA agents with the last line, first class. The ladies who work the first class line typically let you use it if you are running late. There are three distinct areas once inside. TSA pre gets their own section. The second section is the main one, straight behind the TSA agents that check in your boarding pass. The third is down a hallway to the right of the main security section. Do everything you can to avoid the back section because the hallway is a long line that divides into several more lines for the scanning machines. I always use the left general boarding line just in case. From there it’s an escalator and a quick train ride to the N terminal, with its own Starbucks, Burger King, bar, and bagel deli. c