Aerial View of Detroit Metropolitan Airport

Detroit Metropolitian Airport DTW

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Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) Guide

Explore Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), a major Delta Airlines hub and the gateway to the Midwest, serving over 30 million passengers with its 140+ gates. Our concise guide covers everything from flight updates and terminal information to parking and terminal navigation, ensuring a seamless journey. DTW also boasts a unique ExpressTram system, making it easier to move across its vast terminals. For more insights, check out the Comprehensive Airport Guide on iFly.

Detroit Metropolitan Airport, also known as DTW, has two terminals: McNamara Terminal and North Terminal. McNamara Terminal is the larger of the two with 121 gates, while North Terminal has 43 gates. Both terminals are connected by a shuttle bus service, which runs every 10 minutes.

Major airlines such as Delta, Air France, KLM, and Aeromexico operate out of McNamara Terminal, while North Terminal is used by airlines such as American, United, and Spirit.

When navigating the terminals, it's important to note that McNamara Terminal has three concourses: A, B, and C. Concourse A is primarily used by Delta, while Concourses B and C are used by other airlines. North Terminal has two levels, with the lower level used for arrivals and the upper level used for departures.

Whether you're looking for food, services, or your airline departure gate, our interactive airport map can help you easily locate what you need.

Connecting Between Terminals

At Detroit Metropolitan Airport, there are two terminals: McNamara Terminal and North Terminal. The terminals are connected by a shuttle bus service that runs 24/7 and is free of charge. The shuttle buses run every 10 minutes during peak hours and every 15 minutes during off-peak hours. The journey between terminals takes approximately 10 minutes.

If you prefer to walk, there is a pedestrian walkway that connects the two terminals. The walkway is located on the third level of the McNamara Terminal and is accessible by using the elevators or escalators. The walkway takes approximately 15 minutes to walk.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

When picking up or dropping off passengers at Detroit Metropolitan Airport, it's important to be aware of the curbside parking restrictions. Drivers are not allowed to park or leave their vehicles unattended at the curbside for any length of time. However, there are designated areas for picking up and dropping off passengers, located near both the McNamara Terminal and the North Terminal.

If you need to wait for your passenger, there are cell-phone waiting areas available at both terminals. These areas allow drivers to wait in their vehicles for free until their passenger has arrived and is ready to be picked up. Once your passenger is ready to be picked up, you can proceed to the designated pick-up area to meet them.

Parking Facilities & Options

When it comes to parking at Detroit Metropolitan Airport, there are several options available for travelers.

The airport offers both on-site parking and off-site parking options. The on-site parking facilities include multiple parking garages and surface lots located near both the McNamara Terminal and North Terminal. There are also valet parking services available for those who prefer a more convenient option.

If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking facilities are available near the airport. These facilities offer shuttle services to and from the airport, making it easy for travelers to get to their terminal without any hassle.

For those who need to wait for arriving passengers, DTW also offers cell phone waiting areas. These areas are located near both terminals and allow drivers to wait for their passengers without having to pay for parking.

Handicapped parking is available in all on-site parking facilities, with designated spaces located near elevators and shuttle stops for easy access.

Get details about DTW parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

Detroit Metropolitan Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options to help you get to your destination quickly and easily. Whether you prefer to rent a car, take a taxi, or use public transportation, the airport has you covered.

If you're interested in renting a car, you'll find several car rental agencies located at the airport, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. Each agency has its own rental counter located in the Ground Transportation Center, which is accessible from the terminal via a free shuttle service.

If you'd rather take a taxi, you'll find a taxi stand located outside of each terminal's baggage claim area. Taxis are available 24 hours a day, and fares are based on a metered system. The approximate fare to downtown Detroit is $50.

For those looking for a more affordable option, shared ride services like Uber and Lyft are also available. Pickup areas for these services are located on the lower level of the terminal, near the Ground Transportation Center. Keep in mind that some restrictions may apply, such as the number of passengers allowed per ride.

If you're traveling on a budget, you may want to consider taking public transportation. SMART buses provide service to and from the airport, with stops located on the lower level of the terminal near the Ground Transportation Center. Fares start at $2 for a one-way trip, and schedules can be found on the SMART website.

Airport Hotels

Whether you're catching an early flight, arriving late, or in transit, having a comfortable place to stay nearby is crucial. Our comprehensive guide provides a list of hotels near the airport, catering to a wide range of preferences and budgets. From luxury hotels situated within the airport terminal to comfortable inns offering complimentary shuttle services, these options ensure minimal travel time and maximum relaxation. Explore the best hotel options near the airport and find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs. Ready to book now? View all Detroit Metropolitan Airport Hotels including rates, on a map.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

Traveling through Detroit Metropolitan Airport and looking for a bite to eat or some shopping? With a wide variety of restaurants and stores, there's something for everyone. Some of the top dining options include Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant, Cat Cora's Taproom, and Anita's Kitchen. And when it comes to shopping, you can find everything from luxury brands to local souvenirs. Check out CNBC Smartshop, Green – A Natural Living Store, and Michigan Treasures for some unique finds.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Detroit Metropolitan Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, view the comprehensive list here.

Passenger Services

Detroit Metropolitan Airport is a hub for Delta Airlines and a major gateway to the United States. The airport has two terminals, McNamara Terminal and North Terminal, with a wide range of passenger services to make your travel experience smooth and comfortable.

If you need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Lost and found services are located in both terminals, and you can contact them directly for assistance. For families traveling with children, there are dedicated play areas in both terminals to keep kids entertained.

If you require special-needs services, Detroit Metropolitan Airport offers assistance for passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair assistance and accessible restrooms. Banking services are also available in both terminals, with ATMs and currency exchange services.

In case of medical emergencies, there are medical help centers located in both terminals, with trained medical staff available 24/7. If you have any questions or need assistance, customer service representatives are available throughout the airport to assist you.

Flight Status Info

As a traveler, it's important to stay up-to-date on the status of your flight. Fortunately, there are several ways to check for flight updates at Detroit Metropolitan Airport.

One of the most common ways to check for flight updates is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These displays are located throughout the airport and provide real-time information on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply locate the display for your airline and flight number to get the most up-to-date information.

Another convenient way to stay informed is by using your airline's mobile phone app. Most airlines offer apps that allow you to receive push notifications about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes. You can also check the status of your flight directly through the app.

In addition to mobile apps, airlines may also send updates via text or email. Be sure to check with your airline to see if these options are available and how to sign up for them.

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Detroit Metropolitan Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Helpful Tips

When to Arrive

It is recommended that passengers arrive at Detroit Metropolitan Airport at least two hours before their scheduled domestic flight and three hours before their international flight. This will allow enough time for check-in, security screening, and reaching the gate. The busiest times at DTW are typically during the early morning and late afternoon, so it is best to avoid these times if possible.

Getting to the Airport

DTW is located approximately 20 miles southwest of downtown Detroit. The best ways to get to the airport are by car, taxi, or shuttle. There are several parking options available at DTW, including short-term and long-term parking, as well as valet parking. For those who prefer not to drive, there are several taxi and shuttle services available in the Detroit area.

Getting Oriented

DTW is a large airport with several terminals and concourses. To get oriented at the airport, passengers can use iFly.com's interactive airport maps. These maps provide detailed information on each terminal, including the location of gates, restaurants, shops, and other amenities. Additionally, DTW has several information desks located throughout the airport where passengers can ask for assistance.

Avoiding Delays

To avoid delays at DTW, passengers should arrive early and be prepared for security screening. It is important to follow all TSA guidelines, including packing liquids in a clear, plastic bag and removing laptops and other electronics from carry-on bags. Additionally, passengers should check their flight status before arriving at the airport and monitor it throughout their journey. In the event of a delay or cancellation, passengers should contact their airline for assistance.

Security Wait Times

At Detroit Metropolitan Airport, TSA Security wait times can vary depending on the time of day and day of the week. During peak travel times, such as holidays or weekends, wait times can be longer than usual. However, DTW offers TSA PreCheck and CLEAR services to expedite the security process for eligible passengers. It is recommended that travelers arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure time to allow enough time for check-in and security screening. You can check TSA Wait Times now, so you can budget how much time you need to get to the airport.

Airport Facts & Stats

Detroit Metropolitan Airport is a major international airport located in Romulus, Michigan, United States. It serves as a hub for Delta Air Lines and Spirit Airlines. The airport has two terminals: the McNamara Terminal and the North Terminal.

On average, Detroit Metropolitan Airport handles over 100,000 passengers daily and operates around 1,200 daily flights. The airport serves over 140 destinations worldwide, with the top 5 destinations being Atlanta, Chicago, Minneapolis, Denver, and New York.

The airport is home to several major airlines, including Delta Air Lines, Spirit Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. Delta Air Lines has the most daily flights from DTW, followed by Spirit Airlines.

As a hub for Delta Air Lines, the airline operates over 500 daily flights from DTW to destinations across the United States, as well as international destinations in Europe, Asia, and Latin America. Spirit Airlines also operates a significant number of flights from DTW, with over 50 daily flights to destinations across the United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

Airport History

Detroit Metropolitan Airport, also known as Detroit Metro Airport, is a major international airport located in Romulus, Michigan. It serves as the primary airport for the Detroit metropolitan area and is one of the busiest airports in the United States.

Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1927 - The airport opens as Wayne County Airport
  • 1947 - The airport is renamed Detroit-Wayne Major Airport
  • 1958 - The airport is renamed Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport
  • 1960s - The airport undergoes major expansion and modernization
  • 1987 - The airport is renamed Detroit Metropolitan Airport
  • 1993 - The airport's new midfield terminal opens, adding 97 gates and increasing capacity
  • 2002 - The airport opens a new 26-gate terminal for Northwest Airlines (now Delta Air Lines)
  • 2008 - The airport completes a $1.2 billion renovation and expansion project, including a new runway and terminal upgrades
  • 2020 - The airport experiences a significant decrease in passenger traffic due to the COVID-19 pandemic

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Detroit Metropolitan Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: DTW
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +1 734-247-7678
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Detroit Metropolitan Airport, 2500 Worldgateway Place, Detroit, MI 48242, United States

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

Last updated:

Detroit Metropolitian Airport Q&A

The terminals are connected by a shuttle bus service that runs 24/7 and is free of charge, with buses every 10 minutes during peak hours and every 15 minutes during off-peak hours. For those who prefer to walk, a pedestrian walkway is available on the third level of the McNamara Terminal.
You can find a wide variety of restaurants and stores throughout the airport. For a complete list of dining and shopping options, view the comprehensive list here.
Yes, there are several hotels near the airport catering to a wide range of preferences and budgets, some of which offer complimentary shuttle services. For more details and to book a room, view all Detroit Metropolitan Airport Hotels here.
The airport offers both on-site and off-site parking options, including valet services and economical off-airport parking with shuttle services. For more detailed information on parking options and rates, click here.
Detroit Metropolitan Airport provides various ground transportation options including car rentals, taxis, public transportation, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. For more information on these services, please refer to the public transportation and car rental sections.
You can check the status of your flight by using the in-airport flight displays, your airline's mobile app, or by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com for real-time updates.
The airport offers a range of services including free Wi-Fi, lost and found, play areas for children, special-needs services, banking services, and medical help centers. For assistance, customer service representatives are available throughout the airport.