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Dallas Fort Worth Airport DFW

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DFW Airport Insights & Guide

Key DFW Airport Topics:

Getting to Know DFW Airport

Welcome to your comprehensive online guide for Dallas Fort Worth Airport . As one of the busiest airports in the United States, DFW is renowned for its five terminals and a 24/7 operating Skylink train system that ensures seamless transit between terminals. With a multitude of dining, shopping, and service options, DFW strives to provide an enjoyable and comfortable journey for all its passengers. Whether you're exploring the Lone Star State or jetting off to an international destination, our worldwide airport list offers valuable insights to enhance your travel experience.

WATCH VIDEO: Take an up-close look at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport with an immersive ambient walk through every terminal, free from music and narration:

Airport News

Dallas Fort Worth Airport, one of the busiest airports in the world, is set for a major upgrade. The airport has recently announced plans for a sixth terminal, Terminal F, which will add up to 24 new gates. This is part of a broader $3.5 billion infrastructure improvement plan. The new terminal is expected to open by 2025 and will significantly enhance passenger capacity and improve overall travel experience. In addition to the new terminal, DFW is also investing in renovations and upgrades to Terminal C. Furthermore, the airport has been working on expanding its air service with new routes, including a direct flight to Tel Aviv launched by American Airlines. This expansion and modernization effort is aimed at accommodating future passenger growth and maintaining DFW's status as a major international hub (sources: Dallas News, DFW Airport Press Release, Airline Geeks).

Dallas DFW Airport has five terminals, labeled A, B, C, D, and E. Terminal A has 26 gates, Terminal B has 47 gates, Terminal C has 28 gates, Terminal D has 28 gates, and Terminal E has 39 gates. Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines use multiple terminals at DFW, so it's important to check your airline and terminal before arriving at the airport.

To navigate the terminals, passengers can use the Skylink train system, which operates 24/7 and connects all terminals and parking garages. The train arrives every two minutes during peak hours and every four minutes during off-peak hours. There are also moving walkways and escalators throughout the terminals for those who prefer to walk.

Each terminal at DFW offers a variety of food, beverage, and retail options for passengers to enjoy before their flight. Some popular dining options include Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, Whataburger, and Starbucks. Services such as currency exchange, ATMs, and charging stations are also available throughout the terminals.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

DFW has five terminals: Terminal A, Terminal B, Terminal C, Terminal D, and Terminal E. To get between the terminals, passengers can use the Skylink train system, which runs 24/7 and connects all terminals. The train arrives every two minutes during peak hours and every five minutes during off-peak hours. The Skylink train is free and takes approximately two minutes to travel between terminals.

If passengers prefer to walk, there are also pedestrian walkways that connect all terminals. The walk time between terminals varies, but generally takes between 5-10 minutes depending on the terminal. Terminal A and Terminal B are connected by a walkway, as are Terminal C and Terminal D. Terminal E is located on the opposite side of the airport and requires a longer walk or ride on the Skylink train.

Frequent Flier Tips

To help make your experience at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from DFW-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"DFW has five terminals (A-E), and each terminal is equipped with its own security checkpoints, shops, and dining options. If you need to transfer between terminals, use the Skylink train—it’s fast and runs every couple of minutes." — John D., Grapevine, TX, July 2023

"Terminal D is the international terminal, and it’s where you’ll find the most amenities. If you have a long layover, this is the terminal to explore." — Maria S., Irving, TX, August 2023

Getting To/From the City

"The DART rail service is a convenient way to get to downtown Dallas from DFW. It’s affordable and avoids the hassle of traffic." — Michael R., Euless, TX, September 2023

"If you’re heading to Fort Worth, the TEXRail service is a great option. It’s comfortable and drops you off right in the heart of the city." — Emily K., Arlington, TX, October 2023

Parking

"For long-term parking, the Remote South and Remote North lots are the best value. They offer shuttle service to all terminals, and the shuttles run frequently." — David L., Coppell, TX, November 2023

"If you’re in a rush, the Terminal Parking is more expensive but super convenient. It’s just a short walk to check-in." — Lisa M., Bedford, TX, December 2023

Inside the Airport

"The yoga studio in Terminal D is a hidden gem. It’s a great way to stretch and relax before a long flight." — Kevin T., Southlake, TX, January 2024

"There are plenty of great dining options, but my favorite is Pappadeaux in Terminal A. The seafood is always fresh and delicious." — Rachel P., Flower Mound, TX, February 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Check the TSA wait times online before you head to the airport. It can save you a lot of time and stress." — James H., Carrollton, TX, March 2024

"If you’re traveling during peak times, consider getting TSA PreCheck or CLEAR. It’s a game-changer for speeding through security." — Anna W., Lewisville, TX, April 2024

iFly Tip: Find answers to your travel questions by visiting our comprehensive travel resource page.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

When picking up or dropping off passengers at DFW Airport, it's important to know the rules and regulations to avoid any issues. The airport offers curbside parking for up to 30 minutes for those who are dropping off passengers. However, drivers cannot leave their vehicles unattended, and they must stay with their vehicles at all times. Additionally, there are strict restrictions on parking in the curbside area, and violators may be subject to fines or towing.

For those who are picking up passengers, the airport has designated cell-phone waiting areas located near each terminal. These areas are free to use and allow drivers to wait in their vehicles until their passengers have arrived and are ready to be picked up. Once passengers are ready, drivers can quickly and easily drive up to the terminal curbside to pick them up.

It's important to note that each terminal at DFW has its own designated curbside area, so be sure to check which terminal your passenger is arriving or departing from before heading to the airport. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience when picking up or dropping off passengers at the airport.

Parking Facilities & Options

Dallas Fort Worth Airport offers a variety of parking options for travelers. There are multiple parking garages and lots located throughout the airport, with a total of over 40,000 parking spaces.

The Terminal Parking Garages are located adjacent to each terminal, providing easy access to the airport. The Express Parking lots are a short shuttle ride away from the terminals, and offer covered and uncovered parking options. Additionally, Remote Parking lots are available for those looking for a more economical option, with shuttle service to and from the terminals.

For those waiting to pick up passengers, the airport provides Cell Phone Waiting Areas located near each terminal. These areas allow drivers to wait in their cars until their passengers are ready to be picked up, without having to pay for parking.

Handicapped parking is available in all parking areas, with designated spots located near elevators and shuttle stops.

Off-airport parking is also available near the airport, with several private parking lots offering shuttle service to and from the terminals. These off-airport parking options can be a more economical choice for travelers looking to save money on parking fees.

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

Transportation Options

Dallas DFW Airport, located in the United States, offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers. Whether you prefer to rent a car, take a taxi, use shared ride services, or take public transportation, DFW has you covered.

Car rental facilities are located at the Rental Car Center, accessible by shuttle from any terminal. Major car rental providers include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty. Prices vary depending on the provider and type of vehicle.

Taxis are available at designated taxi stands outside each terminal. Fares are metered and vary based on the destination and time of day. Additional fees may apply for tolls and baggage.

Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available at DFW. Pickup areas are located at each terminal's designated ride app pickup location. Restrictions may apply, such as a limit on the number of passengers or the size of luggage.

Airport shuttles are available for transportation to and from nearby hotels and businesses. Pickup areas are located at the lower level of each terminal. Fares vary based on the destination and provider.

Public transportation options include the Trinity Railway Express, which provides service to downtown Dallas and Fort Worth, and the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) bus system, which provides service to various locations in the Dallas area. The TRE station is located at Terminal B, while the DART bus stops are located at each terminal's lower level.

iFly Tip: Discover strategies for a smoother journey on our overweight passengers page.

Airport Hotels

Looking for a comfortable stay near the airport? We've got you covered! From luxurious accommodations to budget-friendly options, our list of hotels offers something for every traveler. Enjoy amenities like complimentary high-speed internet, shuttle services to all terminals, modern dining options, and well-equipped business centers. Some hotels even offer unique features like rooftop pools or pet-friendly policies. Check out our comprehensive guide on Dallas-Fort Worth Airport Hotels to find the perfect place to rest, recharge, or get work done during your travel.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

Get ready to indulge in a variety of dining options and shopping experiences at Dallas DFW Airport. With restaurants and cafes serving up everything from burgers to French pastries, and shops offering local souvenirs and luxury brands, there's something for everyone. Here are just a few of the top options to whet your appetite and satisfy your shopping cravings.

Whether you're preparing for a flight, making a connection, or just landing, DFW offers an impressive lineup of dining options to cater to your appetite. These restaurants and cafes, spread across various terminals, serve a wide variety of cuisines - from fast food to casual dining to bars and coffee shops. Some of the most popular options include Twisted Root, Pinkberry, La Crème Coffee & Tea, La Madeleine, Smashburger, Subway, Dunkin', Rodeo Bar, Whisk & Bowl, Pizza Hut, Maggiano's Little Italy, Chili's Grill & Bar, Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar, Flying Saucer Draught Emporium, CRÚ Food & Wine Bar, The Italian Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck, AV8 Bar & Cafe, Dickey's Barbecue Pit, Freshëns, and Panda Express.

At the airport, time flies as you explore an expansive variety of stores and boutiques designed to enhance your travel experience. From fashion and cosmetics to local flavors and unique gifts, shopping at this airport is an adventure in itself. Some of the top shops across various terminals include Destinations, Garrett Popcorn Shops, Talie, iStore, Texas Marketplace, Eddie Bauer, NewsLink, Natalie's Candy Jar

Passenger Services

DFW is one of the busiest airports in the United States, serving millions of passengers every year. To make your travel experience more comfortable, the airport offers a range of passenger services.

If you need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Lost and found services are located in each terminal, and you can report lost items online or in person. If you are traveling with children, there are play areas in Terminal A and Terminal B, as well as a nursing room in Terminal D.

If you require special assistance, the airport provides a range of services for passengers with disabilities or special needs. These include wheelchair assistance, accessible parking, and service animal relief areas. You can request assistance at any of the airport information desks or by contacting the airport in advance.

For banking services, there are ATMs and currency exchange kiosks located throughout the airport. Medical help is available at the airport's medical clinic, located in Terminal D. The clinic provides a range of services including first aid, vaccinations, and travel health advice.

Flight Status Info

When traveling by air, it's important to stay updated on the status of your flight. At DFW Airport, there are several ways to check your flight status.

One of the easiest ways is to use 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 your flight on the display and check the status.

Another convenient way to stay updated is by using your airline's mobile phone app. Most airlines have apps that allow passengers to check their flight status, receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes, and even check in for their flight. You can also sign up for text, email, and push notifications through the app to receive updates on your flight status.

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

iFly Tip: Discover how TSA PreCheck compares to other trusted traveler programs in our guide.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Dallas Fort Worth Airport (DFW) is located in Texas, United States.
  • Terminals: The airport features five terminals: Terminal A, Terminal B, Terminal C, Terminal D, and Terminal E, connected by a Skylink train system that operates 24/7.
  • Airlines Served: Major airlines include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Spirit Airlines. For a complete list of airlines, visit the DFW Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Dallas Fort Worth Airport handles approximately 180,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport operates around 900 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from DFW are Los Angeles, Denver, Chicago, Atlanta, and New York. Key international destinations include London, Mexico City, and Tokyo.
  • Hub Status: Dallas Fort Worth Airport is a major hub for American Airlines and serves as a focus city for Spirit Airlines. It is also utilized by UPS Airlines and Ameriflight.

Airport History

Dallas DFW Airport, also known as DFW, is one of the largest airports in the United States. The airport was built in 1974 to serve the Dallas-Fort Worth area and has since become a major hub for American Airlines.

Here are some significant events in the history of DFW:

  • 1974 - DFW Airport opens for commercial flights
  • 1985 - Terminal D opens, adding 12 new gates to the airport
  • 1993 - The airport becomes the first in the world to use computer-controlled baggage handling
  • 2005 - Terminal D expands with the addition of 10 more gates
  • 2012 - The airport completes a $2.3 billion renovation project, including the addition of a new international terminal
  • 2019 - the airport is named the 15th busiest airport in the world, serving over 75 million passengers annually

Today, Dallas Fort Worth Airport continues to grow and expand, with plans for a new terminal and additional runways in the works.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Dallas DFW Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: DFW
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: 972-973-3112
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: DFW International Airport, P.O. Box 619428, DFW Airport, TX 75261-9428, United States

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

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Dallas Fort Worth Airport Q&A

The Skylink train is the fastest and most efficient way to transfer between terminals. It operates 24/7 and arrives every two minutes during peak hours.
The Trinity Railway Express (TRE) is a cost-effective option to get to downtown Dallas or Fort Worth. The station is located at Terminal B.
Yes, the Express Parking lots offer a more economical option with a quick shuttle service to the terminals. Remote Parking lots are also available for budget-conscious travelers.
Terminal D offers some of the best dining options, including Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen. Starbucks in Terminal C is also a good spot for a quick caffeine fix.
Use the Cell Phone Waiting Areas located near each terminal. These areas are free and allow you to wait until your passenger is ready to be picked up.
It is recommended to arrive at least two hours before your flight, especially during peak travel times, to avoid long security lines and unnecessary stress.
Use your airline’s mobile app to check your flight status, receive alerts about delays or gate changes, and stay updated on any changes.
DFW offers various transportation options including car rentals, taxis, shared ride services like Uber and Lyft, and public transportation like the TRE and DART bus system.
Yes, there are several hotels near the airport offering amenities like complimentary high-speed internet, shuttle services to terminals, and modern dining options. Check our guide on Dallas-Fort Worth Airport Hotels for more information.
DFW offers free Wi-Fi, lost and found services, play areas for children, nursing rooms, wheelchair assistance, accessible parking, ATMs, currency exchange kiosks, and a medical clinic in Terminal D.