Lafayette Regional Airport (LFT) Guide
Welcome to Lafayette Airport, where southern hospitality meets efficient air travel. Whether you're flying in for a Cajun feast or heading out on a business trip, we've got you covered. Our extensive guide is here to provide you with all the helpful information and tips you need to get from your door to your gate. You'll find everything from flight status and tracking to airline departure terminals and gate locations, parking options, terminal maps, plus food and shopping directories. For more detailed information on major commercial airports, check out iFly's Airport Guide. Let us help make your travel experience a breeze!
Helpful Tips
When to Arrive
It is recommended to arrive at LFT at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights. The busiest times to avoid are during the early morning and late afternoon rush hours, as well as holidays and weekends. Arriving early will give you enough time to check in, go through security, and find your gate without feeling rushed.
Getting to the Airport
The Lafayette Regional Airport is located just off of Interstate 49, making it easily accessible by car. There are also several taxi and ride-sharing services available for those without a car. If you prefer public transportation, the Lafayette Transit System offers a bus route that stops at the airport. It is recommended to check the bus schedule in advance to ensure you arrive at the airport on time.
Getting Oriented
When you arrive at LFT Airport, you can use iFly.com's interactive airport maps to get oriented. The maps show the location of the check-in counters, security checkpoints, restrooms, and dining options. You can also use the maps to find your gate and nearby amenities. The maps are accessible on your mobile device, making it easy to navigate the airport on the go.
Avoiding Delays
To avoid delays at the airport, it is important to arrive early and be prepared for the security checkpoint. Make sure you have your ID and boarding pass ready, and remove any liquids or electronics from your carry-on bag before going through security. It is also recommended to pack light and avoid bringing prohibited items to the airport. If your flight is delayed or cancelled, stay updated by checking the airport's website or contacting your airline for assistance.
Security Wait Times
At Lafayette Regional Airport, TSA Security wait times are generally quick and efficient. Passengers can expect to wait no longer than 20 minutes during peak travel times. The airport recommends arriving at least 90 minutes before your scheduled departure time to allow for check-in, security screening, and boarding. However, with the current COVID-19 pandemic, wait times may vary due to increased safety measures and reduced staffing. You can check TSA Wait Times now, so you can budget how much time you need to get to the airport.
Maps, Airlines & Amenities
Lafayette Regional Airport (LFT) Terminals
Navigating LFT's Terminals
Lafayette Airport has one terminal with two concourses: Concourse A and Concourse B. Concourse A has six gates, while Concourse B has four gates. Major airlines such as American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines operate out of Concourse A, while smaller airlines like Boutique Air operate out of Concourse B.
As you enter the terminal, you will find the ticket counters for each airline to your left. After checking in, you will proceed through security and arrive at the central atrium, where you can find a variety of shops and restaurants. If you need to access Concourse B, you can take the escalator or elevator located to the right of the atrium.
Once you have passed through security, you can easily navigate the airport by following the signs that indicate the location of your gate. If you need assistance, there are information desks located throughout the terminal where airport staff can provide directions and answer any questions you may have.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
LFT has only one terminal building, so there is no need to worry about getting between terminals. All gates, shops, and restaurants are located within the same building, making it easy for travelers to navigate the airport. The terminal is compact and easily walkable, so travelers can expect short walking times to reach their gates.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
If you're looking for a quick bite or a place to relax before your flight, LFT Airport has a variety of dining and shopping options to choose from. For a taste of local cuisine, head to the Prejean's Restaurant located in the main terminal. This Cajun-style restaurant offers a delicious menu of seafood, gumbo, and po'boys. Another great option is the Zea Rotisserie & Bar, located post-security in the gate area. This restaurant serves up a variety of American fare, including rotisserie chicken, sandwiches, and salads.
When it comes to shopping, the airport has a few stores to browse through. For souvenirs and gifts, check out the Cajun Market & Gifts located in the main terminal. This store offers a variety of Louisiana-inspired items, including hot sauce, cookbooks, and t-shirts. For last-minute travel essentials, head to the Hudson News located post-security in the gate area. Here you'll find snacks, magazines, and toiletries.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at the airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, browse the full directory here.
Airport Hotels
Discover a world of comfort and convenience with our selection of top-notch airport hotels. Whether you're seeking a budget-friendly option or a luxurious stay, we've got you covered. Enjoy amenities like free WiFi, fitness centers, complimentary breakfast, and even fully furnished kitchens in some of our recommended hotels. Most of these hotels are located less than 3 kilometers from the airport, making them an ideal choice for those with early flights or late arrivals. Ready to explore? Check out our comprehensive list of Lafayette Airport Hotels now!
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
When picking up or dropping off passengers at Lafayette Regional Airport, there are a few things to keep in mind. The airport has designated curbside areas for passenger pick-up and drop-off, but parking is not allowed in these areas. Drivers are allowed to briefly stop to load or unload passengers and luggage, but they must remain with their vehicle at all times.
If you need to wait for your arriving passenger, the airport has a cell-phone waiting area located near the terminal. This area allows drivers to wait in their vehicle until their passenger has arrived and is ready to be picked up. This is a convenient option for those who do not want to circle the airport or pay for parking while waiting for their passenger.
Parking Facilities & Options
If you're flying out of Lafayette Airport, you'll find several parking options available. There are both short-term and long-term parking options located adjacent to the terminal building, as well as a cell phone waiting area for those picking up arriving passengers.
For those looking for a more economical option, off-airport parking is available nearby. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, making it a convenient option for travelers.
Handicapped parking is available in all parking areas, with designated spaces located close to the terminal building. If you require assistance, please contact the airport in advance to make arrangements.
Get details about LFT parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.
Transportation Options
When arriving at LFT, there are several transportation options available to get you to your destination.
If you prefer to rent a car, there are several car rental companies located at the airport, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. You can find the car rental counters in the baggage claim area.
If you prefer to take a taxi, you can find the taxi stand outside of the baggage claim area. The fare for a taxi ride is based on the meter, and there is a $3.00 minimum charge. Additional passengers and luggage may incur extra charges.
Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also available at LFT Airport. The pickup area for these services is located outside of the baggage claim area. Please note that there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and amount of luggage allowed in the vehicle.
Airport shuttles are another option for transportation. These shuttles typically provide transportation to and from hotels and other nearby destinations. You can find the shuttle pickup area outside of the baggage claim area. Fares vary depending on the shuttle service and destination.
For those looking for public transportation, there is a bus stop located outside of the terminal building. The Lafayette Transit System provides service to various destinations throughout the city. Fares are based on the distance traveled.
Passenger Services
If you're traveling through the airport, you'll be pleased to know that there are a variety of passenger services available to make your journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. Here are some of the services you can expect:
Firstly, if you need to connect to the internet during your time at the airport, you'll be able to access free wifi throughout the terminal building. This means you can stay connected with loved ones or catch up on work while you wait for your flight.
If you've lost an item during your travels, you can head to the lost and found desk located near the baggage claim area. The staff there will do their best to help you locate your lost item and get it back to you as quickly as possible.
For families traveling with children, there is a designated children's play area located near the boarding gates. This area is equipped with toys and games to keep little ones entertained while they wait for their flight.
If you require special assistance during your time at the airport, such as wheelchair access or help with navigating the terminal, there are staff members available to assist you. Simply let your airline know ahead of time or speak to a member of staff when you arrive.
If you need to do any banking while you're at the airport, there is an ATM located in the main terminal building. This means you can withdraw cash or check your account balance before you board your flight.
Finally, if you require medical assistance during your time at the airport, there is a first aid station located near the baggage claim area.
Flight Status Info
For air travelers flying out of Lafayette Regional Airport, it is important to stay updated on the status of their flight departure. One helpful resource is the in-airport Flight Information Display System (FIDS), which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Passengers can easily locate the FIDS screens throughout the airport terminal.
In addition to the FIDS, passengers can also stay informed about their flight status through the use of airline mobile phone apps. These apps allow passengers to receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via text, email, and push notifications. It is recommended that passengers download their airline's app prior to their travel day to ensure they receive timely updates.
Another option for staying updated on flight status is to check the airline's website or call their customer service hotline. However, these methods may not provide real-time updates and can often result in long wait times.
Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Lafayette Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Airport Facts & Stats
LFT is a small airport located in Lafayette, Louisiana, United States. It has a single terminal building that handles all domestic flights.
The airport serves as a hub for American Eagle and United Express, and offers flights to several destinations across the United States. On average, the airport handles around 3,000 passengers per day, with an average of 50 daily flights.
Some of the top airlines with the most daily flights from LFT Airport include American Eagle, United Express, and Delta Connection. These airlines offer flights to several destinations across the United States, including Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, and Atlanta.
On average, the airport serves around 20 destinations across the United States. The top 5 destinations served by the airport include Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Atlanta, Charlotte, and Denver.
In addition to American Eagle and United Express, other air carriers that use Lafayette Regional Airport as a hub include Delta Connection and Frontier Airlines.
Airport History
Lafayette Airport, located in Lafayette, Louisiana, has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1929: The airport was established as a grass field known as Vermilionville Airport.
- 1940s: The airport was used as a training base for pilots during World War II.
- 1950s: The airport was renamed Lafayette Municipal Airport and a terminal building was constructed.
- 1960s: The airport underwent several expansions and improvements, including the addition of a control tower and longer runways.
- 1980s: The airport was renamed LFT and a new terminal building was constructed.
- 1990s: The airport continued to expand and improve, including the addition of a new parking garage and a runway extension.
- 2000s: The airport saw a decline in passenger traffic due to the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, but rebounded in the latter half of the decade.
- 2010s: The airport underwent several renovations and upgrades, including the addition of a new baggage claim area and a new restaurant.
Today, LFT Airport continues to serve the Lafayette area with daily flights to major cities across the United States.
Airport Contact Info
- https://lftairport.com/
- Phone: (337) 266-4400
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: 200 Terminal Drive, Lafayette, LA 70508, United States