HRL Airport Insights & Guide
Key HRL Airport Topics:- Frequent Flier Tips
- Navigating the Terminals
- Connecting Between Terminals
- Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
- Parking Facilities & Options
- Transportation Options
- Airport Hotels
- Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
- Passenger Services
- Flight Status Info
- Airport Facts & Stats
- Airport History
- Airport Contact Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Getting to Know HRL Airport
Discover Harlingen-Valley Airport (HRL), the heart of the Rio Grande Valley, Texas, known for its unique birdwatching opportunities right from the terminal. Our concise guide equips you with essential information for a seamless travel experience, whether for business or leisure. Navigate through HRL with ease, from flight updates to parking, dining, and shopping options.
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iFly Tip: Make sure your next flight with kids is a breeze by checking out our expert tips.
Navigating HRL's Terminals
The airport has one terminal with a total of 6 gates. The terminal is divided into two sections: the North Concourse and the South Concourse. The North Concourse has gates 1-3 and the South Concourse has gates 4-6.
Major airlines such as American Airlines, United Airlines, and Frontier Airlines operate out of Harlingen-Valley Airport. American Airlines and United Airlines use gates on the North Concourse, while Frontier Airlines uses gates on the South Concourse.
As you navigate the airport, you will find various amenities such as restaurants, shops, and restrooms. Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
Harlingen Airport has a single terminal building, making it easy for travelers to navigate and move between gates. There are no shuttle buses or trains needed to get between gates, as everything is located within the same building. The walking time between gates is minimal, allowing travelers to easily make connections without worrying about long transfer times.
Frequent Flier Tips
To help make your experience at Valley International Airport (HRL) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from HRL-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
"Valley International Airport is quite straightforward with a single terminal building. However, it can get busy during peak hours, so I recommend arriving at least two hours before your flight to navigate through security smoothly." — Juan P., Harlingen, TX, September 2023
"If you’re flying with Southwest Airlines, check-in is usually quick, but remember to use the self-service kiosks to save time. They’re located right next to the main entrance." — Maria G., San Benito, TX, August 2023
Getting To/From the City
"The airport shuttle service is reliable and runs every 30 minutes. It’s a convenient option if you’re heading to downtown Harlingen. Just make sure to book your spot in advance during holiday seasons." — Carlos R., Combes, TX, October 2023
"If you prefer driving, renting a car is easy at HRL. The rental car counters are located just past baggage claim, and you can be on the highway within minutes." — Ana S., Rio Hondo, TX, November 2023
Parking
"Long-term parking at HRL is affordable and close to the terminal. I usually park in Lot B for extended trips; it’s just a short walk to the main entrance." — Roberto M., Harlingen, TX, December 2023
"If you’re just picking someone up, use the cell phone lot. It’s free and only a minute away from the terminal. You can wait there until your party is ready for pickup." — Linda T., La Feria, TX, January 2024
Inside the Airport
"The food court has some great options, but my favorite is the Tex-Mex restaurant near Gate 3. Perfect for a quick bite before your flight." — Elena V., Santa Rosa, TX, February 2024
"Don’t miss the gift shop near the main entrance. They have unique local products that make for great souvenirs." — Miguel A., Harlingen, TX, March 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Check the flight status boards frequently, especially during hurricane season. Weather can cause unexpected delays, and it’s best to stay informed." — Sofia L., San Benito, TX, April 2024
"The TSA PreCheck line is a lifesaver during busy times. If you travel often, it’s worth the investment to save time and avoid stress." — Daniel K., Harlingen, TX, May 2024
iFly Tip: Discover the best times to arrive at the airport by visiting our airport wait times page.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
Harlingen-Valley Airport provides several options for picking up and dropping off passengers. If you are dropping off a passenger, you can use the curbside area in front of the terminal building. However, please note that curbside parking is strictly prohibited at the airport. You are only allowed to stop for a few minutes to drop off your passenger and their luggage. If you need more time, you can park your vehicle in the short-term parking lot, which is located just a short walk from the terminal building.
If you are picking up a passenger, you can use the cell-phone waiting area, which is located near the airport entrance. This area allows you to wait in your vehicle until your passenger has arrived and is ready to be picked up. Once your passenger is ready, you can drive to the curbside area to pick them up. Please note that you are not allowed to park or leave your vehicle unattended in the cell-phone waiting area. If you need to park your vehicle, you can use the short-term parking lot.
Parking Facilities & Options
Harlingen Airport offers various parking options for travelers, including parking lots and garages located within walking distance of the terminal. There are also cell phone waiting areas available for those waiting to pick up arriving passengers.
Handicapped parking is available in designated areas in all parking lots and garages. The airport provides shuttle services to and from the parking areas for those who need assistance.
For those looking for more economical parking options, off-airport parking is available with shuttle services to and from the airport. These off-airport parking facilities offer competitive rates and provide a convenient alternative to on-airport parking.
Transportation Options
HRL offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers:
- Car Rentals: Car rental facilities are available at the airport, with major providers such as Avis, Budget, and Hertz. These companies offer a range of vehicles to suit any traveler's needs, from compact cars to SUVs. It is advisable to book your rental car in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel times.
- Taxis: Taxi services are readily available at the airport, with drop-off areas located outside the terminal building. Fares vary depending on the destination, and it is recommended to confirm the fare with the driver before beginning your journey. A typical ride to the city center takes approximately 20 minutes.
- Ride-Share Services: Shared ride services such as Uber and Lyft are available for pickup outside the terminal building. These services offer a more affordable transportation option, but may have restrictions on the number of passengers and amount of luggage allowed. Be sure to check with the provider before booking to ensure they can accommodate your needs.
- Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles provide a convenient and affordable way to get to and from the airport. Pickup areas are located outside the terminal building, and fares vary depending on the destination. Booking your shuttle in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy periods.
- Public Transportation: The airport is served by local buses, with stops located outside the terminal building. These buses offer a cheap and convenient way to get to and from the airport, with fares starting at just a few dollars. The bus routes connect the airport to various parts of the city, making it easy to reach your destination.
iFly Tip: Pack smarter and prepare for a smoother flight with our toddler travel guide.
Airport Hotels
Are you planning a trip and looking for the perfect place to stay near the airport? We have a comprehensive guide to airport hotels, each with unique amenities and features to match your needs. From charming homes with pools and gazebos to comfortable inns and suites, we have a lodging option for every traveler. Many of these hotels are located just a short drive from the airport, ensuring your journey to and from your flight is as easy as possible. Explore our guide to discover the best hotels and enjoy a stress-free travel experience. Ready to book now? View all Harlingen Airport Hotels including rates, on a map.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
HRL offers a variety of dining and shopping options to make your travel experience more enjoyable. If you're looking for a quick bite before your flight, head to Dunkin' Donuts or Whataburger, both located in the terminal. For a sit-down meal, visit the Lone Star Cafe for some Tex-Mex cuisine or the Blue Onion for American fare.
When it comes to shopping, there are several options available at HRL Airport. For souvenirs and gifts, check out the Hudson News & Gifts store. If you need to pick up some last-minute travel essentials, head to the Relay store. For electronics and gadgets, visit the InMotion store.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at the airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.
Passenger Services
- Free Wi-Fi: HRL Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
- Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found services are available at the airport's information desk, located in the main terminal building.
- Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, HRL Airport features a designated children's play area located near the food court.
- Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
- ATM: An ATM is available in the main terminal building, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
- First Aid Station: In case of a medical emergency, a first aid station is located near the baggage claim area. Airport staff are also available to assist with arranging transportation to a nearby hospital if needed.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it's important to stay up-to-date on the status of your flight departure. Fortunately, there are several ways to get flight status information at the airport.
One option is to use the airport's Flight Information Display System (FIDS), which can be found throughout the terminal. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Another option is to download the mobile app of your airline. Most airlines offer mobile 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. These apps can send notifications via text, email, or push notifications to keep you informed about any changes to your flight.
Passengers can also check the status of their flight departure at Harlingen-Valley 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
- Location: Harlingen-Valley Airport (HRL) is located in Harlingen, Texas, United States.
- Terminal: The airport has a single terminal building that handles all passenger traffic.
- Airlines Served: Major airlines serving HRL include Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, and American Airlines. For a complete list of airlines, visit the HRL Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Harlingen-Valley Airport handles approximately 5,000 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport averages around 50 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from HRL are Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, San Antonio, and Denver.
- Hub Status: Harlingen-Valley Airport is not a hub for any major airline, although United Airlines and American Airlines operate significant flights from the airport.
Airport History
The airport, located in Harlingen, Texas, has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- In 1917, the United States Army established a flying school in Harlingen, which eventually became the Harlingen Air Force Base.
- In 1945, the Harlingen Air Force Base was decommissioned and turned over to the city of Harlingen for use as a civilian airport.
- In 1952, the airport was officially named the Harlingen-Valley Airport.
- In 1961, the airport underwent a major expansion, including the construction of a new terminal building and runway.
- In 1976, the airport was designated an international airport, allowing for international flights to and from Mexico and Canada.
- In 2003, the airport underwent another major expansion, including the construction of a new control tower and additional runway improvements.
- Today, the Harlingen-Valley Airport continues to serve as an important transportation hub for the Rio Grande Valley region of Texas.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Harlingen-Valley Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: HRL
- Airport Website
- Phone: +1 956-430-8600
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Valley International Airport, 3002 Heritage Way, Harlingen, TX 78550, United States
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Harlingen-Valley Airport Q&A
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