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You can have a smooth trip through DFW Airport if you get ready beforehand. Here are some comprehensive DFW Airport guide and tips to help you navigate this bustling airport efficiently.
Get Ready: Before leaving home, check your flight status and airlines gate information before you head to DFW airport. Try to show up at least 2 hours before your flight for domestic travel and 3 hours for international flights. This gives you enough time to check in, go through security, and find your way around DFW airport.
Parking at DFW Airport: DFW has many ways to park, like terminal parking, express parking, and parking far from the airport. To save time and money, book your parking spot ahead of time. The airport’s website provides real-time availability of parking garages. You can also pre-pay for a parking spot at the airport.
Security Checkpoints: DFW has multiple security checkpoints in each terminal. Knowing their locations can save time. Using the DFW Airport security wait times will help you to find the shortest line. Consider enrolling in TSA PreCheck which is available in Terminals A, C, D and E and CLEAR is available in Terminal E18 for expedited screening. The TSA PreCheck Enrollment Center is located on the pre-secure area of Terminal D next to the Gate D30 checkpoint. The CLEAR Enrollment Center is located at security checkpoints E8, E16, and E18.
You can skip the line by using the DFW Airport Fast Pass at the Terminal D Checkpoint D18 or TSA general screening. When you arrive at the Fast Pass security checkpoint, an escort will move you to the front of the line for screening.
Automated Screening Lanes at DFW airport are also available at checkpoints A21, D18, D22, D30 and E18 which enhances security effectiveness while efficiently moving customers through the screening process.
Getting Around Terminals: DFW has an influence on travelers with its five terminals (A, B, C, D, and E). The Skylink train links these terminals inside the security area running every two minutes. To connect terminals outside the security zone, the Terminal Link shuttle operates every 5-10 minutes.
DFW Airport Terminals
DFW airport has five terminals that include more than 160 gates, offering a variety of dining, shopping, and travel services to enhance the comfort and convenience of your journey. If you have a long layover, consider visiting one of the airport lounges. Many airlines offer lounges with comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and beverages, and quiet workspace. Some lounges also offer day passes for non-members.
DFW Terminal A, B and C
American Airlines is the main carrier flying from terminals A8-A39, B1-B49, C2-C39, D17-D40 and E35-E38. Terminal A has several dining options to choose from, including a range of fast-food and table-service eateries. DFW Terminal A, B and C has several lounges where you can relax, recharge and explore. The lounge is located inside security in Terminal A, A24, Terminal B, B3 and Terminal C, C20.
DFW Terminal D
DFW Terminal D serves several international carriers, including AeroMexico, Air France, Avianca, British Airways, Emirates, Japan Airlines, Korean Air, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, QANTAS, Viva Aerobus, and Volaris in addition to American Airlines and Sun Country Airlines. DFW Terminal D has several lounges where you can relax, recharge and explore. The lounge is located inside security in Terminal D near Gate D22, D18, D24 and D36.
DFW Terminal E
DFW Terminal E serves Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, jetBlue, Spirit Airlines, and United Airlines. DFW Terminal E has lounges where you can relax, recharge and explore. The lounge is located inside security in Terminal E near Gate E31.
Exploring Nearby: For longer layovers, you might want to explore nearby attractions. The historic Grapevine area and the Fort Worth Stockyards are popular destinations accessible via public transit or a taxi ride from DFW Fast Taxi.
Getting to and from the DFW Airport: DFW Airport is well-connected with various transportation options, including taxis, ride-sharing services, and public transit. You can enter DFW Airport from State Highway 183 on the south, or State Highway 114 or Interstate 635 on the north. The main road, International Parkway, runs the length of the airport from north to south, providing access to all terminals, parking areas, and on-site hotels.
Rental Cars: DFW has a dedicated Rental Car Center located near the south entrance of the airport. If you prefer to drive, DFW has an on-site rental car center with several major rental companies.
Private Taxis: Private DFW Airport Taxi service are readily available at the lower level of each terminal. Follow the signs to the designated taxi stands.
Rideshare Taxis: Services like Uber and Lyft are available at DFW. Designated pick-up and drop-off areas are located at each terminal.
DART Rail: The Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) Orange Line provides direct service to DFW Airport. The DFW Airport Station is located at Terminal A, making it easy to connect to other terminals via the Skylink train.
TRE (Trinity Railway Express): This commuter rail service connects downtown Dallas and Fort Worth with stops at CentrePort/DFW Airport Station. From there, a shuttle bus provides transportation to the terminals.
Skylink Train: This automated people mover operates post-security and connects all terminals. Trains depart every 2 minutes, with a maximum travel time of 9 minutes between the furthest points.
Terminal Link Shuttle: This free shuttle service operates pre-security and connects all terminals. It runs every 5-10 minutes from 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m., with after-hours service available upon request.
