Airport Terminals & Concourses

How U.S. airport terminals are organized

Most large U.S. airports follow one of three layouts. Single unified terminals with multiple concourses radiating from a central headhouse (ATL, DEN, DTW, MSP, MCO) consolidate check-in, security, and ground transportation into one building, with concourses connected by underground people-movers. Multi-terminal campuses (JFK, LAX, ORD, DFW, IAH, EWR) have separate buildings for different airlines or alliances, connected by inter-terminal trains, AirTrains, or landside shuttles. Linear or pier terminals (LGA, SEA, SAN, PHL) feature a single check-in level with gates extending outward in a straight or curved line.

Inter-terminal transfers

Connecting between flights on the same airline nearly always keeps you inside the secure area, with movement between concourses handled by a dedicated train, moving walkway, or short escalator. Connecting between flights on different airlines — especially when one is international — sometimes requires you to exit security, ride a landside shuttle, and re-clear screening. Build in 90 minutes minimum for cross-terminal connections at the largest airports during peak hours.

Wayfinding inside the terminals

FAA wayfinding conventions are consistent across all U.S. airports: yellow signs for gates and ground transportation, green signs for exits, blue signs for amenities and services. Information desks are staffed in the main headhouses throughout the day. Digital flight information display systems (FIDS) appear at every major intersection and gate cluster. Travelers with mobility needs should request the airport's complimentary assistance program through their airline at least 48 hours in advance.

Terminal counts by airport