Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF)
Buffalo Niagara International Airport serves Buffalo and United States. 5.6M (2023). Located near Buffalo city centre, it handles domestic and international flights with 1 terminal. Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, JetBlue
US Dollar (USD / $) is the local currency at Buffalo Niagara International Airport.
Terminal layout
Buffalo Niagara International Airport operates with 1 terminal, handling both domestic and international flights. Check-in counters, security screening, departure gates, and arrivals are all within the same building.
Terminal maps, signage, and information desks are available throughout to assist with navigation. Allow sufficient time for security and boarding, especially during peak hours.
Single terminal — simple navigation
All airlines operate from the same terminal. Follow the colour-coded signage for departures (usually blue/green) and arrivals (usually yellow).
Emergency Numbers
24/7 emergency services in United States
Border control & customs
Arrival regulations for United States
On Arrival
- Arrive at arrivalsFollow signs from baggage claim to passport control and customs.
- Passport controlUse the lane that matches your passport and travel status.
- Baggage claimCollect checked bags before proceeding to customs.
- Green / red channelUse green if you have nothing to declare; red if you do.
- Exit the terminalTransport, taxis, and car hire are usually available in the arrivals hall.
Customs — what to know
Check local rules
Always verify duty-free and customs allowances before travelling.
Mobile Connectivity
Local operators & SIM cards in United States
Passenger tips by type
Practical advice tailored to different traveller profiles passing through Buffalo Niagara International Airport.
First-time visitors
- Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic and 3 hours before international flights.
- Download the airline app for real-time gate and boarding updates.
- Keep your boarding pass and ID accessible — you'll need them at security and the gate.
Transit & connections
- Check if your connection requires terminal transfer — allow extra time.
- Stay airside if possible to avoid re-clearing security.
- Look for flight connection desks if your incoming flight is delayed.
Families with children
- Family lanes are usually available at security — look for signs.
- Baby changing facilities are located throughout the terminal.
- Bring snacks and entertainment for children during waits.
Business travellers
- Priority security lanes may be available with business-class tickets or elite status.
- Lounge access included with many premium tickets — check your boarding pass.
- Power outlets and USB charging are available at most gates and seating areas.
Airport-specific information
Detailed information about Buffalo Niagara International Airport terminals, transport, facilities, and local travel tips.
Terminals: Single terminal opened 1997, expanded 2001 to 24 gates, 462,256 sq ft. $80 million renovation 2017-2021 added secure walkways, expanded curbside, four sloped baggage carousels. Master plan allows new pier south of east concourse. Located approximately 10-15 minutes from downtown Buffalo.
Transport: Kensington Expressway (NY Route 33) ends at airport, connects to I-90 Thruway 1 mile away. NFTA Metro bus routes 24B (Genesee), 47 (Youngs Road), 68 (George Urban Express), 204 (Airport-Downtown Express). NFTA Paratransit for mobility issues (pre-booking required). Greyhound to Toronto and New York City. Car rental on-site (Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National). Taxis, limos, shuttles.
Facilities: Dining and shopping. Free Wi-Fi. Parking garages and lots.
Local tips: Western New York's primary airport. Route 204 express bus to downtown Buffalo. Greyhound connections to Toronto and NYC. Close to Niagara Falls. Popular with Canadian travelers due to lower fares. 10-15 minutes to downtown Buffalo.
Airlines & routes
United States carriers
International carriers
- East Coast: New York (JFK/LGA/EWR), Boston (BOS), Washington DC (DCA/IAD), Atlanta (ATL)
- West Coast: Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), Seattle (SEA), Las Vegas (LAS)
- Canada: Toronto (YYZ), Vancouver (YVR), Montreal (YUL)
Frequently asked questions
For international flights, arrive at least 2–3 hours before departure. Domestic flights typically require 1–2 hours. Allow extra time during peak travel periods and holidays.
Yes, Buffalo Niagara International Airport offers free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal buildings. Look for the airport network on your device and connect without registration for basic access.
Buffalo Niagara International Airport operates a single terminal handling both domestic and international flights. All check-in, security, gates, and arrivals are within the same building.