Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
Philadelphia International Airport serves Philadelphia and United States. 32.0M (2023). Located near Philadelphia city centre, it handles domestic and international flights with 1 terminal. American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Frontier Airlines, British Airways
US Dollar (USD / $) is the local currency at Philadelphia International Airport.
Terminal layout
Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia International Airport terminals, transport, facilities, and local travel tips.
Terminals: Six terminals with 126 gates total. Terminal A East (11 gates, Aer Lingus, Aeroméxico, American domestic/international, Frontier/Spirit international arrivals) and Terminal A West (13 gates, American domestic/international, British Airways, Discover Airlines). Terminal A West 800,000 sq ft opened 2003 as new international terminal. Federal Inspection Facility at Terminal A West with 56 CBP booths and 8 baggage carousels. Terminals B, C, D, E, F also present. American Admirals Clubs in Terminal A, B/C connector, Terminal F. British Airways Galleries Lounge and American Express Centurion Lounge in Terminal A. United Club and Delta Sky Club in Terminal D. USO lounge in Terminal E. Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Transport: SEPTA Regional Rail Airport Line serves Terminals A, B, C, D, E (4 stations next to baggage claim with escalator/elevator from skywalk). Connects to Center City Philadelphia (25 min), Amtrak, NJ Transit at 30th Street Station. Runs 5am-midnight daily, every 30 min weekdays, every hour weekends. I-95 access (exit 12 northbound, 12A southbound). PA 291 to I-76. Rental cars with shuttle buses. Taxis. Ride-sharing. SEPTA bus routes 37 (South Philadelphia/Chester), 108 (69th Street Transit Center/UPS air hub), 115 (Delaware County Community College/Darby Transportation Center).
Facilities: Multiple lounges (Admirals Clubs, Galleries Lounge, Centurion Lounge, United Club, Delta Sky Club, USO). Duty-free shopping, restaurants. Free Wi-Fi.
Local tips: Philadelphia International Airport. SEPTA Airport Line to Center City Philadelphia fastest (25 min). Terminal A international with FIS. Six terminals total. American hub. I-95 access. SEPTA bus routes 37/108/115.
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, Philadelphia 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.
Philadelphia International Airport operates a single terminal handling both domestic and international flights. All check-in, security, gates, and arrivals are within the same building.