How to Find the Right Airport Terminal

Big airports split airlines across terminals. Sometimes the logic is obvious, one alliance in each building. Sometimes it is not. Low-cost carriers may use a separate terminal, and a single airline can operate from two terminals depending on the destination.

Where to check

• Your booking confirmation or boarding pass, many show the terminal.
• The airline's website, usually under airport information.
• The airport's own website, which normally lists airlines by terminal.
• The airline app on the day, in case of last minute changes.

Check again close to departure

Terminal allocations change, especially when airports open new buildings or move airlines around for construction. A booking made a year ago might list the old terminal. Look at the airport website a day or two before you travel.

Getting there

If you are arriving by train, bus or taxi, ask for the specific terminal. Some airports have separate train stations for different terminals, and the taxi driver will drop you at the one you name. Signs on the approach roads normally list airlines by terminal, which is useful if you are driving.

If you go to the wrong terminal

Do not panic, but do move quickly. Most large airports link their terminals by free train, shuttle bus or walkway. Ask any information desk for the fastest route and check how long it takes. Some links run every few minutes, others less frequently, and some require you to pass through security again.

Arrivals work the same way

If someone is meeting you, tell them your arrival terminal, not just your flight number. Flights can land at a different terminal from where they depart, and pick-up areas can be far apart. A quick message once you land saves a lot of wandering.