Exploring Austin Airport's Bus Accessibility Rules And Regulations

If you're looking to get to or from Austin Airport by bus, you're in luck. There are several options available, including the MetroAirport Flyer, which takes you from the airport to downtown Austin and the University of Texas. The bus runs every 30 minutes and costs $1.75. If you're looking for a more frequent service, you can take the Route 20 bus, which runs every 15 minutes, 7 days a week, and costs $1.25 for a single ride. This route also takes you to downtown Austin and the University of Texas, as well as other popular spots such as the State Capital and Lady Bird Lake. For those with a lot of luggage, the Airport Flyer is a good option as it has luggage racks at the front.

Transport from Austin Airport to downtown

There are several transport options for travelling from Austin Airport to Downtown. Here are some detailed instructions for making the journey:

Bus

CapMetro operates a high-frequency bus service, known as Route 20, which runs from the airport to Downtown Austin. The bus departs from the lower level of the airport, just outside baggage claim, and arrives at 813 Lavaca/8th in Downtown. Services run every 15-20 minutes, seven days a week, and the journey takes approximately 35-49 minutes. The bus fare is $1.25 for a single ride, or you can purchase a $2.50 day pass for 24-hour coverage. Route 20 can also take you to popular spots in Downtown, such as the State Capital, Lady Bird Lake, and the University of Texas campus.

Taxi

Taxis are available at the airport and can take you directly to Downtown Austin. The taxi stand is located on the upper level/departures curbside. The journey to Downtown takes approximately 13 minutes and costs around $35-$45.

Rideshare

Rideshare pick-up is located under the Consolidated Rental Car Facility, just north or behind the Red Garage. You can access the pick-up area by taking the tram from the first floor of the Red Garage, which is easily accessible from Baggage Claim. Ridesharing is a convenient option if you prefer a private ride but keep in mind that the cost may be similar to a taxi.

Car

If you have a car or rental car, you can drive from the airport to Downtown Austin. The driving distance is approximately 11 miles, and the drive typically takes around 13 minutes. However, please note that the time estimate may vary depending on traffic conditions.

Other Options

In addition to the options mentioned above, there are other ground transportation services available at the airport, including shuttle services and limousine companies. These options may be useful if you have specific requirements or preferences for your journey to Downtown Austin.

Transport options for those with mobility issues

If you require assistance, such as wheelchair service or an escort to your gate at Austin Airport, it is recommended that you provide advance notice to your airline. They will be able to assist you through the airport and the screening queue line. You can also visit the Accessibility page on the Austin Airport website for more information.

The Mobility Assistance Zone is free and open daily from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. for those with mobility assistive devices, such as wheelchairs, scooters, or crutches, or those who need additional mobility assistance. This includes Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles, taxis, and rideshares.

There are also two tram services at the airport that can assist with getting to the rental car facility and rideshare/taxi pick-up areas. The first is the Red Garage First Floor to Rideshare Tram, which picks up travellers from both entrances of the Red Garage on the first floor. The second is the Mobility Tram, located on the third floor of the Red Garage, which offers easy access to the rental car facility and rideshare pick-up.

In terms of public transportation, CapMetro operates buses, MetroRail, and more. The Route 20 bus runs from the airport to downtown Austin and the University of Texas campus every 15 minutes, 7 days a week. This bus has luggage racks at the front and costs $1.25 for a single ride.

If you prefer a taxi or rideshare service, drop-off for passengers flying out is at the upper level/departures curbside, and pick-up for passengers flying into Austin is located under the Consolidated Rental Car Facility, just north or behind the Red Garage.

For those with mobility issues who would prefer a private transportation service, there are several options available, including:

• Carter Transportation (formerly known as Super Shuttle)
• 4Leaf Limo
• AAA Limousine
• ABC Limousines of Austin
• Alvin's Limousine
• ATX Skyline Limo Services
• Austin Premier Transportation
• Austin Private Car Service
• Boulevard Chauffeur
• Capital City Limo of Austin
• Carey Limousine
• Corporate Transportation Associates
• Crown Limousine Services
• CTA Worldwide Chauffeured Transportation
• Echelon Limousine
• Elegant Limousine and Charter
• ExecuCar of Austin
• Fresch Limousine Service

Transport options for those with large suitcases

If you are travelling to or from Austin Airport with large suitcases, there are several transport options available to you.

The "Airport Flyer" bus service between Downtown Austin and the airport has luggage racks at the front and is reported to be reliable and punctual. This service is operated by CapMetro, Austin's public transportation provider, and runs every 30 minutes to an hour. The fare is $1.75 and you need exact change.

If you are travelling further afield, you may need to take another bus from the Airport Flyer. One user reports that the Dillo bus service may refuse passengers with large suitcases. However, another user suggests that you are unlikely to have any trouble taking your suitcase on the bus, although you may have to stand in the sun while waiting.

If you are concerned about taking a bus with your large suitcase, there are several other transport options available. These include taxis, rental cars, and ride-sharing services such as Lyft and Uber, which are available at the South Terminal.

For those who require assistance, such as wheelchair service or an escort to your gate, you can contact your airline in advance to make the necessary arrangements.

Transport options for those on a budget

If you're looking for budget-friendly ways to get from Austin Airport to the city, there are a few transport options available. Here are some detailed instructions and tips to help you navigate:

Bus Services

Austin's public transportation provider, CapMetro, operates buses and MetroRail services. The MetroAirport Flyer or Route 20 bus serves as the airport bus and provides connections to downtown Austin and various attractions. The bus stop is located on the lower level, just outside the baggage claim area, and you can recognise it by its neon guitar design. The bus runs every 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the source, and a single ride costs $1.25. You can use the CapMetro app or their Trip Planner to guide your journey.

When travelling by bus, it's important to consider the location of your accommodation and the bus service times. Most routes stop running around 10 pm, so if you plan on staying out late, you might need to consider alternative options like taxis or rental cars. Additionally, if you're bringing large suitcases, check the specific rules for luggage on the bus service you plan to use.

Ridesharing

Ridesharing services like Lyft and Uber are available at the airport, but they are only accessible at the new South Terminal. Other ridesharing companies operating at the airport include Fasten, GetMe, Wingz, and zTrip.

Walking

If you're travelling light and don't mind a walk, the airport is located about 5 miles from downtown Austin. It could take about an hour to walk, but this option may not be feasible for everyone, especially during hot weather or with heavy luggage.

Rental Cars

While renting a car can be more expensive, it might be a good option if you're staying in a less-developed area or need to travel to remote locations. However, consider your plans and whether you'll need a car for your entire trip, as parking in downtown Austin can be challenging.

Transport options for those with no time constraints

If you're travelling to or from Austin Airport and have no time constraints, there are several transport options available to you. Here are some detailed instructions and considerations for each mode of transport:

Bus

CapMetro, Austin's public transportation provider, operates buses, MetroRail, and more. The MetroAirport Flyer runs from the airport to downtown Austin and the University of Texas, departing outside the baggage claim area every 30 minutes. This bus accommodates baggage and costs $1.75, but you will need exact change. From downtown, you can transfer to the Metro Rail. Alternatively, Route 20 Manor Road/Riverside operates every 15 minutes, 7 days a week, and costs $1.25 for a single ride. This route takes you from the airport to downtown Austin, the State Capital, Lady Bird Lake, and the University of Texas campus.

Taxi

Taxis are available at the airport for travel to your destination. Taxi services such as ATX Co-Op Taxi, Central City Taxi, and Z-Trip are some of the options. Taxi fares can vary, and you may need to book in advance or wait for availability.

Rideshare

Ridesharing services such as Lyft and Uber are available at the new South Terminal of Austin Airport. Other ridesharing companies operating at the airport include Fasten, GetMe, Wingz, and zTrip. You can use their respective apps to book a ride and see the estimated fare and waiting time.

Rental Car

If you prefer the flexibility of having your own vehicle, you can consider renting a car from one of the many rental car companies operating at Austin Airport. These include Advantage Rent A Car, Alamo, Avis Car Rental, Budget Rent A Car, Dollar Car Rental, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, and many others. However, renting a car can be more expensive compared to other transport options, and you may need to navigate and deal with parking constraints.

Shuttle

Shuttle services are also available at Austin Airport, providing transportation to and from the airport. SuperShuttle is one option, and they can be contacted at 1-800-258-3826 or via email at [email protected]. Other shuttle companies serving the airport include Carter Transportation and 4Leaf Limo.

Frequently asked questions