Ruth Haines
Can I go inside Austin Airport arrivals?
Yes, visitors can go inside the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport arrivals area. The airport is open 24 hours, with TSA security checkpoints opening at 3:00 a.m. and closing after the last flights. The airport has two terminals: the Barbara Jordan Terminal and the South Terminal. The Barbara Jordan Terminal has an upper and lower level, with curbside drop-off and pick-up available on both levels. The lower level has customs and immigration facilities for international arrivals, while the upper level has ticketing counters. The South Terminal has an airside outdoor patio area with a food truck and seating, as well as indoor free WiFi, charging stations, and grab-and-go snacks. Visitors who are not ticketed passengers are generally not allowed to bring pets inside the terminal, with exceptions for service animals.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Airport Name | Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) |
| Location | Austin, Texas, USA |
| Number of Terminals | 2 (Barbara Jordan Terminal and the South Terminal) |
| Annual Passengers | 13.5 million |
| Number of Destinations | 85+ domestic and international destinations |
| Check-in Recommendations | Arrive at least 90 minutes before domestic flights and 2-3 hours before international flights |
| TSA Pre-Check Locations | 3 in Austin |
| Parking | Varies by lot; economy lot offers a free shuttle |
| Ground Transportation | Shuttle, ride share, taxi, or bus services |
| Dining Options | Dozens of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops |
| Entertainment | Live music schedule and family viewing area |
| Pet Relief Areas | 2 (near Gate 9 of Barbara Jordan Terminal and Gate 1 of South Terminal) |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair service from curb to aircraft |
| Ongoing Construction | Terminal expansion with new gates, baggage handling system, and improved TSA checkpoints |
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What You'll Learn
Recommended arrival times for domestic and international flights
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is one of the fastest-growing airports in the country, with over 22 million passengers flying in and out of Austin in 2023. With increasing passenger numbers, it's important to allow plenty of time to clear security and reach your gate.
For domestic flights, it is recommended that passengers arrive at least 2.5 hours before their departure time. This is to allow for checking in, bag drop, and clearing security. Mornings are the busiest time of day at AUS, and Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays, and Mondays are the busiest days of the week, with 30,000+ passengers flying out. Summer is also a busy period, so it's worth allowing extra time during these peak periods.
For international flights, passengers should allow even more time and check-in at their airline ticket counter at least 3 hours before departure. This is to allow for the additional time needed for passport checks and any other international travel requirements.
Passengers can speed up their check-in process by using the self-service kiosks available 24/7, which can be used for checking in, changing flights, upgrading seats, and checking bags. Passengers can also sign up for TSA PreCheck to expedite their security wait times.
It's also important to be aware of any construction activities that may be taking place at the airport, which could impact your journey through the terminal.
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Transport options to and from the airport
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is one of the fastest-growing airports in the country, with over 22 million passengers in 2023. To meet the demands of this growth, the airport is undergoing a multi-year expansion and development program.
Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least 2.5 hours before departure for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights. With long wait times, it is recommended that passengers consider signing up for TSA PreCheck to expedite security screening.
There are several transport options available for getting to and from the airport:
- Bus: CapMetro provides a convenient and frequent bus service, Route 20, which operates every 15 minutes, 7 days a week. The bus stop is located on the lower level outside baggage claim and the route goes to downtown Austin, the University of Texas campus, and Northeast Austin.
- Tram: AUS has two tram services that transport passengers to the rental car facility and rideshare/taxi pick-up areas. The Mobility Tram pick-up location can be found on the AUS digital map.
- Rideshare and taxi: Rideshare and taxi pick-up is located under the Consolidated Rental Car Facility, north of or behind the Red Garage. For passengers with mobility assistive devices, the Mobility Assistance Zone is available daily from 7 am to 2 am for Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles, taxis, and rideshares.
- Car: Drivers can drop off passengers at either the upper or lower curbside levels, using the less congested option.
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Services for passengers with disabilities
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) offers a wide range of accessibility services as part of its AUS For All program. The airport is designed to meet the needs of passengers with mobility and accessibility needs, as well as those with visible and non-visible disabilities.
Navigating the airport
To help passengers with visual impairments navigate the airport more easily, the pedestrian walkways in the terminal have accessible contrasting floor surfaces. Passengers who are blind or have low vision can also download Aira on their mobile device. This live, on-demand visual interpretation service is free for passengers in the terminal.
For passengers with limited hearing, there is a hearing loop on the east side of the terminal, approximately between Gates 1 and 12.
Non-visible disabilities
AUS is part of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program. Sunflower lanyards or ID cards are available for passengers with non-visible disabilities to wear at the airport. These discreetly notify airport staff and other passengers that the wearer may need more time, patience, and support.
Mobility assistance
All airlines provide wheelchair services from the curb to the aircraft. Please contact your airline before your trip to coordinate wheelchair services. Wheelchair-accessible shuttles are available for travel between the economy lots and the terminal.
Other services
- A Mobility Lounge is located on the departures level by the ticket counters. This is a seating area intended for passengers using wheelchairs and other mobility assistive devices.
- An accessible companion care restroom is located by Gate 11.
- Signage posted throughout the terminal has raised lettering and Braille.
- Accessible elevators, water fountains, and restroom facilities are available before and after security checkpoints.
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Rules for travelling with pets
Travelling with pets can be a complicated process, and it is important to be aware of the rules and regulations that must be followed. Here are some essential guidelines to follow when travelling with pets:
Research Airline Policies
Before embarking on your journey, it is crucial to understand the specific policies of the airline you are travelling with. Different airlines may have varying restrictions and requirements for travelling with pets. Some airlines may only allow certain types or sizes of pets, and others may have specific container or kennel requirements. Contact your airline directly to understand their policies and make the necessary arrangements for your pet's travel.
Health and Vaccination Requirements
To ensure the health and safety of your pet, you will need to obtain a health certificate signed by a veterinarian. This certificate must be presented to the airline prior to your flight. Additionally, be mindful of the health regulations at your destination. Some places, like Hawaii, may require special vaccinations and might even impose a quarantine period upon arrival. Always check the specific requirements of your destination to ensure your pet meets all the necessary health standards.
Container or Kennel Specifications
When travelling with a pet, the container or kennel you use must meet specific standards. The container should be large enough for your pet to stand, turn, sit, and lie down comfortably without touching the sides or top. It should be well-ventilated, with mesh or ventilation on three to four sides, depending on your travel destination. The container must also be secure, leak-proof, and escape-proof, with a fastened door. Additionally, include separate food and water dishes attached securely inside the kennel, along with a small bag of food for a 24-hour period.
Arrival Time Considerations
When travelling with a pet, it is advisable to arrive at the airport even earlier than you normally would. Give yourself ample time to navigate the check-in process and address any potential issues or delays. For domestic flights, aim to arrive at least 2.5 hours before departure, and for international flights, allow for 3 hours or more.
TSA PreCheck and Security
Consider enrolling in TSA PreCheck to expedite your security process, especially if you are travelling with a pet. This can significantly reduce your wait times and make your journey less stressful. Remember to also familiarize yourself with the TSA's rules for travelling with pets, including any prohibited items or special procedures.
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The airport's ongoing expansion and development
The Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is undergoing a multi-year expansion and development program, called Journey With AUS, to meet the demands of its growing number of passengers and airline activity. The airport is one of the fastest-growing in the country, with over 22 million passengers recorded in 2023, and is transforming from a medium-sized airport to a large one.
The Journey With AUS program aims to elevate the passenger experience with an authentic Austin and Central Texas feel. The overall scope and budget of the program are still in development, but it is funded by traditional airport development funding sources, such as airport cash reserves, airport revenues, revenue bonds, and Federal Aviation Administration grants. No local taxpayer dollars will be used to fund the program.
Several projects are already underway, including the Utility Infrastructure Campus-Wide (UICW) project, which involves expanding and enhancing utilities to meet the airport's growing demands. The airport has also begun constructing a new Central Utility Plant (CUP) to provide reliable heating and cooling to the airport.
One of the most significant projects is the $865 million expansion of the Barbara Jordan Terminal. This project will add a new 370,500-square-foot structure, the Arrivals and Departures Hall (A/D Hall), which will serve as the primary pickup and drop-off point. The A/D Hall will house airline check-in counters, domestic baggage claim, and concessions. The project also includes rerouting Presidential Boulevard, which runs in front of the terminal, to accommodate increased passenger traffic. The expanded terminal is expected to be completed by December 2029.
Additionally, the airport is working on several shorter-term projects to create more space for passenger processing. One such project involves filling in the second-floor atrium overlooking baggage claim, adding 12,000 square feet of floor space for check-in and security screening.
The airport is also addressing security checkpoint delays by installing new screening equipment and technology, expanding checkpoints, and requesting additional staff and technology from the TSA.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended that passengers arrive at least 2 hours before departure for domestic flights and 3 hours before departure for international flights.
There are various transportation options to get to Austin Airport, including shuttle, ride-share, taxi, and bus services.
No, pets, including dogs and other animals, are not allowed inside the terminal at Austin Airport, with the exception of service animals assisting people with disabilities.
