Sachin Walls
As of June 1, 2023, all smoking lounges at Dulles International Airport have been permanently closed. This has been a growing trend among US airports, with Atlanta, Salt Lake City, and Denver also closing their smoking lounges. While some travelers are disappointed by the change, others have expressed relief that they no longer have to endure the smell of smoke on their clothing and bodies while onboard the plane. For those connecting flights, you will have to pass through security, enter the US, and then return to access smoking areas outside the airport.
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What You'll Learn
Smoking lounges at Dulles airport closed in June 2023
Smoking lounges at Dulles International Airport in Washington, DC, were permanently closed as of June 1, 2023. This means that all smoking facilities inside the terminal, past security, are no longer accessible to travellers.
Prior to this change, Dulles Airport did have smoking lounges, including one near gate B39, which was described as a "cool place" with comfortable armchairs. However, as of June 2023, travellers will no longer be able to use these dedicated spaces for smoking.
The closure of smoking lounges at Dulles Airport reflects a broader trend in US airports, where smoking indoors is becoming a thing of the past. Many airports across the United States have already removed their smoking lounges, and it seems that Dulles has followed suit. While this change may be disappointing for smokers, it is worth noting that smoking will still be permitted outside the main terminal, just not inside the concourses.
It is important to consider the potential reasons behind this decision. One factor could be the decline in smoking rates, making dedicated smoking lounges less necessary and justifying the use of space for other revenue-generating purposes. Additionally, the challenges and costs associated with cleaning and maintaining smoking lounges, especially in terms of air circulation and filtration, may have contributed to the decision to close them.
While Dulles Airport has joined the list of airports without smoking lounges, it is worth noting that some airports in the United States, Europe, Central and South America, and a few other locations still provide these dedicated spaces for smokers.
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There were lounges at Gates B39, C4, D30, B37, and B73
As of June 1st, 2023, all smoking lounges at Dulles International Airport are permanently closed. This means that smoking indoors at the airport is no longer possible. However, before the policy change, there were lounges at Gates B39, C4, D30, B37, and B73.
The smoking lounge near Gate B39 was praised by travellers for its comfortable armchairs and good ventilation, which prevented smokers from smelling like an ashtray. There was also a smoking lounge between Gate B73 and the Washington Redskins Burger joint. Additionally, travellers could access smoking areas across from Gate B37 and opposite Gate D30.
While indoor smoking is no longer allowed at Dulles Airport, travellers with connecting flights can pass through security, enter the US, and then return to the airport to smoke outside. This policy change brings Dulles Airport in line with most other US airports, where indoor smoking is now a thing of the past.
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Lounges had poor ventilation and were far from gates
As of June 1, 2023, all smoking lounges at Dulles International Airport have been permanently closed. This has been a source of frustration for travellers, who now have to pass through security and enter the US before returning to smoke during connecting flights.
Previously, travellers could access smoking lounges at Dulles International Airport, but these were known for their poor ventilation and distance from gates. For example, the smoking lounge at Terminal C, Gate C4, was described as "very small, lousy ventilation and usually jammed" before the departure of flights to Europe. In contrast, the smoking lounge at Terminal D, Gate D30, was well-ventilated and spacious but located at the far end of the terminal, making it a long walk for those departing from other gates.
The closure of the smoking lounges at Dulles Airport is part of a broader trend in US airports. Atlanta, Salt Lake City, and Denver have all removed their smoking lounges, reflecting the shift away from indoor smoking in the country. While some travellers may find this inconvenient, it is worth noting that smoking indoors is becoming a thing of the past in the US, with the exception of a few remaining lounges tucked away in corners with limited amenities.
The removal of smoking lounges at Dulles International Airport and other US airports can impact travellers' experiences during long layovers. However, it is essential to consider the health and comfort of all passengers, including non-smokers, who may be affected by second-hand smoke in poorly ventilated areas. While the closure of smoking lounges may be disappointing to some, it is essential to prioritise the well-being of all travellers.
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US airports are removing smoking areas
As of 2024, nearly all US hub airports are 100% smoke-free indoors, with Washington Dulles being the most recent to implement a no-smoking policy. This is a positive step towards prioritizing the health of employees and travellers, eliminating the toxic smoke surrounding building entrances and shuttle stops.
Previously, Dulles International Airport did have a smoking lounge near gate B39, which was praised for its comfortable armchairs and good ventilation. However, as of June 1st, 2023, all smoking facilities inside the terminal past security have been closed. This change brought Dulles Airport in line with the majority of other US airports that have already gone smoke-free.
While smoking areas are becoming less common in US airports, there are still a few that permit smoking in designated areas. As of April 1st, 2025, 32 of the top 35 US airports had 100% smoke-free indoor air policies, with the three exceptions being Las Vegas's Harry Reid International Airport, Miami International Airport, and Nashville International Airport. These airports have the most areas where smoking is permitted, including specific lounges, outdoor areas near ticketing, and baggage claim sections.
In addition to indoor smoking policies, some airports have also implemented outdoor smoke-free policies. For example, Indianapolis has eliminated smoking outdoors, helping to improve the air quality around the airport. Despite these positive changes, there are still airports that allow indoor smoking, including McCarran Las Vegas, Memphis, Nashville, Cincinnati-Northern KY, and Biloxi. It is hoped that these airports will follow the lead of the majority of US airports and implement smoke-free policies to protect the health of travellers and employees.
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Some airports with smoking areas include Las Vegas and Mississippi
As of June 2023, smoking lounges at Dulles International Airport are permanently closed. However, some airports in the United States still provide designated smoking areas.
Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, for instance, has designated smoking areas in compliance with Nevada state law. These areas include Barneys Lounge at the C Gates, the Bud 29 Track Lounge at T1 Esplanade, and enclosed gaming lounges at the B, C, D, and E Gates. Additionally, smoking is permitted outdoors near ticketing and baggage claim.
Another airport with designated smoking areas is the MSP Airport, which has two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. At MSP, smoking is prohibited in all interior spaces but is permitted in designated outdoor smoking areas located at least 45 feet from all building entries, outdoor air intakes, and operable windows. These designated smoking areas can be easily identified by signage at both terminals.
While specific details about the Mississippi airport with smoking areas are not readily available, it is mentioned alongside Las Vegas as one of the few remaining airports in the United States that accommodate smokers.
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Frequently asked questions
No, as of June 1st, 2023, all smoking lounges at Dulles airport have been permanently closed.
There were lounges located at Terminal C, Gate C4, Terminal D, Gate D30, Terminal B, Gate B37, and Gate B73.
The lounges varied in size and ventilation. The Terminal C, Gate C4 lounge was described as very small with poor ventilation. The Terminal D, Gate D30 lounge was large with good ventilation but located at the very end of the terminal.
Yes, smoking lounges can still be found in Las Vegas and Mississippi.
