
If you're a smoker, knowing where you can and can't smoke at an airport can be a challenge. Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) only allows smoking in designated outdoor areas located outside each terminal building, before passing through security. This means that if you want to smoke, you'll need to exit the secure area and go through security again. To avoid the hassle, it's recommended to use the designated smoking areas before going through security in the first place. So, if you're passing through PHL and need a smoke break, you can find designated smoking zones outside the entrances of Terminal A-West and A-East, and similar areas are available at other terminals.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Airport Code | PHL |
| Airport Name | Philadelphia International Airport |
| Smoking Allowed | Yes, but only in designated outdoor areas outside each terminal building, before passing through security |
| E-Cigarettes Allowed | No |
| Location of Smoking Zones | Terminal A-West & A-East: curbside outside the entrances, before the security checkpoints |
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What You'll Learn

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) smoking zones
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) has strict smoking regulations, and smoking is not permitted inside the airport. If you are a smoker, it is important to plan ahead and be aware of the designated smoking zones to save time and avoid any fines.
Smoking at PHL is only allowed in designated outdoor areas located outside each terminal building, before passing through security. These areas can be found curbside outside the entrances, before the security checkpoints. For example, at Terminal A-West and A-East, smoking zones are located outside the entrances.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport earlier than usual to allow time for a pre-security cigarette, as the TSA lines at PHL can take 15-25 minutes, or longer during busy travel times. If you leave the secure area for a smoke, be prepared for the extra time needed to go through security again.
To manage cravings during your flight, nicotine patches or gum can be useful. While e-cigarettes are banned at PHL, some other airports and airlines may allow their use in designated areas, so it is always good to check the latest regulations on official websites or at information desks.
Remember, smoking policies can change, so staying informed is important.
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Indoor smoking banned since 2007
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) has strict smoking regulations. Smoking is only allowed in designated outdoor areas located outside each terminal building, before passing through security. This is because indoor smoking at PHL was officially banned in 2007 as part of a larger movement to make U.S. airports smoke-free.
The ban on indoor smoking at PHL is in line with broader efforts to protect people from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke. Studies have shown that exposure to second-hand smoke causes more than 41,000 deaths among non-smoking adults in the United States each year and leads to an estimated $5.6 billion in lost productivity. The U.S. Surgeon General has concluded that there is no safe level of exposure to second-hand smoke, and the only way to fully protect non-smokers is to eliminate smoking in indoor spaces.
The World Health Organization's (WHO) 2007 report "Protection from Exposure to Second-hand Tobacco Smoke" further emphasised the importance of smoke-free environments. The report recommended that member states implement laws requiring workplaces and public places to be 100% smoke-free. However, as of 2008, only 5% of the world's population was covered by comprehensive smoke-free laws, indicating that much work remains to be done.
In the United States, smoking bans have been implemented at various levels, including state, county, and city regulations. For example, the Clean Indoor Air Act, which went into effect in different states on different dates, bans smoking in enclosed public places and workplaces, with some exemptions. Local governments can also regulate smoking more strictly than state laws. As of June 30, 2024, 28-29 states and several U.S. territories have 100% smoke-free indoor air laws for bars, restaurants, and worksites.
Smokers travelling through PHL should be mindful of the designated smoking areas and plan their time accordingly to avoid any issues. Arriving early and using the smoking areas before security checkpoints can help manage cravings during flights, especially with the help of nicotine patches or gum.
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Plan your time and relax
If you're a smoker, planning your time at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) can help you fit in a cigarette break and relax before your flight. Here are some tips to help you do that:
Plan Ahead
Arrive at the airport earlier than usual to give yourself time for a pre-security cigarette. Keep in mind that the TSA lines at PHL can take 15-25 minutes, or longer during busy travel times.
Know the Smoking Areas
Philadelphia International Airport has designated outdoor smoking areas located outside each terminal building, before passing through security. Knowing where these areas are will help you quickly find a spot to smoke and save time during layovers.
Stay Informed
Check the latest smoking regulations on the airport's official website or at information desks. Smoking policies can change, and you'll want to avoid any fines or issues by adhering to designated smoking zones.
Alternative Options
If you don't have time to smoke or can't find a designated smoking area, consider using nicotine patches or gum to manage cravings during your flight. Alternatively, e-cigarettes may be allowed in certain areas, so be sure to check the airport and airline policies.
Relaxation Techniques
Breathing exercises and other relaxation techniques can help manage stress and reduce the urge to smoke. These techniques can be especially useful if you're unable to find a smoking area or are dealing with tight flight connections.
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Nicotine patches and gum
If you're a smoker, you'll know that finding a smoking area at an airport can be a challenge. Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is no exception, with smoking only allowed in designated outdoor areas located outside each terminal building, before passing through security. So, what can you do to manage your nicotine cravings while at the airport or on a flight? One option is to use nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) such as nicotine patches, gum, or lozenges.
Nicotine Patches
Nicotine patches are FDA-approved medicines that can help people quit smoking by providing a slow and steady release of nicotine over an extended period. They come in different shapes and sizes and can be worn under clothing, so they remain hidden. Typically, you would put one on in the morning and leave it in place all day. They are available in several strengths (7 mg, 14 mg, and 21 mg), and you should choose the right dose based on how much you currently smoke. For example, if you smoke more than ten cigarettes per day, you may want to start with the 21 mg patch. Over time, you would gradually lower the dose with the goal of eventually stopping use of the patch completely. It's important to note that you should not wear two patches at once unless directed to do so by a healthcare provider. Side effects are generally minor and manageable, but the patch may cause irritation if you have sensitive skin.
Nicotine Gum and Lozenges
Nicotine gum and lozenges are also FDA-approved and are considered "short-acting" NRTs because they deliver nicotine more quickly. They are designed to help you get through cravings as they occur or even in anticipation of a craving. They can be used in combination with the nicotine patch to better manage cravings. For example, you can start with the patch and then add gum or lozenges later if you continue to experience withdrawal symptoms. Nicotine gum comes in various flavours, such as Fruit Chill and Spearmint Burst, to make the experience more enjoyable.
Using two NRTs together, such as the nicotine patch and gum or lozenges, can increase your chances of quitting smoking successfully compared to using just one. These NRTs can be especially helpful when you're travelling and cannot smoke, such as when you're at the airport or on a flight. Remember to always follow the directions and precautions for each product, and if you have any concerns or questions, consult your healthcare provider.
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E-cigarettes
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) adheres to strict smoking regulations. Indoor smoking was banned in 2007, and since then, designated smoking areas have been available outside the main entrances of both terminals.
If you are an e-cigarette user, you must check the airline and airport policies, as some may allow the use of e-cigarettes in designated areas. It is important to be aware of the smoking areas for convenience, to save time during layovers, and to avoid fines or other issues by adhering to designated smoking zones.
If you have a layover and need to smoke, you will have to exit the secure area and then re-enter through security. It is recommended to arrive at the airport earlier than usual to give yourself time for a pre-security cigarette, as TSA lines at PHL can be time-consuming.
Additionally, smoking policies can change, so it is advised to always check the latest regulations on the airport's official website or at information desks.
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Frequently asked questions
No, smoking is not permitted inside the airport terminal buildings.
Yes, there are designated smoking zones located outside each terminal building, before passing through security.
The use of e-cigarettes is banned at PHA Airport. However, some airlines and airports may allow their use in designated areas.
Yes, nicotine patches or gum can help manage cravings. Relaxation techniques, such as breathing exercises, can also help reduce the urge to smoke.
A terminal-by-terminal breakdown of the designated smoking zones is available online. These areas are typically located outside the entrances, before the security checkpoints.

















