Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
Essential Travel Information for 2024
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) serves as a crucial hub for millions of travelers passing through Austin, Texas. With over 22 million passengers in 2023 alone, it's one of the fastest-growing airports in the United States. Whether you're flying in or out, knowing the best times to arrive and what services are available can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.
For domestic flights, AUS recommends arriving two-and-a-half hours early during peak times (5-8 a.m., 11 a.m.-1 p.m., and 3:30-5:30 p.m.) and 90 minutes during off-peak hours. International travelers are advised to be at the airport three hours before departure. This advanced preparation can help you navigate through security and reach your gate without unnecessary stress.
Austin-Bergstrom offers a variety of amenities to make your travel experience more comfortable. Capital Metro’s high-frequency Route 20 bus service, multiple taxi options, and numerous rental car companies ensure you have convenient transportation choices. If traveling with children, the airport's family viewing area provides a unique opportunity to watch planes take off, easing any pre-flight anxiety.
History and Background
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (ABIA) is located about five miles southeast of downtown Austin, Texas. The site originally served as Bergstrom Air Force Base, named after Captain John August Earl Bergstrom, a US Army officer killed in World War II.
In the mid-20th century, the base played a crucial role in military operations. After decades of service, it was decommissioned by the Base Realignment and Closure Commission.
The City of Austin then repurposed the land. The new airport was opened on May 23, 1999, replacing Robert Mueller Municipal Airport, which closed in the same month.
The transformation of the site marked a significant development for Austin, underscoring its growth and strategic importance.
Today, ABIA spans 4,242 acres and includes two runways and three helipads. It serves as a major hub for the Greater Austin metropolitan area.
In 2023, it handled 22 million passengers, making it the third-busiest airport in Texas and the 27th in the United States. The airport continues to expand, reflecting Austin's rapid growth and increasing travel demands.
Terminals Overview
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport operates two main terminals: the Barbara Jordan Terminal and the South Terminal. Each terminal offers its own unique services and amenities tailored to meet the needs of various travelers.
Barbara Jordan Terminal
The Barbara Jordan Terminal is the main terminal at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. Located at 3600 Presidential Blvd., it features 34 gates and provides a comprehensive range of traveler amenities. Visitors will find a wide variety of shops and restaurants. Full-service dining and fast food options are available.
Additionally, the terminal offers several services. Free Wi-Fi, multiple charging stations, and comfortable seating areas are provided. Travelers can also access several lounges for relaxation. The terminal is well-maintained and is designed to accommodate a high volume of traffic efficiently.
South Terminal
The South Terminal, located at 10000 Logistics Ln., is separate from the main Barbara Jordan Terminal. It caters primarily to low-cost carriers. With three gates, it serves a more limited number of passengers. The terminal is known for its ease of use and quick access.
For convenience, a shuttle service connects passengers between the South Terminal and the Barbara Jordan Terminal. Basic amenities such as food trucks and free Wi-Fi are available. Travelers appreciate the minimalist design and efficient service, making it ideal for those seeking a straightforward and hassle-free travel experience.
Airlines and Destinations
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) caters to a wide array of domestic and international flights. With over 20 airlines operating, passengers can reach major cities across North America and various global destinations.
Domestic Flights
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport provides nonstop service to numerous cities within the United States. Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, JetBlue, and Alaska Airlines are some of the major carriers offering domestic flights.
Popular destinations include New York City, Las Vegas, Boston, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C. Southwest Airlines leads in the number of routes, ensuring frequent flights to major hubs. Other airlines like Frontier and Spirit Airlines offer budget-friendly options to passengers.
Listed Popular Routes:
Southwest Airlines: Boston, Las Vegas
American Airlines: New York City, Los Angeles
Delta Air Lines: Atlanta, Salt Lake City
United Airlines: Chicago, Newark
Short travel times and frequent schedules make AUS a convenient gateway for domestic travel.
International Flights
AUS serves various international destinations, connecting passengers to several continents. British Airways, Lufthansa, and Aeromexico are among the key international carriers.
Flights to Frankfurt, Germany with Lufthansa offer seamless connections to Europe. British Airways provides direct services to London Heathrow, while Aeromexico and Volaris facilitate travel to Mexico City and other Central American destinations.
Listed Popular Routes:
British Airways: London Heathrow
Lufthansa: Frankfurt
Aeromexico: Mexico City
Air Canada: Toronto
For those traveling towards the Pacific, Hawaiian Airlines offers non-stop flights to Honolulu. With these options, AUS connects to over 85 destinations, making it a vital hub for international travelers.
Getting To and From the Airport
Travelers have several options for getting to and from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, ensuring a convenient trip whether they are driving or using public transportation. From ground transportation services to ample parking facilities, the airport accommodates various travel needs.
Ground Transportation
For those not driving themselves, various ground transportation services are available. Shuttle services like Carter Transportation provide reliable connections between the airport and locations such as downtown Austin.
Route 20 bus, operated by CapMetro, offers a budget-friendly option and runs regularly between the airport and the city. Ride share services such as Uber and Lyft are also available, with designated pickup areas clearly marked.
Passengers can find taxi services conveniently outside the terminal. For those needing a rental car, the airport hosts a rental car facility with various major agencies ready to assist travelers.
Parking
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport offers several parking options to accommodate different needs. Red Garage and Blue Garage provide short-term parking close to the terminal, ideal for quick trips or pickups.
For longer stays, the Economy Parking lot offers more affordable rates, with shuttles available to transport passengers to and from the terminal.
Detailed parking information, including rates and availability, can be found on the airport’s official website. Additionally, there are ABIA parking services that ensure travelers have a hassle-free experience when it comes to leaving their cars at the airport.
Airport Facilities and Services
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport provides a range of facilities and services to enhance the travel experience. These include diverse food and drink options, various shopping venues, multiple lounges for relaxation, and additional amenities for comfort and convenience.
Food and Drink
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport offers a variety of dining choices. Popular spots include The Peached Tortilla, known for its innovative Asian-Southern fusion cuisine. Travelers can enjoy BBQ at Salt Lick Bar-B-Que or grab a quick snack from one of the many grab-and-go options. For beverages, check out the Second Bar + Kitchen which offers both food and drink in a relaxed setting.
Shopping
Several shopping options are available for travelers at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. There are numerous shops where passengers can purchase essentials, souvenirs, and travel necessities. Retailers include Austin Article, a unique store that features local artisanal products, and shops offering everything from electronics to books.
Lounges
The airport features several lounges where travelers can relax before their flights. Notable lounges include the Admirals Club, Delta Sky Club, and United Club. These lounges provide comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, snacks, and beverages. Access might require membership or a day pass.
Additional Amenities
Additional amenities at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport include free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and a cell phone waiting lot. For those traveling internationally, there is a Global Entry kiosk. The airport also offers accessibility services, such as designated areas for service animals and accessible restrooms, making it convenient for all travelers.
Security and Check-In
Navigating security and check-in at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is straightforward if you are well-prepared. Here is a detailed look at the procedures and requirements to ensure a smooth experience.
TSA and Checkpoints
Travelers should be aware of TSA security guidelines. During peak hours, which are typically daily from 5-8 a.m., 11 a.m.-1 p.m., and 3:30-5:30 p.m., it is recommended to arrive two-and-a-half hours before your flight. For international flights, you should aim to arrive three hours early.
Security checkpoints are situated at strategic points throughout the airport. If traveling with pets, you must present them to the Security Officers at the checkpoint. For travelers opting for expedited security, the CLEAR program, which allows for faster processing, is available. Lost items at checkpoints should promptly be reported to TSA's Lost and Found department.
Real ID Requirements
Starting May 7, 2025, all travelers aged 18 and older will need a Real ID-compliant license to fly within the U.S. Real IDs can be identified by a star on the upper corner of the card. If you do not have a Real ID, other TSA-approved forms of identification include passports, military IDs, and trusted traveler cards such as Global Entry.
It is crucial for travelers to ensure their ID is compliant to avoid any issues at check-in. For those who do not meet the Real ID requirements, TSA will not allow entry through the security checkpoints, which could result in missed flights.
Travel Tips and Information
Navigating Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is straightforward with a few key tips. Understanding airport maps and adhering to current Covid-19 guidelines can enhance your travel experience, especially if you are traveling with children.
Navigating the Airport
Arrive early, especially during peak hours—between 5-8 a.m., 11 a.m.-1 p.m., and 3:30-5:30 p.m.—to navigate security checks with ease.
For domestic flights, 90 minutes before scheduled departure might suffice during off-peak times.
AUS provides various transportation options, including Capital Metro Bus Service on high-frequency Route 20, taxi services like Central Texas Taxi and Yellow Cab, and rental car companies such as Enterprise and National.
Airport Maps
Effective navigation relies on understanding AUS's layout. Maps are available on the airport’s official website, guiding you through essential points like terminals, check-in counters, and amenities.
Signage within the airport is clear and frequent, including directions to ground transportation, baggage claim, and the cell phone waiting lot. Utilize digital maps on smartphones for real-time navigation, ensuring you locate gates and services without hassle.
Covid-19 Guidelines
Precautions are key for safe travel amidst Covid-19. The airport mandates masks in certain zones and recommends travelers keep abreast of TSA and CDC guidelines.
Hand sanitizing stations are strategically placed throughout the terminals. Social distancing markers help maintain safe distances at check-ins and security lines. AUS encourages checking CDC travel advisories and local guidelines for updates on testing and quarantine protocols.
Traveling with Children
Families flying from AUS can make use of kid-friendly amenities to ease travel. Arriving early ensures smooth passage through security, allocated family lanes expedite this process.
Child-friendly facilities include nursing rooms and designated play areas. Airport services also provide priority boarding for families, making the experience less stressful.
Prepare for any delays by packing snacks, entertainment, and essential items in carry-on luggage.
Flight Information
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) offers a comprehensive array of flight options for both domestic and international travel.
Travelers can access flight status updates through the airport's official website or various flight tracking apps. This ensures they remain informed about any changes to their flights' departure or arrival times.
AUS serves over 85 domestic and international destinations, providing numerous nonstop flights to major cities across the United States and abroad. This diversity of routes enhances the convenience for both business and leisure travelers.
For those flying out of AUS, it is recommended to arrive:
2.5 hours before domestic flights during peak times (5-8 a.m., 11 a.m.-1 p.m., and 3:30-5:30 p.m.).
3 hours before international flights.
90 minutes before off-peak domestic flights.
The ATI (Arrivals/Departures Information) system at AUS is regularly updated to reflect the most current flight schedules. Passengers can find this information through the airport's digital displays or online platform.
These schedules include details on nonstop flights that are highly preferred for a more efficient travel experience, reducing layover times and potential delays.
Airport Development and Construction
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is undergoing significant development to enhance its facilities. Preliminary construction started in April 2023 to accommodate new, upgraded TSA screening machines.
A major project includes the addition of a new concourse. This expansion will add at least 20 new gates, improving the airport's capacity to manage growing passenger numbers.
The City of Austin has approved a $72 million contract for the design of this expansion. The project aims to alleviate congestion and streamline the passenger experience.
The Planning Commission recently recommended updating AUS's Master Development Plan Ordinance. Such updates are required every decade to ensure a cohesive and efficient construction process for future projects.
Passengers should be aware that construction activities might cause temporary inconveniences. However, these efforts are focused on significantly improving the airport's infrastructure and services.
Austin-Bergstrom is also hosting community events, such as an Airport Open House at the Southeast Branch Library, to keep neighbors and travelers informed.
In addition to the gates, the airport is expanding facilities in the Barbara Jordan Terminal. This development seeks to tackle existing overcrowding and maintain smooth operations.
Customer Service and Support
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) offers a range of customer service and support options to ensure a seamless experience for travelers.
Information Desks: Located throughout the terminals, these desks provide assistance with flight information, directions, and any general inquiries.
Website: The official Austin-Bergstrom International Airport website serves as a valuable resource. Travelers can find up-to-date information on flights, parking, amenities, and airport services.
Customer Service Representatives: Friendly staff are available to help passengers with any immediate needs, be it locating gates or understanding boarding procedures.
Travelers with Special Needs: The airport is equipped with facilities to assist those with disabilities. Services include wheelchair rentals and designated parking spaces.
Lost and Found: For items misplaced within the airport, the Lost and Found office can be contacted. They manage lost property and assist in locating missing items.
Feedback System: AUS encourages passengers to provide feedback on their experiences. This feedback is used to enhance the quality of service provided.
Communication Channels:
Phone Support: A customer service hotline is available for inquiries and support.
Social Media: The airport maintains active accounts on various social media platforms to provide updates and engage with travelers.
Family Assistance: AUS offers a family viewing area where parents can show children the airport's operations without the stress of travel. This includes watching planes take off and land.
