ABQ Airport Insights & Guide
- Frequent Flier Tips
- Airport Recent News
- Navigating the Terminals
- Connecting Between Terminals
- Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
- Parking Facilities & Options
- Transportation Options
- Airport Hotels
- Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
- Passenger Services
- Flight Status Info
- Airport Facts & Stats
- Airport History
- Airport Contact Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Getting to Know ABQ Airport
Welcome to the Albuquerque Sunport Airport Online Guide, your comprehensive source of information for navigating ABQ Airport. From terminal maps to dining options, this guide has got you covered. ABQ Airport, known for its distinctive Pueblo Revival architectural style, offers a unique air travel experience that reflects the cultural richness of New Mexico. Whether you're catching a flight, picking up a passenger, or simply exploring the airport, this guide is designed to make your visit as smooth as possible. For those venturing beyond ABQ, consider our worldwide airport list for detailed insights on other airports you might visit on your journey.
iFly Tip: Make your airport experience stress-free with our comprehensive airport tips.
Navigating the Terminals
ABQ has three terminals: Concourse A, Concourse B, and the Main Terminal. Concourse A has 10 gates and is primarily used by Southwest Airlines. Concourse B has 13 gates and is used by American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. The Main Terminal has 25 gates and is used by various airlines, including Alaska Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and Frontier Airlines.
When navigating the airport, it is important to note that security checkpoints are located at each concourse, so be sure to go through the correct checkpoint for your gate. Additionally, the airport offers a shuttle service that runs between the Main Terminal and Concourse B, making it easy to get around the airport.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food options, services, and airline departure gates. Safe travels!
Connecting Between Terminals
ABQ Airport has three terminals: Concourse A, Concourse B, and Main Terminal. The airport provides a free shuttle service that runs between all terminals. The shuttle operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is wheelchair accessible. The shuttle bus frequency varies depending on the time of day, but it typically runs every 5-10 minutes.
If you prefer to walk between terminals, it is possible to do so. The distance from Concourse A to Concourse B is approximately 0.2 miles, and the distance from Concourse B to the Main Terminal is about 0.3 miles. Walking times vary depending on your speed, but it should take no more than 5-10 minutes to walk between terminals.
Tips from ABQ Frequent Flyers
To help make your experience at Albuquerque Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from ABQ-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:
Navigating the Terminals
"If you're connecting between terminals, make use of the shuttle service. It runs every 5-10 minutes and is super convenient, especially if you have heavy luggage. The walk isn't too bad, but the shuttle saves time and energy." — Maria G., Rio Rancho, NM, January 2024
"Concourse A is mostly Southwest, so if you're flying with them, head straight there. For other airlines, double-check your gate before going through security to avoid any backtracking." — John D., Bernalillo, NM, March 2024
Getting To/From the City
"For a quick and affordable trip downtown, the ABQ Ride bus is a great option. It’s only a dollar, and the stop is right outside baggage claim. Just be mindful of the schedule, as it might not run late at night." — Lisa M., Corrales, NM, February 2024
"If you're in a hurry, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are efficient. The pickup area is easy to find, and the drivers are usually familiar with the quickest routes." — Carlos R., Los Lunas, NM, April 2024
Parking
"The off-airport parking lots offer great value and come with a shuttle service to the terminal. It's a bit cheaper than parking on-site, and the shuttles are frequent." — Anita S., Bosque Farms, NM, May 2024
"For short trips, the on-site parking garages are convenient and close to the terminal. Just remember to check for any available discounts or promotions online before you park." — David L., Belen, NM, June 2024
Inside the Airport
"If you have time before your flight, check out the local shops like Sundancer Trading Co. They have unique souvenirs that capture the spirit of New Mexico." — Emily N., Tijeras, NM, July 2024
"Black Mesa Coffee/Bakery is a must-stop for a quick bite or coffee. It's perfect for a pre-flight snack or if you need a caffeine boost." — Mark T., Edgewood, NM, August 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Always check the TSA wait times online before heading to the airport. It gives you a good idea of how early you need to arrive, especially during peak travel times." — Sarah J., Cedar Crest, NM, September 2024
"Keep an eye on your flight status through your airline's app. It’s the best way to stay updated on any changes or delays without having to constantly check the boards." — Tom K., Placitas, NM, October 2024
iFly Tip: Gain a deeper understanding of your flight with insights from our pilot's guide from takeoff to landing.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At the airport, picking up and dropping off passengers is a breeze. The airport provides designated curbside areas for passenger pick-up and drop-off, which are located just outside the main terminal and concourses A and B. However, it is important to note that curbside parking is strictly prohibited and vehicles must be attended at all times. Violators may be ticketed or towed.
If you need to wait for your arriving passenger, the airport offers a convenient cell-phone waiting area. This area allows drivers to park their vehicles for free while waiting for their passengers to arrive. Once your passenger has landed and retrieved their luggage, they can simply call or text you to let you know they are ready to be picked up. You can then proceed to the designated curbside area to pick them up.
Parking Facilities & Options
Albuquerque offers a variety of parking options to meet the needs of travelers. There are several parking lots and garages located near the airport terminals, including Concourse A, Concourse B, and the Main Terminal.
For those waiting to pick up arriving passengers, there are cell phone waiting areas available. These areas provide a convenient place to wait for your party to arrive without having to circle the airport or pay for parking.
Handicapped parking is available in all parking areas, and shuttle service is provided to and from the terminal for those who need assistance.
Off-airport parking is also available and can be a more economical option for travelers. These lots are located near the airport and offer shuttle service to and from the terminal.
Get details about ABQ parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.
Transportation Options
Albuquerque Sunport Airport offers several transportation options to help you get to your destination.
- Rental Cars: If you prefer to rent a car, you can choose from several major providers, including Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. The rental car facility is located just outside the terminal building, and you can easily access it by following the signs.
- Taxis: Taxis are available outside the baggage claim area. The drop-off area is located in front of the terminal building. The fare to downtown Albuquerque is approximately $20, and the ride takes about 15 minutes.
- Ride Share Services: Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also available at the airport. The pickup area is located outside the baggage claim area, and there are no restrictions on where you can go. However, be aware that the fare may vary depending on the time of day and demand.
- Airport Shuttles: If you prefer to take an airport shuttle, there are several options available. The shuttle service is provided by several companies, including Sandia Shuttle Express, ABQ Express Shuttle, and RoadRunner Shuttle. The pickup area is located outside the baggage claim area, and the fares vary depending on your destination.
- Public Transportation: For those who would like to take public transportation, the ABQ Ride bus is available. The bus stop is located outside the baggage claim area, and the fare is $1 per ride. However, be aware that the bus may not be the most convenient option if you have a lot of luggage or are in a hurry.
iFly Tip: Learn how airline hubs streamline travel across the globe.
Airport Hotels
Looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay near the airport? We've got you covered. Our list includes a variety of options from well-known international chains like Sheraton, Hilton Garden Inn, and Best Western, all less than 1.5 miles from the airport. Also featured are options like the Ramada by Wyndham and Super 8 by Wyndham, which offer excellent amenities and are conveniently located near popular attractions. For those seeking longer stays or a homely experience, the Extended Stay America Suites is a perfect choice. Click here to explore our Albuquerque Sunport Airport Hotels.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
Are you traveling through Albuquerque Airport and looking for some delicious food or unique shopping options? Look no further! The airport has a variety of restaurants and stores to choose from, including Rio Grande Brew Pub & Grill, Comida Buena, Black Mesa Coffee/Bakery, and Sundancer Trading Co, Thunderbird Curio, and Earth Spirit. These are just a few of the many options available to you. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, click here.
Passenger Services
Albuquerque Airport is dedicated to providing passengers with a comfortable and convenient travel experience. Here are some of the services available to help make your journey stress-free:
Wifi Access: Free wifi is available throughout the airport, so you can stay connected while waiting for your flight.
Lost and Found: If you lose an item at the airport, visit the Lost and Found office located in the Main Terminal. They will do their best to help you locate your lost item.
Children's Areas: The airport has a designated play area for children located in Concourse B. It's a great place for kids to burn off some energy before a flight.
Special-Needs Services: The airport offers a range of services for passengers with special needs, including wheelchair assistance, accessible parking, and TDD phones for the hearing impaired.
Banking: There are several ATMs located throughout the airport, as well as a Bank of America branch located in the Main Terminal.
Medical Help: If you require medical assistance, the first aid station located in the Main Terminal is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses.
Flight Status Info
When traveling by air, it's important to stay up-to-date with the status of your flight. Fortunately, there are several ways to check flight status at ABQ.
One of the easiest ways to check flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These displays are located throughout the airport and provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply locate the display that corresponds to your flight and check the status.
Another convenient way to stay informed about your flight status is by using airline mobile phone apps. Many airlines have their own apps that allow passengers to check flight status, receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes, and even check in for their flight. These apps can be downloaded for free from the App Store or Google Play.
Passengers can also sign up for text, email, and push notifications from their airline to receive updates about their flight status. These notifications can be customized to provide only the information that is most important to the passenger.
Finally, passengers can check the status of their flight departure at ABQ Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Albuquerque Sunport Airport (ABQ) is located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States.
- Terminals: The airport features a Main Terminal, which includes Concourse A and Concourse B.
- Airlines Served: The airport is served by major airlines including Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. For a list of all airlines, check out the ABQ Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Albuquerque Sunport handles approximately 15,000 to 17,000 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport sees around 150 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from ABQ are Denver, Dallas/Fort Worth, Phoenix, Houston, and Las Vegas.
- Hub Status: Albuquerque Sunport is not a hub for any major airline, although Southwest Airlines operates the most flights from the airport.
Airport History
The Albuquerque Sunport Airport, located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, has a rich history that spans over eight decades. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1928 - The airport was established as Albuquerque Municipal Airport with a dirt runway.
- 1939 - The airport was renamed to Albuquerque Airport and had a paved runway.
- 1945 - The airport was renamed to Albuquerque Army Air Base and was used by the military during World War II.
- 1948 - The airport was returned to the city and renamed Albuquerque Municipal Airport.
- 1951 - The airport's first terminal building was constructed.
- 1965 - The airport was renamed to Albuquerque International Airport.
- 1988 - The airport's current terminal building was opened.
- 2001 - The airport was renamed to Albuquerque International Sunport to reflect its Southwestern location.
- 2020 - The airport implemented new safety measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Today, the Albuquerque Sunport Airport serves over five million passengers annually and continues to be an important transportation hub in the Southwest.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Albuquerque International Sunport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: ABQ
- Airport Website
- Phone: +1 505-244-7700
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Albuquerque International Sunport, 2200 Sunport Blvd SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, United States
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Albuquerque Sunport Airport Q&A
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