TUL Airport Insights & Guide
Key TUL Airport Topics:
- 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 TUL Airport
Welcome to our online guide for Tulsa Airport, your gateway to the vibrant city of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Known for its three well-organized terminals, TUL ensures a seamless journey for its passengers. This guide provides an overview of the airport's key features and services, designed to make your travel experience as comfortable as possible. If you're curious about other airports you might be visiting during your travels, feel free to explore our comprehensive guide to worldwide airports.
iFly Tip: Find everything you need to know about baggage on our baggage info page.
Navigating TUL's Terminals
TUL Airport has three terminals: Concourse A, Concourse B, and the Main Terminal. Concourse A has 10 gates and is used by American Airlines, while Concourse B has 8 gates and is used by Delta Air Lines. The Main Terminal has 16 gates and is used by various airlines, including United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Alaska Airlines.
When arriving at the airport, passengers can follow the signs to their designated terminal. If you are unsure of which terminal your airline is located in, there are information desks located throughout the airport to assist you. Once you arrive at your designated terminal, you can easily navigate to your gate using the overhead signs and flight information displays.
For those with a layover or looking for some pre-flight entertainment, there are various food and retail options located throughout the airport terminals. Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
At Tulsa Airport, there are three main terminals to navigate: Concourse A, Concourse B, and the Main Terminal. To get between the terminals, there are a few options available. If you're traveling between Concourse A and B, you can walk through the secure area as they are connected. The walk time is approximately 5-10 minutes depending on your walking speed. If you need to get to the Main Terminal, there is a shuttle bus that runs every 10-15 minutes between the terminals. The shuttle bus is free and can be accessed from the baggage claim area or outside the terminal. The ride takes approximately 5-7 minutes.
If you prefer not to take the shuttle bus, you can also walk between the terminals. The walk time from Concourse A to the Main Terminal is approximately 10-15 minutes, while the walk time from Concourse B to the Main Terminal is approximately 5-10 minutes. If you have limited time, taking the shuttle bus is the recommended option.
Frequent Flier Tips
To help make your experience at Tulsa Airport (TUL) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from TUL-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
"Tulsa Airport has a straightforward layout with one main terminal divided into Concourse A and Concourse B. If you're flying American Airlines, you'll be in Concourse A, while Delta and United operate out of Concourse B. The signage is clear, but if you're ever in doubt, the information desks are very helpful." — John D., Broken Arrow, OK, August 2023
"For those with tight connections, the terminal map is your best friend. Download it beforehand or grab a copy at the information desk. It will save you time and stress, especially during peak hours." — Emily R., Bixby, OK, July 2023
Getting To/From the City
"The airport is about 10 miles from downtown Tulsa. I recommend using the airport shuttle service for a hassle-free experience. It's reliable and runs frequently, especially during peak travel times." — Michael S., Sand Springs, OK, September 2023
"If you're in a rush, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available and can get you to the city center in about 15-20 minutes. Just follow the signs to the designated pick-up area outside the terminal." — Laura K., Jenks, OK, October 2023
Parking
"For long-term parking, the Economy Lot is your best bet. It's affordable and a shuttle service runs every 10 minutes to take you to the terminal. Just make sure to note your parking spot number." — David M., Owasso, OK, November 2023
"If you're just picking someone up, use the Cell Phone Lot. It's free and conveniently located near the terminal. You can wait there until your passenger is ready to be picked up." — Sarah L., Tulsa, OK, December 2023
Inside the Airport
"The food options at TUL are pretty good. If you have time, check out the local favorites like Einstein Bros. Bagels and the Tulsa River Spirit Casino Resort Bar. They offer a nice taste of Tulsa right in the terminal." — Kevin P., Claremore, OK, January 2024
"For shopping, the gift shops offer a variety of local products and souvenirs. If you need travel essentials or last-minute gifts, you'll find what you need without leaving the terminal." — Rachel T., Glenpool, OK, February 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"To avoid long security lines, try to arrive at least two hours before your flight, especially during the holidays. TSA PreCheck can also save you a lot of time if you're a frequent traveler." — Brian H., Coweta, OK, March 2024
"Check the wait times online before you leave for the airport. This can help you plan your arrival time better and avoid unnecessary stress." — Lisa W., Sapulpa, OK, April 2024
iFly Tip: Visit our Common Security Mistakes page to learn more.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At the airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the Main Terminal, Concourse A, and Concourse B. However, curbside parking is strictly limited to active loading and unloading only. Drivers must remain with their vehicles at all times and are not allowed to leave their cars unattended. Violators may be subject to fines and towing.
If you need to wait for your arriving passenger, the airport offers a free cell-phone waiting area located just a few minutes away from the terminals. This area allows drivers to park their cars for up to an hour while waiting for their passengers to arrive. Once your passenger has arrived and retrieved their luggage, they can simply give you a call and you can proceed to the curbside for pick-up.
Parking Facilities & Options
If you're flying out of Tulsa Airport, you'll find plenty of parking options available to suit your needs. On-site parking is available in the Main Terminal, Concourse A, and Concourse B. There are both covered and uncovered parking options, with hourly, daily, and weekly rates available.
If you're looking for a more economical option, off-airport parking is available nearby. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport and often have lower rates than on-site parking.
If you're picking up a passenger, you can take advantage of the cell phone waiting area located just outside the airport. This area allows you to wait in your car until your passenger has arrived and is ready to be picked up.
Handicapped parking is available in all on-site parking lots, with designated spots located near the entrances. If you require assistance getting to or from your car, shuttle service is available upon request.
Get details about Tulsa Airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.
Transportation Options
Travelers arriving at TUL have several ground transportation options to choose from. These options include car rental, taxi services, shared ride services, airport shuttles, and public transportation.
Car rental facilities are located on the lower level of the terminal building. Major providers include Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. Travelers can make reservations in advance or rent a car on the spot.
Taxi services are available outside of the baggage claim area. Drop-off areas are located at the curb outside of the terminal building. The fare from TUL Airport to downtown Tulsa is approximately $25.00.
Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also available at the airport. Pickup areas are located outside of the baggage claim area. Restrictions may apply, so travelers should check with the individual provider for more information.
Airport shuttles are available to transport travelers to and from the airport. Pickup areas are located outside of the baggage claim area. Fares vary depending on the provider and destination.
Public transportation options include Tulsa Transit bus service and the Tulsa Airport Shuttle. Tulsa Transit bus service is available from the airport to downtown Tulsa and other destinations in the area. The Tulsa Airport Shuttle provides transportation to and from the airport and is available for both individuals and groups.
iFly Tip: Learn how airline hubs enhance connectivity across continents.
Airport Hotels
Looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay near the airport? We've got you covered. From luxury suites to budget-friendly rooms, we provide a variety of hotel options to suit every traveler's needs. Some of the top-rated hotels include Home2 Suites By Hilton, Hilton Garden Inn, and La Quinta by Wyndham, all located less than a mile from the airport. For those looking for affordable options without compromising on comfort, the Hometown Inn and Super 8 by Wyndham are just a short drive away. Further away but still within a short drive from the airport, you'll find the OYO Hotel, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and the Best Western. To learn more about these hotels and their amenities, view our comprehensive list of Airport Hotels.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
Travelers passing through Tulsa Airport will find a variety of dining and shopping options to enjoy during their layover or before their flight. Concourse A offers a range of quick bites and snacks, including Dunkin' Donuts and Cinnabon. For a heartier meal, head to Concourse B where you can find sit-down restaurants like Moe's Southwest Grill and Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh. If you're in the main terminal, check out the food court for options like Schlotzsky's and Charley's Philly Steaks.
When it comes to shopping, TUL has a good mix of stores to browse. In Concourse A, you can find convenience stores like CNBC News and Gifts and Hudson News, as well as specialty stores like Tech on the Go for all your tech needs. Concourse B has similar options, with a few additional stores like the PGA Tour Shop for golf enthusiasts. In the main terminal, you can find a variety of shops including the Travel + Leisure store for travel essentials and the Spirit of the Red Horse for Native American art and jewelry.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at TUL Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, click here to navigate the options.
Passenger Services
Tulsa Airport offers a variety of passenger services to make your travel experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
For those needing to stay connected, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. If you have lost an item, visit the lost and found located in the main terminal. There are also designated children's areas in both Concourse A and B to keep your little ones entertained.
If you require special-needs services, such as wheelchair assistance or language translation, contact the airport's customer service desk for assistance. Banking services are also available in the main terminal, with ATMs located throughout the airport. In case of a medical emergency, there is a medical help center located in the main terminal.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it is important to stay updated on the status of your flight. One way to do this is by using the Flight Information Display System (FIDS) that can be found throughout Tulsa Airport. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
In addition to FIDS, passengers can also be alerted about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via the use of airline mobile phone apps. By downloading the app of the airline you are flying with, you can receive push notifications about any changes to your flight status. You can also sign up for text or email alerts through the airline's website.
It is important to note that flight status can change quickly, so it is recommended to check for updates frequently. Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at TUL 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: Tulsa International Airport (TUL) is located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, 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, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines. For a list of all airlines, check out the TUL Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Tulsa International Airport handles over 3 million passengers annually, averaging about 8,000 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport sees over 80 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from TUL are Dallas, Denver, Houston, Atlanta, and Chicago.
- Hub Status: Tulsa International Airport serves as a hub for American Airlines and is a focus city for Southwest Airlines. It is also a hub for FedEx Express and Omni Air International.
Airport History
TUL, also known as Tulsa International Airport, is located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, United States. The airport has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1919 - The Tulsa Municipal Airport opens with a single dirt runway.
- 1929 - The airport is renamed Tulsa Municipal Airport and becomes a hub for American Airlines.
- 1941 - The airport is taken over by the military during World War II and becomes a training base for the U.S. Army Air Forces.
- 1946 - The airport reopens to commercial flights and undergoes major renovations, including the addition of a new terminal building.
- 1961 - The airport is renamed Tulsa International Airport to reflect its growing international traffic.
- 1981 - A new terminal building is constructed to accommodate the increasing number of passengers.
- 1991 - The airport undergoes another major renovation, including the expansion of the terminal and the addition of a new concourse.
- 2012 - The airport completes a $110 million renovation project, which includes the construction of a new parking garage and improvements to the terminal building.
Today, Tulsa International Airport serves as a major hub for several airlines and offers nonstop flights to over 20 destinations across the United States. It continues to play an important role in the region's transportation infrastructure and economic development.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Tulsa International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: TUL
- Airport Website
- Phone: +1 918-838-5000
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Tulsa International Airport, 7777 East Apache Street, Tulsa, OK 74115, United States
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Tulsa Airport Q&A
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