BUF Airport Insights & Guide
Key BUF 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 BUF Airport
Welcome to the Buffalo Niagara Airport Online Guide. This is your ultimate resource for navigating one of the most frequented airports in the United States. BUF is renowned for its single terminal with two concourses, ensuring a smooth and efficient travel experience for all passengers. One unique feature of BUF is the Anchor Bar, the birthplace of the Buffalo wing, located within the airport for travelers to enjoy. If your journey extends beyond Buffalo, you might find our complete guide to airports helpful, offering a wealth of information about other airports you might encounter on your travels.
WATCH VIDEO: Take a journey through the straightforward design of Buffalo Niagara Airport (BUF) with a complete terminal walkthrough:
Airport News
Buffalo Niagara Airport is set to benefit from a significant investment that will help revamp its facilities and services. The airport has been awarded a federal grant of $21 million in 2023 to upgrade its infrastructure. The funds will be used to enhance its taxiway system, improve the terminal building, and increase the parking capacity. These improvements are aimed at boosting the airport's operational efficiency and passenger experience. Additionally, in early 2024, JetBlue Airways announced new non-stop services from Buffalo to Los Angeles and San Francisco, offering more travel options for passengers and contributing to the airport's growth (sources: Buffalo News, U.S. Department of Transportation, JetBlue Newsroom).
Navigating BUF's Terminals
BUF Airport has one main terminal with two concourses: Concourse A and Concourse B. Concourse A has 10 gates and is mainly used by Southwest Airlines, while Concourse B has 14 gates and is used by other major airlines such as Delta, American, and United.
Upon arrival, passengers can find baggage claim areas on the lower level of the terminal. The upper level houses the ticketing counters, security checkpoints, and the departure gates. There are plenty of dining and shopping options available throughout the terminal, including local favorites such as Anchor Bar and Tim Hortons.
For travelers in need of special assistance, the airport provides accessible parking, wheelchair service, and service animal relief areas. Additionally, there are nursing rooms and family restrooms available for those traveling with young children.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
The airport has only one terminal, making it a small and easy airport to navigate. There are no shuttle buses or trains needed to get between terminals, as there is only one. Walking times will vary depending on your gate location, but it shouldn't take more than a few minutes to get from one end of the terminal to the other. If you need assistance getting around the airport, there are courtesy wheelchairs available upon request.
Tips from BUF Frequent Flyers
To help make your experience at Buffalo Niagara International Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from BUF-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
"BUF's layout is super straightforward with its single terminal. Once you clear security, everything is pretty close by. I recommend using the interactive map before you arrive to familiarize yourself with the gate locations and amenities. It makes the whole process much smoother." — Emily T., Cheektowaga, NY, December 2023
"If you're flying Southwest, you'll be in Concourse A. It's a smaller section, so even if you're running late, you won't have to worry too much about long treks to your gate." — Michael R., Williamsville, NY, March 2024
Getting to/from the City
"The NFTA Metro Bus is a great budget-friendly option to get to downtown Buffalo. It runs frequently and is quite reliable. Just make sure to check the schedule ahead of time, especially on weekends." — Lisa S., Amherst, NY, January 2024
"For those with more luggage, I suggest using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. They're convenient and pick up right outside baggage claim. Just follow the signs once you land." — Kevin J., Tonawanda, NY, February 2024
Parking
"For short trips, the Daily/Hourly Garage is perfect. It's right across from the terminal, so you're just a quick walk away from check-in." — Sarah K., Lancaster, NY, April 2024
"If you're planning to park for a longer period, the Long-Term Parking Lot is the most economical choice. Plus, there are shuttle services to take you to the terminal, which is really convenient." — David L., Clarence, NY, May 2024
Inside the Airport
"Don't miss out on trying the original Buffalo wings at the Anchor Bar in the terminal. It's a taste of local culture right before you fly out!" — Amanda P., West Seneca, NY, June 2024
"Tim Hortons is a must-stop for a quick coffee and donut before your flight. It's a staple here and perfect for a quick breakfast or snack." — John B., Depew, NY, July 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"I always arrive a bit early to enjoy the amenities and avoid any rush. The security lines can vary, but they're generally efficient. Still, better safe than sorry!" — Rachel H., Hamburg, NY, August 2024
"Check your flight status using the airport's displays or your airline's app as soon as you get through security. This way, you can plan your time at the airport without any surprises." — Mark C., Niagara Falls, NY, September 2024
iFly Tip: Ensure a smooth airport experience by following our essential airport advice.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
When it comes to picking up and dropping off passengers at BUF Airport, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, curbside parking is strictly prohibited at the airport. This means that you cannot park your car at the curb to wait for your passenger to arrive or to say goodbye. Instead, the airport has designated cell-phone waiting areas where you can wait for your passenger to call you and let you know that they are ready to be picked up.
When you arrive at the airport to pick up your passenger, follow the signs to the cell-phone waiting area. Once you arrive, find a parking spot and wait in your car until your passenger calls you to let you know that they are ready to be picked up. Once you receive the call, you can then drive to the terminal to pick up your passenger. Keep in mind that you should not leave your car unattended in the cell-phone waiting area, as this is against airport regulations.
Parking Facilities & Options
The airport offers a variety of parking options to suit your needs. There are three on-site parking lots available: the Daily/Hourly Garage, the Preferred Parking Lot, and the Long-Term Parking Lot. The Daily/Hourly Garage is located directly across from the terminal and is perfect for short-term parking. The Preferred Parking Lot is located adjacent to the garage and offers covered parking with easy access to the terminal. The Long-Term Parking Lot is located further from the terminal, but offers the most economical option for extended stays.
If you're waiting to pick up someone from the airport, there are two cell phone waiting areas available. The first is located on Holtz Drive, just minutes from the terminal. The second is located on Genesee Street, about five minutes from the terminal.
Handicapped parking is available in all parking lots and garages. There are designated spaces located near the terminal entrance for easy access.
If you're looking for a more economical option, off-airport parking is available. Several private parking lots are located near the airport and offer shuttle service to and from the terminal. These lots can be a great option for extended stays or for those on a budget.
Get details about BUF parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.
Transportation Options
Buffalo Niagara Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers.
- Car rental: Car rental facilities are conveniently located on the lower level of the terminal, and major providers such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz are available. Rental cars
- Taxis: Taxi services are available at the airport, with drop-off areas located outside of baggage claim. Fares are based on distance and time, with an additional fee for airport pickup. It is recommended to confirm the fare with the driver before beginning the trip.
- Ride share services: Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also available at the airport. Pickup areas are located outside of baggage claim, and there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and luggage allowed.
- Airport shuttles: Airport shuttles are another option for travelers, with several companies offering service to and from the airport. Pickup areas are located outside of baggage claim, and fares vary depending on the destination.
- Public transportation: For those looking for a more affordable option, public transportation is also available. The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority operates bus service to and from the airport, with several routes serving the area. Fares are reasonable, and schedules can be found on the NFTA website.
iFly Tip: Understand the technical aspects of your flight with our takeoff to landing explanation.
Airport Hotels
When traveling by air, the convenience of a nearby hotel can make all the difference. Whether you have a layover, an overnight delay, or an early morning departure, airport hotels offer the convenience of a short commute. This guide will introduce you to some of the best hotels near the airport, all within a mile of the terminal. From the Comfort Inn & Suites that's just a stone's throw away from the terminal, to the Courtyard by Marriott and Aloft, all offering top-notch amenities for both business and leisure travelers, these hotels provide the ease and comfort you need. Each hotel is easily accessible and offers a range of services to ensure a comfortable stay. Whether you're in transit, on a business trip, or looking to explore the attractions of the city and the world-renowned Niagara Falls, these hotels serve as an ideal base. Read on to discover the perfect hotel for your needs near the airport. BUF Hotels
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
Buffalo Niagara Airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options for travelers to enjoy before their flight. For a quick bite, check out Tim Hortons, located in the food court of the airport. This Canadian coffee chain serves up delicious coffee, donuts, and breakfast sandwiches. If you're looking for a sit-down meal, head to the Anchor Bar, famous for inventing the Buffalo wing. Their airport location serves up wings, burgers, and other pub fare.
For shopping, be sure to stop by the Duty Free Americas store, located in the pre-security area of the airport. Here, you can purchase tax-free items such as liquor, tobacco, and fragrances. If you're looking for souvenirs or gifts, check out the Buffalo Museum of Science store, located in the post-security area. They offer a variety of science-themed gifts and toys.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at Buffalo Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, find your choice of amenities here.
Passenger Services
Buffalo Airport offers a wide range of passenger services to make your travel experience comfortable and stress-free.
Stay connected with free wifi access throughout the airport. If you lose an item during your travels, visit the lost and found located in the baggage claim area.
Traveling with children? Take advantage of the children's play area located near Gate 9. Special-needs services are also available, including wheelchair assistance and accessible restrooms.
Need to take care of some banking? There are ATMs located throughout the airport, as well as a currency exchange service. If you require medical assistance, visit the first aid station located near the security checkpoint.
Whether you're arriving or departing, BUF has a variety of passenger services available to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it's important to stay informed about the status of your flight. At BUF Airport, there are several ways to check your flight status.
One of the most convenient methods is to use the airport's Flight Information Display System (FIDS), which can be found throughout the airport. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, arrivals, delays, and gate information. Simply locate your flight on the display to see the latest status updates.
Another way to stay informed is to download your airline's mobile app. Most airlines offer apps that allow you to check your flight status, receive push notifications about delays or gate changes, and even check in for your flight. You can also sign up for text or email alerts from your airline to receive updates about your flight status.
Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at the airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
iFly Tip: Find out how major airline hubs enhance your flight experience.
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Buffalo Niagara Airport (BUF) is located in Buffalo, New York, United States, serving the Buffalo-Niagara Falls metropolitan area.
- Terminal: The airport features a single terminal building that handles all domestic and international flights.
- Airlines Served: The airport is served by major airlines including Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and JetBlue Airways. For a list of all airlines, check out the BUF Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Buffalo Niagara Airport handles approximately 4 million passengers annually, with an average of 11,000 passengers per day.
- Daily Flights: The airport sees around 100 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The busiest routes from BUF are to Orlando, Atlanta, Chicago, New York, and Fort Lauderdale.
- Hub Status: Buffalo Niagara Airport serves as a hub for JetBlue Airways, offering connections to destinations across the United States and the Caribbean.
Airport History
The Buffalo Niagara Airport, located in Cheektowaga, New York, has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1926 - The Buffalo Municipal Airport opens with a single runway and a small terminal building.
- 1930s - The airport expands with additional runways and a new terminal building.
- 1940s - The airport becomes a major hub for military aircraft during World War II.
- 1950s - The airport undergoes major renovations and upgrades, including the addition of a new control tower and a longer runway.
- 1960s - The airport sees a significant increase in passenger traffic and becomes a popular destination for commercial airlines.
- 1980s - The airport undergoes another major renovation, including the construction of a new terminal building and parking garage.
- 1990s - The airport continues to grow and expand, with the addition of new airlines and destinations.
- 2000s - The airport undergoes additional renovations and upgrades, including the expansion of the terminal building and the addition of new restaurants and shops.
- 2010s - The airport sees a record number of passengers and continues to add new airlines and destinations, including international flights to Canada and the Caribbean.
Today, the Buffalo Niagara Airport is a bustling hub for travelers from all over the world, offering a wide range of amenities and services to make air travel as comfortable and convenient as possible.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Buffalo Niagara International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: BUF
- Airport Website
- Phone: +1 716-630-6000
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Buffalo Niagara International Airport, 4200 Genesee St, Buffalo, NY 14225, United States
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Buffalo Niagara Airport Q&A
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