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Buffalo Niagara Airport BUF

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BUF Airport Insights & Guide

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Tony Hanseder
Reviewed by: Brian Ozment
Updated:
Key BUF Airport Topics:

Frequent Flier Tips

To help make your experience at Buffalo Niagara Airport (BUF) 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

"Buffalo Niagara Airport is pretty straightforward with a single terminal. However, the key is to know that the security checkpoints can get crowded during peak hours. Try to arrive at least 90 minutes before your flight, especially during the early morning rush." — John D., Cheektowaga, NY, August 2023

"The terminal layout is simple, but if you’re in a hurry, use the moving walkways to get from one end to the other quickly. They are especially helpful if you have a tight connection." — Emily R., Amherst, NY, July 2023

Getting To/From the City

"The best way to get to downtown Buffalo is by using the NFTA Metro Bus service. It's reliable and much cheaper than a taxi or rideshare. The bus stop is right outside the terminal, and it runs frequently." — Michael P., Williamsville, NY, September 2023

"If you have a lot of luggage, consider using one of the airport shuttles or a rideshare service. They are more convenient and can drop you off right at your hotel." — Linda S., Tonawanda, NY, October 2023

Parking

"For long-term parking, I always use the Economy Lot. It’s a bit further from the terminal, but the shuttle service is prompt and reliable. Plus, it’s much cheaper than the daily lot." — Kevin M., Lancaster, NY, November 2023

"If you’re just picking someone up or dropping them off, the Cell Phone Lot is a great option. It’s free and only a couple of minutes from the terminal." — Rachel T., West Seneca, NY, December 2023

Inside the Airport

"If you’re looking for a good meal before your flight, head to the Anchor Bar in the terminal. They’re famous for their Buffalo wings and it’s a great way to get a taste of the local cuisine." — David L., Niagara Falls, NY, January 2024

"For some last-minute shopping, the shops near Gate 7 offer a variety of souvenirs and travel essentials. It’s a good way to kill some time if you have a layover." — Jessica B., Kenmore, NY, February 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Keep an eye on the weather, especially in winter. Buffalo can get heavy snowfall, which might delay flights. Always check your flight status before heading to the airport." — Mark W., Depew, NY, March 2024

"To avoid stress, download the airport’s app. It provides real-time updates on flight statuses, gate changes, and even security wait times. It’s a lifesaver during busy travel periods." — Olivia K., Hamburg, NY, April 2024

WATCH VIDEO: Take a journey through the straightforward design of Buffalo Niagara Airport (BUF) with a complete terminal walkthrough:

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.

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).

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.

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 facilities are conveniently located on the lower level of the terminal, and major providers such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz are available.

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.

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 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.

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

The airport has one main terminal with two concourses: Concourse A and Concourse B.
Concourse A is used by Southwest Airlines, while Concourse B is used by Delta, American, and United Airlines.
The airport offers three on-site parking options: Daily/Hourly Garage, Preferred Parking Lot, and Long-Term Parking Lot. There are also off-airport parking options available.
Yes, the NFTA Metro Bus provides a budget-friendly option to get to downtown Buffalo. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also available.
Real-time TSA wait times can be checked on the airport’s website.
Dining options include Tim Hortons for quick snacks and coffee, and Anchor Bar for sit-down meals, known for its Buffalo wings.
Yes, there are several hotels near the airport, including Comfort Inn & Suites, Courtyard by Marriott, and Aloft.
Flight status can be checked using the airport's Flight Information Display System (FIDS) located throughout the airport or by downloading your airline's mobile app.
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.
Visit the lost and found located in the baggage claim area to report and retrieve lost items.