PDX 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 PDX Airport
Welcome to the Portland Airport Online Guide. Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, this bustling airport is a gateway to the vibrant city of Portland and its surrounding areas. With a total of six terminals, including the largest and busiest Main Terminal, PDX is designed for efficiency and comfort. One of the unique features of this airport is its commitment to local culture, which is evident in its variety of local food options and the iconic Powell's Books store. For those keen on exploring more about other airports they might be journeying to or from, do check out our detailed airport guides.
WATCH VIDEO: Experience the ease of travel at Portland International Airport (PDX) with a first-time visit and a flight to Austin, Texas:
Airport News
Portland Airport (PDX) has seen notable updates that are of interest to travelers. Alaska Airlines has launched its first nonstop flight from PDX to New Orleans, expanding travel options for passengers. Additionally, the completion of the new terminal at PDX has been delayed until August 2024, which may impact travel plans for those expecting the new facilities sooner. (sources: KGW, Axios)
Navigating PDX's Terminals
Portland International Airport has a total of six terminals, including Concourse A, Concourse B, Concourse C, Concourse D, Concourse E, and the Main Terminal. Each terminal offers a variety of services, including restaurants, shops, and lounges. The Main Terminal is the largest and busiest terminal, with a total of 22 gates. Concourse A has 13 gates, Concourse B has 14 gates, Concourse C has 15 gates, Concourse D has 5 gates, and Concourse E has 3 gates.
Major airlines such as Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines operate from the Main Terminal. Concourse A is primarily used by Alaska Airlines, while Concourse B is used by Delta Air Lines and Alaska Airlines. American Airlines and Southwest Airlines operate from Concourse C, while United Airlines operates from Concourse D. Concourse E is used for international arrivals and departures.
To navigate the airport terminals, follow the signs and directions provided throughout the airport. The airport also offers a free shuttle service that runs between the Main Terminal and the other terminals. The shuttle service is available 24/7 and runs every 5-10 minutes.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
Portland Airport has a convenient layout that allows for easy access to all of its terminals. The airport consists of a main terminal and five concourses: Concourse A, Concourse B, Concourse C, Concourse D, and Concourse E.
To get between the concourses and the main terminal, passengers can use the airport's free shuttle bus service, which runs 24/7. The shuttle buses depart from outside the baggage claim areas of each concourse and the main terminal, and they run every 5-10 minutes.
If you prefer to walk, there are pedestrian walkways that connect all of the concourses to the main terminal. Walking times vary depending on the distance between the concourse and the main terminal, but it generally takes around 5-10 minutes to walk between each concourse and the main terminal.
Frequent Flier Tips
To help make your experience at Portland International Airport (PDX) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from PDX-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
"PDX has a very intuitive layout with Concourse A, B, C, D, and E. If you’re flying Alaska Airlines, you’ll likely be in Concourse C or D. For international flights, head to Concourse E. The airport is well-signposted, so just follow the signs and you’ll be fine." — John M., Beaverton, OR, August 2023
"One of the best features of PDX is the easy access between concourses. The walkways are spacious and there are plenty of moving walkways to help you get around quickly. If you’re in a hurry, this can be a real time-saver." — Emily R., Gresham, OR, July 2023
Getting To/From the City
"The MAX Light Rail is the most convenient and cost-effective way to get to downtown Portland from PDX. It takes about 40 minutes and drops you off right in the heart of the city. Plus, it’s a great way to avoid traffic." — Michael K., Vancouver, WA, September 2023
"If you’re driving, be aware that traffic can be heavy during rush hours. I recommend using a rideshare app to avoid the hassle of parking and navigating through the city traffic." — Laura S., Tigard, OR, October 2023
Parking
"For long-term parking, I always use the Economy Lot. It’s affordable and the shuttle service to the terminal is very efficient. Just make sure to allow a bit of extra time for the shuttle ride." — David P., Hillsboro, OR, November 2023
"If you’re picking someone up, use the Cell Phone Waiting Area. It’s free and just a short drive from the terminal. Once your passenger is ready, you can head straight to the arrivals area." — Jessica L., Lake Oswego, OR, December 2023
Inside the Airport
"PDX has some great local food options. Don’t miss out on trying the famous Blue Star Donuts or grabbing a coffee at Stumptown Coffee Roasters. Both are located in Concourse D." — Megan T., Milwaukie, OR, January 2024
"If you have some time to kill, check out the Made in Oregon store. It’s a great place to pick up some local souvenirs and gifts." — Brian H., Troutdale, OR, February 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Security lines at PDX can get long, especially during peak travel times. I recommend getting TSA PreCheck or CLEAR to speed up the process. It’s worth the investment if you travel often." — Lisa W., Oregon City, OR, March 2024
"Always check the flight status before heading to the airport. PDX is generally efficient, but weather conditions can cause delays, especially during the winter months." — Kevin B., Tualatin, OR, April 2024
iFly Tip: Find out how to make the most of online check-in for your next flight.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
When picking up or dropping off passengers at the airport, it's important to be aware of the curbside parking restrictions. The airport has designated areas for passenger pick-up and drop-off, and vehicles are not allowed to park or wait at the curbside for extended periods of time. Violators may be ticketed or towed.
If you need to wait for your arriving passengers, the airport provides a convenient cell-phone waiting area. This area is located near the airport entrance and allows drivers to park and wait for their passengers to call and let them know they are ready to be picked up. This helps to alleviate congestion at the curbside and ensures a smooth flow of traffic around the airport.
When dropping off passengers, it's important to be aware of the terminal they are departing from. Portland Airport has five concourses(A, B, C, D, and E) in addition to the main terminal. Make sure to drop off your passengers at the appropriate terminal to avoid any confusion or delays.
Parking Facilities & Options
If you're traveling through Portland Airport, you'll find a variety of parking options to suit your needs. The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking in several lots and garages located near the terminals. If you're picking up a passenger, there are also cell phone waiting areas available where you can wait for free until your party is ready to be picked up.
If you're looking for an economical parking option, off-airport parking is available near the airport. These lots often offer lower rates than the airport's own parking facilities, and many provide shuttle service to and from the terminals.
Handicapped parking is available in all of the airport's parking facilities, with designated spaces located near the entrances of each lot or garage. If you need assistance getting to or from your vehicle, wheelchair service is available upon request.
Get details about PDX parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.
Transportation Options
PDX Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers. For those looking to rent a car, there are several major providers located at the airport, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz. Rental counters are located on the lower level of the terminal, near baggage claim.
Taxi services are available 24/7 at the airport, with designated pick-up areas located outside of baggage claim. Fares are metered and vary based on destination and time of day. It is recommended to confirm the fare with the driver before beginning the trip.
For those looking for a more affordable option, shared ride services such as Uber and Lyft are available for pick-up in designated areas outside of baggage claim. However, these services may have restrictions on the number of passengers and amount of luggage allowed.
Airport shuttles are also available for transportation to and from the airport. These shuttles offer door-to-door service and can be booked in advance or upon arrival at the airport. Fares vary depending on the provider and destination.
Public transportation options include the MAX light rail, which provides service to downtown Portland and other destinations throughout the city. The MAX station is located on the lower level of the terminal, near baggage claim. Bus services are also available for transportation to other areas of the city.
iFly Tip: Get essential tips on baggage management to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Airport Hotels
Travel can be exhausting, but booking a comfortable and convenient hotel near the airport can alleviate the stress. Whether you're catching an early flight, arriving late, or exploring the vibrant city, our list of hotels offers the perfect solution. From luxury suites to affordable rooms, these hotels provide easy access to the airport, often with complimentary shuttle services. Many are also conveniently located near local attractions, making them an ideal base for both business and leisure travelers. Discover some of the best hotel options near the airport by visiting our PDX Airport Hotels page.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
Portland Airport offers a wide variety of dining and shopping options to make your travel experience more enjoyable. From quick coffee stops to sit-down meals, PDX has got you covered. Some of the most popular restaurants include Beaches Restaurant & Bar, The Country Cat, and Mo's Seafood & Chowder. And when it comes to shopping, you can't miss Powell's Books, Made in Oregon, and NIKE. These are just a few examples of what you can expect at PDX.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at PDX 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
The airport, also known as PDX, is a hub for travelers visiting the Pacific Northwest. The airport offers a range of passenger services to ensure a comfortable and stress-free journey for all travelers.
For those in need of wifi access, PDX provides free wifi throughout the airport. Passengers can easily connect to the network and stay connected throughout their journey.
If you have lost an item during your travels, the lost and found department is located in the baggage claim area of the main terminal. You can also contact them via phone or email to report a lost item.
Traveling with children? PDX has a variety of children's areas located throughout the airport, including play areas and nursing rooms for mothers. These areas are designed to provide a safe and fun environment for children to play and relax before their flight.
PDX also offers special-needs services for travelers with disabilities. These services include wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spaces. Passengers can request these services in advance or upon arrival at the airport.
For those in need of banking services, there are ATMs and currency exchange offices located throughout the airport. Additionally, there are several banks and credit unions located near the airport for those in need of additional banking services.
If you require medical assistance during your travels, PDX has a medical clinic located in the main terminal. The clinic is staffed with medical professionals who can provide a range of services, including first aid and medical consultations.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it's important to stay updated on the status of your flight. Fortunately, there are several ways to check flight status at Portland Airport.
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 information on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply find the display that corresponds to your flight and check the status.
Another convenient way to stay updated is by using airline mobile phone apps. Most 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. Passengers can download these apps for free and receive push notifications or alerts via text or email.
Passengers can also check the status of their flight departure at Portland Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
iFly Tip: Get the best tips for traveling with toddlers on our flying with toddlers guide.
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Portland International Airport (PDX) is located in Portland, Oregon, United States.
- Terminals: The airport features a Main Terminal, including Concourse A, Concourse B, Concourse C, Concourse D, and Concourse E.
- Airlines Served: Major airlines serving PDX include Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Southwest Airlines. For a complete list of airlines, visit the PDX Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Portland International Airport handles approximately 60,000 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport operates around 500 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from PDX are Seattle, San Francisco, Denver, Los Angeles, and Phoenix.
- Hub Status: PDX serves as a hub for Alaska Airlines, Horizon Air, and Ameriflight, offering extensive connections across the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
Airport History
The Portland Airport, also known as PDX, has a rich history dating back to the early 1920s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1926 - The airport was established as the Swan Island Municipal Airport.
- 1936 - The airport was renamed to Portland-Columbia Airport.
- 1942 - The airport was taken over by the United States Army Air Forces for use during World War II.
- 1948 - The airport was returned to the city of Portland and renamed to Portland International Airport.
- 1958 - The airport's first terminal building was constructed.
- 1979 - The airport's current terminal building was opened, replacing the original building.
- 1986 - The airport's Concourse D was added, expanding the airport's capacity.
- 2010 - The airport's runway was extended to accommodate larger aircraft.
- 2013 - The airport's Concourse E was opened, adding additional gates for international flights.
Today, the Portland Airport is one of the busiest airports in the Pacific Northwest and serves as a major hub for Alaska Airlines.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Portland International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: PDX
- Airport Website
- Phone: +1 503-460-4234
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Portland International Airport, 7000 NE Airport Way, Portland, OR 97218, United States
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Portland Airport Q&A
Find more help here for your journey through the airport