DTW 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 DTW Airport
Embark on your journey with the Detroit Metropolitan Airport, your gateway to the world. As one of the busiest airports in the United States, DTW boasts two expansive terminals, McNamara and North Terminal, each equipped with a multitude of amenities to enhance your travel experience. Notably, DTW is a major hub for Delta Airlines, connecting travelers to numerous domestic and international destinations. For more insights on other airports you might be flying to or from, check out our complete guide to airports for comprehensive information.
WATCH VIDEO: Take a journey through Detroit Wayne County International Airport (DTW) and experience the unique tram system that spans its impressive length:
Airport News
Detroit Metropolitan Airport, commonly known as Detroit Metro Airport, has announced a $200 million renovation project for its North Terminal. This project, managed by Walbridge, focuses on enhancing the passenger experience with upgraded amenities, including modernized restrooms, additional seating areas, updated dining and retail options, and improved wayfinding systems. The renovation is set to be completed by the end of 2024.
In addition, Detroit Metro Airport will introduce new direct flights to Honolulu, Hawaii, operated by Delta Airlines, starting in June 2024. This new route aims to provide travelers with more options and convenience for their trips.
(sources: Detroit News, Detroit Free Press, WRIF, Walbridge)
Navigating DTW's Terminals
Detroit Metropolitan Airport, also known as DTW, has two terminals: McNamara Terminal and North Terminal. McNamara Terminal is the larger of the two with 121 gates, while North Terminal has 43 gates. Both terminals are connected by a shuttle bus service, which runs every 10 minutes.
Major airlines such as Delta, Air France, KLM, and Aeromexico operate out of McNamara Terminal, while North Terminal is used by airlines such as American, United, and Spirit.
When navigating the terminals, it's important to note that McNamara Terminal has three concourses: A, B, and C. Concourse A is primarily used by Delta, while Concourses B and C are used by other airlines. North Terminal has two levels, with the lower level used for arrivals and the upper level used for departures.
Whether you're looking for food, services, or your airline departure gate, our interactive airport map can help you easily locate what you need.
Connecting Between Terminals
At Detroit Metropolitan Airport, there are two terminals: McNamara Terminal and North Terminal. The terminals are connected by a shuttle bus service that runs 24/7 and is free of charge. The shuttle buses run every 10 minutes during peak hours and every 15 minutes during off-peak hours. The journey between terminals takes approximately 10 minutes.
If you prefer to walk, there is a pedestrian walkway that connects the two terminals. The walkway is located on the third level of the McNamara Terminal and is accessible by using the elevators or escalators. The walkway takes approximately 15 minutes to walk.
Frequent Flier Tips
To help make your experience at Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from DTW-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
"DTW has two main terminals: McNamara and North. If you're flying Delta, you'll be in McNamara, which is connected by an express tram that can save you a lot of walking time. For other airlines, you’ll likely be in the North Terminal. Pay attention to the signs and use the tram to your advantage." — John D., Romulus, MI, August 2023
"The McNamara Terminal has three concourses: A, B, and C. Concourse A is the longest with over 60 gates, so if your gate is far, consider using the moving walkways or the tram. It can save you a lot of time and energy." — Emily R., Taylor, MI, July 2023
Getting To/From the City
"If you're heading to downtown Detroit, the SMART bus service is a budget-friendly option. The FAST bus route 261 runs directly to downtown and costs just a few dollars. It's a great alternative to taxis and ride-shares if you're looking to save money." — Ahmed K., Dearborn, MI, September 2023
"For a quicker and more comfortable ride, consider using the Michigan Flyer coach service. It offers direct routes to Ann Arbor and East Lansing, and the buses are very comfortable with free Wi-Fi." — Maria S., Ann Arbor, MI, October 2023
Parking
"The Big Blue Deck is a great option for long-term parking. It's connected to the North Terminal via a pedestrian bridge, and the rates are reasonable. Just remember where you parked; the deck is huge!" — David H., Livonia, MI, November 2023
"If you’re in a hurry, consider using the Valet Parking service. It’s a bit more expensive, but it’s right next to the terminal entrances, and they’ll have your car ready for you when you return." — Lisa P., Canton, MI, December 2023
Inside the Airport
"DTW has a fantastic selection of food and shopping options. In the McNamara Terminal, you’ll find everything from fast food to fine dining. If you have time, try the sushi at Sora Japanese Cuisine & Sushi Bar." — James T., Westland, MI, January 2024
"If you need to relax, the Westin Hotel inside the McNamara Terminal offers day passes to their pool and fitness center. It’s a great way to unwind during a long layover." — Karen L., Ypsilanti, MI, February 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Always check the TSA wait times online before you leave for the airport. DTW can get busy, especially during peak travel times. Arriving early and knowing what to expect can save you a lot of stress." — Michael B., Plymouth, MI, March 2024
"If you’re traveling internationally, Global Entry is a lifesaver. The lines for customs can be long, but with Global Entry, you can breeze through in minutes. It’s worth the investment if you travel frequently." — Sophie M., Novi, MI, April 2024
iFly Tip: Our reference guide is your go-to resource for air travel topics.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
When picking up or dropping off passengers at Detroit Metropolitan Airport, it's important to be aware of the curbside parking restrictions. Drivers are not allowed to park or leave their vehicles unattended at the curbside for any length of time. However, there are designated areas for picking up and dropping off passengers, located near both the McNamara Terminal and the North Terminal.
If you need to wait for your passenger, there are cell-phone waiting areas available at both terminals. These areas allow drivers to wait in their vehicles for free until their passenger has arrived and is ready to be picked up. Once your passenger is ready to be picked up, you can proceed to the designated pick-up area to meet them.
Parking Facilities & Options
When it comes to parking at Detroit Metropolitan Airport, there are several options available for travelers.
The airport offers both on-site parking and off-site parking options. The on-site parking facilities include multiple parking garages and surface lots located near both the McNamara Terminal and North Terminal. There are also valet parking services available for those who prefer a more convenient option.
If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking facilities are available near the airport. These facilities offer shuttle services to and from the airport, making it easy for travelers to get to their terminal without any hassle.
For those who need to wait for arriving passengers, DTW also offers cell phone waiting areas. These areas are located near both terminals and allow drivers to wait for their passengers without having to pay for parking.
Handicapped parking is available in all on-site parking facilities, with designated spaces located near elevators and shuttle stops for easy access.
Get details about DTW parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.
Transportation Options
Detroit Metropolitan Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options to help you get to your destination quickly and easily. Whether you prefer to rent a car, take a taxi, or use public transportation, the airport has you covered.
If you're interested in renting a car, you'll find several car rental agencies located at the airport, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. Each agency has its own rental counter located in the Ground Transportation Center, which is accessible from the terminal via a free shuttle service.
If you'd rather take a taxi, you'll find a taxi stand located outside of each terminal's baggage claim area. Taxis are available 24 hours a day, and fares are based on a metered system. The approximate fare to downtown Detroit is $50.
For those looking for a more affordable option, shared ride services like Uber and Lyft are also available. Pickup areas for these services are located on the lower level of the terminal, near the Ground Transportation Center. Keep in mind that some restrictions may apply, such as the number of passengers allowed per ride.
If you're traveling on a budget, you may want to consider taking public transportation. SMART buses provide service to and from the airport, with stops located on the lower level of the terminal near the Ground Transportation Center. Fares start at $2 for a one-way trip, and schedules can be found on the SMART website.
iFly Tip: Ensure in-flight comfort with help from our travel tips for overweight passengers.
Airport Hotels
Whether you're catching an early flight, arriving late, or in transit, having a comfortable place to stay nearby is crucial. Our comprehensive guide provides a list of hotels near the airport, catering to a wide range of preferences and budgets. From luxury hotels situated within the airport terminal to comfortable inns offering complimentary shuttle services, these options ensure minimal travel time and maximum relaxation. Explore the best hotel options near the airport and find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs. Ready to book now? View all Detroit Metropolitan Airport Hotels including rates, on a map.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
Traveling through Detroit Metropolitan Airport and looking for a bite to eat or some shopping? With a wide variety of restaurants and stores, there's something for everyone. Some of the top dining options include Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant, Cat Cora's Taproom, and Anita's Kitchen. And when it comes to shopping, you can find everything from luxury brands to local souvenirs. Check out CNBC Smartshop, Green – A Natural Living Store, and Michigan Treasures for some unique finds.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at Detroit Metropolitan Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, view the comprehensive list here.
Passenger Services
Detroit Metropolitan Airport is a hub for Delta Airlines and a major gateway to the United States. The airport has two terminals, McNamara Terminal and North Terminal, with a wide range of passenger services to make your travel experience smooth and comfortable.
If you need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Lost and found services are located in both terminals, and you can contact them directly for assistance. For families traveling with children, there are dedicated play areas in both terminals to keep kids entertained.
If you require special-needs services, Detroit Metropolitan Airport offers assistance for passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair assistance and accessible restrooms. Banking services are also available in both terminals, with ATMs and currency exchange services.
In case of medical emergencies, there are medical help centers located in both terminals, with trained medical staff available 24/7. If you have any questions or need assistance, customer service representatives are available throughout the airport to assist you.
Flight Status Info
As a traveler, it's important to stay up-to-date on the status of your flight. Fortunately, there are several ways to check for flight updates at Detroit Metropolitan Airport.
One of the most common ways to check for flight updates 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 locate the display for your airline and flight number to get the most up-to-date information.
Another convenient way to stay informed is by using your airline's mobile phone app. Most airlines offer apps that allow you to receive push notifications about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes. You can also check the status of your flight directly through the app.
In addition to mobile apps, airlines may also send updates via text or email. Be sure to check with your airline to see if these options are available and how to sign up for them.
Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Detroit Metropolitan Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
iFly Tip: Learn about TSA PreCheck and how it makes security screening easier.
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) is located in Romulus, Michigan, United States.
- Terminals: The airport has two main terminals: the McNamara Terminal and the North Terminal.
- Airlines Served: Major airlines include Delta Air Lines, Spirit Airlines, and American Airlines. For a full list of airlines, visit the DTW Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Detroit Metropolitan Airport handles over 100,000 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport operates around 1,200 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations from DTW are Atlanta, Chicago, Minneapolis, Denver, and New York.
- Hub Status: DTW serves as a hub for Delta Air Lines and Spirit Airlines.
Airport History
Detroit Metropolitan Airport, also known as Detroit Metro Airport, is a major international airport located in Romulus, Michigan. It serves as the primary airport for the Detroit metropolitan area and is one of the busiest airports in the United States.
Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1927 - The airport opens as Wayne County Airport
- 1947 - The airport is renamed Detroit-Wayne Major Airport
- 1958 - The airport is renamed Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport
- 1960s - The airport undergoes major expansion and modernization
- 1987 - The airport is renamed Detroit Metropolitan Airport
- 1993 - The airport's new midfield terminal opens, adding 97 gates and increasing capacity
- 2002 - The airport opens a new 26-gate terminal for Northwest Airlines (now Delta Air Lines)
- 2008 - The airport completes a $1.2 billion renovation and expansion project, including a new runway and terminal upgrades
- 2020 - The airport experiences a significant decrease in passenger traffic due to the COVID-19 pandemic
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Detroit Metropolitan Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: DTW
- Airport Website
- Phone: +1 734-247-7678
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Detroit Metropolitan Airport, 2500 Worldgateway Place, Detroit, MI 48242, United States
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
About this Page: Please note that while we strive to keep the content on this page current and accurate, we cannot guarantee it due to the ever-changing nature of airports and airlines; for more details about our data and practices, refer to our Trust & Transparency statement. To report any data issues, use our feedback form.
Detroit Metropolitian Airport Q&A
Find more help here for your journey through the airport