PIT 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 PIT Airport
Welcome to the Pittsburgh Airport Online Guide. Situated in the heart of Pennsylvania, this airport is a significant hub for both domestic and international travelers. One of the unique features of PIT is its impressive Airside Terminal, which houses a plethora of dining and shopping options, ensuring a pleasant and entertaining experience for passengers. Whether you're embarking on a business trip or returning from a vacation, PIT promises a smooth and enjoyable journey. For more insights into other airports you might be traveling to or from, don't forget to check out our worldwide airport list.
WATCH VIDEO: Experience the arrivals at Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) as we fly in from Boston Logan Airport on Delta Airlines:
Airport News
Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) is undergoing several notable changes that travelers should be aware of. Recently, the airport issued a travel alert due to security wait times extending up to three hours, urging passengers to arrive early. In addition, PIT is experiencing growth with new airlines and routes, alongside the development of a tech center that aims to enhance the airport's operational efficiency and passenger experience. (sources: TribLIVE, Runway Girl Network)
Navigating PIT's Terminals
Pittsburgh International Airport has two main terminals: Landside Terminal and Airside Terminal. Landside Terminal is where passengers check-in, go through security, and access ground transportation. Airside Terminal is where passengers board their flights and find restaurants and shops.
Landside Terminal has two levels, with ticketing and baggage claim on the lower level and security and shops on the upper level. Airside Terminal has four concourses: A, B, C, and D. Concourse A has 25 gates, Concourse B has 22 gates, Concourse C has 14 gates, and Concourse D has 25 gates.
Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines operate out of PIT's Airside Terminal. Concourse A is mainly used by Delta Air Lines and its partners, Concourse B is used by American Airlines and its partners, Concourse C is used by Southwest Airlines and its partners, and Concourse D is used by United Airlines and its partners.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
The airport has one main terminal building with four concourses: A, B, C, and D. The concourses are connected to the main terminal building via moving sidewalks, which makes getting between the gates relatively easy and quick. The walking time between the farthest gates is around 15-20 minutes, so it is recommended to use the moving sidewalks to save time.
If you need to transfer between concourses, there is a shuttle bus service available that runs every 5-10 minutes. The shuttle bus can be accessed from the center core of the airport, which is located between Concourse C and Concourse D. The shuttle bus is free of charge and takes only a few minutes to reach the other concourse.
Frequent Flier Tips
To help make your experience at Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from PIT-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
"PIT has a straightforward layout with the Landside Terminal and the Airside Terminal connected by an underground tram. If you’re in a rush, the tram is your best bet to get between terminals quickly. There are also clear signs everywhere, so you won't get lost." — John M., Moon Township, PA, August 2023
"For those with connecting flights, the Airside Terminal has four concourses (A, B, C, and D). Make sure to check your gate number in advance to avoid any last-minute sprints. Concourse B is usually less crowded, so it's a good spot to relax if you have time." — Emily R., Coraopolis, PA, July 2023
Getting To/From the City
"The 28X Airport Flyer bus is a convenient and affordable option to get to downtown Pittsburgh. It runs frequently and takes you directly to the heart of the city. Just make sure to have exact change or a ConnectCard." — Michael L., Pittsburgh, PA, September 2023
"If you prefer ride-sharing services, there’s a designated pick-up area in the Ground Transportation area of the Landside Terminal. It's well-marked and easy to find." — Anika S., Robinson Township, PA, October 2023
Parking
"For short-term parking, the garage adjacent to the Landside Terminal is the most convenient. It’s a bit pricier, but it’s worth it if you're just dropping someone off or picking them up." — Robert K., Sewickley, PA, November 2023
"For long-term parking, the Economy Lot offers the best rates. There are free shuttles that run frequently to take you to the terminal. It's a bit further, but you’ll save a lot." — Lisa T., Cranberry Township, PA, December 2023
Inside the Airport
"If you’re looking for a good meal, don't miss the local favorites like Primanti Bros. in Concourse C. They serve the famous Pittsburgh sandwich with fries and coleslaw right inside." — David P., Bethel Park, PA, January 2024
"For some last-minute shopping, head to the AirMall in the Airside Terminal. You’ll find a variety of stores, from high-end boutiques to souvenir shops. It’s a great way to kill time before your flight." — Maria G., Mt. Lebanon, PA, February 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Security lines at PIT can get long during peak hours. I recommend getting TSA PreCheck if you travel frequently. It saves a lot of time and hassle." — Kevin J., Wexford, PA, March 2024
"Check the wait times for security online before you leave for the airport. It can help you plan better and avoid unnecessary stress. PIT usually updates this information in real-time." — Jessica H., Upper St. Clair, PA, April 2024
iFly Tip: Get better seat selection by opting for early check-in with your airline.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At PIT, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of each terminal. However, there are restrictions on curbside parking, and vehicles are not allowed to wait or park for more than a few minutes. To avoid parking violations and traffic congestion, drivers are advised to use the cell-phone waiting areas located near each terminal.
The cell-phone waiting areas are free of charge and provide a convenient place for drivers to wait for their arriving passengers. Once the passengers have collected their luggage and are ready to be picked up, the driver can proceed to the curbside for a quick and hassle-free pick-up. It is important to note that vehicles are not allowed to wait or park at the curbside for more than a few minutes, so it is recommended to use the cell-phone waiting areas to avoid any inconvenience or penalties.
Parking Facilities & Options
Travelers flying in and out of Pittsburgh International Airport have several parking options available to them. On-site parking is available in the airport's parking garages and lots, which are located near the terminal. There are four parking garages and several surface lots that offer both short-term and long-term parking options. The airport also offers a cell phone waiting lot, which is free for drivers waiting to pick up arriving passengers.
For those looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking lots are available near the airport. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, and some even offer covered parking options. Off-airport parking can be a great way to save money on parking fees, especially for longer trips.
Handicapped parking is available in all of the airport's parking garages and lots. Designated handicapped parking spaces are located near the elevators and shuttle stops for easy access to the terminal. Shuttle buses are also equipped with wheelchair lifts for those who need them.
Get details about Pittsburgh International Airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.
Transportation Options
When arriving at PIT Airport, there are several transportation options available to get you to your final destination.
If you prefer to rent a car, there are several car rental companies located at the airport, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. The rental car center is located on the lower level of the parking garage, and shuttle service is available to take you there.
Taxi service is available at the commercial curb front of the airport, located outside of baggage claim. The estimated fare to downtown Pittsburgh is around $40, and the ride takes approximately 25 minutes, depending on traffic.
Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also available at the airport. The pickup area is located outside of baggage claim, and there may be restrictions on where the driver can drop you off, depending on your final destination.
Airport shuttles are available for those who need transportation to nearby hotels or other locations. The shuttle pickup area is located outside of baggage claim, and fares vary depending on your destination.
For those who prefer public transportation, the Port Authority Transit (PAT) bus service provides transportation to downtown Pittsburgh and other locations. The bus stop is located outside of baggage claim, and the fare is $2.75 per person.
iFly Tip: Get ahead of the game by understanding baggage processing deadlines.
Airport Hotels
Looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay near the airport? We've got you covered. Our list of top-rated hotels includes the contemporary Hyatt Regency, the conveniently located Hilton Garden Inn, and the value-for-money Americas Best Value Inn. You'll also find excellent options like the DoubleTree by Hilton and the Super 8 by Wyndham, both offering efficient transit options to the airport. Discover more about these and other great hotel options by visiting our Pittsburgh Airport Hotels page.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
Traveling through Pittsburgh Airport? With a variety of dining options available, from Asian fusion to Southern-style comfort food, there's something for everyone. And when it comes to shopping, the airport has you covered with high-end fashion, tech gadgets, Pittsburgh souvenirs, and more. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, discover what's available here.
Passenger Services
If you're traveling through Pittsburgh Airport, you'll be pleased to know that there are a variety of passenger services available to make your journey as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Lost and found services are also available if you misplace any belongings during your travels.
If you're traveling with children, there are designated play areas to keep them entertained. Special-needs services are also available, including accessible restrooms, wheelchair assistance, and service animal relief areas.
If you need to do some banking, there are ATMs and currency exchange services located throughout the airport. Additionally, for those requiring medical assistance, first aid stations are located in each terminal, along with a medical center in the airside terminal, ensuring help is readily available for any emergencies.
Flight Status Info
For air travelers flying out of Pittsburgh Airport, it's important to stay up-to-date on the status of their flight. Fortunately, there are several ways to do so.
One of the most convenient ways to check flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminal. 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. Many airlines offer apps that allow passengers to receive push notifications, text messages, or emails about any changes to their flight status.
Another option for staying informed about flight status is to sign up for alerts through the airport's website or airline's website. These alerts can be sent via email or text message and provide updates on any changes to the flight status.
Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at PIT 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 to keep your toddler comfortable during flights by checking out our travel with toddlers guide.
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) is located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States.
- Terminals: The airport features two main terminals: the Landside Terminal and the Airside Terminal, connected by a people mover.
- Airlines Served: Major airlines serving the airport include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Southwest Airlines. For a complete list of airlines, visit the PIT Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Pittsburgh International Airport handles approximately 20,000 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport manages around 300 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations from PIT are Orlando, Atlanta, Chicago, Denver, and Charlotte.
- Hub Status: Pittsburgh International Airport is a hub for Southern Airways Express and FedEx Express.
Airport History
Pittsburgh International Airport, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Here are some significant events that have shaped the airport over the years:
- 1919: The first commercial flight takes off from what was then known as Bettis Field, a small airfield located in the Pittsburgh suburb of Mount Oliver.
- 1925: The City of Pittsburgh purchases Bettis Field and renames it Pittsburgh Municipal Airport.
- 1952: The airport moves to its current location in Findlay Township and is renamed Greater PIT Airport.
- 1972: The airport undergoes a major expansion, including the construction of a new terminal building and the addition of a second runway.
- 1987: The airport is renamed Pittsburgh International Airport to reflect its growing status as an international gateway.
- 1992: US Airways establishes Pittsburgh as a hub, bringing increased traffic and economic growth to the region.
- 2001: The airport is one of the first in the country to implement enhanced security measures following the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
- 2013: The airport completes a $10 million renovation of its airside terminal, including upgrades to dining and retail options.
- 2020: The COVID-19 pandemic leads to a significant decrease in air travel, causing the airport to temporarily close some of its concourses and reduce its operating hours.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Pittsburgh International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: PIT
- Airport Website
- Phone: +1 412-472-3525
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Pittsburgh International Airport, Landside Terminal, 1000 Airport Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15231, United States
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Pittsburgh Airport Q&A
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