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Portland Airport PDX Airport Traveler Guide

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PDX Airport Insights & Guide

Key PDX Airport Topics:

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)

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.

Tips from PDX Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at Portland International Airport 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

"If you're flying out of Concourse E for international flights, make sure to check the shuttle schedule in advance. It’s a bit secluded compared to the other concourses, and the shuttle can save you a lot of walking time." — Emily T., Gresham, OR, January 2024

"I always recommend using the pedestrian walkways between concourses if you have time. It’s a pleasant walk and you get to see some of the great art installations PDX is known for." — David M., Beaverton, OR, February 2024

Getting To/From the City

"The MAX light rail is a lifesaver for getting to downtown Portland. It’s reliable and much cheaper than a taxi or rideshare, especially during rush hour." — Linda S., Vancouver, WA, March 2024

"For early morning flights, I suggest booking an airport shuttle in advance. Traffic can be unpredictable, and it’s one less thing to worry about." — Brian K., Hillsboro, OR, April 2024

Parking

"If you’re planning on parking for more than a few days, the economy lot is the best option. It’s affordable, and the shuttle service to the terminal is quite efficient." — Jessica H., Lake Oswego, OR, May 2024

"For quick pickups, the cell phone waiting area is perfect. Just wait for your passenger to call you when they’re ready, and you avoid the hassle of parking fees." — Tom R., Tigard, OR, June 2024

Inside the Airport

"Don’t miss Powell’s Books if you have some time before your flight. It’s a slice of Portland culture right in the airport." — Karen J., Troutdale, OR, July 2024

"If you’re a coffee lover, make a stop at Stumptown Coffee Roasters. It’s a local favorite and a great way to start your journey." — Alex N., Oregon City, OR, August 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Arrive at least two hours before your flight, especially during peak travel times. Security lines can be long, and it’s always better to be safe than sorry." — Mike F., Tualatin, OR, September 2024

"Keep an eye on your flight status using the airline’s app. They often provide real-time updates that can save you from unnecessary stress." — Lisa P., West Linn, OR, October 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.

  • Rental Cars: 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.
  • Taxis: 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.
  • Ride Share Services: 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: 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: 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

The MAX light rail is the most efficient and affordable way to get to downtown Portland. It runs frequently and tickets can be purchased from machines near the station.
PDX offers a free shuttle service that runs 24/7 every 5-10 minutes between the Main Terminal and the other terminals. Walking is also an option, with pedestrian walkways connecting the terminals.
PDX features several local dining options, including Rogue Ales Public House for local beers and The Country Cat for a sit-down meal.
Yes, PDX has art installations throughout the terminals, providing a relaxing and culturally enriching experience for travelers.
PDX offers short-term and long-term parking, with the economy lot providing a budget-friendly option and a free shuttle service to the terminal every 7-9 minutes.
Yes, the cell phone waiting area is available for drivers to wait without incurring parking fees until passengers are ready for pick-up.
It's recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before your flight, especially during peak hours, to account for potential long security lines.
PDX offers children's play areas and nursing rooms throughout the airport, providing a safe and fun environment for young travelers.
Rental car providers such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz have counters on the lower level of the terminal near baggage claim.
Flight status can be checked via in-airport flight displays, airline mobile apps, or by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com for real-time updates.