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Tucson Airport TUS Airport Traveler Guide

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TUS Airport Insights & Guide

Key TUS Airport Topics:

Getting to Know TUS Airport

Welcome to our online guide for Tucson Airport, a bustling hub that serves as a gateway to the scenic landscapes of Tucson, Arizona. Known for its three well-structured terminals and a multitude of services, TUS ensures a smooth journey for all its travelers. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the airport's unique features and amenities, all designed to enhance your travel experience. Whether you're a frequent flyer or embarking on a one-time journey, our guide to navigating airports can serve as a valuable resource for additional airport information worldwide.

iFly Tip: Make your airport experience stress-free with our comprehensive airport tips.

The airport has three terminals: Concourse A, Concourse B, and the Main Terminal. Concourse A has 5 gates, Concourse B has 11 gates, and the Main Terminal has 17 gates. Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, and Southwest Airlines operate out of the Main Terminal. Concourse A is used by American Eagle and United Express, while Concourse B is used by Alaska Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and Sun Country Airlines.

When navigating the airport, it's important to note that the Main Terminal is divided into two levels: the upper level for departures and the lower level for arrivals. The security checkpoint is located on the upper level, and passengers should allow ample time to get through security during peak travel times.

For those in need of food and services, there are plenty of options available throughout the airport. The Main Terminal offers a variety of dining options, including Arizona Sports Grill, Beyond Bread, and Starbucks. Concourse A has a Starbucks and a Hudson News, while Concourse B has a Cibo Express Gourmet Market and a Tucson Lifestyle store. Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

At Tucson Airport, there are three terminals: Concourse A, Concourse B, and the Main Terminal. To get between terminals, passengers can walk or take the airport shuttle bus. The shuttle bus is a free service that runs every 10 minutes and stops at each terminal. The walk time between terminals is approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on the terminal.

If you are connecting between flights, be sure to check your boarding pass or with your airline to confirm which terminal your next flight departs from. Additionally, there are plenty of signage and information desks throughout the airport to assist passengers with directions and information.

Tips from TUS Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at Tucson Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from TUS-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 the Main Terminal, make sure to check out the upper level before security for a quick coffee at Starbucks. It's usually less crowded and a good spot to relax before you head through security." — Maria G., Tucson, AZ, January 2024

"The signage at TUS is quite clear, but if you're ever in doubt, the information desks are super helpful. They're located in all the terminals and the staff are friendly." — David K., Oro Valley, AZ, March 2024

Getting To/From the City

"Taking the Sun Tran bus is a budget-friendly option. The stop is just outside baggage claim, and it's a convenient way to get into downtown Tucson without the hassle of parking." — Linda P., Sahuarita, AZ, February 2024

"If you're using a ride-share service like Uber or Lyft, be aware that the designated pickup area can get busy during peak times. Plan an extra 10 minutes just in case you have to wait." — Carlos M., Marana, AZ, June 2024

Parking

"The economy lot is a great choice if you're planning to park for more than a couple of days. It's further from the terminal, but the shuttle service is reliable and frequent." — Emily R., Green Valley, AZ, April 2024

"For quick pick-ups, the cell phone waiting area is perfect. Just wait until your passenger is ready to be picked up, and then head over to the terminal." — John S., Catalina Foothills, AZ, May 2024

Inside the Airport

"Don't miss Beyond Bread in the Main Terminal. Their sandwiches are a must-try and perfect for a meal before your flight." — Sophie L., Vail, AZ, July 2024

"For last-minute gifts, the Tucson Lifestyle store has some unique local items that are perfect for souvenirs." — Raj T., Sahuarita, AZ, August 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Arrive at least two hours early for domestic flights. The security lines can get long, especially during holiday seasons, so it's better to be safe than sorry." — Hannah J., Oro Valley, AZ, October 2024

"Check your flight status using the airline's app. It's the most reliable way to get real-time updates on any delays or gate changes." — Miguel F., Tucson, AZ, September 2024

iFly Tip: Gain a deeper understanding of your flight with insights from our pilot's guide from takeoff to landing.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At Tucson Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at designated curbside areas outside the terminals. However, curbside parking is strictly prohibited, and vehicles left unattended may be towed. To avoid this, drivers can utilize the cell-phone waiting areas located near the airport entrance. These areas provide a convenient place for drivers to wait for arriving passengers without having to park or circle the airport.

Passengers can be picked up at the arrivals level of the Main Terminal, while drop-offs are made at the departures level. For passengers flying out of Concourse A or B, drop-offs and pick-ups can be made at the designated curbside areas outside each concourse. It is important to note that drivers should only use the designated areas for pick-ups and drop-offs, and should not park or leave their vehicles unattended in these areas.

Parking Facilities & Options

Traveling to Tucson Airport? Here's what you need to know about parking options and facilities:

The airport offers several parking options, including hourly, daily, and economy lots. Hourly parking is available in the garages located near Concourse A and B, while daily parking is available in the main terminal garage and the economy lot. The economy lot is located further away from the terminal, but offers a more economical option for longer stays.

If you're picking up a passenger and need to wait for their arrival, the airport also offers a cell phone waiting area. This area is located near the economy lot and allows you to wait in your car until your passenger has arrived and is ready to be picked up.

Handicapped parking is available in all parking areas, with designated spaces located near the terminal entrances. If you require special assistance, the airport also offers wheelchair and electric cart services to help you get to and from your car.

If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available nearby. Many off-airport parking lots offer shuttle services to and from the airport, making it a convenient option for travelers.

Get details about TUS parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

Tucson International Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers.

  • Car rental facilities are located on the lower level of the terminal building, just a short walk from baggage claim. Major providers include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. For more information, visit the rental car page.
  • Taxi services are available outside of baggage claim, with drop-off areas located at the curb on the upper level of the terminal building. Fares are metered and vary depending on the destination.
  • Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, can be picked up at the designated ride-share pickup area outside of baggage claim. Please note that there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and amount of luggage allowed.
  • Airport shuttles are available for transportation to and from the airport. Pickup areas are located outside of baggage claim, and fares vary depending on the destination and number of passengers.
  • Public transportation options include Sun Tran bus service, with a stop located just outside of baggage claim. Fares are affordable, and the bus can take you to various locations throughout Tucson.

iFly Tip: Expedite your airport experience with tips from our TSA PreCheck Guide.

Airport Hotels

Whether you're flying in or out, having a comfortable hotel near the airport can make your journey much smoother. Our selection of hotels offers a variety of options to suit every traveler's needs. From budget-friendly options to more luxurious stays, you'll find hotels with amenities such as complimentary shuttle services, free Wi-Fi, and breakfast. Some of the options include Four Points by Sheraton, La Quinta by Wyndham, Hampton Inn, DoubleTree Suites by Hilton, and Baymont by Wyndham. For those willing to stay a bit further, there are also options like the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Residence Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Courtyard, and Home2 Suites By Hilton. To view all the options, check out our the airport Hotels page.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

When it comes to dining and shopping options at Tucson Airport, there's no shortage of choices. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, you'll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.

For those in search of a hearty breakfast or brunch, we recommend the Blue Willow Restaurant, located in the Main Terminal. Their menu features a variety of classic American dishes, including pancakes, omelets, and breakfast burritos.

If you're looking for something a little more upscale, head over to Char's - Has The Blues, located in Concourse A. This restaurant offers a sophisticated atmosphere and a menu of Southern-inspired dishes, including gumbo, jambalaya, and fried chicken.

When it comes to shopping, TUS has a range of options to suit all tastes. If you're in need of some last-minute travel essentials, head to the Hudson News store in the Main Terminal. They offer a variety of snacks, drinks, and reading materials to keep you occupied during your flight.

For those in search of souvenirs or gifts, we recommend the Tucson Lifestyle store, also located in the Main Terminal. Here you'll find a range of locally made products, including jewelry, pottery, and artwork.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at TUS Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and newsstands, click here.

Passenger Services

TUS Airport offers a range of passenger services to make your travel experience as comfortable as possible. Whether you're traveling with children, have special needs, or need medical assistance, the airport has you covered.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Lost and found services are also available at the airport's information desk located in the main terminal.

Traveling with children? The airport has designated children's areas in both Concourse A and Concourse B, featuring interactive play areas to keep kids entertained before their flight.

For passengers with special needs, the airport offers a range of services, including accessible parking, wheelchair assistance, and accessible restrooms. Service animals are also welcome throughout the airport.

Need to take care of some banking? There are ATMs located throughout the airport, including in the main terminal and both concourses. And if you need medical assistance, there is a medical clinic located in the main terminal.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it is crucial to stay informed about the status of your flight departure. At Tucson Airport, there are several ways to access real-time updates on flight information.

One of the most reliable sources of flight status information is the Flight Information Display System (FIDS) located throughout the airport. These displays provide up-to-date information on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Passengers can easily locate the FIDS by looking for the screens located throughout the airport.

In addition to the FIDS, passengers can also receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via the use of airline mobile phone apps. By downloading the app for their specific airline, passengers can receive push notifications, text messages, or emails with the latest information about their flight status. This is a convenient way to stay informed while on the go.

Passengers can also check the status of their flight departure at Tucson Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information. By staying informed about their flight status, passengers can ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Tucson International Airport (TUS) is located in Tucson, Arizona, United States.
  • Terminals: The airport features a Main Terminal, which includes Concourse A and Concourse B.
  • Airlines Served: The airport is served by major airlines including Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines. For a list of all airlines, check out the TUS Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Tucson International Airport handles approximately 8,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 100 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from TUS are Los Angeles, Denver, Phoenix, Dallas/Fort Worth, and Houston.
  • Hub Status: Tucson Airport is a hub for Allegiant Air and World View Enterprises.

Airport History

TUS, also known as Tucson International Airport, is located in Tucson, Arizona, United States. The airport has a rich history dating back to the 1910s when it was used as a landing strip for military planes during World War I. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • In 1927, the first commercial flight arrived at the airport, which was then known as Davis-Monthan landing field.
  • In 1948, the airport was renamed Tucson International Airport to reflect its growing importance as a regional airport.
  • In 1955, the airport's first terminal building was constructed to accommodate the increasing number of passengers.
  • In 1963, the airport's runway was extended to 8,000 feet to accommodate larger aircraft.
  • In 1985, a new terminal building was constructed to replace the old one, which had become outdated and overcrowded.
  • In 2005, the airport's runway was extended to 10,996 feet to accommodate the new Airbus A380, which had been recently introduced.
  • In 2013, the airport celebrated its 85th anniversary and announced plans to renovate the terminal building and expand the airport's facilities.

Today, TUS Airport serves over 3 million passengers annually and is a hub for several major airlines, including American Airlines and Southwest Airlines.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Tucson International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: TUS
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +1 520-573-8100
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Tucson International Airport, 7250 S Tucson Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85756, United States

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Tucson Airport Q&A

The airport has three terminals: Concourse A, Concourse B, and the Main Terminal. Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, and Southwest operate from the Main Terminal. Concourse A is used by American Eagle and United Express, while Concourse B is used by Alaska Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and Sun Country Airlines.
Dining options like Arizona Sports Grill, Beyond Bread, and Starbucks are available in the Main Terminal. Concourse A features a Starbucks and a Hudson News, while Concourse B has a Cibo Express Gourmet Market and a Tucson Lifestyle store.
The airport offers hourly, daily, and economy parking lots. The economy lot is further from the terminal but is budget-friendly for longer stays. There's also a cell phone waiting area for picking up passengers.
Passengers can walk between terminals or take a free shuttle bus that runs every 10 minutes, stopping at each terminal. The walk takes approximately 10-15 minutes.
Transportation options include car rentals, taxis, Uber and Lyft, airport shuttles, and Sun Tran bus service. Car rental facilities are located on the lower level of the terminal building.
Yes, there are several hotels near the airport, including Four Points by Sheraton, La Quinta by Wyndham, and Hampton Inn. Many offer amenities like complimentary shuttle services and free Wi-Fi.
The Main Terminal has most amenities and is divided into two levels: departures on the upper level and arrivals on the lower level. For quick snacks or coffee, visit the upper level before security to avoid crowds.
Flight Information Display Systems (FIDS) throughout the airport provide real-time updates. Airline mobile apps also offer notifications about delays, cancellations, or gate changes.
The airport offers accessible parking, wheelchair assistance, and accessible restrooms. Service animals are welcome, and there are children's play areas in both concourses.
Arrive at least two hours early for domestic flights and three hours for international flights. Check in online and print your boarding pass at home to save time at the airport.