A Complete Guide to Phoenix Airport (PHX)
Updated: July 01, 2026
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is one of the largest and busiest airports in the United States, welcoming more than 52 million passengers annually. PHX is the primary gateway to the Southwest, including its most famous tourist attractions like the Grand Canyon and Sedona's iconic red rocks.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International is located just a few miles southeast of downtown Phoenix, and one of the fastest airports to exit, making it incredibly convenient to commute in and out of the city. This comprehensive guide to PHX covers everything you need to know about the airport, including its terminals, parking options, and all the amenities on offer for a smooth and comfortable visit.
Table of contents
Phoenix Airport at a glance
Phoenix Airport code: PHX
Terminals: PHX has two terminals: Terminal 3 & Terminal 4
Transport: Phoenix Airport is connected to the city via the PHX Sky Train.
Parking: A variety of parking options are available, including Economy and VIP services.
Lounges: PHX has a selection of lounges across both terminals, many offering day passes.
Shops & Restaurants: A variety of shops and restaurants are available at PHX, including local Arizona favorites and beloved US chains.
Nearby hotels: A variety of hotels can be found around the airport catering to all budgets and needs, many offering a free shuttle service to and from the airport.
Amenities: Amenities at PHX include the usual free WiFi, water fountains, and work stations, alongside museum, walking route, and classes to support nervous flyers.
Where is Phoenix Airport?
Address: 3400 Sky Hbr Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85034, United States
Telephone Number: +1 602-273-3300
How to get to Phoenix International
Phoenix Sky Harbor is notably close to downtown, only about 3-4 miles away, so there are several good options for traveling between the airport and the city.
Traveling to Phoenix Airport by train
PHX Sky Train: The PHX Sky Train is an automated light rail service that transports travelers between Valley Metro Rail at 44th and Washington streets, the East Economy Parking area, all airport terminals, the 24th Street Economy Parking area and the Rental Car Center. From 44th and Washington, you can hop onto the Valley Metro's light rail directly into downtown Phoenix.
The Sky Train is completely free, runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and takes about 20-25 minutes. However once you switch to the Valley Metro service you will need to pay, but journeys only generally cost a few dollars.
Traveling to Phoenix Airport by bus
Bus routes 1, 13, 44, and 70 all connect to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, but link up at the Sky Train stations rather than pulling right up to the terminals, so the Sky Train is still the most convenient option. The easiest way to plan and pay for rides is through the Valley Metro app. For getting specifically to downtown, Route 44 is your best bet, or the light rail itself, since the 44th Street/Washington station connects to Valley Metro Bus routes 1, 32, and 44, plus the Greyhound and Flixbus.
Traveling to Phoenix Airport by car
Phoenix Sky Harbor is easily accessed via I-10, with exits at 24th Street or 44th Street leading directly into the terminal roadways, while State Route 143 offers a direct route from the east. Once near the airport, signage guides you to Terminal 3 or Terminal 4, the two currently active terminals, each with its own drop-off and pickup loop.
Blacklane Chauffeur Service: For the smoothest and most comfortable way to travel from Phoenix Airport into downtown and other locations across including Scottsdale and up to Sedona, book a Blacklane airport transfer. Founded in Berlin in 2011, Blacklane offers a door-to-door premium chauffeur service across the U.S., making airport transfers from Phoenix International effortless and stress-free.
Parking at Phoenix Airport
PHX has a number of affordable parking options across its terminals, spanning from economy parking through to VIP services. While drive-up rates are reasonable, it’s always best to book online in advance to guarantee the best price.
West Economy Garage
The West Economy Garage is located just to the west of Terminal 3, and costs $6 for the first hour, $3 per additional 30 minutes, and is capped at $19 per day. From the West Economy Garage, the walk to Terminal 3 takes approximately 12 minutes, and there’s no shuttle available, so it's best for travelers comfortable with a short walk.
West Economy Park & Walk
This is a seasonal lot that’s open during the winter holiday season, with the same hourly rate structure but a lower daily max of $10. From here, the walk to Terminal 3 takes approximately 15 minutes with no shuttle available, making it the cheapest option when it's open, at the cost of a longer walk.
Terminal 3 Garage
The closest lot to T3, the Terminal 3 Garage runs $6 for the first hour, $3 per additional 30 minutes, with a daily max of $33. It sits directly at the terminal, offering the most convenient (though pricier) parking for travelers using Terminal 3.
Terminal 4 Garage
Same goes for the Terminal 4 Garage—the lot offers $6 for the first hour, $3 per 30 minutes after, and a $33 daily max. Like its counterpart, it's attached to the terminal for maximum convenience at a premium price.
East Economy Garages A & B
The East Economy Garages A & B charge $6 for the first hour, $3 per additional 30 minutes, and cap at $19 per day. From here travelers take the PHX Sky Train to Terminals 3 and 4, with trains running approximately every three minutes. The East Economy Lot (Uncovered) has the same hourly rates as A & B but at a slightly lower daily max of $16, since it lacks covered parking.
24th Street Station
24th Street Station parking also runs $6/hour first hour, $3 per 30 minutes, with a $16 daily max, and connects to the terminals via the Sky Train, making it a budget-friendly option close to the rail hub.
Valet Parking (Terminals 3 & 4 Garages)
Valet parking is available at both terminal garages, and costs a flat $18 to start with a daily max of $43, making it the most expensive option but also the most convenient. Attendants will park your car for you right at the terminal, and collect it for you upon your return.
Premium Parking (Terminals 3 & 4 Garages)
Premium parking is available in both terminal lots with a daily max of $37, offering reserved spaces within the terminal garages for travelers willing to pay more for guaranteed proximity. The airport also offers a premium Car Care service, where the Phoenix Sky Harbor’s AutoSpa provides professional, convenient vehicle cleaning service while you’re away.
Free Cell Phone Waiting Lots
For a quick pick-up, Phoenix Sky Harbor has three free Cell Phone Waiting Lots where drivers can wait for passengers while coming through security. The lots are east of Terminal 4, west of the West Economy Garage, and south of the 44th Street PHX Sky Train Station.
Phoenix Airport: Terminal Overview
Phoenix Airport has two active terminals—Terminal 3 and Terminal 4. Terminal 2 closed in 2020, after 58 years of service, leaving the airport simpler to navigate than its busy passenger numbers might suggest. Both terminals are connected by the PHX Sky Train, which also connects to the East Economy parking lots, the rental car center, and the 44th Street Valley Metro Rail station. TSA PreCheck and CLEAR lanes are available at both terminals, so frequent travelers aren't tied to one side of the airport for expedited screening.
Terminal 3 sits on the west side of the airport. When it opened in 1979, it set new standards in air terminals at the time, with 880,000 square feet of space and 23 gates spread across two concourses. It's gone through several rounds of updates since, most notably a full modernization in the 2020s. Terminal 3 primarily handles domestic flights, though it's still well-connected for travelers needing to reach international gates elsewhere in the airport.
Terminal 4 is on the east side and is the larger, busier of the two. It has 44 gates and 3.9 million square feet of space. This is where most of PHX's international traffic and customs processing happen, and it serves as the primary hub for American Airlines and a major operating base for Southwest. Because of its size, you should give yourself extra walking time when between gates here compared to Terminal 3.
Which airlines fly from Phoenix Airport (PHX)?
Terminal 3
Air Canada Alaska Airlines Delta Frontier JetBlue United
Terminal 4
Advanced Air Aeromexico Air France Allegiant American Airlines Breeze British Airways China Airlines Contour Aviation Key Lime Air Porter Southern Airways Express Southwest Airlines Starlux Sun Country Airlines Volaris WestJet
Lounge access at Phoenix Airport
Phoenix Airport has several comfortable airport lounges in both terminals to enjoy while you wait for your flight. Check out our complete overview of lounge access at PHX to see what’s available.
Terminal 4 lounges:
American Airlines Admirals Club (three locations):
The AAA Club has three locations within T4, open to Admirals Club members, eligible oneworld flyers, and certain Citi cardholders.
The lounge offers a buffet, full bar, and work areas.
Day passes are available and cost around $79.
The Centurion Lounge (AmEx):
The most premium option in T4, located near Gate B21.
This lounge is reserved for AmEx Platinum/Centurion and certain Delta Reserve cardholders.
Features locally inspired food, a premium bar, shower suites, and quiet work pods. Entry is complimentary for eligible cardholders.
Day passes are unavailable but guests of card holders can be admitted for an extra cost of around $50 each.
Escape Lounge – The Centurion Studio Partner:
More flexible than the Centurion, and is open to all travelers via a paid day pass (from $45 online, $60 walk-up), plus complimentary entry for AmEx Platinum holders.
Features a buffet, bar, Wi-Fi, and PressReader access.
Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club:
This lounge can be found near Gate D11, and is one of the newest and most design-forward lounges at PHX.
Food is created in partnership with local restaurant The Larder & The Delta, with a full bar and an Airstream food truck inside.
Free entry for Chase Sapphire Reserve holders via Priority Pass.
Other Priority Pass members get one free visit per year, but then it costs around $75 per visit.
USO Lounge (for eligible military travelers):
Can be found pre-security on Level 2, and is free of charge for active-duty military and their families.
It offers more of a relaxed home-style space with snacks, gaming stations, and a children's room rather than a traditional airport lounge.
Terminal 3 lounges:
Located across from Gate F. Features a buffet, full bar, and a team to assist with rebookings.
Access is limited to Sky Club members, eligible Delta premium cabin passengers, and some AmEx cardholders.
Day passes are not available.
Located near Gate E3.
Highlights include a snack buffet, full bar, wellness room, and an automatic gelato machine.
Open to United Club members and Star Alliance Gold members.
Day passes are purchasable for around $59.
Escape Lounge – The Centurion Studio Partner:
Located between Gates E and F on Level 4, following the same access and pricing model as its T4 version: from around $45 online for a day pass, and free for AmEx Platinum holders.
What restaurants are available at Phoenix Airport?
As you can imagine, PHX offers a wealth of food options across its two terminals — around 53 establishments, to be precise, with a strong emphasis on local Arizona brands alongside national chains. For a taste of Arizona before you leave the state, stop by Ajo Al's for Sonoran-style Mexican dishes, Barrio Cafe for tableside guacamole and a range of tequilas, and the SanTan Brewing Company.
In October 2025, Guy Fieri opened up Guy Fieri's Flavortown Kitchen + Bar serving up classic American fare and a range of cocktails. Bobby's Burgers by Bobby Flay is the best idea for mouthwatering burgers and shakes. PHX also has the usual national chains like McDonald's, Chick-fil-A, Panda Express, and Dunkin'. Grab-and-go and snacks are covered by Mission Grab-n-Go and Dilly's Deli, among others.
Shopping at Phoenix Airport
Much like its food scene, shopping at Phoenix Sky Harbor is reason enough to arrive early and get through security with time to spare. Buy your last-minute souvenirs at Roosevelt Row, which represents Phoenix's arts district with locally made goods and products. Other great Arizona spots include Greetings from Phoenix, The Best of the Valley, and Bunky Boutique for locally-made fashion-forward apparel and accessories. Indigenous has four locations across the airport, and is your best bet for Native American jewellery, art, and crafts. Duty free is available via Phoenix Duty Free, primarily serving international departures in Terminal 4.
Hotels near Phoenix Airport
Phoenix Airport has a handful of hotels minutes from the airport terminal to suit every budget.
Hilton Phoenix Airport
Address: 2435 S 47th St, Phoenix, AZ 85034, United States
Shuttle: Yes, 24-hour complimentary shuttle
The closest and highest-rated of the hotels near Phoenix Airport, the Hilton is located just south of PHX on 47th Street with a shuttle that runs 24/7 every 30 minutes and gets you to the terminal in around 5 minutes. It features comfortable rooms with good noise insulation, outdoor swimming pool, and on-site restaurant.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Phoenix Airport
Address: 3401 E University Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85034, United States
Shuttle: Yes
A solid mid-range option with complimentary breakfast included. The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Phoenix Airport is a newer property with comfortable rooms, pool, fitness center, and free shuttle service to the airport in just a few minutes.
Hilton Garden Inn Phoenix Airport North
Address: 3838 East Van Buren Street, Phoenix, AZ 85008, United States
Shuttle: Yes, 24-hour complimentary shuttle
The Hilton Garden Inn North sits slightly north of the airport on Van Buren Street. There is a free 24/7 shuttle to and from the airport, on-site restaurant and bar, fitness center, and comfortable rooms with pet-friendly options. This is a good choice for a multi-night stay.
Crowne Plaza Phoenix Airport by IHG
Address: 4300 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85034, United States
Shuttle: Yes, 24-hour complimentary shuttle
The Crowne Plaza is a full-service hotel between the city and the airport, with two on-site restaurants, bar, pool, and fitness center. It’s also conveniently located next to a Valley Metro light rail station, giving you direct access with public transport to attractions like the PHX Arena, Chase Field, and Arizona State University.
Amenities at Phoenix Airport
WiFi: Free WiFi is available throughout all public areas and terminals under the network name "Free PHX Boingo WiFi." WiFi unlimited and doesn’t require a sign-up.
Drinking Fountains: Drinking water fountains are available throughout the terminals, and many include bottle-filling spouts.
ATMs and currency exchange: ATMs are available in both Terminal 3 and Terminal 4. Currency exchange services are available in Terminal 4 near baggage claim, making it convenient for international arrivals and departures.
Showers: There are no public shower facilities at PHX. A few of the lounges (Escape Lounge, Centurion Lounge) offer shower facilities.
Luggage Storage: There is no luggage storage available at Phoenix Airport.
Pet relief areas: PHX is well-known for its positive attitude towards travelers with animals, and as a result there are 9 pet relief areas located throughout the airport, including post-security locations in both terminals and outdoor areas near terminal entrances and parking facilities.
Fitness & Wellness: You can stretch your legs on a long layover with the Sky Harbor Fitness Trail—a marked walking route linking Concourses A and D in Terminal 4.
Art & Culture: PHX is also home to the Phoenix Airport Museum, which displays curated art, installations, and aviation history throughout both terminals. The Traveling Tunes program also brings live music performances to Terminal 3, which showcases local artists.
Baby facilities: Nursing stations are located pre- and post-security in all terminals. Nursing pods are also available at the Rental Car Center, offering privacy and comfort.
Play areas: Terminal 3 has a Play-viation play space near Gate F6 where younger travelers can burn off some energy before boarding.
Accessibility: PHX has extensive accessibility provisions in place. Both terminals have elevators, accessible restrooms, and assistance services for passengers with reduced mobility. The Compassion Corner is a special area located in Terminal 4 on Level 3, which aims to provide a calm and supportive environment that includes a chapel, a sensory room, and other dedicated support services.
Pharmacy & Medical services: Urgent care services are available 24/7 in Terminal 4 landside. Basic pharmacy items are sold at the Today Store in Terminal 4 airside, which is open from early in the morning until the last flight.
Smoking/Vaping Areas: Smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor areas around both terminals. No smoking or vaping is permitted within the airport terminals.
Misc: PHX offers a unique service to help nervous flyers feel more comfortable—Captain Ron's Fearless Flight "Cleared for Takeoff 101" class is available via the airport's website.
Easy arrivals in Phoenix with Blacklane
Traveling to or from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is easy when you leave the logistics to professionals. When you book a Blacklane airport transfer, you can leave behind the hassle of flagging down taxis, downloading ride-hailing apps, or dealing with unpredictable traffic. A professional Blacklane chauffeur will be there to greet you upon arrival or departure, can assist with your luggage, and provide a quiet, comfortable ride. It’s travel made effortless, just the way it should be.
