As frequent flyers, we all know the hassle of navigating through airport terminals. Delayed flights, long security lines, and confusing layouts can make even the most seasoned travelers feel lost. But what if the confusion wasn’t just a matter of airport inconveniences, but rather, a result of disconnection between the airport terminals? This is a predicament that many travelers at Baltimore-Washington International (BWI) have been facing for years.
Now, the truth is that BWI is a busy and well-managed airport, serving millions of passengers every year. However, the problem of disconnected terminals remains a significant source of frustration for many travelers. Perhaps it’s the lack of signage or poor planning, but the truth is that traveling through the terminals at BWI can be a confusing and time-consuming experience. So, are BWI terminals connected, or are travelers left to navigate on their own? As it turns out, the answer is not that simple – let’s explore the various aspects of this issue together.
It’s no secret that airports can be both stressful and overwhelming. But imagine landing at BWI only to find that you have to take a bus to your connecting gate – it’s not exactly what you think of when you’re planning your trip. Unfortunately, this scenario is all too familiar for many travelers at BWI, and it begs the question: are the terminals at BWI even connected in the first place? Well, the answer is yes and no. While they are technically connected, the design of the airport can make it difficult for travelers to navigate. So, if you’re planning a trip to or through BWI anytime soon, it’s best to be prepared and do some research beforehand!
BWI Airport Terminal Overview
Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, commonly known as BWI, is located in Linthicum, Maryland. The airport has a total of five terminals, which are all connected by shuttle buses and walkways. These five terminals are comprised of two main buildings, the Main Terminal and the D Terminal, and three satellite terminals, A, B, and C Concourses. Together, these terminals serve more than 25 million passengers annually, making it the busiest airport in the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area.
Terminal Overview
- Main Terminal – this is the largest terminal at BWI, which has three levels and serves both domestic and international flights. The ticketing and baggage claim is located on level 1, with security checkpoints on level 2. Level 3 houses a food court, retail shops, and lounges.
- D Terminal – this terminal is located adjacent to the Main Terminal and serves as a hub for Southwest Airlines. It has three levels with baggage claim on level 1, and security and boarding gates on levels 2 and 3. The terminal also has various restaurants and shops available for passengers.
- A, B, and C Concourses – these are satellite terminals consisting of four individual concourses that serve a number of airlines. Each concourse has its own baggage claim, security checkpoint, and boarding gates. They also offer a variety of retail, dining, and lounge options.
Traveling Between Terminals
As mentioned earlier, the terminals at BWI are connected by shuttle buses and walkways. Passengers can take the free shuttle buses, which run 24/7 between the D Terminal and the A, B, and C Concourses. There are also walkways connecting the Main Terminal to the D Terminal, as well as interconnecting walkways within the A, B, and C Concourses.
Terminal Amenities
BWI offers a variety of amenities to make your travel experience more comfortable and enjoyable. Each terminal has a number of food and beverage options, including popular chains such as Dunkin’ Donuts, Starbucks, and Chick-fil-A. There are also restaurants serving regional and international cuisine. In addition, travelers can find numerous retail shops, including duty-free shops, newsstands, and boutiques. If you need to work or relax, lounges are available in the Main Terminal and D Terminal. ATMs, currency exchange booths, and charging stations are also located throughout the airport for your convenience.
| Amenities | Description |
|---|---|
| Food and Beverage | Includes over 100 dining options ranging from fast food to fine dining. Vegetarian and Halal food options are also available. |
| Retail Shops | Features a variety of retailers that provide souvenirs, clothing, electronics and more. |
| Lounges | Several lounges offer complimentary snacks, beverages, Wi-Fi, and workstations. |
| ATMs and Currency Exchange | ATMs can be found throughout the airport and currency exchange booths at certain locations. |
| Charging Stations | Available throughout the airport to help keep your electronic devices charged during your travels. |
BWI Airport’s Connector Building
BWI Airport’s Connector Building serves as the central hub, connecting the airport’s two main terminals, A and B. Opened in 2005, it was built to ease passenger traffic between the terminals and to enhance overall airport functionality. The Connector Building features a variety of shops and restaurants, including local favorites like Obrycki’s Crab House and DuClaw Brewing Company. It’s worth noting that the BWI Connector was the first-ever post-security connection between two concourses in the United States.
Features of the Connector Building
- The Connector Building features eight moving sidewalks, making it easy to traverse the long distance between terminals A and B. This feature is particularly handy for travelers with a tight connection.
- There are also several lounges, including the USO Lounge for military personnel and their families.
- The Connector Building provides convenient access to the airport’s Light Rail station, which can take passengers to downtown Baltimore or as far south as Glen Burnie and Annapolis.
Shops and Restaurants
The Connector Building features a variety of restaurants and shops to help travelers pass the time while they wait for their flights. Some popular dining options include Starbucks, Chipotle, and Phillips Seafood.
One unique feature of the Connector Building is the presence of local Baltimore brands such as Obrycki’s Crab House, DuClaw Brewing Company, and Bergers Cookies, which showcase the flavors of the region. Visitors can purchase last-minute souvenirs and gifts from shops like America!, Swarovski and New York Times Travel Store.
The Future of the Connector Building
BWI is continually seeking to enhance the airport experience for its passengers. In 2022, the airport plans to unveil a newly renovated Concourse A, which will include expanded dining, retail options, and improved amenities. The airport has also announced plans for a new airline terminal in the coming years, which will further enhance the airport’s functionality and capacity.
| Connector Building Amenities | Location |
|---|---|
| Restaurants | Concourse A and B |
| Shops | Concourse A and B |
| Lounges | Concourse B |
| Moving Walkways | Concourse A and B |
| Light Rail Station | Concourse E |
The Connector Building remains one of the most innovative and traveler-friendly airport constructions in the United States today. Its sleek design and convenient features have helped BWI International Airport become a hub for travelers to and from the mid-Atlantic region and beyond.
BWI Concourse A Expansion Project
The Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) has always been a bustling airport serving millions of passengers each year. In line with its growth projection, the airport has embarked on a massive expansion project, specifically the expansion of Concourse A.
The Concourse A serves as the airport’s primary connector for Southwest Airlines, and it’s home to a wide variety of restaurants, shops, and newsstands. With the growing number of passengers demanding more amenities and an increased demand for flights, the airport embarked on a comprehensive project aimed to construct a sizeable, 55,000-square-foot extension to the existing 21 gates on Concourse A.
- Improved Passenger Experience: Outfitted with modern finishes and materials to provide a more aesthetically appealing environment for travelers to enjoy. The expansion project includes a new security checkpoint, restrooms, and comfortable waiting areas with charging stations and free Wi-Fi.
- New Gates: The expansion project will provide nine more gates, bringing the total to 30.
- Innovative Technology: The expansion will showcase digital displays, updated signage, and other advanced technologies that travelers can expect from a world-class airport.
Expanded Concessions
The expansion project of Concourse A wouldn’t be complete without an increase in the space available for retail and dining. The airport’s food and beverage program will see a facelift with an infusion of new establishments to cater to different palates, including local favorites such as Phillips Seafood, Shake Shack, and Farmers Market on Board concession.
Phillips Seafood – a Maryland institution, will introduce Phillips Seafood Kitchen, which will undoubtedly attract sea-food-loving travelers near and far. The Farmers Market on Board concession, being a farm-to-table joint, will focus on incorporating locally sourced fruits, vegetables, and meats in their appetizing offerings.
| Food Establishment | Location |
|---|---|
| Shake Shack | Concourse A |
| Phillips Seafood Kitchen | New location |
| Farmers Market on Board | Concourse A, next to gate A20 |
| The Urban Bar | Concourse A |
The airport’s expanded dining options are expected to attract travelers long before their flights, and that’s precisely the experience the airport’s officials aim to provide. While the expansion project is ongoing, airport officials have put adequate measures in place to ensure minimal operational impacts on travelers enjoying these new amenities.
The Convenience of the BWI Skywalk
The BWI Skywalk is a covered pedestrian bridge that connects BWI Airport’s main terminal (Terminal A/B) to Concourses C and D. It not only provides a convenient and safe way to travel between the terminals and concourses, but it also offers several additional benefits that make it a favorite among frequent flyers and airport passengers.
- Time-Saving: The BWI Skywalk saves time by eliminating the need to exit the secure area to reach different terminals and concourses. Passengers can easily move from one terminal to another without undergoing the security screening process again. This means that you can easily catch your connecting flight without any hassle, making it a breeze to navigate through the world-class airport.
- Accessibility: The bridge is accessible for travelers with limited mobility, which means that it accommodates passengers who use wheelchairs, walkers, or other assistive devices to move around. The inclusion of this facility shows that BWI Airport is committed to being an inclusive airport that caters to the needs of all passengers.
- Weather-Protected: The BWI Skywalk provides a safe and comfortable way to move between the airport’s facilities, regardless of the weather conditions outside. The covered bridge also offers a respite from the sun, rain, snow, and wind, so passengers can travel in comfort.
Another significant advantage of the BWI Skywalk is that it provides an outstanding view of the airport’s air traffic control tower, plane services and ground operations. While walking through the bridge between terminals A/B and C/D, you can enjoy a great view of the airport facilities and beautiful scenery outside.
The BWI Skywalk Layout
The BWI Skywalk is designed to sleekly connect the terminals and offers a perfect eco-friendly environment that is pleasing to the eyes. The glass-enclosed pedestrian bridge is about 900 feet long and overlooks the airport’s concrete tarmac and boarding gates. The scenic beauty of the skywalk combined with the seamless functionality of moving between terminals makes it a great experience for all travelers.
| Features | Values |
|---|---|
| Length | 900 feet |
| View | Air traffic control tower, plane services, and ground operations |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair-friendly |
| Design | Glass-enclosed pedestrian bridge with beautiful scenery |
The BWI Skywalk is an excellent example of the airport’s efforts to provide efficient facilities that cater to the passenger’s ultimate convenience. It is a popular landmark at the airport, enjoyed by travelers who aim to get an enhanced airport experience.
Terminal-to-Terminal Transport Options at BWI Airport
If you are flying into or out of Baltimore Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), you may need to transfer between terminals. Here are the options available to make this transition as smooth as possible:
1. Shuttle Services
- BWI offers a free shuttle bus that operates 24/7 between the different terminals.
- There are also several off-site parking companies that offer free shuttle services between their lots and the airport terminals. These include Econopark Express, The Parking Spot, and FastPark & Relax.
- Hotel shuttles are another option if you are staying nearby. Many hotels offer free shuttle services to and from the airport.
2. Walkways
If you have a bit of extra time, you can try walking between the terminals. The airport has two indoor walkways that connect the A and B terminals, and the B and C terminals.
3. Rental Cars
If you prefer to have your own transportation, you can rent a car from one of the on-site rental companies. The rental car facility is located adjacent to the airport and accessible from each terminal via a free shuttle.
4. Light Rail
The light rail is a low-cost option for getting between the BWI terminals and downtown Baltimore. The light rail station is located just outside the terminal building and operates every 20-30 minutes.
5. Amtrak and MARC Train Services
If you need to travel to destinations outside of the Baltimore-Washington region, you can take Amtrak or MARC Train services from the train station located on the lower level of the airport terminal building. Accessible via a free shuttle, the train station provides connections to cities such as Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and New York.
| Transport Option | Cost | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | Varies | Depends on destination |
| MARC Train | $7-$12 | Depends on destination |
Regardless of the transport option you choose, be sure to give yourself enough time to make your connection. The shuttle buses and walkways can take up to 15 minutes, and the other options may require additional time for waiting and travel.
Connecting Flights at BWI: A Guide for Travelers
If you’re flying through Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI), you may be wondering how to make your connecting flight smoothly and efficiently. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to navigate BWI’s terminals and make your connection with ease.
6. Terminal Connections
- BWI has five terminals labeled A, B, C, D, and E.
- All terminals are connected pre-security and you can walk between them.
- Free shuttle buses circulate between the terminals and depart every 6-8 minutes from 5am to midnight.
- You may need to take a shuttle bus if you are transferring to or from Southwest Airlines, which operates from a separate building known as the Southwest Terminal.
- The new connector between Concourses B and C at BWI features over 8,500 square feet of concession space and serves as a central gathering place with a stage for performances.
Knowing how to quickly get from one terminal to another can make all the difference in catching your connecting flight. Terminal connections are essential to understand before you embark on your travel, as they’ll help you avoid getting lost and missing your flight.
It’s important to know that all five terminals at BWI are connected pre-security, meaning you can walk between them without having to go through security again. This offers a lot of flexibility and can significantly speed up your terminal transfer, especially since most of BWI’s facilities are located in the main terminal building. If you’re in a hurry or prefer not to walk, free shuttle buses also circulate between terminals and depart every 6-8 minutes from 5am to midnight.
One thing to note, however, is that if you’re transferring to or from Southwest Airlines, you’ll need to take a shuttle bus. The airline operates from a separate building known as the Southwest Terminal.
Finally, BWI’s recently constructed connector between Concourses B and C is a gem. With over 8,500 square feet of concession space, it serves as a central gathering place with a stage for performances.
| Terminal | Airlines | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| A | Alaska, American, Delta | Pre-security connector to Concourse B and C. |
| B | Allegiant, British Airways, Condor, JetBlue, Spirit, WOW | Connects to Concourse A and D via pedestrian bridge. |
| C | Southwest | Requires shuttle transfer to the main terminal. |
| D | Alaska, American, Delta, Spirit, United | Connects to Concourse B via pedestrian bridge. |
| E | Air Canada, Frontier, Spirit, United | Near the international terminal (D). |
Whether you’re coming from or going to any of BWI’s five terminals, you’ll be able to find your way efficiently and without hassle. Knowing the airlines associated with each terminal, as well as notes on how to navigate them, gives you added peace of mind as you make your connecting flight and travel plans.
Reviewing the BWI Terminal Connector Bus
If you’re flying through BWI Airport, the BWI Terminal Connector Bus can be a lifesaver in getting you from one terminal to another. Here’s what you need to know about this essential service:
- Frequency: The Connector Bus runs every five to ten minutes, so you’ll never be left waiting for long. This is especially convenient if you’re trying to catch a connecting flight.
- Routes: The Connector Bus has three routes: A, B, and C. Route A connects the A, B, and C gates with the Daily Garage, while Route B connects the Concourse E gates with the Hourly Garage. Route C connects all gates with the MARC/Amtrak rail station. Make sure to check which route you need before boarding.
- Accessibility: The Connector Bus is fully accessible for individuals with disabilities or those with special needs. All buses have ramps and are equipped with wheelchair tie-downs.
But is the Connector Bus actually worth taking instead of walking? Let’s take a closer look:
First, it’s important to note that the Connector Bus is free, which is always a plus. However, depending on where you’re going, walking might be just as fast. For example, if you’re traveling between Concourses A and B, you can easily walk the distance in under ten minutes. On the other hand, if you need to get from Concourse A to Concourse E, taking the Connector Bus can save you up to twenty minutes.
Here’s a breakdown of the walking distance between BWI terminals:
| Terminals | Walking Time |
|---|---|
| A-B | 5-10 minutes |
| B-C | 5-10 minutes |
| A-E | 15-20 minutes |
| B-E | 10-15 minutes |
| C-E | 5-10 minutes |
Ultimately, whether or not you take the Connector Bus will depend on the distance between terminals and how much time you have before your next flight. However, it’s good to know that the option is available and free to use if you need it.
FAQs About Are BWI Terminals Connected
1. Are the terminals at BWI Marshall Airport connected inside?
Yes, the terminals at BWI Marshall Airport are connected on the lower level via a common area, making it easy for passengers to access different terminals without leaving the building.
2. Are there shuttles or trains connecting the terminals at BWI?
No, there are no shuttles or trains connecting the terminals at BWI Marshall Airport. However, passengers can easily walk between the terminals via the lower level common area.
3. How long does it take to walk between the terminals at BWI?
It takes approximately 5-10 minutes to walk between the different terminals at BWI Marshall Airport, depending on the passenger’s walking speed.
4. Is there a security checkpoint between the terminals at BWI?
No, there is no security checkpoint between the terminals at BWI Marshall Airport. Passengers will have to go through security screening at their departure terminal.
5. Can passengers transfer flights between terminals at BWI?
Yes, passengers can transfer flights between terminals at BWI Marshall Airport. Passengers can easily walk between the terminals via the lower level common area.
6. Are there restaurants and shops located between the terminals at BWI?
Yes, there are numerous restaurants, shops, and other amenities located between the terminals at BWI Marshall Airport. Passengers can easily access these amenities while walking between terminals.
7. Is there a map available to help navigate between the terminals at BWI?
Yes, there is a map available on the BWI Marshall Airport website that shows the location of each terminal and the walking path between terminals.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for taking the time to read this article about whether the terminals at BWI Marshall Airport are connected. Hopefully, this information has been helpful for your upcoming travels. Don’t forget to check the BWI Marshall Airport website for any updates or changes to terminal connections. Safe travels and visit again soon!