Through those years of experience, we have learned what travelers need to know before flying from PHX. Whether you are looking for parking near Phoenix Sky Harbor, trying to find your airline’s terminal or deciding where to eat before your flight, this Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport guide can help you prepare.
Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport at a Glance
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, commonly called PHX or Sky Harbor, is located only a few miles from downtown Phoenix. It is one of the busiest airports in the southwestern United States and currently has two active passenger terminals: Terminal 3 and Terminal 4.
There is no Terminal 1 or Terminal 2. Terminal 1 was demolished in the early 1990s, while Terminal 2 closed in 2020. The airport kept its existing terminal numbers to avoid the cost and confusion of renumbering roadways, signs, and airport systems.
How Early Should You Arrive at Phoenix Sky Harbor?
Travelers should generally arrive:
At least two hours before a domestic flight
At least three hours before an international flight
Allow additional time during holidays, spring break, major Phoenix events, and other busy travel periods. Travelers using off-site Phoenix airport parking should also include enough time to park, unload their luggage, ride the shuttle, check their bags, and go through security.
Early mornings and late afternoons can be especially busy because airport traffic overlaps with Phoenix commuter traffic. Weekday travel tends to be busiest from approximately 6 to 8:30 a.m. and 4 to 7 p.m. Sundays can also become busy during the late afternoon and evening.
PreFlight Travel Tip
Set your parking reservation time for when you plan to arrive at the PreFlight facility, not your flight’s departure time. Include time for parking, luggage assistance, shuttle boarding, airport check-in, and security.
Planning to eat before your flight? Add another 30–60 minutes to your schedule, especially if you want a sit-down meal. Early-morning and late-night travelers should check restaurant hours ahead of time and pack a backup snack.
Phoenix Sky Harbor Terminal Guide
Terminal 3
Terminal 3 serves several domestic and international airlines, including Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue, and United Airlines. Airline assignments may change, so verify your terminal before traveling.
Terminal 3 includes:
One consolidated TSA security checkpoint
E and F gate areas
Restaurants, coffee shops and retail stores
Delta Sky Club
Escape Lounge
United Club
The Play-viation Park children’s area near Gate F6
Nursing rooms and a nursing pod
Indoor and outdoor animal relief areas
Terminal 4
Terminal 4 is the airport’s larger terminal and serves American Airlines, Southwest Airlines and several other domestic and international carriers.
Terminal 4 includes:
Four TSA security checkpoints: A, B, C and D
American Airlines Admirals Clubs
The Centurion Lounge
Escape Lounge
Sapphire Lounge by The Club
A USO center for eligible military travelers and their families
Numerous local and national dining options
Nursing rooms and Mamava nursing pods
The Compassion Corner and Sensory Room
Indoor and outdoor animal relief areas
Transferring Between Terminals
The free PHX Sky Train connects Terminal 3 and Terminal 4. However, it operates outside the secure area of the airport.
Travelers changing terminals must exit security, ride the PHX Sky Train, and pass through security again at the new terminal. Confirm whether you need to collect and recheck your luggage, especially when switching airlines.
Do not enter security at the wrong terminal, expecting to walk to your gate afterward. Terminal 3 and Terminal 4 are not connected after security.
Parking Near Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport
PreFlight Airport Parking PHX is located at:
44 North 44th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85034
PreFlight provides convenient short- and long-term off-site Phoenix airport parking with complimentary shuttle service to Terminal 3 and Terminal 4.
The facility includes a multilevel parking garage and an outdoor parking section. Available parking options may include:
Premium Covered Self Park
Economy Covered Self Park
Rooftop Self Park
Outdoor Self Park
Reserve in advance to compare available parking options, secure your space and lock in your parking rate before arriving.
How PreFlight PHX Parking Works
Make a Phoenix airport parking reservation online or through the PreFlight app.
Scan your reservation barcode at the entrance.
Follow the signs to your reserved parking area.
Park and bring your luggage to the nearest ground-floor lobby.
Board the complimentary airport shuttle.
Keep the parking locator slip provided by your shuttle driver.
After your trip, use the shuttle tracker and follow the pickup instructions.
PreFlight shuttles generally operate every 7–10 minutes under normal conditions. The ride to Phoenix Sky Harbor usually takes approximately 7–15 minutes, depending on terminal traffic and airport conditions.
Place any drinks, snacks, medication or travel documents somewhere easy to reach before parking. Once you board the shuttle, you will not want to search through checked luggage for something needed inside the airport.
PreFlight Return Shuttle Pickup
After collecting your luggage, proceed to the courtesy-vehicle pickup area.
Terminal 3:
North side, Door 11, outer curb
Terminal 4:
North side, Door 7, outer curb
For airport pickups between 11 p.m. and 8 a.m., text or call 480-925-9630 and provide your terminal number and the number of passengers in your party.
PreFlight PHX Amenities
PreFlight PHX offers amenities designed to make airport parking easier, including:
Complimentary airport shuttle service
Luggage assistance
Public restrooms
Complimentary beverages
Tire inflation assistance
Battery jump-start assistance
Real-time shuttle tracking
Wheelchair-accessible shuttle availability
EV charging through 120-volt outlets, based on availability
Drivers using the EV charging outlets should bring their own charging cable.
Travelers who need a wheelchair-accessible PreFlight shuttle should call 480-925-9630 at least 24 hours before arrival so the appropriate vehicle can be prepared.
Phoenix Sky Harbor TSA Security Information
Security wait times change throughout the day. Check current PHX TSA wait times before leaving for the airport and again after arriving.
At least one security checkpoint in each active terminal generally remains open around the clock.
Dedicated TSA PreCheck hours are typically:
Terminal 3:
5 a.m.–2 p.m.
Terminal 4, Checkpoints A–D:
5 a.m.–7 p.m.
Hours are subject to operational changes. When a dedicated TSA PreCheck lane is closed, eligible passengers may still receive modified screening procedures at a standard checkpoint.
Bring a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another TSA-accepted form of identification. Review TSA rules for liquids, electronics, medication, food and prohibited items before packing.
Use PHX RESERVE
PHX RESERVE is a free program that allows travelers to schedule a time to enter the TSA security line at Terminal 3 or Terminal 4.
Appointments can generally be made several days before departure. Availability varies, so schedule your time early when possible.
PHX RESERVE does not replace airline check-in or baggage-drop requirements. Leave enough time to complete those steps before your scheduled security appointment.
Food and Drinks at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport
Phoenix Sky Harbor offers more than 50 restaurants, bars, and cafés across Terminal 3 and Terminal 4. Options include local Phoenix favorites, national chains, sit-down restaurants, coffee shops, airport bars, and quick grab-and-go meals.
Use the airport’s interactive map before your trip to filter restaurants by terminal, gate, dietary needs and whether they are located before or after security.
Restaurant hours vary based on flight schedules and airport activity. Check current hours before relying on a particular restaurant, especially when traveling early in the morning or late at night.
Best Food in Phoenix Sky Harbor Terminal 3
Terminal 3 has a combination of local Arizona restaurants, familiar national options, and quick meals for travelers short on time.
For a Sit-Down Meal
- The Tavern by Mark Tarbell is a good option for travelers who have time for a full meal before their flight.
- PHX Beer Company offers breakfast, pub-style food, and locally brewed beer.
For Southwestern or Mexican Food
- Humble Tortas & Tacos serves tortas, tacos, cheese crisps, sandwiches, and breakfast dishes.
- Ajo Al’s offers Mexican and Sonoran-inspired dishes from a locally known Arizona restaurant.
For a Quick Meal
- Half Moon Empanadas offers sweet and savory empanadas that are easy to carry to the gate.
- Shake Shack is a familiar choice for burgers, fries, hot dogs, shakes, and frozen custard.
For Local Beer
Travelers interested in Arizona craft beer can consider:
PHX Beer Company
SanTan Brewing Company
Remember that alcohol can contribute to dehydration, particularly in Phoenix’s dry climate and during air travel. Alternate alcoholic beverages with water and allow plenty of time before boarding.
For Coffee
Peet’s Coffee is available before security near the Terminal 3 check-in and baggage area. Travelers can also find Starbucks and other coffee options throughout the terminal.
Best Food in Phoenix Sky Harbor Terminal 4
Terminal 4 has the airport’s largest selection of food and drinks, including breakfast restaurants, local coffee, pizza, burgers, Mexican food, craft beer and full-service dining.
For Breakfast
- Matt’s Big Breakfast serves breakfast throughout the day, along with burgers, sandwiches and salads. It is a useful option for many early-morning travelers.
For Food Before Security
Travelers meeting someone who is not flying or wanting to eat before entering security can visit the Terminal 4 pre-security food court.
Options may include:
Chelsea’s Kitchen
PZA
Red Rock Burger
Popshop
Coca-Cola Lounge
Chelsea’s Kitchen serves American and Southwestern dishes, while PZA offers individual pizzas, salads and sandwiches.
For Local Phoenix Flavor
Travelers who want something more representative of the Phoenix food scene can consider:
Cartel Roasting Co.
Tacos Chiwas
OHSO
Four Peaks Brewing Company
La Grande Orange
SanTan Spirit House
Pedal Haus Brewery
For a Sit-Down Meal
Travelers with extra time may want to consider:
Chelsea’s Kitchen
Cowboy Ciao
Blanco Tacos & Tequila
Guy Fieri’s Flavortown Kitchen + Bar PHX
Plan at least 30–60 additional minutes for a full-service meal. Ask your server about preparation time before ordering if your flight is boarding soon.
For Burgers and Familiar Favorites
Terminal 4 options may include:
Bobby’s Burgers by Bobby Flay
Delux Burger
Red Rock Burger
Chick-fil-A
Wendy’s
McDonald’s
Panda Express
Availability depends on your concourse. Check your gate location before walking to another part of the terminal.
For Coffee
Cartel Roasting Co. is a local Arizona coffee option.
For Beer, Wine or Cocktails
Options may include:
OHSO
Four Peaks Brewing Company
Pedal Haus Brewery
SanTan Spirit House
Airport lounges and full-service restaurants
Drink responsibly and remember that cabin pressure, alcohol and dehydration can make some travelers feel worse during a flight.
Best PHX Food for Travelers in a Hurry
When boarding begins soon, choose a restaurant close to your gate rather than crossing the terminal for a specific meal.
Quick and portable options may include:
Half Moon Empanadas in Terminal 3
Mission Grab-n-Go in Terminal 4
Focaccia Fiorentina sandwiches
PZA pizzas, salads and sandwiches
Popshop prepared meals
Coffee shops with packaged snacks
Airport convenience stores with bottled beverages and travel food
Before ordering, ask how long the food will take. A full-service restaurant may require 30–60 minutes, while a grab-and-go counter is usually safer when your flight is already boarding.
Keep your boarding time in mind, not only the scheduled departure time. Boarding may begin 30–50 minutes before departure, and aircraft doors close before the listed flight time.
Early-Morning Food and Coffee at PHX
Travelers with early flights should not assume every airport restaurant will be open.
Potential early-morning options include:
Matt’s Big Breakfast in Terminal 4
Peet’s Coffee before security in Terminal 3
Starbucks locations
Shake Shack in Terminal 3
Grab-and-go markets and airport stores
Hours can change, so check the airport dining directory before your trip.
Consider packing breakfast or snacks as a backup. Granola bars, crackers, sandwiches, fruit and other solid foods are generally permitted through TSA screening.
Foods considered liquids or gels, such as yogurt, sauces, dips, jams and some spreads, must follow TSA carry-on liquid restrictions.
Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten-Free Food at PHX
Phoenix Sky Harbor offers a variety of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.
Restaurants to consider may include:
- Berry Divine: Açaí bowls with fruit, granola and available vegan or gluten-free substitutions.
- Popshop: Plant-based, vegan and gluten-free prepared meals.
- Chelsea’s Kitchen: American and Southwestern food with some gluten-free choices.
- Panera Bread: Salads, soups, sandwiches and bakery items.
- Humble Pie and PZA: Pizza and salad options that may work for different dietary preferences.
Travelers with food allergies should speak directly with restaurant employees before ordering. Airport kitchens may use shared preparation areas, so menu labels should not be treated as a guarantee against cross-contact.
Staying Hydrated at Phoenix Sky Harbor
Phoenix’s hot and dry climate makes hydration especially important before and after a flight.
Bring an empty reusable water bottle through security and fill it after the checkpoint. Drinking fountains and bottle-filling stations are available throughout the airport.
Do not wait until boarding to purchase water. In-flight beverage service may be delayed because of turbulence, a short flight or other operational conditions.
Travelers arriving in Phoenix should also consider drinking water before leaving the airport, particularly if they will be spending time outside.
Airport Lounges at PHX
Phoenix Sky Harbor offers airline lounges, credit-card lounges, public-access lounges and a USO center.
Terminal 3 Lounges
Delta Sky Club near Gate F8
Escape Lounge near the E and F gate intersection
United Club near Gate E3
Terminal 4 Lounges
Three American Airlines Admirals Club locations
The Centurion Lounge near Gate B21
Escape Lounge near Gate B22
Sapphire Lounge by The Club near Gate D11
USO center on Level 2 before security
Hours, access rules and guest policies may change. Check with the lounge operator before arriving.
Some lounges offer meals, snacks, beverages, workspaces and charging outlets. However, food options vary by time of day and lounge capacity.
Traveling Through PHX With Children
Phoenix Sky Harbor offers several family-friendly amenities.
Play-viation Park
The Play-viation Park children’s area is located in Terminal 3 after security near Gate F6. It gives younger travelers a place to move around before boarding.
Nursing Rooms and Pods
Nursing rooms are available before and after security in both terminals.
Rooms may include:
Seating
A sink
Changing space
Electrical outlets
Additional privacy
Terminal 4 also has post-security Mamava nursing pods, including ADA-accessible options.
Family restrooms and changing areas are located throughout the airport.
Accessibility and Additional Assistance
Phoenix Sky Harbor provides assistance for travelers with mobility, hearing, vision, sensory and hidden-disability needs.
Wheelchair Assistance
Wheelchair assistance is coordinated through individual airlines.
Departing passengers can request help from their airline or a skycap at the curb or ticketing level.
Arriving passengers should request assistance when checking in and remind a flight attendant before landing.
TSA Cares
TSA Cares helps passengers with disabilities, medical conditions and other special circumstances prepare for the security screening process.
Contact TSA Cares at 855-787-2227 at least 72 hours before travel when possible.
TSA Cares assists with the security checkpoint. Wheelchair or curb-to-aircraft assistance must be arranged through the airline.
Compassion Corner and Sensory Room
The Compassion Corner is located in Terminal 4 on Level 3 near the B elevators.
It includes:
An all-faith chapel
A sensory room
A quieter space away from airport noise and activity
Compassion Cacti Lanyard Program
The Compassion Cacti program provides a lanyard that discreetly lets airport employees know a traveler may need additional time, patience or assistance.
Travelers, guardians or caregivers can request a lanyard before visiting PHX. The program is available without requiring travelers to disclose a specific condition.
Services for Blind or Low-Vision Travelers
PHX provides complimentary access to Aira, which connects blind and low-vision travelers with trained visual interpreters through a mobile app.
The service can assist with:
Wayfinding
Locating gates
Navigating crowds
Reading signs
Using airport kiosks
Services for Travelers With Hearing Loss
Hearing-loop technology is available in portions of Terminal 3 and Terminal 4. Compatible hearing aids and cochlear implants may connect more clearly with airport announcements.
Restroom Accessibility
Airport restrooms are ADA-accessible. Family restrooms are also available for travelers who need additional room or assistance from a companion.
Wi-Fi, Charging and Airport Services
Free Wi-Fi is available in both terminals. Connect to:
Free PHX Boingo WiFi
Charging outlets are located throughout the airport, although availability near busy gates may be limited.
Charge your phone before leaving home and carry a fully charged portable battery in your carry-on.
Information counters can assist with:
Airport directions
Flight information
Wheelchair requests
Translation services
Paging
Lost-and-found questions
Information counters are located throughout Terminal 3, Terminal 4 and the Rental Car Center.
Phoenix Airport Museum
Phoenix Sky Harbor is home to one of the country’s largest and oldest airport art and aviation-history programs.
The Phoenix Airport Museum includes more than 1,000 artworks and dozens of exhibitions located throughout the airport system.
Travelers can see:
Rotating art displays
Aviation-history exhibits
Works highlighting Arizona culture
Local and regional photography
Historical airport artifacts
Many displays are located before security, making them available to travelers and airport visitors.
The Paul Coze mural formerly displayed in Terminal 2 is now located at the Rental Car Center.
Lost and Found at Phoenix Sky Harbor
Who you contact depends on where the item was lost.
Lost on an Aircraft or Near an Airline-Controlled Gate
Contact the airline directly.
Lost at a TSA Checkpoint
Submit a report through TSA Lost and Found.
Lost in a Terminal Common Area, Parking Area, Airport Bus or PHX Sky Train
Contact Phoenix Sky Harbor Lost and Found:
Phone: 602-273-3333
Email: lostandfound@phoenix.gov
The Lost and Found office is generally open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Include:
A detailed description of the item
The date and approximate time it was lost
Your terminal or location
Your flight information
Any identifying marks or serial numbers
If you are still at the airport, visit an information counter for assistance.
Fun Facts About Phoenix Sky Harbor
When the City of Phoenix purchased the airport in 1935, the remote airfield was nicknamed “The Farm.”
There are no active Terminals 1 or 2, but the remaining terminals were never renumbered.
Terminal 2 closed in 2020 after nearly six decades of service.
The Paul Coze mural was moved from Terminal 2 to the Rental Car Center.
Phoenix Sky Harbor is known as “America’s Friendliest Airport.”
The airport features one of the largest airport museum programs in the country.
PHX celebrated 90 years of City of Phoenix ownership in 2025.
Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport FAQs
How many terminals does Phoenix Sky Harbor have?
PHX has two active passenger terminals: Terminal 3 and Terminal 4.
Is the PHX Sky Train free?
Yes. The PHX Sky Train is free, ADA-accessible and operates 24 hours a day.
How early should I arrive at PHX?
Arrive at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight. Add more time during holidays and other peak travel periods.
Can I reserve a time for security at Phoenix Sky Harbor?
Yes. PHX RESERVE allows eligible travelers to schedule a time to enter the TSA security line at Terminal 3 or Terminal 4 at no cost.
Does Phoenix Sky Harbor have free Wi-Fi?
Yes. Connect to Free PHX Boingo WiFi in either terminal.
Can I bring food through security at PHX?
Most solid food is permitted through TSA security. Liquid and gel foods must follow TSA carry-on liquid restrictions.
Are there restaurants before security at PHX?
Yes. Some restaurants and food-court options are available before security, particularly in Terminal 4. Availability and hours may change.
Does Phoenix Sky Harbor have vegan and vegetarian food?
Yes. Several PHX restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free choices. Use the airport dining directory to filter current options.
Does PreFlight PHX provide airport shuttle service?
Yes. PreFlight provides complimentary shuttle service between its off-site Phoenix airport parking facility and Terminal 3 and Terminal 4.
Where do I meet the PreFlight shuttle after my flight?
Proceed to Terminal 3 Door 11 on the north-side outer curb or Terminal 4 Door 7 on the north-side outer curb.
Make Your Next PHX Trip Easier
A smooth airport experience starts before you reach the terminal. Confirm your flight and terminal, reserve your Phoenix airport parking, arrive early and leave enough time for the shuttle, airline check-in, security and a meal before boarding.
PreFlight Airport Parking PHX offers convenient parking near Phoenix Sky Harbor with covered and uncovered options, complimentary shuttle service, luggage assistance and helpful amenities designed to make travel less stressful.
Reserve your PreFlight PHX parking before your next trip to secure your space and access the best available rate.