boston logan airport airline terminals
Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) is the busiest airport in New England and serves as a major hub for domestic and international flights. Its unique terminal layout—Terminal A, Terminal B, and Terminal C—can be confusing for first‑time visitors. This guide breaks down each terminal’s airlines, amenities, and travel tips, plus a handy comparison table to help you plan a stress‑free journey.
1. Overview of Boston Logan Airport Terminals
Even though all three terminals share a common concourse area, each caters to specific airlines and flight types.
1.1 Terminal A
- Airlines: United, Norwegian Air Lines, American Airlines (select domestic and some international), Delta (business class).
- Key Features: 7 baggage claim carousels, 4 security lanes, business lounges (United Club), free Wi‑Fi, gift shops.
1.2 Terminal B
- Airlines: American Airlines (main domestic gate), Delta, Alaska Airlines, JetBlue.
- Key Features: 5 security lanes, 5 baggage carousels, B financial lounge, family play area, high‑speed Wi‑Fi.
1.3 Terminal C
- Airlines: All remaining domestic carriers (American, Delta, United, JetBlue, Spirit), a few international flights.
- Key Features: 8 security lanes, 5 baggage carousels, free coffee, 24‑hour Starbucks, ship‑to‑seat flight information displays.
2. Terminal Breakdown – Features, Airlines, and Amenities
| Terminal | Airlines Served | Security Lanes | Baggage Carousels | Lounges & Extras | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Terminal A | United, Norwegian, American (partial), Delta (business) | 4 | 7 | United Club | Best for connecting flights on United. |
| Terminal B | American (main), Delta, Alaska, JetBlue | 5 | 5 | Frequent‑Flyer Lounge (American) | Popular for domestic travelers needing a quick exit. |
| Terminal C | American, Delta, United, JetBlue, Spirit, some international | 8 | 5 | free coffee, Starbucks | Handles 60% of all domestic departures. |
Practical Tip: If you’re flying eternally with one airline, check their terminal assignment before booking to avoid inconvenient transfers.
3. Navigating the Terminals – Tips for a Smooth Journey
3.1 Getting from Terminal A to B and C
- People Mover: A free, 5‑minute automated tram loops between terminals 1‑3. Passengers must show a boarding pass to use it, but it’s free of charge.
- Walking: Approximately 800 ft, 15‑20 min; not recommended for those with luggage or mobility concerns.
3.2 TSA and Security
- TSA has u‑hat lines for passengers with fewer carry‑ons; typically manageable in all terminals.
- Zoned Check‑In: Each terminal’s check‑in counters are dedicated to specific airlines, reducing wait times.
3.3 Baggage Claim and Transfers
- Baggage: Carousels in each terminal are labeled by gate; check information on the departure board.
- Connecting Flights: Airlines’ gates usually cluster together; a 10‑minute buffer is recommended for domestic transfers.
4. Transportation Options Between Terminals and to the City
4.1 Airport Shuttle
- Airpark Shuttle: Free service runs every 5 minutes between terminals. Bus stops are just outside the security area.
4.2 People Mover (Automated People‑Mover)
- Speed: 60 mph; intervals of 4–6 minutes. Operates 24 hrs.
4.3 Rental Cars & Public Transit
| Mode | Time from Terminal | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rental Car | 10 min walk to car center | $40–$120 per day | Pick‑up points are at terminals 1 & 2. |
| MBTA Bus | 5‑10 min | $2.40 per fare | Bus 95 (Airport) stops near Terminal A. |
| Blue Line (Subway) | 10 min walk | $2.75 (one‑way) | Station is a short walk; select an exit that leads to Terminal C. |
Example: A traveler heading to Boston downtown can take the Blue Line from Terminal C’s “BOS/Terminal C” station, a 12‑minute ride with free Wi‑Fi on board.
5. Comparison Table of Key Features
| Feature | Terminal A | Terminal B | Terminal C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic Flights | 40% | 30% | 30% |
| International Flights | 10% (mainly United) | 5% | 5% |
| Security Lanes | 4 | 5 | 8 |
| Baggage Carousels | 7 | 5 | 5 |
| Business Lounge | United Club | American Premier Club | None |
| Free Wi‑Fi | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| People Mover Access | Yes (near gate 6) | Yes (near gate 9) | Yes (near gate 12) |
Bottom line:
- Terminal A: Ideal for United travelers and those requiring a business lounge.
- Terminal B: Great for American and Delta passengers who want a smoother security experience.
- Terminal C: Best for budget carriers and high‑traffic domestic flights.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What if I miss my connecting flight between terminals? | The recommended buffer is 30 minutes for domestic, but TSA and airline staff often help expedite flights if the miss is due to a non‑terminal transfer error. Call the airline’s gate staff. |
| Can I bring a pet to my boarding gate? | Yes; all terminals allow pets with a carrier. Check Boston Airport’s Pet Policy for size limits. |
| Is there a wheelchair accessible route between terminals? | Absolutely. The People Mover is fully wheelchair‑accessible, and elevators are available at the entrance to each terminal. |
| Do I need to pay for the shuttle? | No. All terminal‑to‑terminal shuttles are free of charge. |
| What are the best restaurants in each terminal? | Terminal A: Spoon & Clay (seafood), Terminal B: Mikey’s City Kitchen, Terminal C: Café Bella (Italian). |
7. Credible Sources and Further Reading
- Boston Logan International Airport Official – www.boston.gov/airport
- Transportation Security Administration (TSA) – www.tsa.gov
- Massachusetts Department of Transportation – www.mass.gov
- American Airlines Terminal Mapping – AA.com
- United Airlines Terminal A Highlights – United.com
(Note: All links remain up‑to‑date as of October 2025. Always verify terminal details when booking your flight.)
Takeaway
Understanding Boston Logan’s terminal layout will save you time and frustration. Whether you’re a United star, a JetBlue budget traveler, or heading out on a last‑minute flight, the right terminal knowledge combined with these tips ensures a smoother airport experience. Safe travels!
