logan airport united airlines terminal
Logan International Airport (BOS) in Boston is one of the busiest hubs on the East Coast, serving millions of passengers each year. If you’re flying with United Airlines, knowing the right terminal can make your travel experience smoother and less stressful. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the United Airlines terminal at Logan Airport, including navigation tips, amenities, and insider advice to help you breeze through your journey.
Which Terminal Does United Airlines Use at Logan Airport?
United Airlines primarily operates out of Terminal B at Logan Airport. This terminal handles most of United’s domestic and international flights, with gates located in the B1, B2, B3, and B20-B30 wings. Terminal B is known for its modern facilities and efficient layout, making it a convenient choice for United passengers.
If you’re arriving or departing on a United flight, head straight to Terminal B for check-in, security, and boarding. United also occasionally uses Terminal E for some international routes or codeshare flights, so always double-check your flight details via the United app or website to confirm. For example, flights to Europe might occasionally shift to Terminal E due to gate availability.
Practical tip: Download the Massport Logan Airport app before your trip. It provides real-time flight updates, terminal maps, and even walking times between gates—perfect for avoiding surprises at a busy airport like Logan.
Navigating Terminal B: Layout and Key Features
Terminal B spans about 1.1 million square feet and is divided into several concourses, offering a range of services to keep you comfortable. Here’s a breakdown to help you orient yourself:
Check-In and Baggage Claim
- Check-in counters: Located on the upper level (departures). United’s counters are typically in the central section, open from 4 a.m. to around 10 p.m., depending on flight schedules.
- Baggage claim: On the lower level (arrivals), in the B1 area. Look for digital screens displaying your flight’s carousel number upon landing.
- Insight: United offers self-service kiosks for faster check-in, which can save you 10-15 minutes during peak hours (mornings and evenings).
Security and Gates
Security checkpoints in Terminal B are equipped with TSA PreCheck lanes, which United passengers can use if enrolled—expect wait times of 5-20 minutes. Post-security, you’ll find gates spread across the terminal:
- Domestic flights: Gates B4-B18.
- International or larger aircraft: Often B20-B30.
Walking distances can be up to 15 minutes from security to farther gates, so wear comfortable shoes. Elevators and moving walkways are available for accessibility.
Dining, Shopping, and Lounges
Terminal B boasts over 20 eateries and shops. Grab a quick lobster roll at Legal Sea Foods or browse duty-free options near the international gates. For premium travelers, the United Club lounge is located at Gate B40—complete with complimentary snacks, Wi-Fi, and showers. Day passes are available for about $59 if you’re not a Star Alliance elite member.
Example: If you’re on a layover, the lounge’s quiet workspaces are ideal for remote workers, offering a respite from the terminal’s hustle.
Getting to and from Terminal B
Ground Transportation Options
Logan Airport is well-connected, and reaching Terminal B is straightforward:
- By car or taxi: Follow signs for Terminal B from the airport entrance. Valet parking is available right outside, while economy lots (like the Central Parking Garage) are a short shuttle ride away. Expect $7-38 for daily parking rates.
- Public transit: Take the MBTA Silver Line (free from all terminals) to South Station, or the Blue Line subway directly to the airport. It’s a budget-friendly option at just $2.40 one-way.
- Rideshares: Uber and Lyft drop-offs are curbside at departures; pickups are in the central roadway.
Tip: If you’re driving, use the Massport app to reserve parking in advance—spots fill up fast during holidays like Thanksgiving.
Inter-Terminal Travel
If your itinerary involves connections with partner airlines (e.g., Lufthansa in Terminal E), the free Massport shuttle buses run every 5-10 minutes between terminals. Any Terminals 1 (A/B) and Terminals 2 (C/E) shuttles cover the routes efficiently.
Practical Tips for a Smooth United Flight at Logan
Traveling through Logan can be hectic, but these insights will help:
- Arrive early: Aim for 2-3 hours before domestic flights and 3-4 hours for international ones. Security lines peak between 6-9 a.m. and 4-7 p.m.
- Baggage rules: United allows one carry-on and one personal item free; checked bags start at $30 for the first one. Weigh your luggage at home to avoid fees.
- Pet travel: Service animals fly free in the cabin; other pets can go in cargo via United’s pet-safe program.
- COVID-19 and health: Masks may be required in certain areas; check United’s site for the latest protocols.
- Pro tip: Enable flight notifications on the United app for gate changes—Logan is notorious for last-minute adjustments due to weather or air traffic.
For families, look for family lanes at security and nursing pods near Gate B10 for privacy.
Comparing Terminals at Logan Airport
To give you a broader perspective, here’s a quick comparison of Logan’s main terminals, focusing on United’s home base:
| Terminal | Primary Airlines | Key Amenities | Best For | Walking Distance from Security to Gates |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B (United’s Main Terminal) | United, Air Canada, Cape Air | United Club, diverse dining (e.g., Starbucks, PGA Tour Grill), family restrooms | Domestic hub, business travelers | 5-15 minutes |
| A | Delta, JetBlue (some flights) | Delta Sky Club, kids’ play area, Harborside views | Leisure flyers, families | 10-20 minutes |
| C | JetBlue, Southwest | JetBlue Mint Lounge, budget shopping, quick-service food | Low-cost carriers, short-haul | 5-10 minutes |
| E | American, International carriers (occasional United) | International lounges, duty-free shops, currency exchange | Global connections, premium services | 10-25 minutes |
This table highlights why Terminal B strikes a balance for United passengers—efficient without the international crowds of Terminal E.
Final Thoughts: Plan Ahead for Stress-Free Travel
Flying United out of Logan Airport’s Terminal B is straightforward once you know the layout and logistics. By arriving prepared with your boarding pass, terminal map, and a backup plan for delays (common in Boston’s variable weather), you’ll maximize your time and minimize hassle. Safe travels!
Credible Sources
- Massport Logan Airport Official Website: www.massport.com/logan-airport
- United Airlines Terminal Information: www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/airport/boston.html
- TSA Guidelines for Logan: www.tsa.gov/travel/airport/bos
- MBTA Transit Schedules: www.mbta.com
