what terminal is southwest airlines at phoenix airport
Traveling to or from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport can be a breeze if you know exactly where to go. Southwest Airlines, a staple for budget-friendly, frequent flyers, has a clear and consistent presence at the airport—so let’s cut through the confusion and show you exactly what terminal Southwest Airlines uses at Phoenix airport.
Where Southwest Flights Depart From at Phoenix Sky Harbor
Southwest Airlines operates exclusively from Terminal 1 at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). The airline’s main check‑in and security lanes are located directly in the Southwest Lounge within this terminal, making it easy to snag a seat without wandering across the massive airport.
- Terminal 1 Detail
- Located on the west side of the airport, directly opposite the main entrance.
- Check‑in kiosks are set up in the Southwest‑dedicated area (approximately between Gates K02–K13).
- Security checkpoints are adjacent, allowing for a streamlined boarding process.
Quick QR‑Code Route Map
If you’re new to PA and want to navigate quickly, simply scan the QR code below (embedded in the PDF attachment) to view a live, interactive terminal map.
[Insert QR code linking to Phoenix Sky Harbor Terminals Map]Getting There: Airport Parking & Transportation
Once you know Terminal 1 is the spot for Southwest, you also need to plan your approach:
| Parking Option | Distance to Terminal 1 | Approx. Travel Time | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short‑Term Parking (Pier 1) | 0.4 mi | 5 min | $4.00/hr |
| Long‑Term Parking (Pier 2) | 0.5 mi | 5 min | $4.00/hr |
| Valet Parking (Terminals) | 0.2 mi | 3 min | $60‑$80/day |
| Ride‑Share (Uber/Lyft) | 0.1 mi | 2‑3 min | $10‑$15 |
| Public Transit (PHX‑MAPS) | 0.3 mi | 8‑10 min | $1.50** |
Tip: Pre‑booking your parking or fare via the 7‑11 app can land you a discounted rate and eliminates the rush when you arrive.
Navigating Security and Check‑In at Terminal 1
Southwest’s Zone‑free policy means you’re sure to find a spot before you even enter. While the airline operates its own security lanes, all passengers have to go through the airport’s standard TSA security line.
Check‑In Process:
- Self‑Check‑In Kiosks – Available from 5:30 am (most worldwide flights) to a few minutes before boarding.
- Mobile Boarding Pass – Save time by tapping “Airline” on the PHX Sky Harbor app or via the Southwest mobile app; drop it at the kiosk in Terminal 1.
- Baggage Drop – Southwest’s bag drop is located on Level 2, near Gate K08.
Security Tips:
- Pack Smart: Keep electronics, liquids, and metal objects within easy reach.
- Check TSA Rules for complicated items like oversized headphones or large dishware for external container.
- Arrive Early: Aim for the 30‑minute rule, especially during peak travel times, as Terminal 1 can get busier on holidays.
Amenities & Services Inside the Southwest Terminal
Unlike some other airlines, Southwest offers a surprisingly robust experience inside the Phoenix terminal:
- Southwest Lounge – Open for all passengers, featuring free Wi‑Fi, complimentary snacks, and tissues for the longest part of your flight. The lounge sits just off the main gate area, making it a perfect spot to grab a drink before boarding.
- Dining – Expect quick‑service options at the Southwest‑corner diners (used to called ‘Springers’), offering pizza, sandwiches, and coffee.
- Free Wi‑Fi – All of Terminal 1—the entire block—offers high‑speed internet.
- Retail – A handful of shops gather around the security bends: a small bookshop, Souvenir Stop, and a flagship Southwest outlet.
Pro Tip: If you’re a frequent flier or have a Southwest Rapid Rewards number, those miles give you extra priority at security, letting you hop the TSA queue faster.
Comparing Southwest with Other Airlines in Phoenix
Below, we compare the airport terminal experiences for major carriers at PHX to help you decide your next flight or pick the most convenient route.
| Airline | Terminal | Check‑In Area | Priority Security | Primary Gates |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southwest | 1 | Dedicated Lounge & Kiosks | Fast Pass pass | K02–K13 |
| Delta | 3 | Concourse D | Yes (Gold/Hell modes) | D01–D18 |
| American | 4 | Concourse C | Standard | C01–C13 |
| United | 4 | Concourse C | Standard | C01–C13 |
| Alaska | 1 | Shared in Southwest area | Standard | K01–K14 |
| Spirit | 2 | Near Gates | Standard | G01–G15 |
Note: Each airline’s terminal assignments stay consistent across the year, but Double‑check before traveling if you’re traveling during peak season.
FAQs – Your Southwest Phoenix Terminal Questions Answered
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is Southwest the only airline at Terminal 1? | No, Alaska Airlines also shares Terminal 1. |
| Can I use the Southwest “carry‑on backpack” size limit for other airlines at the same terminal? | Yes, Southwest’s cabin allowance (1 carry‑on + 1 personal item) applies only for Southwest flights. |
| Do I need a Southwest Rapid Rewards number to use the Lounge? | No. All passengers can access the lounge. |
| Is the terminal free of exit baggage fees? | Southwest is the only airline that charges for bags beyond the standard single checked bag for PHX → non‑SNW flights. |
| Can I reserve a specific gate? | Gateway control: you receive a gate on check‑in; no advance gate reservation is available. |
Planning Your Trip: Flights, Parking, and Future Improvements
- Flight Availability – Southwest runs 20+ routes daily from PHX to the Southwest U.S., Mexico, and Canada.
- Parking: Choose a parking type that matches your budget and travel style (see the parking table above).
- Future Terminal Updates – The Phoenix airport is currently undergoing a Phase II expansion and will add a “West Terminal” for Southwest in the coming years, which will streamline check‑in further (date TBA).
Final Checklist
- [ ] Verify your Flight & Gate at 24 hrs before departure.
- [ ] Arrive at Terminal 1 via the quick spa routes: Car → Gate 1 → Southwest Lounge.
- [ ] Pack within TSA rules – don’t forget electronics at the top.
- [ ] Check the Southwest app for real‑time gate changes.
- [ ] Enjoy the complimentary snacks and free Wi‑Fi while waiting!
Credible Sources
- Southwest Airlines Official Site – Phoenix Sky Harbor
- Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport – Terminal Information
- FAA Terminal Mapping – PHX
- PHX‑MAPS Public Transit Options
- Rapid Rewards Program – Southwest Airlines
With this guide, you’re now ready to breeze through the Southwest Airlines Terminal at Phoenix Sky Harbor. Safe travels!
