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Located just eight miles southeast of downtown Austin, Texas, Austin–Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is the gateway to one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States. Known for its vibrant music scene, cultural festivals, and booming tech industry, Austin attracts millions of visitors each year—and AUS keeps pace with that demand. The airport opened in 1999 and has since become one of the busiest airports in Texas, offering both domestic and international flights with a focus on customer convenience and local flair.
AUS is currently served by two separate passenger terminals: the Barbara Jordan Terminal, which handles the vast majority of flights, and the South Terminal, a smaller, independently-operated facility. These two terminals are not connected—travelers must plan accordingly if switching between them.
Let’s explore each terminal in detail so you know what to expect during your trip through Austin.
Barbara Jordan Terminal (Main Terminal)
The Barbara Jordan Terminal is the main hub of activity at AUS. It handles all international flights and most major U.S. carriers. Named after Texas Congresswoman Barbara Jordan, the terminal reflects Austin’s eclectic personality, offering everything from local food vendors to live music performances.
Airlines & Destinations
This terminal is home to airlines including:
- American Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- United Airlines
- Southwest Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
- JetBlue
- Spirit
- Air Canada
- British Airways
- Lufthansa
- Aeromexico
With over 35 gates and dozens of nonstop routes, travelers can reach major cities across the U.S., as well as international destinations in Mexico, Canada, and Europe.
Layout & Navigation
The Barbara Jordan Terminal features a single concourse with a centralized TSA checkpoint and a layout that fans out into east and west gate areas. Navigation is straightforward: once you pass through security, you’ll find yourself in a spacious hallway lined with restaurants and shops, with gates branching off in both directions.
The gates are numbered from 1 to 34 (with expansions in progress). It’s a walkable terminal, and most travelers can reach their gate within 5–10 minutes of passing through security.
Dining & Shopping
If you’re hungry, this terminal won’t disappoint. The airport partners with local Austin businesses to deliver a taste of the city before you even leave the terminal.
Popular dining spots include:
Salt Lick BBQ – Authentic Texas barbecue straight from the Hill Country
Tacodeli – Beloved local chain for tacos and fresh Mexican fare
Peached Tortilla – Asian-Southern fusion with a creative twist
Amy’s Ice Creams – Iconic Austin dessert shop
Hut’s Hamburgers, Jo’s Coffee, and Haymaker are other traveler favorites
In terms of shopping, you’ll find newsstands, bookstores, Austin-themed souvenir shops, and stores selling electronics and travel essentials. Local art and boutique goods add a homegrown touch that reflects the city’s creative spirit.
Music & Culture
Austin is famous for live music, and AUS embraces that identity. The Barbara Jordan Terminal features several performance stages where local musicians play live sets almost every day. The program is curated to promote local talent and give passengers a truly Austin experience.
You’ll also notice art installations, murals, and rotating exhibits by local artists throughout the terminal.
Lounges & Amenities
For those seeking peace and comfort, the terminal offers several lounge options:
- Delta Sky Club
- American Airlines Admirals Club
- United Club
All lounges include free Wi-Fi, snacks, beverages, workspaces, and comfortable seating areas. The terminal also offers free Wi-Fi throughout the building, water refill stations, family restrooms, and nursing suites.
Ground Transportation & Parking
Just outside the Barbara Jordan Terminal, travelers will find a wide range of transportation options:
- Rideshare pickup zones for Uber and Lyft
- Taxi stands
- Rental car center, accessible via shuttle
- Capital Metro bus service to downtown Austin
- Parking options include:
- Red Garage: Closest to the terminal, with covered parking
- Blue Garage: Slightly farther, still walkable
- Economy Lots: Cheapest option, served by regular shuttles
South Terminal (Alternate Terminal)
The South Terminal is a smaller, low-cost terminal located on the opposite end of the airport grounds. It’s run independently from the main terminal and is designed for budget-conscious travelers looking for a more basic experience.
Important Note: Separate Location
The South Terminal is not connected to the Barbara Jordan Terminal. If you arrive at the wrong terminal, you cannot walk between them. Instead, you’ll need to take a shuttle or drive around the airfield to reach the other terminal—a trip that takes 15 to 20 minutes. Always double-check your departure terminal on your boarding pass.
Airlines & Flights
This terminal serves a limited number of carriers, including:
- Allegiant Air
- Frontier Airlines
- Both airlines operate mostly domestic flights to leisure destinations around the country.
Terminal Layout
The South Terminal has a simplified layout with just a few gates (typically 3 to 5 in operation) and a ground-level boarding experience. There are no jet bridges—passengers walk across the tarmac to board and deplane.
Although modest in size, the terminal is clean, friendly, and easy to navigate. Security wait times are typically shorter than at the main terminal.
Dining & Amenities
Dining options are more limited but still reflect Austin’s laid-back atmosphere. Inside the terminal, you’ll find:
- A small concessions counter offering snacks, drinks, and light meals
- An outdoor patio with a food truck, serving up Tex-Mex and burgers
- Picnic-style seating with umbrellas, creating a casual and comfortable vibe
- There are no airline lounges or elaborate amenities, but you’ll find free Wi-Fi, restrooms, and helpful staff.
Parking & Access
The South Terminal has its own adjacent parking lots, offering:
- Premium Parking: Closest to the entrance
- Economy Parking: Just a short walk away
Parking prices are generally lower than at the main terminal, making it a good option for budget-minded travelers.
There is a free shuttle connecting the South Terminal with the Barbara Jordan Terminal and rental car facilities. Shuttles typically depart every 20–30 minutes and are clearly marked.
Future Expansion & Improvements
Austin–Bergstrom International Airport is currently undergoing a major expansion plan to meet rising demand. The plan includes:
- Adding more gates to the Barbara Jordan Terminal
- Building a new midfield concourse
- Enhancing security checkpoints and baggage systems
- Improving access roads and parking infrastructure
These changes are part of the airport’s “Journey With AUS” program, designed to support growth through 2040.
Final Tips for Travelers
Double-check your terminal: The South Terminal and Barbara Jordan Terminal are separate. Don’t confuse them!
- Arrive early: During busy seasons or morning hours, security lines at the Barbara Jordan Terminal can be long.
- Enjoy local food: Skip the national chains and try one of the many Austin-original eateries in the terminal.
- Listen to live music: Take in a performance while waiting to board—it’s free and uniquely Austin.
- Watch for future changes: As expansion projects move forward, gates and services may shift.
Whether you’re flying out of the bustling Barbara Jordan Terminal or the quiet South Terminal, Austin–Bergstrom International Airport offers a travel experience that’s both efficient and infused with local culture. From the sounds of live music to the smell of Texas barbecue, AUS makes it clear: you’ve officially entered Austin, Texas.
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