Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) is a central global travel hub located in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. Initially, the airport was known as Friendship International; however, it was renamed in 2005 to honor Thurgood Marshall, a renowned Supreme Court Justice from Baltimore.

This guide provides a deep dive into the airport’s unique intermodal connections, including its dedicated Amtrak/MARC rail station and the MTA Light Rail. Whether you are navigating the five U-shaped concourses or looking for the best parking in the Daily Garage, you will find all the logistical information needed to master this regional gateway.

A Comprehensive Breakdown of BWI Airport Facilities and How It Operates:

Ready to travel like a pro? Check out this breakdown of terminal layouts, the official address, and every airline flying from BWI Airport. We have even grouped the hubs so you can breeze through check-in. A little bit of planning goes a long way; you can skip the “lost in the airport” panic and start your vacation feeling calm and collected.

Category	Details
Name of the Airport	Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
Airport Type	Public
Serves	Baltimore metropolitan areaWashington, D.C. metro areaSouth Central Pennsylvania
Location	Anne Arundel County, Maryland, U.S
Opened	July 23, 1950
Operating Base For	Southwest Airlines
ICAO Code	KBWI
IATA Code	BWI
Number of Terminals	Five concourses with 78 gates
Airlines Operating	Approx 16 airlines
Annual Passenger Traffic	27,059,733 (2024)
Ground Transportation	TransitRental CarsShuttlesAirport Taxi ServiceApp-Based Ride ServicesRegional Destinations
Destinations	Approx 90 to 136 destinations
Owned & Operated By	Maryland Aviation Administration (MDOT MAA)
Address	7050 Friendship Rd, Baltimore, MD 21240
Website	https://www.bwiairport.com/

A Closer Look at Terminal Management at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI):

Baltimore/Washington International Airport has 5 concourses with 78 gates. Out of these, 14 gates handle international flights. You can use the terminal map to find your way and locate exactly where you need to go.

• Security Check Area: A central security checkpoint serves Concourses A, B, and C, making transfers easier.
  
• Concourse A/B: Southwest Airlines exclusively operates all 30 gates at this terminal for a streamlined travel experience.
  
• Concourse C: Features 14 gates and serves Southwest, American Airlines, and BermudAir.
  
• Concourse D: Has 23 gates and handles all non-Southwest and non-American domestic flights. Includes 3 international-capable gates.
  
• Concourse E (International Concourse): This terminal features 11 international gates. Gates E2–E12 (even) handle non-precleared arrivals for Southwest, Spirit, Frontier, and BermudAir.
  
• Cargo Concourse: This 395,000 sq ft facility supports large-scale cargo operations, featuring a 60,000 sq ft building and a 200,000 sq ft Amazon warehouse.

Which Airlines Run Flights from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)?

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) is a central hub for Southwest Airlines, which accounts for over 70% of passenger traffic. In all, there are 36 airlines at the BWI Airport, including commuter, cargo, and charter airlines. Other key carriers mentioned below-

• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• American Eagle
• Avelo Airlines
• BermudAir
• British Airways
• Copa Airlines
• Delta Air Lines
• Delta Connection
• Frontier Airlines
• Icelandair
• Southwest Airlines
• Spirit Airlines
• Sun Country Airlines
• United Airlines
• United Express

What Services Make Traveling Through Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) Easier?

At BWI Airport, they want your trip to be as enjoyable as possible! To help you have a smooth and fun travel day, they offer a variety of convenient services, including:

1. Wi-Fi:

You can enjoy free, high-speed Wi-Fi provided by Slice Wireless Solutions. This upgraded service is commercial-free and completely uninterrupted for your convenience. Additionally, they value your feedback; please visit their page to share your experience. If you need technical help, 24/7 support is always available at support@slicewifi.com to assist you anytime. 

Connecting to the BWI wi-fi network is easy. Go to your mobile device’s wi-fi settings and select “#MyBWI-Fi”. When you see the wi-fi page click on the connect button, then confirm after the next prompt appears.

2. Fitness Options:

BWI Marshall Airport offers a variety of wellness options for passengers. Travelers can use the indoor Cardio Trail to stay active in the concourses or access the 10-mile Hiker/Biker trail for outdoor exercise. Moreover, these amenities ensure that every passenger, regardless of fitness level, can move before their flight.

3. Children’s Play Area:

BWI Marshall offers several family-friendly amenities to improve your journey. Kids can have fun at the children’s play area in the Observation Gallery at BWI Airport, explore the new D/E Connector playground, or relax in the terminal’s rocking chairs. These features help keep young travelers entertained and relaxed before their flights.

4. Assistance with Animals:

BWI Airport allows pets. All you need to do is follow their health and safety rules to protect all travelers. Next, ensure pets stay in their carriers while inside. Finally, remember that trained service animals are always allowed throughout the entire terminal.You will even find four pet-relief areas – two pre, and two post security. 

5. Water Bottle Fill Stations:

BWI Marshall Airport offers nearly two dozen water bottle filling stations at BWI Airport to reduce plastic waste. Simply empty your bottle before security, then use any of their convenient stations near the gates to refill before you fly.You should however remember that as per the TSA security norms you should empty your bottle during security checks and may fill it again on your way to the boarding gate. Some of the locations of water bottle stations include A/B Connector, A/B Food Court, B/C Connector, and so on. 

6. Restrooms:

In April 2024, they finished upgrading several terminal restrooms to serve you better. Since they know clean, comfortable facilities are a top priority, they used passenger feedback to guide these improvements. Now, travelers can enjoy a modern and much more convenient experience. The restrooms feature amenities such as hooks for personal belongings, space to stow roller bags, occupancy sensors, increased ventilation, and more. 

7. Nursing Rooms:

BWI Marshall Airport provides high-quality, private nursing rooms and lactation stations in all five concourses. Mothers can find these comfortable spaces conveniently located near Gates A1, A4, A12, B3, B8, C2, C9, D11, D23, and E6 to ensure a hassle-free travel experience.

8. Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program:

BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport now supports the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program! Their staff is officially trained to assist guests with non-visible disabilities. If you need extra support, please pick up a complimentary Sunflower lanyard available to all passengers and airport visitors.

9. Lost and Found:

You will find the lost and found offices between the American Airlines ticket counter and the Concourse C exit. They remain open from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm throughout the week. 

Call Smarte Carte at (443) 960-5424 for items lost in public terminal areas. Next, contact the TSA for items left at security checkpoints. Finally, contact your airline directly if you left something on a plane. When you submit a claim for the item you lost, ensure you provide detailed descriptions to improve the resolution. 

 10. Wheelchair Services:

Airlines provide free wheelchair services at BWI Airport, but you should request help when booking. If you forget, call your airline before traveling. For last-minute help, call the specific provider for your airline. Finally, tell drivers to meet assistants at the outer curb.

   11. Hotel:

Many great hotels are only a short drive from BWI Airport and close to both Baltimore and D.C. You can choose a full-service hotel for large meetings or a simple extended-stay room for longer trips. No matter why you are visiting, a comfortable place to stay is nearby.

   12. ATMs:

If you need quick cash before your flight, you can find an ATM at BWI Airport in several convenient spots: the ATM A/B FOOD COURT, ATM B/C FOOD COURT, near ATM C2, ATM A9/A11, ATM D20, and the ATM CONCOURSE D EXIT. Most are powered by ATM M&T BANK.

   13. The Club at BWI:

The Club BWI is a versatile shared-use lounge at BWI Marshall, offering a high-standard environment for work or rest. Open to all travelers, regardless of membership or ticket type, it offers premium amenities and a quiet atmosphere at an exceptional value, ensuring a seamless pre-flight experience.

    14. USO:

The USO International Gateway Lounge at BWI Marshall Airport provides 5,000 square feet of dedicated space for those serving globally. Located on the Lower Level of the International Pier, it is open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Access is reserved for military personnel and dependents with valid identification. Some of the amenities this lounge provides include hospitality desks with knowledgeable USO volunteers, free faxing and photocopying services, 

What Types of Transportation are Offered at BWI Airport?

Finding the right transportation at BWI Airport is easy because there are options for every budget. You can choose affordable public transit like the Light Rail or MARC train. Alternatively, you can grab a taxi, use a rideshare app, or hop on a hotel shuttle. Finally, rental cars are available for those who prefer to drive themselves.

1. Public Transit (Bus & Rail):

You can easily reach the airport using several bus and rail lines. For instance, the MTA Light Rail offers a budget-friendly and simple way to get to the terminal. 

2. Rental Cars:

BWI Airport’s on-site Rental Car Facility houses major agencies in one building, offering convenient “one-stop shopping” just minutes from the terminal.Some of the rental cars here include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Hertz, Dollar, and so on. 

3. Hotel & Parking Shuttles:

Dedicated pick-up zones reduce terminal traffic, while frequent shuttles connect passengers to nearby hotels and off-airport parking facilities.

4. Taxi Services:

Official taxi stands sit outside baggage claim on the Lower Level, offering travelers direct, curbside service for a quick departure. You will only get this service if your rides originate at the BWI Airport. 

5. App-Based Ride Services:

Ride-hailing apps offer flexible travel across all terminals. Drivers pick up and drop off passengers at the Departures/Ticketing Level. Online services can be arranged via the smart phone app. Drivers will transport passengers using non-commercial, and personal vehicles. 

Which BWI Airport Parking Options Offer the Most Convenience?

For maximum efficiency, the Hourly Garage is the premier parking option at BWI airport, offering climate-controlled spaces and direct terminal access via climate-controlled skywalks for rapid departures.

1. Hourly Garage:

The Hourly Garage offers the most convenient parking at BWI airport, with immediate terminal access and covered overhead walkways. The charge is $6 per hour, or $30 per day.

2. Daily Garage:

A smart mix of comfort and affordability, offering covered parking, frequent terminal shuttles, and easy access for short trips. The daily garage has a cost of $16 per day.

3. Express Parking:

Perfect for extended stays, enjoy reduced daily parking costs, covered shuttle stops, frequent service, and reliable airport access. In fact, those who avail of this service will get the privilege of free shuttle services to the terminal and even from it. To get this service you must use your credit card only. In fact, to enter the facility you must swipe your card.

4. Long Term Parking:

This is the most budget-friendly choice for long trips, but allow extra time for shuttle transfers and prioritize savings over location. The cost for long-term parkimg is $11 per day. It is all-inclusive and there’s no hidden fees associated with it.

What Are the Best Dining Options at BWI Airport?

You can explore over 50 dining options at BWI Airport, ranging from quick fast food to first-class sit-down meals. Whether you are catching a flight or seeking late-night refreshments during an overnight layover, their diverse selections are sure to satisfy every craving.

• Arby’s- A/B Food Court
• Auntie Anne’s Pretzels- D21
• Auntie Anne’s Pretzels / Cinnabon- A7
• Beers of the World- A3
• Brix and Vine- D24
• Chick-fil-A- A/B Food Court
• Cinnabon- B5
• Dunkin- B/C Food Court
• Dunkin- D10
• Dunkin- A3
• Dunkin / Baskin Robbins- B10
• Einstein Bros. Bagels- C5
• Farmer’s Market- B3
• Firkin and Flyer- C1
• Martini- A/B Food Court
• Mayorga Coffee- A/B Food Court
• McDonald’s- D21
• McDonald’s- A/B Food Court
• Miss Shirley’s Cafe- A13
• Nalley Fresh- A/B Food Court
• Nourish Markets- A7
• Obrycki’s Restaurant & Bar- B9
• Passports Bar & Grill- E1
• Peri Peri Original- B5
• Phillips Seafood- D12
• Pinkberry- A/B Food Court
• Potbelly Sandwich Shop- A8
• QDOBA- C3
• QDOBA (Coming Soon)- A/B Food Court
• R&R Seafood Bar- A13
• R&R Seafood Bar- D1
• Rita’s Italian Ice- C1
• Silver Diner- A/B Food Court
• Sir Veza’s- Concourse D Exit
• Smoothie King- D21
• Starbucks- B6
• Starbucks- D1
• Subway- B5
• The Greene Turtle-D8
• Tony and Benny’s Authentic Brooklyn Pizzeria- A10
• Zona Cocina- B4

Where Can You Shop at Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI)?

You can find a variety of shops at BWI Airport across all concourses. From the premium elegance of Tumi and Pandora to the convenient “one-stop-shop” experience at Hudson News, you’ll find everything from luxury treats to travel basics in every concourse.

• Abrin Fashion House- A/B Connector
• America!- D1
• America!- A/B Food Court
• America!- D20
• Charm City Market- D2
• District Market- A11
• Drama Mama Bookshop- A/B Connector
• Everything Blings- A/B Connector
• Flowers Vending- Concourse D Exit
• Fran’s Organic Bodycare- A/B Connector
• Hudson News- E2
• Hudson News- B6
• Hudson News- Concourse D Exit
• Hudson News- A7
• Pandora- A/B Food Court
• Pen & Prose- D1
• Sock It to You- C1
• Socks Express- A/B Food Court
• Stellar News- A/B Food Court
• Sunglass Hut- A/B Food Court
• Tech Showcase- B8
• True to Baltimore- A/B Food Court
• TUMI- B/C Connector
• Vending Machines- International Ticketing
• Vending Machines- E1
• Vending Machines- A/B Connector

Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI) Security Wait Times:

Security wait times at Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI) can vary depending on the time of day and travel season. Generally, early mornings and holiday periods are the busiest. Therefore, arriving at the airport at least two hours/ three  before a domestic or international flight respectively is a smart move. In addition, BWI offers TSA PreCheck lanes, which usually move faster than standard screening. Meanwhile, off-peak hours, such as midday or late evening, often have shorter lines. To stay prepared, travelers should check live wait-time updates before leaving home. Overall, planning ahead helps reduce stress and ensures a smoother start to your journey.

Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI) Interactive Map:

The BWI Interactive Map takes the stress out of travel by helping you locate gates, security checkpoints, and amenities in seconds. From finding the nearest restroom to scouting out your favorite restaurant or store, the zoomable search features ensure you never take a wrong turn. It’s the ultimate tool for a smooth, comfortable airport experience.

Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI) Contact Information:

Reach out to the team at Baltimore/Washington International Airport via their website or social media. For the most up-to-date terminal news and real-time travel alerts, you can follow their digital channels to ensure you stay informed throughout your journey.

Call	410-859-7683Airport Emergency- 911Airport Information- 410-859-7111, 800-I FLY BWI
Email	maa@bwiairport.com
Website	https://bwiairport.com/

Conclusion:

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) stands out as a well-connected, traveler-friendly airport serving both Baltimore and Washington, D.C. With five efficiently managed concourses, strong airline coverage led by Southwest, and excellent rail and road connections, BWI makes travel smooth and convenient. In addition, modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, family-friendly spaces, fitness options, and accessible services enhance the overall passenger experience. No matter your destination, BWI is designed for you. You can experience a journey defined by clarity and convenience, ensuring that every traveler, domestic or international, enjoys a relaxing transition from curb to gate.

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