Having a flight booked doesn’t mean you have everything sorted. In fact, it’s only the first thing out of a dozen things you need to take care of. Having an idea about the airport you are traveling from just makes things easier. If you are traveling from Phoenix Airport, this is your guide to the essential details about the airport that can come in handy anytime.
About Phoenix Airport
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport was opened on December 8, 1928, and is operated by the City of Phoenix. This public airport, situated in Maricopa County, Arizona, is a primary hub for American Airlines and consists of three terminals. With passenger traffic exceeding 47 million in 2023, the airport ranked 12th in the USA and 40th worldwide in terms of passenger traffic.
PHX Airport History
The first airport in Phoenix open to domestic flights was Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX), which started operations in 1928 and was originally called “Municipal Airport.” Initially, it hosted only a handful of flights a day. Today, however, the airport is among the top five busiest airports in the United States. Over the years, the airport has grown and developed by providing additional terminal facilities and other necessary improvements. Most importantly, the airport has remained a key central point for many local and foreign flights. In 1962, the airport was rebranded as Sky Harbor Airport and then renamed Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.
Where Is PHX Airport?
The address of the PHX Airport is 3400 E Sky Harbor Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85034. It is located in Maricopa County, Arizona, just 3.5 miles east of Downtown Phoenix, making it ideal for city dwellers and visitors to the city and its suburbs.
PHX Airport Map
A Phoenix airport map, which provides useful information on terminal parking space, transport connections, all gates, boarding and security check areas, lounges, and facilities, is given below:
PHX Airport Parking & Transportation
PHX airport provides a wide variety of parking facilities, including low-cost surface lots, multi-story terminal parking structures, and valet services. When it comes to the mobility component of airport activities, passengers can take the Sky Train to the other terminals or to the parking structures. For transfer to and from the airport, taxis, shuttles, services including Lyft and Uber, and buses are all provided.
Car Rental Services
Rental cars are available at the Car Rental Center at the PHX Rental Car Center, which is reachable via the Sky Train. Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National are among the major car rental companies that run their tourism businesses at the center.
PHX Airport Hotels
Following is the list of hotels near PHX airport:
1. Hilton Phoenix Airport
– Address: 2435 S 47th St, Phoenix, AZ 85034
– Located roughly two miles from the airport, this hotel offers a free shuttle service and comfortable amenities for travelers.
2. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Phoenix
– Address: 320 N 44th St, Phoenix, AZ 85008
– Approximately three miles away, this hotel is known for its spacious rooms and concierge.
3. Phoenix Airport Marriott
– Address: 1101 N 44th St, Phoenix, AZ 85008
– Just a few minutes’ drive from the terminals, this hotel features a convenient location and premium facilities.
4. Radisson Hotel Phoenix Airport
– Address: 427 N 44th St, Phoenix, AZ 85008
– Located less than two miles from the airport, this hotel offers modern amenities and complimentary shuttle service.
5. Hampton Inn Phoenix Airport North
– Address: 601 N 44th St, Phoenix, AZ 85008
– Situated just a few minutes from the airport, this hotel includes free breakfast and a shuttle for travelers.
PHX Airport Lounges
It has several lounges available for passengers who wish to rest before their flights.
- American Airlines Admirals Club (Terminal 4)
- United Club (Terminal 2)
- Delta Sky Club (Terminal 3)
PHX Airport Food and Dining
PHX airport offers its customers food options from the fast food court type to sit-in restaurants. Some of the Phoenix airport restaurants are:
- Panda Express – in Terminal 4
- Gordon Biersch Brewery – Terminal 4
- Bobby’s Burger Palace – Transport Hub 3
PHX Airport Amenities
Some of the available amenities at PHX are:
- Complimentary Wi-Fi access
- Power outlets in all airport sections
- Information centers
- Areas for pet relief
- Sky Harbor’s Airport Health Center
PHX Airport Art and Sculptures
PHX has pervasive public artwork in the airport. The assembled works mostly contain sculptures, paintings, and displays that depict Arizona’s basic and social history. The airport’s art can be seen around the terminals and in the public areas of the airport, such as Terminal 3’s “Sky Harbor Phoenix” artwork.
Things to See near PHX Airport
Nearby attractions include:
- Desert Botanical Garden (7 miles away)
- Arizona Science Center (3 miles away)
- Papago Park (4 miles away)
- Heard Museum (4 miles away)
PHX Airport Fun Areas for Kids
Airports also have areas for children with interactive boards and play areas. These places are located after the security checkpoint and are meant for children during long wait periods.
Accessibility at PHX Airport
Changing facilities, wheelchairs, elevators, and ramps are some of the services offered to persons with disabilities at PHX. However, the airline should advise special services prior to arrival. One side of the charging kiosks is also equipped for ADA customers.
Security at PHX Airport
Passengers require safety measures to travel on an airplane. In addition to several security checkpoint areas within PHX, TSA PreCheck is also present for easier and faster security screening.
TSA PreCheck
TSA PreCheck at PHX allows eligible travelers to expedite the screening process. The dedicated lanes are available for eligible passengers on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Located at Terminal 4, Level 2 – south end, near Door 22
Hours of Operation: Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., and 12 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Global Entry
Global Entry is available at PHX for faster U.S. customs processing. So, international travelers can gain entry through global entry through the designated Enrollment Center, reducing wait times for international travelers.
Located at Level 3 of Terminal 4
Mobile Passport
Travelers arriving from international destinations can use the Mobile Passport Control app at PHX to expedite the customs process. MPC app is a free app that you can download on your phone to submit passport information, photos, and customs declaration.
CLEAR
CLEAR lanes provide expedited security screening for PHX passengers. They are located in several terminals and allow quicker access to the gate.
Located at Terminal 3 and Terminal 4 – Checkpoints A, B, and C. Hours of operation: 4:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Other location: Terminal 4, Checkpoint C. Hours of operation: 5:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Wi-Fi and Charging Stations at PHX
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout PHX. Charging stations with comfortable seating are located in both terminal lobbies and outlets, and USB ports enable travelers to power up their devices.
If you are at PHX airport, “Get Plugged In.” signs will guide you to the charging kiosks throughout all terminals. Charging stations are also located in several gate areas past security. Each station has three sides to plug in, with six electrical outlets and six USB ports.
More on Phoenix Airport
Where is PHX Airport?
Phoenix Sky Harbor is located at 3400 E Sky Harbor Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85034.
How early should I arrive for a flight at PHX?
Arrive at least 2 hours before your flight for domestic travel and 3 hours for international flights.
Does PHX have a hotel attached?
No, but there are several hotels nearby offering shuttle services to the airport.
Is there a rental car center at PHX?
Yes, the car rental center is located offsite, and you can reach it via the Sky Train.
What transportation options are available at PHX?
PHX offers taxis, shuttles, rideshare services (Uber, Lyft), buses, and the Sky Train to get to and from the airport.
