Guide To Austin Airport is exactly what every traveler needs before passing through one of Texas’s fastest-growing international hubs. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport — officially known as ABIA and carrying the IATA code AUS — welcomes over 20 million passengers a year and connects Central Texas to roughly 97 domestic and international destinations. Located just 5 miles southeast of downtown Austin, it’s convenient to reach and surprisingly easy to navigate once you know the layout. Just like arranging a smooth pickup with Windy City Limousine Chicago before heading to O’Hare, a little advance knowledge about AUS goes a long way toward making your travel day genuinely stress-free.
Austin Airport at a Glance
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport sits on the site of a former military base and officially opened as a civilian international airport in 1999. Today it ranks as Texas’s third-busiest international hub and forms part of the state’s aviation “Big Four.” The airport operates two terminals — the main Barbara Jordan Terminal and the smaller South Terminal — and handles everything from major international carriers to ultra-low-cost domestic airlines. This complete Guide To Austin Airport covers terminals, airlines, lounges, restaurants, shopping, hotels, amenities, and how to get there and back.
Where Is Austin Airport?
Austin Airport is located at 3600 Presidential Blvd, Austin, TX 78719, roughly 5 miles southeast of downtown Austin — about a 10 to 15 minute drive in normal traffic. For general inquiries, the airport can be reached at +1 512-530-2242.
How To Get To Austin Airport
By car is the most common way travelers reach AUS. From downtown Austin, take TX-71 East toward Bastrop and follow signs for the airport. Without heavy traffic, you’re looking at a 10 to 15 minute drive.
By bus, Austin Airport operates two MetroExpress routes. Route 20 (MetroRapid) departs every 15 to 30 minutes, serving downtown Austin and the University of Texas campus, and costs just $1.25 per ride. Route 483 (Night Owl) runs between midnight and 4:00 AM, connecting the Montopolis neighborhood via Riverside Drive and ending downtown on 6th Street — useful for very early or very late flights.
By train, there is currently no direct rail link between central Austin and the airport. However, a Blue Line light rail connection is in planning and estimated to begin service around 2029.
By private car transfer is the most comfortable and reliable option, particularly for business travelers, families with luggage, or anyone who doesn’t want to deal with parking fees or bus schedules. A pre-booked chauffeur service provides door-to-door pickup with a fixed price and no surprises.
Parking at Austin Airport: Full Guide
AUS offers several parking options at Austin-Bergstrom Airport across both terminals. Pre-booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially during peak travel periods and Austin’s many major events and festivals.
One important update: a new Yellow Parking Garage is expected to partially open in late 2026 and fully open in 2027, adding 7,000 spaces and eventually replacing the current Red Garage as part of the airport’s wider expansion plan.
Barbara Jordan Terminal Parking
The Red Garage is the closest and most premium option, directly connected to the Barbara Jordan Terminal at Level 3. It costs $7.00 per hour with a $35.00 daily maximum — worth it if you value a short, covered walk to check-in.
The Blue Garage sits just behind the Red Garage and is a 3-minute walk from the terminal. At $5.00 per hour and $26.00 per day, it’s a solid middle-ground option.
The Economy Garage is the largest parking facility at AUS and the most affordable at $12.00 per day. A complimentary shuttle transfer takes 5 to 7 minutes to reach the terminal — a reasonable trade-off for the savings.
The Overflow / H-Lot is used when all other garages are full, available for $10.00 to $12.00 per day with a shuttle to the terminal.
South Terminal Parking
The Premium Lot costs $20.00 per day and is a short 4-minute walk from the South Terminal. The Economy Lots 3, 4, and 5 replaced the old Economy Lot (closed December 2025) and run around $10.00 to $12.00 per day, typically with spaces available without advance booking.
Austin Airport Terminal Overview
ABIA has two terminals, and understanding the difference between them is one of the most practical parts of this Guide To Austin Airport.
The Barbara Jordan Terminal is the main terminal and handles the vast majority of flights. All major carriers — American, Delta, United, Southwest, Alaska, JetBlue, British Airways, Lufthansa, and more — operate from here. All three airport lounges are also located in the Barbara Jordan Terminal.
The South Terminal is a separate, smaller building not physically connected to the main terminal. You can reach it either by driving directly (it has its own parking) or by taking a dedicated shuttle bus from the Barbara Jordan Terminal, which runs every 20 minutes. The South Terminal serves ultra-low-cost carriers — currently Allegiant Air and Frontier Airlines.
Airlines Flying From Austin Airport
Barbara Jordan Terminal serves Aeromexico, Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, British Airways, Copa Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Lufthansa, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Sun Country Airlines, United Airlines, Viva Aerobus, and WestJet.
South Terminal serves Allegiant Air and Frontier Airlines.
Airport Lounges at Austin Airport: Where To Relax
All three lounges at AUS are located in the Barbara Jordan Terminal. There are no lounge facilities at the South Terminal.
American Airlines Admirals Club is located across from Gate 22 and open daily from 4:15 AM to 8:15 PM. The lounge offers a snack bar, drinks, workspaces, and shower access in a comfortable, well-designed space. Access is available to Admirals Club members, Citi/AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard holders, and AAdvantage Platinum and above status members on qualifying international itineraries. Day passes cost $79.00 USD and must be booked online in advance. Up to 3 children under 18 are permitted when accompanied by an adult day-pass holder.
Delta Sky Club is located near Gate 4 and open daily from 4:15 AM to 10:00 PM (closing at 6:15 PM on Saturdays). Access is permitted up to three hours before departure. The lounge features a complimentary buffet and bar, plus a covered outdoor Sky Deck overlooking the tarmac — one of the more relaxed and distinctly Austin-feeling lounge spaces you’ll find at any US airport. Open to Sky Club members, Delta One and Delta Premium Select passengers, Diamond, Platinum, and Gold Medallion members, SkyTeam Elite Plus members, and Amex Platinum and Business Platinum cardholders.
United Club sits across from Gate 22 and is open daily from 5:00 AM to 7:15 PM. The lounge offers a full-service bar, light snacks, and dedicated workstations. Access is available with a United Club membership, a one-time pass, a qualifying premium-cabin ticket on United or Star Alliance First Class, select United co-branded credit cards, or Star Alliance Gold status on international flights.
Best Restaurants at Austin Airport: What To Eat at AUS
Austin-Bergstrom Airport restaurants punch well above their weight for an airport of this size — very much in the spirit of Austin’s well-known food scene.
Salt Lick Cellar, located between Gates 20 and 21, is the airport’s most talked-about dining option. It’s the airport outpost of the legendary Salt Lick BBQ and serves authentic Texas-style brisket, sausage, ribs, and sides. If you’re leaving Austin and haven’t had proper Texas BBQ yet, this is your last chance — and it’s a good one.
Second Bar + Kitchen serves American cuisine and cocktails in a sit-down setting — a solid choice for a proper pre-flight meal with a drink.
Jo’s Coffee and Ruta Maya are both excellent for local Austin coffee. Jo’s in particular is a genuine Austin institution.
Mad Greens covers the salad and lighter fare crowd with fresh, build-your-own options.
ThunderCloud Subs handles quick sandwich needs reliably and affordably.
For travelers departing from the South Terminal, De Nada Tacos Food Truck outside the terminal building serves tacos and Austin-style street food — a small but genuine local touch.
Shopping at Austin Airport: What To Buy Before You Board
Austin Airport’s retail options lean into the city’s unique identity more than most airports manage. There are around 12 retail shops and stores across both terminals.
Waterloo Records & Austin City Market is a satellite of the iconic Austin record store and stocks vinyl, music souvenirs, and official Austin City Limits merchandise — the perfect last stop for music lovers.
Tyler’s is where you pick up your official “Keep Austin Weird” t-shirt. No trip to Austin is complete without one.
Salt Lick BBQ Market stocks Texas-style BBQ sauces, rubs, and condiments to take home — one of the best edible souvenirs you can find at any US airport.
Kiehl’s covers skincare and travel-sized essentials before you board.
In the South Terminal, the Austin Goods Market carries local snacks and Texas-themed apparel for last-minute gift shopping.
Hotels Near Austin Airport: Best Places to Stay
Hyatt Place Austin Airport at 9532 Spirit of Austin Ln is roughly a mile from the main terminal and offers modern rooms, free Wi-Fi, on-site dining, and a complimentary airport shuttle. It’s also conveniently close to the Circuit of the Americas and Austin360 Amphitheater.
Hilton Austin Airport at 9515 Hotel Dr is the most well-known airport hotel, housed in a distinctive circular building nicknamed “the Donut” — a former air command center. It features a 24-hour front desk, outdoor saline pool, hot tub, and 24-hour fitness center, with a complimentary shuttle running around the clock.
Hilton Garden Inn Austin Airport at 7610 John Glenn Way is a more affordable alternative with the Garden Grille & Bar serving breakfast and dinner, a 24-hour Pavilion Pantry for late-night arrivals, an outdoor pool, fitness center, and free airport shuttle.
Hampton Inn & Suites Austin Airport at 7712 E Riverside Dr sits 2 miles from AUS and offers complimentary breakfast, parking, and Wi-Fi, plus an outdoor pool, fitness center, tennis courts, and pet-friendly rooms — a strong mid-range option.
Courtyard by Marriott Austin Airport at 7809 E Ben White Blvd is a practical, comfortable option with a 24-hour fitness center, the Bistro restaurant, EV charging stations including a Tesla Destination charger, and a free airport shuttle.
Austin Airport Amenities: What’s Available Inside the Terminal
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout ABIA via the “AUS Free WiFi” network with 4-hour session limits. Faster paid access is available through Boingo.
Charging stations and power outlets are located throughout the terminal areas for phones and laptops.
ATMs and currency exchange: Bank of America ATMs are located near the main ticketing lobby, near Gate 7, near Gate 13, and in the baggage claim area. Travelex currency exchange operates between 5:00 AM and 8:00 PM daily.
Workstations: Jabbrrbox private workspaces can be rented for focused calls or concentrated work away from the terminal noise — a genuinely useful option for business travelers.
Pet relief areas are available at the Barbara Jordan Terminal near Gate 9 (indoor) and at the South Terminal near Gate 1 (outdoor). Each space has artificial turf, waste bags, and cleaning supplies.
Lactation and nursing facilities: The Mother’s Lounge near Gate 11 and the Mamava Lactation Suite opposite Second Bar + Kitchen both provide private, comfortable spaces for nursing parents.
Interfaith Meditation Room is located before security in the Barbara Jordan Terminal, open to all faiths and denominations.
Accessibility: AUS fully complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act, with ADA-compliant restrooms, elevators, ramps, and accessible routes throughout. The airport also participates in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, offers sensory-friendly features, hearing loops, and indoor wayfinding tools.
Smoking: There are no designated smoking areas inside the terminal or within 25 feet of any entrance. Smoking and vaping are only permitted in clearly marked outdoor areas away from the building.
Book Your Austin Airport Transfer
Getting to AUS on your own terms starts with planning your ground transportation before your travel day. Skip the parking fees, the surge pricing, and the stress of catching the last bus of the night. Book your Austin Airport transfer here and arrive at your departure — or your destination — in comfort and on time.
Frequently Asked Questions — Guide To Austin Airport
1. What is the IATA code for Austin Airport? The official IATA code for Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is AUS. While the airport is often referred to as ABIA, AUS is the code you’ll see on boarding passes, baggage tags, and booking platforms.
2. How many terminals does Austin Airport have? AUS has two terminals — the main Barbara Jordan Terminal, which handles most major airlines, and the smaller South Terminal, which serves ultra-low-cost carriers Allegiant Air and Frontier Airlines.
3. Is the South Terminal connected to the main terminal? No. The South Terminal is a separate building not physically connected to the Barbara Jordan Terminal. You can reach it by driving directly or by taking a dedicated shuttle bus from the main terminal, which runs every 20 minutes.
4. How far is Austin Airport from downtown Austin? AUS is approximately 5 miles southeast of downtown Austin — roughly a 10 to 15 minute drive in normal traffic conditions.
5. Does Austin Airport have airport lounges? Yes. AUS has three lounges — the American Airlines Admirals Club, the Delta Sky Club, and the United Club — all located in the Barbara Jordan Terminal. Day passes are available for the Admirals Club at $79 USD, and Priority Pass and eligible credit card holders can access certain lounges as well.
6. What is the cheapest parking option at Austin Airport? The most affordable parking at AUS is the Economy Garage at $12.00 per day for the Barbara Jordan Terminal, or the South Terminal Economy Lots at around $10.00 to $12.00 per day. A complimentary shuttle runs between the Economy Garage and the main terminal.
7. Is there a train from Austin Airport to the city? There is currently no direct train service between AUS and central Austin. A Blue Line light rail connection is planned and estimated to launch around 2029. For now, the MetroRapid Route 20 bus is the main public transit option.
8. What is the best restaurant at Austin Airport? Salt Lick Cellar between Gates 20 and 21 is widely considered the standout dining option at AUS, serving authentic Texas BBQ including brisket and sausage. Jo’s Coffee and Ruta Maya are the top picks for local Austin coffee.
9. Are there hotels connected to Austin Airport? The Hilton Austin Airport is the closest hotel to AUS with a 24-hour complimentary shuttle. The Hyatt Place Austin Airport, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton Inn & Suites, and Courtyard by Marriott all sit within 1 to 2 miles of the terminal and offer free shuttle services.
10. Does Austin Airport have pet relief areas? Yes. AUS has two pet relief areas — one indoor location in the Barbara Jordan Terminal near Gate 9, and one outdoor location at the South Terminal near Gate 1 — both equipped with artificial turf, waste bags, and cleaning supplies.
