Standard Airport Services at Every Terminal

Services Available at Every Major Airport

Regardless of which airport you’re traveling through, certain services are standard. Knowing what’s available helps you plan and reduces travel stress.

Information and Assistance

Information Desks

Staffed counters throughout terminals provide:

• Gate and flight information
• Terminal maps and directions
• Local transportation options
• Wheelchair and accessibility assistance requests

Flight Information Displays

Screens throughout the airport show:

• Departure times and gates
• Arrival information
• Delays and cancellations
• Baggage claim carousel assignments

Accessibility Services

All US airports must provide:

• Wheelchair assistance: Free service from check-in to gate and gate to baggage claim
• Accessible restrooms: In every terminal area
• Visual paging: Text displays of announcements
• TTY phones: For hearing-impaired travelers
• Service animal relief areas: Both before and after security

Request wheelchair assistance through your airline at booking or check-in. Allow extra time for the service.

Restrooms and Hygiene

Standard Restrooms

• Located throughout terminals, typically every few gates
• Family restrooms with changing tables and extra space
• Accessible stalls in all locations

Nursing Rooms

Private spaces for nursing mothers with:

• Comfortable seating
• Electrical outlets
• Locking doors

Required by federal law at all medium and large airports.

Showers

Available in:

• Airline lounges (with access)
• Some airports offer pay showers in terminals
• Fitness centers at select airports

Food and Beverage

Every major airport terminal includes:

• Quick service: Fast food, grab-and-go sandwiches, coffee shops
• Sit-down restaurants: Full-service dining options
• Bars: Alcohol service in terminal areas
• Water fountains: Free water throughout (bring empty bottle through security)
• Vending machines: Snacks and drinks near gate areas

Prices typically run 20-50% higher than outside the airport. Bringing your own food through security is allowed.

Retail and Services

Common Stores

• Newsstands and bookstores
• Convenience stores (snacks, toiletries, phone chargers)
• Duty-free shops (for international departures)
• Brand-name retailers (varies by airport)
• Local/regional specialty shops

Service Providers

• Currency exchange: Available but with poor rates—ATMs are usually better
• ATMs: Multiple locations throughout terminals
• Postal services: Mail drops and sometimes full post office
• Phone charging: Stations and outlets throughout

Technology Services

WiFi

Free at most US airports, though:

• Speeds vary significantly
• Some require watching ads or email registration
• Lounges typically offer faster, more reliable connections

Charging

• Power outlets at many gate seating areas
• Charging stations with multiple ports
• Some airports offer wireless charging pads
• USB ports (use your own cable or purchase one)

Business Centers

Larger airports may offer:

• Computer workstations
• Printing and copying
• Private meeting rooms (rental)
• Fax services

Lost and Found

Items left at airports go to:

• TSA: Items left at security checkpoints
• Airline: Items left on planes
• Airport authority: Items left in terminals

Report losses immediately. Contact information available at information desks or airport websites.

Ground Transportation

Every major airport provides:

• Taxi stands: Metered taxis with designated pickup areas
• Rideshare zones: Uber and Lyft pickup locations
• Rental car access: On-site or shuttle to rental center
• Parking: Short-term, long-term, and economy options
• Public transit: Bus, rail, or shuttle connections (varies by airport)

Knowing these standard services exist helps you plan more effectively and reduces the stress of navigating unfamiliar airports.