Airport operations have gotten complicated with all the changes and updates flying around. As someone with extensive travel experience, I learned everything there is to know about this topic. Today, I will share it all with you.
St. Louis Lambert Airport: What You Need to Know
I’ve connected through Lambert more times than I’d like to admit, and it’s honestly one of the more straightforward airports once you understand the layout. Here’s the real deal.
Two Terminals, One Closed Mess
Lambert has Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 is bigger with concourses A through D – except B and D are closed now. So really you’re dealing with A and C. Southwest basically owns Concourse C, while Delta and a few others operate from A.
Terminal 2 is smaller and it’s almost entirely Southwest. One concourse (E), very efficient, handles a ton of their domestic flights. If you’re flying Southwest, double-check which terminal – they use both.
Getting Between Terminals
The MetroLink train runs between terminals and it’s actually pretty convenient. There’s also a free shuttle if you prefer that. Either way, give yourself 15-20 minutes for terminal transfers.
Getting Around
The usual suspects are all here:
- Rental cars – Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, all right by the terminals
- Rideshare – Uber and Lyft have designated pickup spots outside
- MetroLink – Cheap way to get downtown, takes about 25 minutes
Parking’s reasonable compared to bigger cities. Long-term lots have shuttle service, garages are close but cost more.
Inside the Airport
Free WiFi works throughout. Charging stations scattered around – not everywhere, but enough. There’s a kids play area if you’re traveling with little ones, and pet relief areas for those flying with dogs.
Food options are decent. Some local St. Louis spots mixed with the usual airport chains. Shopping is standard airport fare – Hudson News, some local boutiques.
The Art Thing
Lambert actually has a solid art program with rotating exhibits. Worth checking out if you’ve got time to kill. It’s one of those unexpected touches that makes the airport feel less generic.
Tips From Experience
- Security moves pretty fast here compared to bigger hubs
- Concourse C (Southwest’s main spot) gets crowded during peak times
- The MetroLink is genuinely useful if you’re heading downtown
- Information desks are actually helpful – staff knows their stuff
Overall, Lambert’s not fancy but it works. Easy to navigate once you know the terminal situation, and connections are usually smooth.
Recommended Aviation Gear
David Clark H10-13.4 Aviation Headset – $376.95
The industry standard for aviation headsets.
Pilots Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge – $25.42
Essential FAA handbook for every pilot.
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