DFW Terminals
Introduction
The terminal system at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport is designed to efficiently handle one of the largest passenger volumes in the world. The airport currently has five terminals (A, B, C, D and E) with more than 170 gates serving nearly 200 domestic and international destinations.
The terminals are arranged in a semicircular layout around the airfield, allowing aircraft to taxi efficiently while passengers can transfer between terminals using the Skylink automated train, which operates inside the secure area every few minutes.
The Skylink train completes the full circuit in about 9 minutes, making connections between terminals relatively quick even in such a large airport.
Historical Background and Origins
The idea of a large regional airport serving both Dallas and Fort Worth emerged in the 1960s, when local authorities decided to replace several smaller airports with a single major hub. Construction began in 1969, and the airport was officially dedicated in 1973, with the first commercial flights operating on January 13, 1974.
From the beginning, the airport was designed as a major hub for connecting flights, with a unique semicircular terminal concept that minimized taxi times for aircraft and allowed passengers to move easily between gates.
Today, DFW has become one of the largest and busiest airports in the world, handling tens of millions of passengers each year and serving as the main hub for American Airlines.
Because of the hub structure, many flights at DFW arrive and depart in “banks” at specific times of the day, meaning terminals can become very busy during connection waves.
Terminal A
Overview
Terminal A is one of the busiest terminals and mainly handles domestic flights, particularly those operated by American Airlines.
- Approx. 26 gates
- Several security checkpoints
- Skylink station for transfers
- Direct access to parking and ground transport
Levels and Zones
Typical layout:
- Upper level: departures and check-in counters
- Lower level: arrivals and baggage claim
- Gate level: restaurants, lounges and boarding gates
Dining Highlights
Some popular dining spots include:
- Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen – full-service Texas seafood restaurant
- Starbucks – multiple locations
- Einstein Bros. Bagels – breakfast and coffee
Typical hours: 05:00 – 21:00, depending on the restaurant.
Terminal A often has shorter security lines early in the morning compared with other terminals.
Shops
Categories include:
- Travel essentials stores
- Electronics shops
- Newsstands and bookstores
- Texas souvenir shops
Terminal B
Overview
Terminal B primarily handles domestic flights, many of them operated by American Airlines and regional partners.
- Around 45 gates including a satellite concourse
- Multiple security checkpoints
- Skylink train station
Dining and Bars
Well-known options include:
- Whataburger – famous Texas burger chain
- Cantina Laredo – Mexican cuisine
- Dunkin’ – coffee and donuts
Most restaurants operate between 05:00 and 22:00 depending on flight schedules.
If you have time before your flight, Terminal B has several casual dining options with quick service, ideal for short layovers.
Retail
Typical stores include:
- Duty-paid liquor shops
- Gift shops
- Travel accessories
- Fashion boutiques
Terminal C
Overview
Terminal C mainly serves American Airlines domestic operations and connects easily with Terminals A and B.
- About 29 gates
- Several lounges and food courts
- Skylink transfer station
Dining Highlights
Popular spots include:
- Pappasito’s Cantina – Tex-Mex cuisine
- Shake Shack – burgers and milkshakes
- Starbucks
Typical hours: 06:00 – 21:00
erminal C has some of the best Tex-Mex options in the airport, perfect for travelers wanting to try local cuisine.
Shopping
Retail options include:
- Apparel stores
- Travel gear shops
- Newsstands
- Local Texas products
Terminal D (International Terminal)
Overview
Terminal D is the main international terminal and the most modern facility at the airport.
- Around 33 gates
- Premium lounges
- Large duty-free area
- International arrivals facilities
Major international airlines operate here, including:
- Emirates
- Qatar Airways
- British Airways
- Japan Airlines
Restaurants and Bars
Highly rated options include:
- III Forks Steakhouse – premium steakhouse
- Whitetail Bistro by Kent Rathbun – upscale American cuisine
- Grand Met – international food hall
Hours typically range 05:00 – 22:00.
Terminal D has the largest duty-free shopping area in the airport, ideal for last-minute luxury purchases.
Duty Free
Duty-free stores offer:
- Perfumes and cosmetics
- Luxury watches
- Designer fashion
- Premium liquor and tobacco
Terminal E
Overview
Terminal E handles domestic flights and some international services, especially low-cost carriers.
- About 41 gates
- Skylink train access
- Multiple security checkpoints
Dining
Restaurants include:
- TGI Fridays – American classics
- Starbucks
- McDonald’s
Typical hours: 05:00 – 21:00
Shops
Categories include:
- Convenience stores
- Travel gear shops
- Newsstands
Terminal E is often used by budget airlines, so it can be less crowded outside peak hours.
Airport Facilities
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout all terminals.
ATMs and Banking
ATMs from major banks are located near:
- security checkpoints
- baggage claim areas
- central terminal halls
Luggage Storage
Limited luggage services are available in certain terminals or through private providers.
Family and Accessibility Services
DFW offers several services for families and travelers with reduced mobility:
- Family restrooms and baby changing stations
- Nursing rooms for parents
- Wheelchair assistance via airlines
- Elevators and accessible restrooms
- Assistance for visually impaired passengers
Request mobility assistance at least 48 hours before your flight through your airline.
Security and Baggage Control
Security checkpoints are available in every terminal and may vary in wait time. Travelers can use:
- TSA PreCheck
- CLEAR lanes
Baggage screening follows standard TSA regulations for domestic and international flights.
Lost and Found
Passengers who lose items in the terminal should contact the DFW Airport Lost and Found department.
Important notes:
- Items lost in the terminal → airport Lost & Found
- Items lost on the aircraft → contact the airline directly
Check-in and Boarding Information
Most airlines open check-in counters 2–3 hours before departure.
Typical process:
-
Check-in at airline counter or self-service kiosk
-
Baggage drop
-
Security screening
-
Boarding at gate
For international flights departing from Terminal D, arrive at least 3 hours before departure.
Most Popular Routes from DFW
Below are some of the busiest routes departing from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.
These routes reflect the airport’s role as a major hub connecting cities across North America and beyond.
Transfer between terminals
Passengers have several ways to move between terminals.
They can use skylink or the terminal link.
Find more information in the inter terminal transportation section.