Key Highlights
- Navigate Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) with ease using our guide to its four terminals.
- Discover the major airlines at FLL, including hubs for JetBlue, Spirit, and Allegiant Air.
- Explore all your transportation options, from rideshare and shuttles to rental cars and public transit.
- Find the best on-site and off-site parking solutions to fit your budget and needs.
- Learn about the airport’s amenities, including free Wi-Fi, airline lounges, and diverse shopping and dining.
- Get tips on check-in, finding your gate, and traveling between terminals.
Introduction
Welcome to sunny South Florida! Your journey likely begins at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), a bustling gateway located in the heart of Broward County. This airport is perfectly positioned, making your trip from the runway to the beach, cruise port, or hotel a breeze. Whether you’re here for business or pleasure, FLL offers a convenient and efficient start to your adventure in Fort Lauderdale. This guide will help you navigate the airport like a pro.
Airport Overview and Key Facts
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, known by its FAA code FLL, is a major public airport operated by the Broward County Aviation Department. Classified as a “major hub” by the Federal Aviation Administration, it features an impressive control tower overseeing two primary runways that handle over 700 daily flights. Its location is ideal for travelers heading to Port Everglades for a cruise.
A common point of confusion for travelers is the name. Are you flying into the right place? You might wonder, “Is Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport different from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport?” Understanding the distinction is key to a smooth trip. We’ll explore the key facts about FLL, from its history to its layout.
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport vs. Executive Airport
Yes, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport (FXE) are two separate and distinct airports. FLL is the major commercial airport serving the Miami metropolitan area with flights from major domestic and international airlines. If you booked a flight on JetBlue, Spirit, or Delta, your destination is FLL.
In contrast, Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport primarily serves private and corporate aviation. It is a general aviation reliever airport, meaning it helps reduce traffic at FLL but does not handle the same volume of commercial passenger flights.
Both airports are located in Broward County, but they serve different purposes. So, always double-check your ticket to ensure you are heading to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) for your commercial flight.
Location and Accessibility
One of the best features of FLL is its prime location in South Florida. The airport is conveniently situated just three miles southwest of downtown Fort Lauderdale and about 21 miles north of Miami. This central position places you moments away from the cities of Hollywood and Dania Beach.
Proximity to key attractions is a major plus. The airport is right next to Port Everglades, making it a popular choice for cruise passengers. Additionally, it’s a short drive from the Broward County Convention Center and the beautiful Fort Lauderdale beaches.
Getting to and from the airport is straightforward. FLL is bordered by major highways, including I-595, I-95, and U.S. Route 1. This excellent road access ensures you can easily reach your final destination, whether it’s a hotel, a business meeting, or a sunny spot on the sand.
Terminal Layout and Navigation
Navigating FLL is simple once you understand its layout. The airport features four distinct terminals, each serving different airlines. Once you know which terminal you need, finding your gate and the check-in counters is easy. After dropping off your baggage, you’ll proceed through a security checkpoint to reach your departure gate.
Are you wondering, “What terminals are at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and how do I find my gate?” Knowing this information ahead of time can save you stress on travel day. Let’s break down the terminal layout and how to get around.
Overview of Terminals 1–4
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport currently operates four terminals, with a fifth one scheduled for completion by mid-2026. Each terminal is color-coded and serves specific airlines, making it easier to find your way.
Here is a quick breakdown of the terminals at FLL:
- Terminal 1 (Yellow): This terminal features Concourses A, B, and C with a total of 24 gates.
- Terminal 2 (Red): Home to Concourse D, this terminal has 9 gates.
- Terminal 3 (Purple): This terminal contains Concourses E and F and has 20 gates.
- Terminal 4 (Green): This is where you’ll find Concourse G with its 14 gates.
To find your terminal, simply check your airline ticket or the airport’s website before you arrive. Once there, large overhead signs will direct you to the correct check-in area and concourse.
Finding Your Gate and Check-In Procedures
Finding your assigned gate and completing the check-in process at FLL is a streamlined experience. Your airline and flight information will tell you which terminal to go to. Once inside, look for your airline’s check-in counters to drop off any baggage.
To ensure you get to the right place, follow these simple steps:
- Check your boarding pass: Your terminal and gate number are printed on your electronic or paper boarding pass.
- Consult airport monitors: After security, check the large flight information display screens. They provide the most up-to-date gate assignments, as changes can sometimes happen.
- Follow the signs: The airport is well-signed. Just follow the signs for your concourse and gate number.
After checking in and going through security, you’ll enter the concourse where your gate is located. Allow yourself enough time to walk to your gate, as some can be a fair distance from the security checkpoint.
Transportation Between Terminals
Do you have a connecting flight in another terminal? Getting between terminals at FLL is easy thanks to several convenient transportation options. The airport provides complimentary shuttle buses that operate between all four terminals.
Here are the main ways to move between terminals:
- Courtesy Shuttle Buses: These free shuttles run on a continuous loop, with designated stops at each terminal on the lower level (arrivals).
- Walking: Terminals 3 and 4 are connected via a pedestrian walkway, allowing you to move between them without going through security again. Future plans include walkways connecting Terminals 1, 2, and 3.
Future improvements will make inter-terminal travel even easier, with plans for an automated people mover connecting all terminals, parking garages, and a new intermodal center. For now, the shuttle service is your most reliable option for reaching disconnected terminals.
Airlines Operating at FLL
One of the great things about FLL is the sheer number of airlines that fly here. Are you wondering, “What airlines operate out of Fort Lauderdale airport?” FLL is a base for major airlines like Allegiant, JetBlue, and Spirit, which has its headquarters nearby. It also serves as a key airport for Southwest Airlines in South Florida.
You’ll find a great mix of domestic and international carriers, offering hundreds of nonstop flights. From Delta and United to international carriers like Air Canada, Copa Airlines, El Al, and Bahamasair, you have plenty of choices for your travel needs. Let’s look at which airlines you’ll find at FLL.
Major Domestic Airlines
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is a hotspot for many of America’s most popular domestic airlines. It is a primary base for low-cost carriers, making it a competitive airport for affordable travel. Major airlines like Allegiant, JetBlue, and Spirit have a significant presence here.
You will also find legacy carriers like Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines, offering extensive networks across the United States. Southwest Airlines also operates a large number of flights from FLL, connecting South Florida to cities nationwide.
To help you find your way, here is a quick reference table for some of the major domestic airlines and the terminals they operate from:
| Airline | Terminal(s) |
|---|---|
| Allegiant Air | 1 |
| Delta Air Lines | 2 |
| JetBlue | 3 |
| Southwest Airlines | 1 |
| Spirit Airlines | 4 |
| United Airlines | 1 |
International Carriers and Destinations
FLL has grown into an important intercontinental gateway, offering access to destinations around the globe. The airport serves as a key connection point for travelers heading to Canada, the Caribbean, Latin America, and beyond. This makes it a fantastic starting point for your international adventures.
A diverse group of international carriers serves FLL. Whether you’re flying to Canada for a cool escape or to Latin America for a tropical vacation, you can find a flight from here.
Some of the key international airlines include:
- Air Canada: Offers multiple flights to Canadian cities like Toronto and Montreal.
- Copa Airlines: Connects you to Central and South America through its hub in Panama City.
- El Al: Provides year-round service to Tel Aviv.
- Caribbean Airlines, Azul, and Avianca: Offer extensive routes to the Caribbean and South America.
Ground Transportation Options
Once you’ve landed and collected your bags, you’ll need to get to your final destination. So, what transportation options are available from Fort Lauderdale airport? FLL offers a wide array of choices to suit every traveler’s needs and budget, ensuring a smooth transition from the airport.
You can choose from traditional taxis, modern rideshare services, convenient shuttles, rental cars, or affordable public transportation. Each option provides a different level of convenience and cost. Let’s explore these ground transportation services in more detail.
Taxis, Rideshare, and Shuttle Services
Finding a ride from FLL is quick and easy, with several options available just outside the baggage claim area on the lower level. Taxis are readily available and provide a direct route to your destination. For those who prefer app-based services, rideshare companies are also a popular choice.
Designated pickup locations make finding your ride simple. For rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, you can meet your driver at the designated spots located between Terminals 1 & 2 and Terminals 3 & 4.
Shuttle services offer another great alternative, often providing transportation to local hotels, Port Everglades, and nearby train stations.
- Taxis: Follow the signs to the taxi stand outside baggage claim.
- Rideshare: Use your app to request a ride and meet your driver at the designated pickup zones.
- Hotel Shuttles: Many local hotels offer complimentary shuttle services.
- Shared-Ride Shuttles: These services can take you to various locations at a shared cost.
Rental Cars and Public Transportation
If you prefer the freedom of driving yourself, renting a car is a fantastic option. FLL has a consolidated Rental Car Center that houses numerous rental agencies in one convenient location. The center is connected to Terminal 1, and free shuttle buses run from the other terminals to the facility.
For a more budget-friendly choice, public transportation is available. You can connect to destinations across Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties.
Here are your main options for rental cars and public transit:
- Rental Cars: Head to the Rental Car Center to pick up your pre-booked vehicle or rent one on the spot.
- Broward County Transit (BCT): Bus Route 1 serves the airport and connects to downtown Fort Lauderdale and Aventura in Miami.
- Tri-Rail & Brightline: Take a free airport shuttle to the nearby train stations for commuter rail service to Miami and West Palm Beach.
Getting to Downtown Fort Lauderdale
Since downtown Fort Lauderdale is only about three miles from the airport, getting there is fast and simple. You have several excellent options depending on your preference for speed, cost, and convenience. So, how can you get to downtown Fort Lauderdale from the airport?
Taxis and rideshare services offer the most direct route and will have you in the heart of the city in just a few minutes, depending on traffic. This is a great choice if you have a lot of luggage or are traveling in a group.
For a more economical journey, consider public transportation.
- Taxis & Rideshare: The quickest and most direct option.
- Broward County Transit: Take Route 1 from the airport to the Broward Central Terminal in downtown Fort Lauderdale.
- Airport Shuttle: Some downtown hotels may offer a direct shuttle service, so be sure to check with your accommodation.
Parking at Fort Lauderdale Airport
Driving to FLL? You might be asking, “Are there parking options at Fort Lauderdale airport and how much do they cost?” The good news is that the airport provides a variety of parking choices to accommodate every traveler, from short trips to long-term stays.
You can choose between convenient on-site garages located right next to the terminals or more budget-friendly off-site lots. Accessible parking is also available. Let’s take a closer look at the different parking choices and what you can expect in terms of rates.
On-site Parking Choices and Rates
For maximum convenience, on-site parking at FLL is the best choice. The airport has multiple parking garages, including the Cypress and Palm garages, located just a short walk from the terminals. This makes it easy to get from your car to the check-in counter without any hassle.
Parking rates for on-site garages vary based on the duration of your stay. You can choose from hourly parking for short visits, such as picking up or dropping off passengers, or daily parking for longer trips. Valet parking is also available for an even more seamless experience.
Here are the typical on-site parking options:
- Hourly Parking: Ideal for stays of a few hours.
- Daily Parking: A cost-effective choice for overnight or multi-day trips.
- Valet Parking: The most convenient option, located at the curb.
- Overflow Parking: Available during peak travel times.
Rates are posted at the entrance to each garage and can also be found on the FLL airport website.
Off-site and Accessible Parking
If you’re looking for more affordable parking rates, several off-site lots near the airport are excellent alternatives. These private facilities often offer lower daily rates compared to the on-site garages and provide complimentary shuttle services to and from the terminals.
Accessible parking is available in all on-site airport garages for travelers with disabilities. These spaces are located in the most convenient areas, typically near elevators, and are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Standard parking rates apply.
Consider these options for off-site and accessible parking:
- Off-site Lots: Companies like Air and Sea Parking or Park by the Ports offer competitive rates and free shuttles.
- Accessible Parking: Available in all on-site garages for vehicles with valid permits.
- Booking Online: Many off-site lots offer discounted rates when you book your parking in advance online.
Amenities and Services for Travelers
FLL is equipped with a range of amenities designed to make your travel experience more comfortable and enjoyable. Need to stay connected? A common question is, “Is there free Wi-Fi at Fort Lauderdale airport?” Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout all terminals.
Beyond connectivity, you might also be wondering, “What food and shopping options are available at FLL airport?” From quick bites to sit-down meals and last-minute souvenirs, the airport has you covered. Let’s explore the services you can enjoy while you wait for your flight.
Wi-Fi, Lounges, Food & Shopping
Your time at FLL can be productive and relaxing, thanks to the variety of amenities available. You can stay connected with friends, family, or work using the complimentary Wi-Fi service accessible in every terminal.
For a more exclusive experience, certain terminals feature airline lounges. The United Club is located in Terminal 1, while Delta operates a Sky Club in Terminal 2. These lounges offer comfortable seating, refreshments, and a quiet space to unwind before your flight.
When it comes to dining and retail, you’ll find plenty of choices. Ongoing renovations are bringing even more food and shopping options to the airport.
- Free Wi-Fi: Available in all terminals.
- Airline Lounges: Enjoy premium comfort in the United Club or Delta Sky Club.
- Food & Beverage: A wide selection of restaurants, cafes, and bars.
- Shopping: Browse a variety of stores for travel essentials, gifts, and more.
- Public Art: Don’t miss the “Vendor with Walkman” sculpture by Duane Hanson in Terminal 1.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early should I arrive before my flight at FLL?
For domestic flights at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, it’s best to arrive at least two hours before departure. If you’re flying internationally, plan to arrive three hours early. This gives you plenty of time for check-in, baggage drop, and clearing security without feeling rushed.
How do I check live flight status or track a flight at Fort Lauderdale airport?
You can easily track your flight status by visiting the official Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport website (broward.org/airport) or by using the free FLL Airport App. Alternatively, you can check live flight information directly on your airline’s website or mobile app for the most current updates.
What dining and shopping options are available at the airport?
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport offers a diverse range of food and shopping options across all its terminals. You’ll find everything from fast-food chains and coffee shops to sit-down restaurants and bars. Retail stores offer news, books, travel accessories, and souvenirs to browse while you wait.