โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
International โ Domestic
90
minutes
International โ International
120
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Memphis International Airport (MEM) serves the city of Memphis and the Mid-South region, acting as a critical aviation hub for both passengers and the global logistics industry. The airport features a modern, consolidated terminal building following a major 2022 modernization project, which centralized passenger processing into a single, light-filled concourse. Its architecture features high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and local art installations that provide a professional and welcoming atmosphere for travelers arriving at the 'Blues Capital of the World.'
The terminal experience at Memphis is highly efficient and designed for modern travel, reflecting the city's role as the world's primary cargo hub for FedEx. Inside, passengers have access to spacious waiting areas, a variety of premium lounges, and digital flight information systems that keep travelers updated on connections across North America. The facility is managed with a focus on speed and reliability, featuring streamlined security checkpoints and advanced baggage handling systems that cater to both business travelers and the millions of tourists visiting nearby Graceland and Beale Street.
Amenities within the Memphis terminal are excellent, featuring a wide selection of retail shops offering local music-themed souvenirs and diverse dining options that highlight the city's world-famous barbecue and Southern cuisine. The facility provides essential modern services such as free high-speed Wi-Fi, mobile charging stations, and dedicated informational kiosks for tourists. Outside the main arrivals hall, a well-organized ground transport network is available, including dedicated taxi stands, shuttle services, and several car rental agencies providing reliable connections to downtown Memphis and the surrounding residential and industrial districts.
๐ Connection Tips
Connecting through Memphis International Airport (MEM) is an exceptionally user-friendly experience following the completion of the major terminal modernization project in 2022. The airport primarily hosts major carriers like FedEx (as its world superhub), but for passenger service, it serves Delta, American, Southwest, and United, offering direct links to major national hubs. A unique tip for visitors is utilizing the dedicated 'MATA' public bus (Route 28) which provides a direct and affordable link to the city's central transportation hub. Arriving at least 60 minutes before domestic departures is typically sufficient to navigate the streamlined security processes. When connecting back to a long-haul flight, always allow for a generous buffer in your schedule.
For travelers, the most critical tip is that MEM now operates from a centralized single concourse (Concourse B); unlike the older multi-concourse layout, you no longer need to switch buildings for most connections. Arriving 90 to 120 minutes before departures is typically sufficient to navigate the thorough but generally fast TSA security screening. For those staying in the local area, several hotels offer complimentary shuttle services from the terminal. The terminal facilities at Memphis are state-of-the-art and professional, featuring free high-speed Wi-Fi, numerous charging stations, and a diverse selection of dining options serving traditional Memphis BBQ and Southern specialties. MEM provides a professional and remarkably stress-free arrival experience, reflecting the unique hospitality and dynamic growth of the 'Home of the Blues. ' Always check your flight status via the airport or airline app to ensure a smooth transition.
For international-to-domestic transfers, simply follow the 'Transfers' signs upon arrival; you will clear immigration and customs, then proceed to the centralized security checkpoint. Ground transportation is well-coordinated; the most reliable mode of transport to downtown Memphis and the world-famous Beale Street is via local taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, which typically arrive at the terminal within 5 minutes. Car rental agencies like Enterprise, Avis, and Hertz have desks directly in the terminal arrivals hall. The regional climate is temperate continental, but summer heat can be intense and afternoon thunderstorms may occasionally lead to minor delays.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
75
minutes
International โ Domestic
75
minutes
International โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) is the primary international airport serving New Mexico, located just three miles southeast of downtown Albuquerque. The airport boasts a distinctive Pueblo-style architectural terminal, which is both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. This single, multi-level terminal efficiently manages all arrivals and departures, featuring a logical layout designed for passenger convenience. The lower level is dedicated to arriving passengers, housing baggage claim areas (three in total to serve Concourses A and B) and providing direct exits to ground transportation.
The upper level of the terminal is the departure zone, where travelers will find airline ticketing counters, security checkpoints, and access to the two main concourses, Concourse A and Concourse B. Concourse A primarily serves American Airlines, Delta, and United, while Southwest Airlines predominantly operates out of Concourse B. The terminal has a total of 22 gates, ensuring ample capacity for its scheduled domestic flights and limited international services. Recent upgrades include a TSA Checkpoint Terminal Connector Project, which has enhanced security screening with up to four lanes and modern passenger amenities like new escalators and elevators.
Amenities at ABQ are comprehensive for a regional international facility. Passengers can enjoy free Wi-Fi, numerous charging stations, a variety of shops (including those offering local artisanal gifts), and diverse dining options ranging from cafes and fast-food outlets to restaurants serving New Mexican cuisine. Additional facilities like a Meditation Room and an observation deck contribute to a comfortable travel experience, complemented by a notable art collection displayed throughout the terminal.
๐ Connection Tips
Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) offers excellent ground transportation connectivity just 3 miles southeast of downtown. ABQ RIDE provides completely free bus service (fare-free since November 2023) with Route 50 connecting the airport to downtown via Union Square Bus Station every 15-30 minutes, taking just 24 minutes total - the bus stop is conveniently located on the lower level at the west end of the shuttle island. Route 50 also connects to the Alvarado Transportation Center downtown where passengers can transfer to the New Mexico Rail Runner Express.
Rail Runner connections are enhanced through Route 350 (Railrunner Connecting bus) and free bus transfers when you have a valid Rail Runner ticket purchased in advance online or via mobile app - otherwise pay the driver a $1 fare each way. Official taxi service is available with fares starting at $35 to downtown Albuquerque through companies like ABQ Metro Taxi (505-450-8580) and Aspen Rides (505-388-3692). Ride-sharing via Uber and Lyft requires pre-booking as street hailing is not permitted.
For Santa Fe destinations, Groome Transportation operates 30 daily trips taking 75 minutes with variable pricing, while RoadRunner Charter provides door-to-door service to Santa Fe and Los Alamos areas. The Rail Runner Express connects Santa Fe, Albuquerque, and Belen with convenient airport shuttle connections. Recent December 2025 improvements under the ABQ RIDE Forward Network Plan enhanced transit connectivity throughout the metropolitan area.
โ Back to Memphis International Airport