โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
International โ Domestic
90
minutes
International โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport operates from one main terminal building with four concourses (A, B, C, and D) that are fully connected airside, allowing passengers to move freely between all areas without re-clearing security. This design makes connections particularly efficient, as Alaska Airlines' hub operations and other carriers can coordinate seamlessly across the entire terminal complex.
The concourses extend from the central terminal core, with Concourse A serving primarily Alaska Airlines domestic operations, Concourse B handling a mix of domestic carriers, Concourse C accommodating international and some domestic flights, and Concourse D dedicated to international operations with full customs and immigration facilities. Walking times between the furthest points (A to D) typically take 15-20 minutes, with moving walkways along the main spine to assist passenger flow.
Security screening is handled through multiple TSA checkpoints positioned throughout the terminal, with separate areas for general screening, TSA PreCheck, and CLEAR members. Wait times vary considerably by time of day and season, ranging from 10-15 minutes during off-peak hours to 45 minutes or more during busy summer travel periods and morning departure banks. The checkpoint areas are clearly marked and well-staffed.
International arrivals are processed in Concourse D, which features comprehensive immigration facilities including automated passport control kiosks for eligible travelers and traditional booths for others. U.S. customs processing follows immigration, with standard green/red channel procedures. The airport handles significant trans-Pacific traffic, particularly to Asia, making it a major international gateway for the Pacific Northwest.
Amenities throughout the terminal showcase Pacific Northwest culture and cuisine, with local restaurant chains like Anthony's Pier 66, Beecher Handmade Cheese, and numerous coffee shops reflecting Seattle's coffee culture. The airport features multiple airline lounges including Alaska Airlines Board Room locations, Delta Sky Clubs, and the Centurion Lounge. Shopping includes both national brands and local Pacific Northwest retailers. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the terminal, with abundant charging stations and comfortable seating areas designed with local artistic elements.
๐ Connection Tips
SEA is Alaska Airlines' main hub. All concourses are connected airside, making transfers efficient.
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) is predominantly a domestic airport, offering non-stop passenger flights to 31 destinations within the United States. Key airlines operating at ABQ include Southwest, American, Delta, United, and Alaska Airlines, providing crucial connections to major hubs such as Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Denver (DEN), Houston (IAH), Phoenix (PHX), and Los Angeles (LAX). While ABQ is designated as an international airport, direct international flight routes are limited.\n\nFor domestic connections, ABQ's single-terminal design and compact layout contribute to efficient transfers. A minimum connection time of 45-60 minutes is generally sufficient for domestic-to-domestic transfers, but it is always recommended to allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours, especially during peak travel times or early morning departures. All connecting passengers must pass through TSA security, and ABE offers TSA PreCheck and CLEAR lanes to expedite this process.\n\nIf connecting from an international flight, passengers will typically route through larger US international airports (e.g., DFW, LAX) where they will clear U.S. Customs and Immigration. They would then proceed to their connecting domestic flight to ABQ. Conversely, for international departures from ABQ, travelers would typically connect via a major hub. It is essential to check luggage policies with individual airlines, as interline transfers are common but require careful coordination if separate tickets are involved.
โ Back to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport