Dallas Love Field Airport Overview

Dallas Love Field Airport (IATA: DAL, ICAO: KDAL) is a central business and general aviation hub just minutes from downtown Dallas, Texas. Once the city’s main airport, it now serves as a key regional airport and is a significant base for Southwest Airlines. Known for its convenience, efficiency, and proximity to downtown Dallas, DAL also supports general aviation, corporate, and military traffic.

General Information – Dallas Love Field Airport Code

  • Location: Dallas, Texas
  • Country: United States
  • IATA Code: DAL
  • ICAO Code: KDAL
  • Elevation: 487 feet (149 metres)
  • Coordinates: 32°50′49″N 096°51′06″W
  • Airport Type: Public / Domestic
  • Flights: Scheduled domestic, business, and general aviation flights
  • Timezone: UTC−6 (Central Standard Time) / UTC−5 (Daylight Saving Time)
  • Distance from City: Approx. 10 km (6 miles) northwest of downtown Dallas
  • Website: www.dallas-lovefield.com
  • Ground Services: Full commercial, business aviation, and general aviation handling
  • Operator: City of Dallas, Department of Aviation

Airport Details – Dallas Love Field Airport Code

  • Runways: 2
  • Runway Designations and Lengths:
    • 13L/31R: 2,163 m (7,112 ft) – Asphalt
    • 13R/31L: 1,588 m (5,217 ft) – Asphalt
  • Runway Surfaces: Asphalt
  • Runway Strengths: Supports regional jets, business jets, and mid-size commercial aircraft
  • Fire Services: ARFF Category 8
  • Tower Frequency: Available
  • Ground Frequency: Available
  • Navigation Assistance: ILS, RNAV, VOR, DME, GPS
  • Customs: U.S. Customs available on request (via FBOs for GA and business aircraft)
  • Aircraft Types: Code C aircraft and below; larger aircraft restricted by runway length and terminal capacity
  • Terminals: One main terminal with 20 gates
  • Cargo: Limited cargo facilities
  • Fuel: JET A, AVGAS available
  • FBOs: Signature Flight Support, Business Jet Center
  • Equipment: GSE, GPU, de-icing, lavatory, potable water
  • Ground Services: Executive lounges, VIP handling, ramp parking, and maintenance services

Flight Information

  • Permit Time: 24–48 hours for international general aviation arrivals (via customs coordination)
  • Permission Required: Yes, for charter and international non-scheduled flights
  • Slots: Not required for GA; commercial service restricted by Wright Amendment reform rules
  • Backup Airports:
    • DFW: Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (central hub)
    • ADS: Addison Airport (GA-focused, 14 km away)

Contact Information

Visitor Information

  • Immigration Rules: U.S. CBP rules apply — passport, visa, or ESTA required
  • Crew Requirements: Passport, licenses, crew ID; visa/ESTA where applicable
  • Transport: Rental cars, taxis, Uber/Lyft, Dallas DART buses, hotel shuttles
  • Accommodation:
    • Nearby: Aloft Hotel Dallas Love Field, DoubleTree, Embassy Suites
    • Downtown Dallas: Hotels like The Joule, Adolphus Hotel, and Fairmont Dallas
  • Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD); major cards widely accepted

Nearby Attractions

Downtown Dallas

The business district and cultural centre, with museums, restaurants, and parks, are just minutes away.

Dallas Museum of Art & Nasher Sculpture Centre

Highly regarded museums offering world-class exhibitions and architecture.

Dealey Plaza & Sixth Floor Museum

Historic site of the JFK assassination with educational exhibits and walking tours.

American Airlines Centre

Arena hosting concerts, Dallas Mavericks (NBA), and Dallas Stars (NHL) games.

Highland Park Village

Upscale shopping and dining in one of Dallas’s most luxurious neighbourhoods.

Extra Tips

  • Getting Around: Rental cars recommended; rideshare services widely available
  • Travel: The Airport is busiest during weekdays and holiday travel periods
  • Best Times to Visit:
    • Spring (Mar–May): Pleasant weather and seasonal events
    • Fall (Sep–Nov): Ideal temperatures and fewer crowds
  • Tips:
    • Coordinate U.S. Customs in advance via FBO for international GA arrivals
    • DAL is more convenient than DFW for downtown business travellers
    • Business Jet Centre and Signature provide high-end facilities and full support
    • No international commercial flights; GA customs clearance only through FBO

Dallas Love Field offers seamless executive access and fast turnaround for regional and business aviation, with world-class FBO support and unmatched proximity to Dallas’s urban core.