Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (IATA: DFW, ICAO: KDFW) is one of the largest and busiest airports in the United States and is a significant hub for domestic and international travel. Strategically located between the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas, the airport spans over 17,000 acres, making it the second-largest airport in the U.S. by land area. As a primary hub for American Airlines, DFW connects travellers to destinations across six continents.

Dallas Fort Worth Airport is one of the busiest airports in the United States. It offers direct flights to over 190 domestic and 60 international locations. The airport’s layout and transport links are designed to help travellers reach their gates and surrounding areas quickly and easily.

Passengers can also benefit from prepaid parking and direct rail access via the Dallas Area Rapid Transit system, which eases travel. These features make Dallas Fort Worth International a practical choice for many flying in and out of Texas. More details can be found on the official DFW Airport website.

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General Information – Dallas Fort Worth Airport

Location: Between Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas
Country: United States
Airport Type: Public, International
IATA Code: DFW
ICAO Code: KDFW
Elevation: 607 feet (185 metres)
Coordinates: 32°53′48″N 97°02′50″W
Timezone: UTC−6 (CST) / UTC−5 (CDT during Daylight Saving Time)
Distance from City Centre: Approx. 29 km (18 miles) from downtown Dallas and 35 km (22 miles) from Fort Worth
Website: www.dfwairport.com
Operator: DFW Airport Board
Services: Scheduled domestic and international flights, cargo, and general aviation

Airport Details

Runways: 7
Runway Designations and Lengths:
13L/31R: 2,591 m (8,500 ft) – Asphalt
13R/31L: 4,087 m (13,405 ft) – Concrete
17C/35C: 4,085 m (13,401 ft) – Concrete
17L/35R: 3,963 m (13,002 ft) – Concrete
17R/35L: 2,591 m (8,500 ft) – Asphalt
18L/36R: 3,048 m (10,000 ft) – Concrete
18R/36L: 3,962 m (13,000 ft) – Concrete
Runway Surface: Asphalt and concrete
Runway Strength: Supports all aircraft up to Code F (e.g., B747, A380)
Fire Services: ARFF Category 10
Tower Frequency: Available
Ground Frequency: Available
Navigation Aids: ILS CAT III, RNAV, VOR/DME, GPS
Customs and Immigration: U.S. CBP available 24/7 for international commercial and GA traffic
Aircraft Types: All aircraft, including regional, narrow-body, wide-body, and business jets
Terminals: 5 terminals (A through E) connected by Skylink train
Cargo Facilities: FedEx, UPS, Amazon Air, and DHL operations
Fuel: JET A, AVGAS
FBOs: Signature Flight Support, American Aero FTW
Equipment: GPU, de-icing, potable water, lavatory, hangar space, maintenance
Ground Services: Full commercial, general, and VIP aviation handling

Flight Operations – Dallas Fort Worth Airport

Permit Time: 24–48 hours for international general aviation with prior CBP coordination
Permission Required: Yes, for non-scheduled and foreign-registered aircraft
Slots: Required for certain international arrivals during peak hours
Aircraft Types: All aircraft up to Code F
Alternate Airports:
DAL: Dallas Love Field
AFW: Fort Worth Alliance Airport
ADS: Addison Airport

Contact Information

Enquiries: +1 972-973-3112
Email: dfwinfo@dfwairport.com
FBO Coordination: Via respective FBOs or through airport operations

Passenger Information

Immigration Requirements: U.S. visa, ESTA, or passport as per entry requirements
Crew Requirements: Passport, crew ID/licence, General Declaration, visa/ESTA if required
Transport Options: DART Rail (Orange Line), taxis, Uber/Lyft, rental cars, hotel shuttles
Nearby Accommodation:
Close to Airport: Grand Hyatt DFW, Hyatt Regency DFW, Sheraton DFW Airport
In Dallas/Fort Worth: The Joule, Omni Fort Worth Hotel, Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek
Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD); all major cards accepted

Terminals and Facilities

DFW Airport has five terminals numbered A through E. Each terminal hosts numerous gates with domestic and international flights. Terminal D is the primary international terminal, handling flights to over 60 countries.

Facilities include various dining and shopping options, lounges, business centres, and free Wi-Fi throughout the terminals. The airport provides baggage handling, security checkpoints, and parking options, including economy and premium lots.

Key features:

  • 5 Terminals (A-E)
  • 191 domestic and 63 international destinations
  • Multiple ground transportation options

History and Development

DFW officially opened in 1974 as a joint project between Dallas and Fort Worth. It was built to replace older, smaller airports in both cities. The airport aimed to serve the growing population of the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex.

Over the years, DFW expanded with new terminals and runways. American Airlines chose DFW as its central hub, significantly increasing flights and passenger numbers. The airport now ranks among the busiest worldwide by aircraft movements and passenger volume.

Continuous upgrades include terminal renovations and technology improvements to handle increasing passenger demand and improve efficiency. For a more detailed history, visit the Comprehensive History of Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.

Airlines and Destinations

Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport offers flights to numerous locations across the United States and worldwide. It serves a wide range of airline partners, providing extensive access for travellers to major cities and remote destinations.

Domestic Flights

DFW Airport connects to 191 domestic destinations, making it one of the busiest hubs in the country. Key routes include major cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Miami. The airport handles many daily flights that serve business travellers, holidaymakers, and locals.

Some popular domestic airlines operating from DFW include American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Breeze Airways. American Airlines operates a significant hub here, providing many flight options and frequent services. The domestic network allows easy access to regional airports and larger metropolis centres.

International Flights

DFW offers non-stop flights to 63 international destinations in 38 countries. These routes span Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas. Key long-haul destinations include Istanbul, Frankfurt, Paris, Dubai, and Amsterdam.

International flights are operated by airlines such as Aeromexico, Air Canada, Air France, and Avianca. The airport supports various flight durations, such as over 14 hours to Dubai and under 10 hours to Frankfurt or Paris. These flights connect Dallas-Fort Worth to global business hubs and popular tourist spots.

Major Airline Partners

American Airlines is the dominant airline partner at DFW, running the largest hub at this airport. They offer the most domestic and international routes, plus extensive daily schedules.

Other significant partners include Aeromexico, Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, and Air France. These airlines offer passengers a variety of choices, covering short-haul and long-haul flights. The presence of multiple international carriers supports DFW’s role as a significant gateway.

Overall, the cooperation among these airlines ensures that DFW serves a broad, diverse market with reliable connectivity. For a complete list of airlines, see Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport’s airlines page.

Passenger Services and Amenities – Dallas Fort Worth Airport

Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport offers many services and facilities to make travel easier and more comfortable. Passengers can find various food options, shopping choices, places to relax, and support for those with support needs, travelling with children, or on business.

Dining and Shopping

The airport has over 200 dining options, from quick snacks to full-service restaurants. Passengers can find cuisines like American, Mexican, Asian, and more across all five terminals. Popular chains and local favourites are both available.

Shopping includes duty-free stores, fashion boutiques, and electronics shops. It caters to various needs, including gifts, travel essentials, and luxury items. Many shops are open throughout the day but may have shorter hours overnight.

Lounges and Relaxation Areas

Multiple lounges are located in various terminals for passengers who want to rest or work in a quieter environment. Some lounges require membership or a fee, while others are accessible for premium ticket holders.

There are also designated quiet areas and comfortable seating zones. These spaces offer charging stations and free Wi-Fi, helping travellers stay connected or relax before flights.

Accessibility Services

The airport strongly supports passengers with reduced mobility. These services include wheelchair assistance, electric convenience vehicles, and accessible restrooms throughout the terminals.

Specially trained staff are available to help with boarding and connecting flights. Breastfeeding pods and service animal relief areas are also provided for passenger comfort.

Family and Business Facilities

Families will find play areas for children, family restrooms, and nursing rooms to ease traveling with young kids. The airport also offers stroller rentals and kid-friendly dining options.

There are workstations with printers and charging points for business travellers. Meeting rooms and quiet zones support those needing a productive space while waiting for flights.

Ground Transport and Parking – Dallas Fort Worth Airport

Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport offers several ways to get to and from the terminal, including public transport, car hire, and rideshares. Parking is available in multiple conveniently located areas with different rates and services to fit various needs.

Public Transport Connections

DFW is served by Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), which offers light rail connections to the airport via the Orange Line. This service links DFW with downtown Dallas and other regional key points.

Buses also operate between the airport and local destinations, providing an affordable choice for travellers without cars. These services allow passengers to reach major hubs and city centres.

Signage at the airport directs passengers to the public transport areas. Facilities are designed to make transfers simple for all users.

Car Hire and Rideshares

Several major car rental companies operate at DFW, with desks inside the terminals. The airport’s dedicated rental car facility makes collecting and returning rental cars easy.

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft pick up and drop off passengers at designated zones outside each terminal. These zones are signed and easy to find.

Other options include taxis, limousine services, and private car hires, which offer a range of prices and comfort levels. This variety meets different travellers’ preferences and budgets.

Parking Options

DFW provides five main parking areas, allowing drivers to choose based on convenience and price. Terminal parking is closest but also the most expensive.

The long-term lots offer budget-friendly daily rates, often with free shuttle service to all terminals. Prepaying online can save over 50% on parking fees.

Additional options include valet parking and premium covered parking for quicker access and shelter from the weather. Many travellers use the official DFW parking site to book and manage their spot in advance.

Local Attractions – Dallas Fort Worth Airport

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

A historic site chronicling the legacy of President John F. Kennedy is located in downtown Dallas.

Fort Worth Stockyards

A preserved historic district showcasing the Old West with cattle drives, rodeos, and western-themed shopping.

Dallas Museum of Art

A leading art museum featuring over 24,000 works spanning 5,000 years of history, from ancient to contemporary.

AT&T Stadium

Home of the Dallas Cowboys and a venue for concerts, sports, and large-scale events in Arlington.

Klyde Warren Park

A lively urban green space built above a freeway in downtown Dallas with food trucks, free activities, and city views.

Sundance Square

Downtown Fort Worth’s entertainment and shopping district has restaurants, theatres, and live music venues.

Travel Tips

Best Times to Visit:
Mar–May and Sep–Nov: Pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds
Summer: Busy season with events, but can be very hot

Additional Notes:
DFW is one of the few airports with its own ZIP code and post office
The Skylink automated train makes inter-terminal transfers easy and quick
Known for short taxi times and efficient customs processing
Ideal for transiting passengers with excellent amenities and lounge options

Frequently Asked Questions – Dallas Fort Worth Airport

Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport offers clear procedures for moving between terminals and detailed information on flight status. The airport provides maps online and lists its security checkpoint hours. Specific facilities are available in the American Airlines terminal, and there are updates on any recent disruptions.

What is the procedure for terminal transfers at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport?

Passengers use the Terminal Link shuttle to transfer between terminals. The shuttle runs frequently and connects all terminals inside the secure area. Signs and staff are available to guide travellers to shuttle stops.

Where can I find a map of the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport online?

The Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport website has an official airport map that shows terminals, gates, amenities, and transport options for easy navigation.

What are the operational hours for the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport security checkpoints?

Security checkpoints operate 24 hours a day to accommodate all flights. However, some checkpoints may have limited staff during late-night hours, so passengers should allow extra time.

How can I obtain information on flight arrivals and departures at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport?

Flight information can be checked on the airport’s official website or mobile app. Screens throughout the terminals also display real-time updates on arrivals and departures.

What facilities are available at the American Airlines terminal at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport?

The American Airlines terminal has lounges, dining options, and shops. It offers priority services like expedited check-in and boarding for eligible travellers.

Has Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport experienced any recent disruptions or closures?

Any recent disruptions or closures are posted on the airport’s customer service page. These updates include reasons for delays and expected resolution times. For current details, travellers should check online before arriving.

See Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport’s frequently asked questions for more detailed answers.