Southwest Terminal Austin Airport: A Complete Traveler’s Guide

If you're flying with Southwest Airlines and departing from or arriving at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), it's essential to know the layout, amenities, and travel tips for the Southwest Terminal Austin Airport. This guide will help you navigate the terminal with ease, ensuring a smooth and stress-free airport experience.

Overview of the Southwest Terminal at Austin Airport

The Southwest Terminal Austin Airport refers to the Barbara Jordan Terminal, the main terminal at AUS. Unlike some larger airports with multiple terminals for different carriers, Austin-Bergstrom features a single major terminal that houses nearly all domestic airlines, including Southwest.

Located at 3600 Presidential Blvd, Austin, TX 78719, the Barbara Jordan Terminal is modern, efficient, and reflects the local culture with art installations, live music performances, and a variety of dining options. For Southwest travelers, this terminal offers all the essential services — from ticketing to boarding — under one roof.

Southwest Check-In and Security at Austin Airport

Southwest Airlines check-in counters are located on the departures level of the Barbara Jordan Terminal. Passengers can choose from self-service kiosks or full-service counters to print boarding passes, check bags, or make changes to their reservations. Southwest also provides curbside check-in service, which is especially convenient for travelers with limited time or heavy luggage.

After checking in, passengers proceed to the centralized TSA security checkpoint. To streamline the process, it's best to arrive at least 90 minutes prior to departure for domestic flights and 2 hours for international departures.

Gate Information for Southwest Airlines at AUS

Once through security, Southwest passengers will typically find their gates located in the mid-to-south section of the terminal, primarily in gates 10 through 20. Always verify your gate number via digital monitors or the Southwest Airlines mobile app, as gate assignments may change based on operational needs.

The Southwest Terminal Austin Airport is designed with passenger comfort in mind, featuring wide corridors, ample seating, charging stations, and easy access to all amenities.

Dining and Shopping Options

One of the best features of the Southwest Terminal Austin Airport is its vibrant food and retail scene. True to Austin's reputation, you’ll find an array of local and national brands offering everything from quick bites to full meals.

Top Dining Options:

• Salt Lick BBQ – Enjoy Texas-style barbecue right in the terminal.
• Peached Tortilla – Asian-Southern fusion dishes, popular with locals.
• Jo’s Coffee – A favorite for travelers seeking high-quality coffee and pastries.
• Amy’s Ice Creams – A must-try local dessert stop for families and solo travelers alike.

Shopping Highlights:

• Austin City Market – Souvenirs, snacks, and travel essentials.
• BookPeople – A satellite of Austin’s beloved indie bookstore.
• Longhorns Store – Official University of Texas merchandise.

Lounges and Waiting Areas

While Southwest Airlines does not operate its own lounge at AUS, the Barbara Jordan Terminal offers comfortable seating areas with free high-speed Wi-Fi, water bottle refill stations, and family restrooms. There are also designated quiet zones for travelers who prefer a peaceful space to relax or work before their flight.

Ground Transportation and Parking

The Southwest Terminal Austin Airport is well-connected to all major ground transportation services. Here are your options:

• Rideshare: Uber, Lyft, and Wingz pick up at the designated rideshare zone near baggage claim.
• Public Transit: Capital Metro’s Route 20 connects the terminal to downtown Austin in under 30 minutes.
• Taxis and Shuttles: Available curbside on the lower arrivals level.
• Rental Cars: Accessible via a quick shuttle ride to the rental car facility.
• Parking: Options include short-term parking near the terminal and long-term economy lots with frequent shuttle service.

Travel Tips for the Southwest Terminal at Austin Airport

To make your travel experience as smooth as possible, consider these tips:

1. Download the Southwest App: It provides real-time flight updates, gate info, and mobile boarding passes.
2. Arrive Early: While AUS is efficient, it can get busy, especially during peak hours (early morning and late afternoon).
3. Use TSA PreCheck or CLEAR: These services can save you time at security.
4. Check for Live Music: Austin Airport frequently hosts live performances in the terminal – a fun perk that showcases local talent.
5. Hydrate and Charge Up: Water bottle refill stations and plenty of USB charging outlets are available throughout the Southwest Terminal.

Conclusion

Navigating the Southwest Terminal Austin Airport is a straightforward and enjoyable experience, thanks to the well-organized layout of the Barbara Jordan Terminal and the amenities designed with travelers in mind. Whether you’re heading to Austin or flying out to your next destination, this guide gives you everything you need to make the most of your time at the airport.

For the latest updates, visit Southwest Airlines or the Austin Airport official site.