Miami Airport Guide: In 2019, around 46 million people traveled through Miami International Airport (MIA), making it the fourth busiest airport in the United States. More than 100 international destinations may be reached directly from Miami International Airport, making it the second busiest airport in the United States for international travelers.
You can find helpful information about getting to and around MIA, using the airport’s facilities and services, navigating between terminals, parking, and more in this comprehensive reference.
What To Expect At Miami Airport (MIA)
Regarding international flights, Miami International Airport (also known as MIA) is rapidly becoming one of the most popular options in the United States. North Terminal (Concourse D), Central Terminal (Concourses E, F, G), and South Terminal (Concourses H, J) with connecting concourses at D/E and H/J. Moving walkways and sky trains link the concourses and the car rental center. The airport can be chaotic, so you should allow some extra time.
There is a good selection of shops and restaurants at the airport, albeit most of the 24-hour concessions are on the ground level. There are only two places to eat on the airport’s airside: Einstein Bagels in the North Terminal and the Earl of Sandwich in the South Terminal.
This airport has a yoga area, a therapy dog, and free WiFi. Please note that the WiFi may contain advertisements and that you may be required to pay to remove them. Economy class passengers can afford first-class lounges, some of which feature showers, for extra comfort.
Overview of Miami International Airport
Terminals at Miami Airport
Concourse E, Airside
Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect during your trip to Miami International Airport, whether you’re just passing through or staying the night. Parking at MIA can be found inside the “U,” while the terminal buildings are located on the outer rim.
The North Terminal, Central Terminal, and South Terminal are all located within the same prominent terminal structure. Level 3 connects with moving walkways that allow passengers to move quickly between the terminals. Level 1 is for arrivals and baggage claim, Level 2 is for departures and ticketing, and Level 3 is for access to other terminals and the MIA Mover.
At Miami International Airport, Concourse D is located in the North Terminal. Miami International Airport provided the image. Gates D1 through D12, D14 through D17, D19 through D34, D37 through D51, D53 through D55, and D60 in Concourse D are all available for local and international flights.
The Skytrain connects much of the Concourse’s length (about a mile) and its four terminals.
Connecting the North Terminal and Concourse D are four security checkpoints: three at the ticketing areas and one smaller one near the Central Terminal. Passengers who make it through this screening section will find a bridge leading directly to Concourse E’s guarded area.
Concourse D is home to many eateries and retail outlets for passengers to peruse, as well as the XpressSpa, Centurion Lounge, and two Admirals Clubs. Concourses E, F, and G of MIA’s Main Terminal Commuter corridors E, F, and G. Miami International Airport provided the image.
Concourses E, F, and G are located at the base of the U-shaped Central Terminal. Miami Airport is home to a hotel, numerous stores and restaurants (some of which can only be accessed by passing through security), and multiple terminals. Unlike Concourse G, which serves solely domestic flights, Concourse E and F handle international and domestic traffic.
Gates E2 and E4–E11 are located in the main Concourse, whereas gates E20–E25, E30–E31, and E33 are in a satellite building connected to the main Concourse by a walkway or a train. Across the protected area, a connecting bridge connects Concourse E and Concourse D at gate E2. Gates F3–F12, F14–F21, and F23 are located on Concourse F. From the security checkpoint, the shortest route to any of the gates is between three and five minutes.
All 14 gates on Concourse G (G2, G4, G5, G8, G12, G14, G16, and G19) are within a 3- to 5-minute walk of the security checkpoint. Passengers connecting to or from any other concourse than Concourses E and D must leave the restricted area and use the moving walkways on Level 3. Miami International Airport, South Terminal (Concourses H and J). The H and J Corridors. Miami International Airport provided the image.
Concourses H and J, which handle both international and domestic aircraft, can be accessed directly from the South Terminal. Passengers within the safe zone have access to a walkway connecting the two terminals. Most of the restaurants and stores on both levels are also located here. Gates 3–12 and 14–20 are located on Concourse H. Gates 2–5 are on Concourse J, and gates 7–12 and 14–18 are all part of Concourse J.
Passengers must leave the protected area and use the moving walkways on Level 3 to reach their connecting Concourse, where they will be subject to further security checks.
In close proximity to D25 Terminal, which accommodates Gates D20 through D25 Gate D29 is conveniently located, providing access to Gates D26–D39 and Gates E1–E35. This area is next to Gate D46, which provides access to Gates D40-D60.
To reach gates 20–33 in the satellite terminal, travelers can hop on the Miami Airport E Train from Concourse E. The train leaves from the main Concourse, on Level 4. The Rental Car Center and Central Station are easily accessible through the MIA Mover, situated between the Dolphin and Flamingo garages on the third level.
Walking
The terminals and concourses of Miami Airport (MIA) are all connected by pedestrian walkways. It’s impossible to always be safe within the protected zone.
If you’re not traveling on an international aircraft, you can click Concourses D and E and Concourses H and J without leaving the airport’s airside.
Passengers connecting from any other terminal must go through security again when entering this terminal.
See also: JFK Airport (Complete Guide 2023)
Identifying The Finest MIA Airport Lounges
1. American Airlines Flagship Lounge (near D30)
A credit card or membership program would only get you entry to the American Airlines Flagship Lounge, making it one of the most elite lounges at the Miami airport.
It’s next to gate D30 on Concourse D, accessible to those with the proper credentials. It’s available all week long, beginning at 5:30 a.m.
Almost 29,000 square feet may be found in this enormous room. About 475 people can be seated across a variety of sections.
Many different types of seating are available, from sofas and chaise lounges to secluded alcoves with high stools. You’ll have easy access to a power outlet or USB port everywhere you sit.
2. American Airlines Admirals Club (near D30)
The American Airlines Admirals Club is next to the Flagship Lounge, near gate D30. It shares the same hours of operation as the Flagship Lounge, which is 5:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Even though the lounge is somewhat large, there are times when it becomes highly packed. If you’re a solitary traveler, you should be okay with getting a seat, but families may sometimes be able to sit together.
The D30 Admirals Club, like the others, has a sleek, contemporary look with a variety of comfortable sitting options.
3. American Airlines Admirals Club (near D15)
In addition to the Admiral’s Club located on the second level, American Airlines has a second location on the third level just over gate D15. The current business hours are every day from 5:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
This lounge, like the one near gate D30, is enormous, clocking in at over 14,000 square feet. It, too, has a sleek and contemporary appearance. The fact that it is a peaceful area is a plus.
From what we’ve seen, this airport area is much less popular than the more exclusive Admirals Club on Deck 30 or the American Express Centurion Lounge. Therefore, it is easier to find available seats here than in other areas.
4. The Centurion Lounge (near D12)
The American Express Centurion Lounge at Miami Airport (MIA) is conveniently located near the Admirals Club and Gate D15. This lounge is available daily from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and can be found at gate D12.
This Amex lounge is one of the enormous Centurion lounges in the network, with a total area of 12,300 square feet. A few years ago, an expansion brought many positive changes.
The chic room is filled with natural light from the high ceiling and floor-to-ceiling windows that wrap around three sides.
Several different types of seating are available, from individual desks to couches and dining tables. In addition, there are a variety of buffets and pubs with extensive drinks and food options.
Unfortunately, despite its size, overcrowding remains a serious problem. You may have to register on a waiting list to get in, and even inside, you may have difficulties locating an available seat at most times of the day.
5. The Corona Beach House (around D23/D24).
Instead of spending time in the lounge, guests can eat in the Corona Beach House’s complimentary restaurant. If you’re a member of Priority Pass, you can get a free lunch here valued at up to $30.
The best part is that, unlike other Priority Pass establishments, you may apply that credit to the tip. To-go orders and grab-and-go snacks are the only exceptions.
The eatery is accessible after passing through security, between gates D23 and D24, and is open every day from 7:30 a.m. until 9 p.m.
During peak times, you may have to wait up to 10 minutes for a table, despite the ample space. Fried chicken, hamburgers, subs, tacos, salads, and pasta are just some dishes you can order from the menu.
See also: Dubai International Airport – Full Guide 2023
Final Thoughts
If you’re departing from D gates, you’ll find that Miami Airport or MIA has more lounge options than any other terminal. If you have a Priority Pass issued by Capital One or Chase and are looking for a more substantial pre-flight fare, you may be better off at Corona Beach House.
While the Centurion Lounge and Flagship Lounge are the most abundant, providing stunning places to recharge your electronics, get a snack, and relax before your next flight.
We trust you now have all the data you need to make an informed decision regarding Miami International Airport. Your visit is greatly appreciated.
