Miami International Airport (MIA) stands as one of the key air transport hubs in the United States, linking North America with Latin America and Europe. Located just 13 kilometers northwest of the city center of Miami, it is not only a critical gateway for passengers but also a major conduit for international freight.
Terminal layout and gates
Miami International Airport comprises three main terminals – North, Central, and South – each tailored to facilitate specific air traffic flows.
North Terminal (Concourse D)
The North Terminal, or Concourse D, is exclusively utilized by American Airlines and is one of the busiest concourses at MIA. It stretches over a mile long and is equipped with 45 gates (D1-D60, excluding some numbers). This terminal is renowned for its Skytrain, an automated people mover that helps passengers navigate the concourse quickly, with stations located at four strategic points.
Central Terminal (Concourses E, F, G)
Concourse E: Serves a mix of international and domestic flights and is a key operational area for several international carriers. Concourse E also houses the International Greeter's Lobby and U.S. Customs facilities for passengers arriving on international flights. It has a unique setup with gates on two levels (upper and lower) and includes an American Airlines Admirals Club.
Concourse F: Primarily handles international flights for airlines such as Air Europa, Lufthansa and others. Concourse F is equipped with 19 gates and offers various passenger amenities, including dining and retail outlets.
Concourse G: Mainly accommodates domestic flights and is used by several low-cost carriers. This concourse has 15 gates and more limited services compared to the other areas but includes essential amenities for traveler convenience.
South Terminal (Concourses H and J)
Concourse H: Operated primarily by Delta Air Lines, Concourse H facilitates both domestic and international flights and includes 13 gates. This concourse features a range of services, including a Delta Sky Club lounge for passengers seeking a comfortable and exclusive waiting area.
Concourse J: Dedicated to serving multiple international airlines, Concourse J is a modern facility with 15 gates and hosts carriers such as Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways and more. It boasts expansive duty-free shopping, a variety of international dining options and a premium VIP lounge.
Baggage handling at Miami International Airport
At Miami International Airport, the baggage handling process depends on your ticketing and travel arrangements – learn a little more here.
Single ticket connections
For passengers traveling on a single ticket, baggage is typically checked through to the final destination. Customs checks are conducted at the first point of entry into the United States if arriving from international origins.
Multiple ticket or different airlines
Travelers with multiple tickets or who are flying with different airlines may need to collect and then recheck their baggage. This is especially common when switching between carriers or terminals, requiring passengers to handle their luggage between flights manually.
Security routine
Travelers arriving at Miami International Airport from domestic locations usually bypass further passport control or security screenings, as these flights are considered domestic within the United States.
However, passengers coming from international destinations must undergo passport control upon entry into the United States. During this procedure, you might be asked brief questions about your journey, and you'll need to show necessary travel documents like your passport and possibly a visa. Additionally, customs checks to inspect for restricted or dutiable items may be conducted based on your origin country.
Find the best place to eat
The airport offers a plethora of dining options, and here you can find something for all flavors. Some of the popular options are presented below.
Corona Beach House: Here you can enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner with quality ingredients and lots of vegetarian options. Located in Concourse J.
Shula’s Bar & Grill: Offers a fine dining experience in Concourse H, with a menu featuring prime steaks and fresh seafood.
305 Pizza: A fast-casual restaurant in Concourse G, perfect for grabbing a quick slice of Miami-style pizza before your flight.
Lounges
Miami International Airport offers several lounges that provide comfort and luxury. Located across several locations in Concourse D is American Airlines Admirals Club which offers a quiet escape with snacks, drinks and business facilities.
Another option is the Centurion Lounge by American Express – accessible to AMEX cardholders and found in Concourse D. Here you find everything from fine dining to spa services.
Accommodation in the area
Several hotels are conveniently located near or at the airport – here we present some of the popular options available.
Miami International Airport Hotel: Situated within the Central Terminal, this hotel provides direct airport access.
Hilton Miami Airport Blue Lagoon: Offers scenic views and full-service amenities, just a short drive from the airport.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Miami International Airport: Located less than two kilometers from the airport, this hotel offers spacious suites and a complimentary airport shuttle.
Transportation to and from MIA
If you want to travel from Miami International Airport to the central parts of town, you have several different options to choose from – find the best one in our compilation.
Metrorail: The Orange Line directly connects the airport to downtown Miami, costing approximately $2.25 per ride.
Metrobus: Several bus routes serve the airport, with fares starting at $2.25, providing affordable access to various parts of Miami.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available, with standard fares to downtown Miami typically around $20-$25.
Ride-sharing: Services like Uber and Lyft operate at the airport, offering competitive rates that vary by destination but generally start around $15-$20 to downtown Miami.
Do you prefer driving on your own? In that case we recommend that you rent a car – and luckily you find most major car rentals companies presented at the airport. Follow the link below to see all available options.
Miami, FL, USA
