Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) Guide
Quick summary
Phoenix Sky Harbor is one of the closest major airports to its downtown -- just a few miles east of central Phoenix. Its two passenger terminals, Terminal 3 and Terminal 4, are tied together by the free 24-hour PHX Sky Train, which also connects to Valley Metro light rail, economy parking, and the rental car center.
Terminals at PHX
Sky Harbor operates two passenger terminals: Terminal 4 (by far the largest, home to American Airlines and Southwest among others, with the majority of gates and all international arrivals) and Terminal 3 (rebuilt and modernized, hosting Delta, United, JetBlue, Alaska, and others). There is no Terminal 1 or 2 anymore -- those were retired years ago. The free automated PHX Sky Train links Terminal 3 and Terminal 4 to each other, to the 44th Street station (Valley Metro light rail connection), to the East Economy parking, and to the Rental Car Center. Both terminals have their own security checkpoints, so moving between them landside is easy via the Sky Train.
PHX parking rates & options
| Terminal 3 & 4 garages — daily | About $30 per day |
| Terminal garage — hourly | About $4 per hour |
| East & West Economy garages — daily | About $19 per day |
| East Economy lots A & B — daily | About $16 per day |
| Economy parking Sky Train access | Free |
| Cell phone waiting lot (44th St station) | Free |
🚆 Getting to & from the airport
The PHX Sky Train runs free, 24 hours a day, connecting both terminals to the 44th Street/Washington station on the Valley Metro light rail. From there the light rail runs west into downtown Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa for a low flat fare -- the easiest budget route into the city. Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) and taxis use designated pickup zones at each terminal (rideshare pickups are on the departures/upper level curbs). The cell phone waiting lot and additional parking sit at the 44th Street station. Downtown Phoenix is only about 3-4 miles away, so a taxi or rideshare into the city is short and inexpensive by big-airport standards.
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🛋️ Lounges
Most lounges are in Terminal 4, which has multiple American Admirals Clubs, a United Club, a Delta Sky Club, a Chase Sapphire Lounge, and The Club at PHX (Priority Pass). Terminal 3 has fewer lounges but includes airline options for its carriers. Access is generally by airline membership, premium ticket, or a Priority Pass-style pass, and lounges are located within specific concourses, so check your gate area first.
📶 Wi-Fi
Free unlimited Wi-Fi is available throughout Sky Harbor -- connect to the 'Phoenix Sky Harbor Boingo' / 'PHX Free Wi-Fi' network and accept the terms.
😴 Layovers & overnight
Sky Harbor is comfortable for a layover: Terminal 4 has the widest range of local Arizona food and shopping, and both terminals are bright and modern. Because the PHX Sky Train runs 24 hours, you can move between terminals or out to parking at any time. There is no hotel physically attached inside the terminals, but several hotels sit minutes away near the 44th Street and 24th Street corridors, many with shuttles. For a short overnight, Terminal 4 has the most amenities and seating.
Insider tips
- The PHX Sky Train is free and runs 24/7 -- use it to move between Terminal 3 and Terminal 4 and to reach light rail.
- For the cheapest way downtown, ride the Sky Train to 44th St and transfer to Valley Metro light rail.
- Economy garages (about $16-19/day) are far cheaper than the terminal garages (about $30/day).
- Downtown Phoenix is only 3-4 miles away, so a rideshare or taxi is quick and relatively cheap.
- There is no Terminal 1 or 2 -- only Terminal 3 and Terminal 4, so double-check your terminal before you arrive.
PHX airport — FAQ
How much is parking at PHX?
The Terminal 3 and Terminal 4 garages run about $4 per hour up to roughly $30 per day. The East and West Economy garages are about $19 per day, and the East Economy A & B lots are about $16 per day, with free PHX Sky Train access to the terminals. The cell phone waiting lot at the 44th Street station is free.
How do I get to downtown Phoenix from PHX?
Take the free PHX Sky Train to the 44th Street/Washington station and transfer to the Valley Metro light rail, which runs into downtown Phoenix and Tempe for a low flat fare. Because downtown is only about 3-4 miles away, a rideshare or taxi is also quick and inexpensive.
Is Wi-Fi free at PHX?
Yes. Connect to the free Phoenix Sky Harbor Wi-Fi network and accept the terms for free, unlimited internet throughout the airport.
How do I get between terminals at PHX?
Ride the free PHX Sky Train, which runs 24 hours a day and links Terminal 3 and Terminal 4 directly. The same train also connects to the 44th Street light rail station, East Economy parking, and the Rental Car Center.
Where do Uber and Lyft pick up at PHX?
Rideshare pickups are at designated zones on the terminal curbs (typically the upper/departures level) at both Terminal 3 and Terminal 4. Follow the app's directions and the 'Rideshare' signage to the correct pickup area.
Sources
This guide is independent and not affiliated with Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Parking rates, terminal layouts, and transit options change often — always confirm on the airport's official website before you travel.