Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)—often called America’s Friendliest Airport®—is the main gateway to the Southwest and one of the busiest airports in the United States. Located just three miles east of downtown Phoenix, PHX serves as a central hub for American Airlines and Southwest Airlines, providing nonstop service to over 120 domestic and international destinations.

The airport features three passenger terminals (3, 4, and the consolidated SkyTrain hub), each designed for quick connections and efficient passenger movement. Terminal 4 is the largest, handling most American and international flights, while Terminal 3 offers modern architecture, local dining, and scenic views of the desert landscape.

PHX’s PHX Sky Train® connects terminals, parking garages, and the Valley Metro Rail, offering seamless access between airport areas and downtown Phoenix without traffic stress.

Security screening at PHX is managed through multiple TSA checkpoints spread across Terminals 3 and 4, with TSA PreCheck and CLEAR Plus lanes available for expedited screening.

• Terminal 3: Serves Delta, Alaska, JetBlue, Spirit, and Frontier Airlines.
• Terminal 4: Serves American, Southwest, British Airways, Air Canada, and other major carriers.

Checkpoint hours generally start at 3:30 a.m. and continue until the final flight departs. Mornings between 5:00–8:00 a.m. and late afternoons (3:00–7:00 p.m.) are the busiest times, especially in Terminal 4.

For the best experience, arrive two hours early for domestic flights and three hours early for international flights.

PHX consistently ranks among the most punctual airports in the country. Despite heavy traffic, its design keeps security lines moving smoothly, and the Sky Train makes terminal transfers a breeze. If you have extra time before boarding, head to Terminal 4’s outdoor observation deck for panoramic desert views.

How do I get between terminals?

Does PHX have TSA PreCheck and CLEAR?