What Terminal is Southwest Airlines at LGA?

If you’re wondering “What terminal is Southwest airlines at LGA,” you should head directly to Terminal B. This blog offers important details about Terminal B at LGA, including guidance on navigating the gates and exploring its facilities, ensuring your visit to LaGuardia airport is smooth and hassle-free.

Southwest Airlines Terminal at LGA Airport 

The table below provides the contact details of Southwest Airlines at LGA, including its designated terminal and other useful information. Remember, the information below is subject to change, so always cross-check the terminal details before leaving for the airport. 

Snapshot 

• Southwest Airlines operates from Terminal B at LaGuardia Airport, managing all arrivals and departures from this terminal for a streamlined travel experience.
• Terminal B has undergone significant renovations, including a new security checkpoint, expanded dining and retail options (see below), and public art installations, to enhance the passenger experience.
• LaGuardia Airport offers various ground transportation options, including taxis, buses, ride-sharing services, and connections to the subway. Additionally, parking options are conveniently located near Terminal B for those driving to the airport.

LGA Terminal B Layout 

LaGuardia Terminal B. Image Credit: LaGuardia Airport

Terminal B is centrally located within LaGuardia Airport and features two concourses. Recently, Terminal B underwent a significant redevelopment, with new departure and arrival areas revealed in June 2020. The terminal now comprises four levels, including a concessions level filled with shops and restaurants.

Level 2 — Baggage Claim

• The baggage claim area is situated on level 2, which also houses a welcome center and a shop.
• Curbside pickup is available, and a taxi rank provides on-demand taxi services.
• A walkway connects the terminal to the parking garage in Terminal B from the west end.

Level 3 — Check-in and Ticketing 

• Level 3 hosts airline ticketing and check-in desks.
• The security checkpoint is located just beyond the ticketing area, leading to the departure concourses.

Level 4 — Shops and Restaurants

• After passing through security, passengers can use an escalator to reach level 4.
• This level offers a variety of quick-service and full-service dining options, as well as shopping opportunities.
• Additional amenities include a meditation room, a nursing room, and a pet relief area.
• Passengers can access the eastern and western concourses via concourse bridges from this level.

Eastern Concourse

• The Eastern Concourse is newly developed and includes 19 gates, numbered 40-49 and 51-57.
• It features a range of restaurants and shops, incl. LGA Duty-Free and Shake Shack.
• You’ll find an Admirals Club on the upper level, and a children’s play area is situated on the lower level at the entrance to the concourse.

Gates 11 to 31

• These gates are located at the northern end of Terminal B and are accessible from level 4.
• Airlines operating from these 19 gates include Air Canada, American Airlines, JetBlue, Southwest, and United Airlines.
• Gates are numbered 11, 12, 14, 20, 22, and 31.
• The concourse includes a children’s play area in the central section and an Admirals Club on the upper level.

Services and Amenities at LGA Terminal B

• Cafes and Restaurants. LaGuardia Airport offers 59 restaurants, cafes, and grab-and-go options throughout the terminals, providing a variety of choices for dining before your flight. Most terminals have only one or two dining options outside the secure area, except for Terminal B, which offers more selections. If you arrive early and cannot check in yet, Terminal B is your best bet.

To explore dining options before arriving at the airport, visit the airport’s website. You can filter restaurants by terminal and see what’s available both pre- and post-security.

• Shopping Options. Terminal B also offers an extensive selection of shopping opportunities. Whether you’re searching for toys, electronics, fashion, or accessories, there’s something for everyone. Ideal for last-minute gifts or a personal indulgence, the shopping options include toys (FAO Schwarz), electronics (InMotion), personal care (Xpress Spa), and fashion and accessories (Desigual).
  
• Wi-Fi and Charging. LGA offers unlimited free Wi-Fi in the airport’s public areas. To connect:

1. From the available networks, choose “_Free LGA WiFi”.

2. Launch your browser to complete the connection.

For connectivity issues, contact the 24/7 customer support line at 800-880-4117.

Charging stations in Terminal B are available near gates 47, 51, and 55.

• Lost & Found. The procedure for recovering lost items varies based on where the item was misplaced:

• Within the terminals or on a taxi/bus: Email lgalostandfound@panynj.gov with a detailed description of the item, including the date and location where it was lost.
• On an airplane: Contact the airline directly to inquire about the lost item.
• During security screening: Contact TSA Lost and Found at 866-289-9673, available from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

• Additional Information on LGA Terminal B
  • Guest services desks in Terminal B at LaGuardia Airport are located in the Arrivals Hall, Eastern Concourse Western Concourse, and the Level 4 retail hall. 
  • Travelers Aid. There is no Travelers Aid center at LGA. The closest one is at JFK Airport.
  • Children’s Play Areas. Two play areas for children are located in Terminal B, near gate 24 and in the central area of gates 40 to 59. LGA is considered one of the most kid-friendly airports in the U.S.
• Baby Facilities. The nursing rooms in Terminal B at LaGuardia are located near gates 12 and 42. 
• Pet Relief Areas. The pet relief areas in LGA’s Terminal B are located at the curbside, entrances of the Eastern and Western Concourses, and level 4 retail hall. 
• Duty-Free. A duty-free shop is located in the Eastern Concourse of Terminal B, near gate 48.
• Smoking Areas. The designated smoking areas are located outside the terminals. The use of electronic cigarettes and smoking inside the airport is prohibited.
• Prayer and Meditation. LGA does not offer chapel services. However, you’ll find a meditation room (temporarily closed) in Terminal B’s food court on level 4.
• Money. The ATMs in Terminal B are available on the East side of level 1, baggage claim, near gates 42 and 57, and on level 4. 
• Medical Center. LGA does not have a dedicated medical center.
• Luggage Storage. There are no luggage storage lockers inside LGA.
• Important LGA Phone Numbers
  • General Inquiries: 718-533-3400
  • Parking: 347-468-3928

Transportation Options at LaGuardia Airport

LaGuardia Airport provides a variety of transportation choices, ensuring easy access to and from the airport. Whether you are arriving or departing, you have several ground transportation options available, such as:

• Public Transportation
• Shared Ride Services
• Airport Shuttles
• Taxis
• Car Rentals

Selecting the best mode of transportation depends on your specific needs. If you’re traveling with lots of luggage, taxis or rental cars might be the most practical. If you’re traveling light or on a budget, public transportation is an excellent alternative. 

Consider your budget, luggage, and personal preferences when deciding on the most appropriate transportation method.

LGA’s ground transportation options include connections to the New York City subway. The MTA (Metropolitan Transportation Authority) provides several bus routes, such as Q48, M60 Select Bus Service, and LaGuardia Link Q70-SBS, which connect the airport to various neighborhoods in Manhattan and Queens and offer transfers to subway lines.

For special needs passengers, wheelchair-friendly buses and ADA-compliant parking areas are located conveniently close to the terminal. Motorcyclists can enjoy free parking near Terminal A, and a complimentary airport shuttle bus service is available to travel between parking lots, terminals, and other facilities.

Parking Facilities at LGA

LaGuardia Airport offers a range of parking options to accommodate both short-term and long-term needs.

Short-Term Parking

LaGuardia has parking garages adjacent to each terminal. The following rates apply for Terminals A, B, and C:

Long-Term Parking

For extended stays, LaGuardia offers several cost-effective parking options:

LaGuardia Discount Parking (46-10 Berrian Blvd)

Prepaid Economy Parking (south of Terminal 1)

Shuttle buses are available to transport passengers between terminals and all parking areas. Reservations are required for both LaGuardia Discount Parking and prepaid economy parking.

Tip. You can save over 10% by pre-booking your parking online.

Premium parking is available in the Terminal C garage, providing spaces closest to the terminal. Covered parking is available at all garages, with shuttle services ensuring easy access to the terminals. Electric vehicle charging stations are located on the third floor of the Terminal B garage and the second floor of the Terminal C garage.

Pick-up or Drop-off Parking

Located on 94^th Street between 23^rd Avenue and Ditmars Boulevard, the cell phone lot provides free parking for those waiting to collect passengers. Do not leave the vehicles unattended. After you contact your ride, your driver can proceed to the terminal’s curbside pick-up area.

Off-site and Hotel Parking

Daily parking rates at LGA can be high. A more affordable option is off-site parking at nearby hotels or parking facilities. Rates start at $15, with many locations offering courtesy shuttle services to and from LGA. Numerous third-party websites, such as airportparkingreservations.com, allow for pre-booking and have positive customer reviews on Trustpilot.

Parking for Passengers with Disabilities

Designated parking spaces for those with restricted mobility are conveniently located near the terminal entrances in each official airport parking garage. These spaces are available at a reduced rate:

• First 30 Minutes $4
• Each Additional 30 Minutes $4
• 24-hour Maximum $29

Important Parking Contacts

• General Parking Inquiries 347-468-3928
• Request a Parking Extension Over 30 Days 718-533-3850

Southwest Airlines Destinations from LGA

Southwest Airlines is a popular choice for travelers flying from LaGuardia Airport. Currently, it offers direct flights to the following 10 destinations within the United States:

• Atlanta (ATL)
• Nashville (BNA)
• Denver (DEN)
• Saint Louis (STL)
• Tampa (TPA)
• Chicago (MDW)
• Kansas City (MCI)
• New Orleans (MSY)
• Houston (HOU)
• Dallas (DAL)

In addition to direct flights to the above destinations, Southwest offers 277 connecting flights to LaGuardia Airport, highlighting its importance as a key hub for the airline. This makes the Southwest terminal at LGA an excellent choice for both domestic and international travelers.

Security and Customs at LGA

The layout and number of security checkpoints at each terminal in LaGuardia Airport vary based on the terminal’s size and passenger volume.

• All terminals have one security checkpoint, except Terminal D, which has two.
• Passengers can check estimated security wait times in advance on the airport’s website.

TSA PreCheck

• LaGuardia offers one TSA PreCheck lane each at Terminals A, B, and C. Operating hours differ, so it’s advisable to check the TSA website for updates.
• There is no TSA PreCheck Enrollment Center at LaGuardia Airport. The closest center is about 2 miles away at Staples, located at 24-41 31st St., Astoria, NY 11102-1140.

Global Entry

Global Entry services are not available at LaGuardia Airport.

CLEAR

CLEAR lanes are available in Terminal C for enrolled passengers and those wishing to enroll. These lanes are open daily from 4:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

B-Fast

Passengers flying out of Terminal B can purchase a B-Fast pass to expedite security screening. Pre-booked passes cost $15, while same-day passes are available for $20.

Mobile Passport Control

Mobile Passport Control is not supported at LaGuardia Airport.

Terminal B Check-in Tips 

Starting your journey smoothly can make a significant difference. Southwest Airlines offers both online and in-person check-in options at Terminal B, with counters opening at 4:30 am. Arriving early is recommended. Having your ID and boarding pass ready will help expedite the security screening process.

Terminal B has a modern security checkpoint area with 16 lanes, using advanced technology such as an AI-based system for checked baggage and automated handling for carry-on luggage. For a smoother experience, pack your bags in layers for better visibility, label medications clearly, and follow TSA guidelines.

The departure level in Terminal B includes numerous check-in kiosks for Delta Air Lines and offers services like the TSA Cares helpline to assist passengers through the check-in and security process.

Baggage Claim at LGA Terminal B

Your journey isn’t over after landing. Navigating the baggage claim area at Terminal B efficiently is essential. The arrivals level at Terminal B has nine baggage carousels and two Welcome Centers that provide information on transit, hotels, and sightseeing.

After landing at Terminal B, check your baggage carousel number and follow the signs to it. Listen to announcements and look for airport signage to quickly find the baggage claim area. While LaGuardia Airport does not offer luggage storage facilities, Southwest’s baggage handling is efficient enough to ensure a quick retrieval of your luggage at Terminal B.

Inter-Terminal Transport

The three terminals at LGA are not connected internally. If you need to travel between terminals, you must use the airport shuttle bus service.

LGA provides courtesy shuttle buses to facilitate transportation for passengers between terminals, parking lots, and car rental transfer points.

These buses operate around the clock, running every 8 to 10 minutes during peak hours and every 15 minutes during off-peak times.

The buses are equipped with GPS tracking, allowing passengers to view real-time bus arrival times using the airport’s tracking system.

Note

• The Grand Central Parkway borders the airport to the south. If you’re driving to LGA, you can reach your designated terminal easily by following the well-marked road system from the parkway.
• Each terminal has nearby parking facilities, and most car rental services are located south of the Grand Central Parkway, accessible via a shuttle bus.

Frequently Asked Questions About Southwest Terminal at LGA 

Travelers often have inquiries when navigating Southwest Airlines’ Terminal at LaGuardia Airport. To help ensure a smooth and stress-free experience, we’ve compiled a section addressing some of the most frequently asked questions about Southwest Terminal at LGA. Do go through it to ensure a smooth, hassle-free experience at LGA.