Phoenix · airport guide
PHX Airport guide
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport has Terminals 3 and 4. The quickest way from PHX to downtown Phoenix is the PHX Sky Train (free) and Valley Metro Rail (about 30 minutes, $2).
Verified Oct 17, 2026By Steven MoHow we check Report a correction
PHX Sky Train (free) and Valley Metro Rail, $2
about $20–$30
Domestic to domestic, same terminal
Layover you need to visit the city
Quick answer
The quickest way from PHX to downtown Phoenix is the PHX Sky Train (free) and Valley Metro Rail (about 30 minutes, $2). Connecting here, allow at least 50 min for a domestic connection in the same terminal. Airlines here include American, Southwest, Delta, United and Alaska.
- Terminals
- Terminals 3 and 4
- Taxi
- 10–20 min, about $20–$30
- Connecting
- At least 50 min for a domestic connection in the same terminal
- Lounges
- American Admirals Club (Terminal 4); Amex Centurion Lounge (Terminal 4)
Getting from PHX to downtown Phoenix
Fares are one way and approximate; check the operator before you travel.
- PHX Sky Train (free) and Valley Metro Railto downtown Phoenixabout 30 min$2
- Taxi or rideshare10–20 minabout $20–$30
Inside PHX
Terminals and connections
The PHX Sky Train links Terminals 3 and 4, but only outside security, so switching terminals always means another TSA check.
How long a layover you need at PHXLounges
- •American Admirals Club (Terminal 4)
- •Amex Centurion Lounge (Terminal 4)
Sleep, showers and hotels
- •No hotel inside the terminals; hotels near the airport run shuttles
Parking at PHX
- •Economy lots, linked by the PHX Sky Train
- •Terminal 3 and Terminal 4 garages
Rates change with demand and booking ahead is usually cheaper: check PHX's official site.
PHX tips
- •American and Southwest both use Terminal 4, so most connections on those airlines stay in one terminal.
Can you leave PHX on a layover?
With at least 3 h between flights, yes. Here's where the time goes.
- Off the plane and out of the airport20 min
- To downtown Phoenix and back, the fastest way20 min
- Time in town worth the trip1 h
- Back through security to your gate1 h
- Layover you need3 h
Keep your bags checked through and carry your boarding pass for the next flight. On a long layover, a hotel day room or lounge can be a better use of the time than a rushed trip into town.
Airlines at PHX
Major airlines that fly from PHX (not a complete list). Check the bag rules before you pack.
- American Airlines Carry-on 22 × 14 × 9 in Bag fees
- Southwest Airlines Carry-on 24 × 16 × 10 in Bag fees
- Delta Air Lines Carry-on 22 × 14 × 9 in Bag fees
- United Airlines Carry-on 22 × 14 × 9 in Bag fees
- Alaska Airlines Carry-on 22 × 14 × 9 in Bag fees
- Frontier Airlines Carry-on 24 × 16 × 10 in Bag fees
- Allegiant Air Carry-on 22 × 16 × 10 in Bag fees
- Sun Country Airlines Carry-on 24 × 16 × 11 in Bag fees
- Air Canada Carry-on 55 × 40 × 23 cm Bag fees
- WestJet Carry-on 53 × 38 × 23 cm Bag fees
- British Airways Carry-on 56 × 45 × 25 cm Bag fees
PHX airport FAQ
The quickest option is the PHX Sky Train (free) and Valley Metro Rail to downtown Phoenix: about 30 minutes for $2. A taxi takes 10–20 min (about $20–$30).
Sources
Last verified Oct 17, 2026. Fares, lounges, airlines and parking change; check with the operator or airport before you travel.
- Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport official website
- Phoenix Sky Harbor help center: how do I connect to another flight?
- PHX Sky Train (free) and Valley Metro Rail: official site
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