Albuquerque International Sunport

Albuquerque International Sunport is not merely a transport hub, but a true calling card of the state of New Mexico, immersing travellers in the region's atmosphere from the very first minutes. Unlike many standard terminals made of glass and concrete, this airport is famous for its unique Pueblo-style architecture and a cosy, almost home-like environment. The "Sunport" takes pride in its name, highlighting the region's sunny disposition, and serves as the main aerial gateway to the "Land of Enchantment".

Passengers often note the calm rhythm of the airport's operations and its convenient navigation, making the start or end of a journey as comfortable as possible. Here, modern service technologies harmoniously combine with the rich cultural heritage of the US Southwest. The airport regularly receives high ratings for cleanliness, staff friendliness, and authentic interior design.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main highlight of the Sunport is its architectural style: the building resembles traditional adobe structures of the Pueblo Indians with thick walls, rounded corners, and massive wooden beams ("vigas") under the ceiling. Inside the terminal, there is an impressive art collection featuring works by Native Americans, Hispanic masters, and contemporary New Mexico artists, turning the wait for a flight into a small excursion.

For passenger convenience, free high-speed Wi-Fi is provided throughout the terminal. Gourmets will appreciate the cafes offering local cuisine, where one can try the famous green chile and other regional delicacies. The airport also features an aircraft observation area, offering a picturesque view of the runways against the backdrop of the majestic Sandia Mountains.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ). We recommend always checking the data on the official website before your trip, as contacts and rules may change.

• Official Website: www.abqsunport.com. Here you will find the latest information on flights, services, parking, and airport regulations.
• Information Desk Phone: +1 (505) 244-7700. You can obtain general information about airport operations at this number.
• Airport Address: 2200 Sunport Blvd, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA.
• Email: For most inquiries, it is recommended to use the contact forms available on the airport's official website. This ensures faster and more accurate processing of your request.
• Social Media: Follow news and updates on the airport's official pages on networks such as Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
• Lost and Found: If your items were lost within the terminal or parking area, contact the airport's Lost and Found service. If the loss occurred on the plane or your checked luggage did not arrive, you should contact your airline's representative office directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For questions related to booking, ticket changes, special assistance, or flight status, it is necessary to contact your airline directly. Carrier contact details are usually listed on their official websites.

Getting to Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), the main transport hub of Albuquerque, is possible via several convenient methods. The choice depends on your budget, time, and plans for further travel across the USA. A trip from the city centre usually takes 10 to 20 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions.

The most budget-friendly option is public transport. The ABQ RIDE city bus network offers route #50, which directly connects the city centre with the airport. This is an excellent choice for economical travellers without a large amount of luggage. Additionally, the airport can be reached via the New Mexico Rail Runner Express commuter train, which stops at a station near the terminal, from where a free shuttle runs to the airport building.

For greater comfort, you can use taxis or ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft. This is a fast and convenient "door-to-door" method, especially if you have a lot of luggage. Taxi stands and special pickup zones for ride-sharing vehicles are located directly outside the terminal exit. The cost of the trip will be higher than the bus but ensures maximum convenience.

If you plan to actively travel around New Mexico, the optimal solution would be car rental. A large car rental centre (Sunport Car Rental Center) operates at Albuquerque Airport, hosting all major companies. Please note that the centre is located in a separate building, regularly served by a free shuttle from the terminal. This makes it easy to collect a car immediately upon arrival.

For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, a convenient parking system is provided. A multi-level parking garage for short-term parking is available directly opposite the terminal, as well as more economical options for long-term parking located slightly further away, also served by shuttles. The cost depends on the chosen zone and the duration of parking.

Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) is distinguished by a structure that is convenient and clear for passengers. All passenger operations are concentrated in one main terminal, designed in the recognisable Southwestern architectural style. This layout significantly simplifies navigation and eliminates the need to move between separate buildings.

The terminal has a three-level structure. The Lower Level is intended for arriving passengers — baggage claim areas and exits to ground transport are located here. The Upper Level is the departure zone. Here you will find airline check-in counters, ticket sales points, and the main security checkpoint. Also on this level, before the security zone, most cafes and shops are located.

After passing security control, passengers enter a common area from which three concourses (gate areas) diverge:

• Concourse A: Serves flights for airlines such as Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta, and others.
• Concourse B: Primarily used by Southwest Airlines.
• Concourse E: A small gate on the lower level that serves regional and commuter flights.

Since all concourses are connected within a single sterile zone, moving between them does not require re-screening. Navigation inside the terminal is intuitive thanks to clear signage.

For check-in and security screening, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before a domestic flight departure. During peak hours, such as early mornings or holiday periods, waiting times at security control may increase, so it is better to allocate about 2 hours in your schedule. Overall, thanks to its compactness and logical layout, Albuquerque Airport is one of the most comfortable for passengers in the USA.

The history of Albuquerque International Sunport began long before it received its sunny name. The official opening took place in 1939, when it replaced the old West Mesa Airport, which could no longer cope with the growing needs of aviation. The original terminal was built in the Pueblo Deco style, setting an architectural tone that would evolve throughout the airport's history.

A key moment in the airport's development was the Second World War era. In 1942, the USA Air Force took control of the facility, establishing the Kirtland Army Air Field base. This marked the beginning of a unique joint-use format: to this day, the Sunport functions as a civilian airport while sharing runways with Kirtland Air Force Base. After the war, civilian transport resumed with renewed vigour.

The airport acquired a truly modern look in 1965, when a new terminal designed by architect Philip Pulich was opened. The building, executed in the Pueblo Revival style, became a calling card for Albuquerque. Its design with flowing lines, protruding "viga" beams, and warm desert tones harmoniously blended into the cultural landscape of New Mexico. In subsequent decades, the terminal was expanded multiple times: new halls and boarding gates were added in the 1980s and 1990s to serve the growing passenger flow.

A landmark event was the renaming of the airport in 1994 to Albuquerque International Sunport. The new name was chosen to highlight the region's sunny climate and hospitality. Among interesting facts, the airport is famous for its extensive art collection, which includes works by local and national artists, making it resemble a gallery. Thanks to its unique design and integration with local culture, the Sunport is often recognised as one of the most beautiful and convenient airports in the country.

Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) offers passengers a wide range of services to make waiting for a flight as comfortable and productive as possible. In the terminal, you will find numerous restaurants and cafes where you can try dishes of local New Mexican cuisine as well as offerings from famous national chains. Shops offer various goods: from souvenirs and handmade items to books, press, and travel essentials.

Comfortable lounges are provided for waiting at the airport. Passengers can use free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations for electronic devices are located at boarding gates and in rest zones. Although there may be few specialised VIP lounges, the general waiting areas are well-equipped and allow for relaxation before a flight.

Basic financial services are available on the airport premises: you will find ATMs from several major banks. Currency exchange points are also present, but their operating hours may be limited, so it is recommended to check information in advance. For emergencies, medical points are provided, ready to administer first aid.

The airport cares for passengers with special needs. Special nursing rooms are equipped for families with small children. The entire terminal is fully accessible for people with disabilities: there are ramps, elevators, and specially equipped restrooms. If you require overnight accommodation, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, and some of them provide free transfers.

At Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), travellers will find diverse dining spots to suit any taste and budget. A distinctive feature of the airport is its strong emphasis on authentic New Mexico cuisine, allowing you to experience local gastronomic traditions right before departure or immediately upon arrival.

Most cafes and restaurants are located in the main terminal area after security control (airside), but several options are also available in the public area (landside). Before security check, you can find coffee shops where it is convenient to have a cup of coffee and a sandwich while meeting or seeing off passengers. The main selection awaits travellers near the boarding gates in Concourses A and B.

For those looking for a quick snack, there are several coffee shops, such as Black Mesa Coffee, offering fresh pastries, sandwiches, and excellent coffee. If you have time for a full lunch or dinner, consider full-service restaurants. For instance, Rio Grande Brew Pub & Grill offers classic American dishes. Many establishments operate from early morning until the last evening flights depart, but operating hours may vary, so it is best to check them in advance.

The main highlight of the dining scene at ABQ is the opportunity to try Southwestern dishes. Do not miss the chance to order a burrito, enchilada, or the famous Green Chile Cheeseburger — a signature dish of the state. In most establishments, you will likely be asked: "Red, Green or Christmas?", offering a choice of red, green, or both types of chile sauce. For vegetarians, there are always options with beans and vegetables, and gluten-free options should be clarified with the staff. The price range at the airport is moderate: from budget-friendly fast food to more expensive restaurant meals.

Planning a trip through Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) will be easier if you consider a few useful tips. It is a modern and quite convenient airport, but preparation will help avoid unnecessary stress. For domestic flights within the USA, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5-2 hours before departure. This will give you enough time for parking, baggage drop, and passing security control without rushing.

To save time, use online check-in for your flight, which most airlines open 24 hours before departure. This will allow you to proceed directly to screening if you are travelling with hand luggage only. Security checkpoints (TSA) in Albuquerque usually operate efficiently, but queues can be longer during peak hours. Members of the TSA PreCheck programme can pass screening via an expedited procedure.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences. A window seat will give you magnificent views of desert landscapes and the Sandia Mountains during takeoff or landing. An aisle seat ensures more legroom and the ability to stand up without disturbing neighbours. Book your seat in advance, especially if flying with family or if you prefer a specific part of the cabin.

Liquids in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a single transparent zip-lock bag, are permitted in hand luggage. Laptops and other large electronics must be removed from bags for separate scanning. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are strictly prohibited. Always check current rules on the airline's website and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website before your trip.

If you have a transfer in Albuquerque, rest assured: the airport has a simple and clear layout with one main terminal, making movement between gates fast and convenient. Upon arrival, check the information screens for the gate number of your next flight, as it may change.

Customs and border control are undergone by passengers arriving on international flights. You will need to complete a customs declaration and undergo an interview with a US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer. Keep your passport, visa, and other documents ready. Even if the airport serves mainly domestic flights, the presence of international connections implies standard procedures.

To save money, book airport parking online in advance — it is often cheaper than paying on-site. Bring an empty reusable water bottle and fill it after passing security control to avoid spending on drinks. Compare the costs of taxis, shuttles, and ride-sharing services for the trip to the city — this will help you choose the most advantageous option.

In case of flight delay, first clarify information with your airline representative. Find out about your rights to compensation, provision of food, or accommodation. Albuquerque Airport has free Wi-Fi, numerous cafes and shops, as well as interesting art and culture exhibitions of New Mexico that will help pass the time while waiting for departure.