Pittsburgh International Airport

Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) is not just a transport hub, but a true example of how industrial heritage can be transformed into future technologies and comfort. Having undergone a massive reconstruction and the opening of a brand-new terminal in late 2025, the airport now resembles a modern park under a roof rather than a traditional station. Here, "smart" technologies coexist with cosy open-air terraces, and the interior design is inspired by the rolling landscapes of Pennsylvania, creating a sense of calm for travellers even before departure.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

Pittsburgh Airport is often cited as one of the most convenient in North America thanks to its unique service and navigation concepts. Here is what makes it special:

• The "Airmall" Concept: Pittsburgh became a pioneer in airport pricing policy by implementing a rule that shops and restaurants inside the terminal cannot charge higher prices compared to the city. This means you can have lunch or buy souvenirs at fair market value without the "airport markup".
• Innovative Design and Nature: The new terminal, opened in 2025, is designed with a focus on passenger health ("NaTeCo" — Nature, Technology, Community). It features plenty of natural light, as well as open terraces available after the security checkpoint where you can breathe fresh air before your flight.
• Presley’s Place: The airport is known for its attention to inclusivity. It features one of the world's best sensory rooms for passengers with autism and sensory sensitivities, offering a quiet and calm space for rest.
• Art and Robots: Pittsburgh is a hub for robotics, and the airport highlights this. In the terminals, you can encounter unique art objects, including the famous "Robot Repair Shop" installation, which invariably delights both children and adults.

• Official Airport Website: www.flypittsburgh.com
• Information Desk Phone: +1 412-472-3525 (available for calls from 06:00 to 21:30 on weekdays and Sundays, until 19:00 on Saturdays)
• Airport Address: 1000 Airport Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15231, USA
• Email: info@flypittsburgh.com
• Airport Social Media: Official pages are available on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, and LinkedIn (search for the tag @PITairport or via the website)
• Lost Luggage Information:
  • For items lost in the terminal: +1 412-472-3525 or via the online form on the website.
  • For items left on board the aircraft: you must contact your airline directly.
  • For items forgotten at the TSA checkpoint: +1 412-472-3525 (TSA extension) or via the TSA website.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Information desks are located on the Landside level (before security) and Airside (after security). The main communication channel is the general information phone line or email info@flypittsburgh.com.

Getting to Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) or travelling from it to the city is quite simple, despite the fact that the airport is located approximately 30 kilometres west of the central business district (Downtown). The transport system here is designed to satisfy the needs of both budget travellers and those who value maximum comfort and speed.

Travel time from the city centre by car usually takes about 30–40 minutes in the absence of traffic jams. During peak hours (morning and evening on weekdays), it is worth allowing at least an hour for the journey, as the Fort Pitt Tunnel leading to the airport is often congested.

Public Transport: Bus 28X Airport Flyer

Pittsburgh does not have a metro or commuter trains going directly to the terminal; however, the city offers an excellent alternative — the express bus 28X Airport Flyer, operated by Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT).

• Route: The bus connects the airport with the city centre (Downtown) and the university district of Oakland. This is an ideal option for students and tourists staying in the centre.
• Frequency: Trips depart every 30 minutes throughout the day.
• Cost: This is the most economical way to reach your destination. A ticket costs about $2.75. You can pay the fare with the exact amount in cash (no change is given) or via the transport network's mobile app.
• Where to find: The stop is located on the lower level of the terminal (Landside Terminal), exit through door No. 6.

Taxis and Transfers (Rideshare)

For those travelling with heavy luggage or preferring door-to-door service, taxis and popular ride-hailing services such as Uber, Lyft, and the local service zTrip are available.

• Cost: A trip to downtown Pittsburgh usually costs between $40–$60 depending on the time of day and demand.
• Boarding: The boarding zone for taxis and ridesharing is also located on the lower level of the terminal, next to exit No. 4 (for commercial services). Follow the "Ground Transportation" signs.

Car Rental

If you plan to travel around Pennsylvania on your own, renting a car is an excellent choice. Rental counters are located right in the terminal building (baggage claim level), so you won't have to take a shuttle to the rental companies' parking lots — the cars are within walking distance in the garage.

Airport Parking

For those arriving in their own car, the airport offers several parking options with different price categories:

• Short Term: Closest to the terminal, connected to it by a covered walkway. Suitable for dropping off and picking up passengers.
• Long Term: Located a bit further away but connected to the terminal by moving walkways. Optimal for trips lasting several days.
• Extended: The most budget-friendly option, located at a distance. Free shuttles run from this car park to the terminal.

Alternative Airports Nearby

Sometimes tickets to neighbouring regional airports may turn out to be cheaper, or they may be more convenient if your final destination is outside Pittsburgh itself. Here is a list of the nearest air harbours:

• Westmoreland County Airport (LBE) — located in Latrobe, approximately 76 km from Pittsburgh. It is a small but convenient airport, popular among locals (about 145,000 passengers).
• Akron-Canton Airport (CAK) — located in Ohio, 110 km away. A good alternative for travellers heading towards Cleveland or southern Ohio.
• North Central West Virginia Airport (Benedum) (CKB) — located in Clarksburg (West Virginia), at a distance of about 133 km. Suitable for trips in a southern direction.
• Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) — a major aviation hub 168 km from Pittsburgh. It serves over 10 million passengers annually and offers a wide selection of international flights.
• Erie International Airport (ERI) — located in the north, by Lake Erie, approximately 176 km away. Convenient for those planning a holiday on the Great Lakes.

Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) is distinguished by a logical and well-thought-out structure that has been modernised for maximum traveller comfort. The complex is divided into two main functional parts: the Landside Terminal, serving passengers before departure and after arrival, and the Airside Terminal, where gates and waiting areas are located. Navigation here is intuitive thanks to clear zoning by levels.

Levels and Service Zones

In the updated terminal, passenger flows are separated by floors, which helps avoid congestion and speeds up formalities:

• Level 3 (Ticketing Level): This is the check-in zone. Airline counters and kiosks for self-printing boarding passes are located here. Passengers arrive here immediately upon reaching the airport for departure.
• Level 2 (Security Level): Located one floor below the check-in area. The main security checkpoint (TSA) is located here. After document checks and carry-on scanning, passengers move to the secure area (Airside) via convenient walkways.
• Baggage Claim Level: Located on the lower floor of the Landside Terminal (Level 1). Passengers arrive here after their flight to collect suitcases and exit to taxi and public transport stops.

Structure of Concourses

The secure area of the airport is shaped like the letter "X" (a cross-shaped structure). In the centre of the intersection of the "rays" is the Center Core with duty-free shops and restaurants. From here, passengers disperse to four concourses:

• Concourse A: Flights of United Airlines and Southwest Airlines are served in this wing.
• Concourse B: This is the base for American Airlines, as well as popular low-cost carriers Spirit Airlines and JetBlue.
• Concourse C: This sector is equipped to handle international flights and customs control, and also serves a number of domestic destinations.
• Concourse D: The most compact sector, which is the main base for Delta Air Lines flights.

Navigation and Transfers

The main advantage of the X-shaped scheme is compactness. Walking from the central hall to the furthest gate in any concourse takes just a few minutes. Although the famous underground train (People Mover) still connects parts of the airport, the new configuration provides more direct and faster access to departure zones.

Time Recommendations

Despite the high capacity of the new terminal, travellers are advised to adhere to standard timeframes:

• For domestic flights, it is worth arriving at the airport 2 hours before departure.
• For international flights, it is better to allow 3 hours to calmly pass through check-in on the third level and security on the second.

The history of aviation in Pittsburgh began long before the appearance of the futuristic terminals we see today. The current airport is the result of a grand evolution from a military airfield to one of America's most innovative transport hubs. The development path of PIT can be divided into several key eras, each of which has left its mark on the appearance of the air harbour.

The "Greater Pittsburgh" Era (1952–1992)

The official birth date of the civil aviation hub is considered to be 1952, when the "Greater Pittsburgh Airport" was opened. At the time of opening, it was considered the second largest in the United States, second only to New York's Idlewild (now JFK). The complex was built on the basis of a World War II military airfield used for pilot training. The old terminal with its observation deck, visited annually by hundreds of thousands of people just for entertainment, became a symbol of the region's post-war prosperity.

The Revolution of 1992 and the Birth of a Hub

The most significant event in the airport's history was the opening of a completely new complex on October 1, 1992. This project, named the "Midfield Terminal", forever changed airport design standards worldwide.

• Architectural Breakthrough: It was here that the X-shaped Airside terminal scheme was successfully implemented for the first time, allowing for an increase in the number of gates and simplifying navigation. This model was subsequently copied by many airports around the world.
• Birth of Airmall: Pittsburgh became the first airport in the USA (and one of the first in the world) to turn waiting for a flight into a shopping experience. The concept, where shops inside the terminal offer goods at regular city prices, was revolutionary for the early 90s.
• US Airways Hub: In the 90s and early 2000s, PIT was a key hub for US Airways. In its heyday, the airport served tens of millions of passengers and hundreds of flights a day, serving as a gateway to the East Coast.

21st Century Transformation

The early 2000s brought serious challenges: after the events of September 11 and the subsequent merger of US Airways with American Airlines, Pittsburgh lost its status as a major transit hub. However, the airport management managed to turn the crisis into an opportunity. PIT reoriented from transit passengers to local travellers (Origin & Destination format), attracted budget airlines, and diversified its route network.

The culmination of this transformation was the modernisation programme, completed with the opening of the new Landside Terminal in 2025. This project allowed for the optimisation of space, abandoning the excess areas of the hub era, and implementing advanced service technologies.

Interesting Facts from History:

• Cinematic Fame: Thanks to its unique architecture and (at a certain period) empty halls, the airport often became a filming location. Scenes for films such as "Dogma", "She's Out of My League", and "Mindhunter" were filmed here.
• Tribute to Locals: The airport honours the memory of famous Pennsylvania residents. One of the most famous exhibitions was dedicated to Fred Rogers (host of "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood"), including his famous red cardigan and sneakers. You can also encounter statues of the Founding Fathers of the USA in the terminal.
• Military Heritage: The airport shares runways with the Pittsburgh Air Reserve Station, reminding us of its historical roots.
• Robot Record Holder: In collaboration with Carnegie Mellon University, PIT became the first airport to deploy autonomous robots for floor cleaning using ultraviolet light — a technology that has become a standard for cleanliness.

Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) offers passengers a high level of comfort and a wide range of services to make waiting for a flight as pleasant as possible. Within the terminals, you will find numerous restaurants, cafes, and dining venues to suit every taste — from fast food outlets to establishments with full menus. In addition, various shops are at your service, including souvenir stalls, travel goods stores, and, of course, Duty Free.

For those who wish to relax in a quieter environment, the airport has premium lounges, such as The Club lounge, access to which can be purchased regardless of ticket class. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the airport, and numerous charging stations for mobile devices will allow you to stay connected at all times. These amenities make waiting for a flight productive or relaxing, depending on your needs.

Pittsburgh Airport is excellently prepared for hosting passengers with children. Special play areas, known as Kidsport, are equipped here, where young travellers can burn off energy before the flight. Mother and child rooms are also provided. For passengers with reduced mobility, a fully accessible environment has been created: ramps, lifts, specially equipped restrooms, and escort services upon prior request to the airline.

ATMs and currency exchange points are located within the airport. In case of necessity, passengers can seek medical assistance at a special station. For business travellers and those who wish to stay near the airport, the Hyatt Regency Pittsburgh International Airport hotel is connected directly to the terminal, offering not only comfortable rooms but also modern conference halls and business services.

At Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), you won't go hungry, no matter how much time you have before departure. Most cafes and restaurants are conveniently located in the main part of the terminal after passing security (airside), allowing you to have a calm snack or a full lunch while waiting for your flight. Options can be found for every taste and budget — from quick coffee to a leisurely dinner.

The main gastronomic recommendation for all visitors to Pittsburgh is to try the legendary sandwich at Primanti Bros. This is a cult local establishment whose sandwiches are famous for having french fries and coleslaw added right inside, between two slices of fresh Italian bread. The branch at the airport is a wonderful opportunity to experience the city's calling card without leaving the terminal.

For those in a hurry, many "grab-and-go" format establishments operate at the airport. You will easily find coffee shops, such as Starbucks, where you can get drinks and pastries, as well as other kiosks with ready-made sandwiches, salads, and snacks. If time allows, you can settle into one of the full-service restaurants. Look out for establishments offering American cuisine and local beverages — they perfectly convey the atmosphere of the region.

Regarding special dietary needs, many restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes — usually, they are marked on the menu. It is recommended to check the ingredients of dishes with the staff. Prices in airport establishments vary from moderate in fast-food chains to higher in full-cycle restaurants. The opening hours of most cafes and restaurants are adapted to the flight schedule: many open early in the morning and work until late in the evening.

To ensure your journey through Pittsburgh International Airport is as comfortable as possible, we recommend arriving well in advance: at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international ones. This will give you a buffer of time for check-in, baggage drop, and passing through security without unnecessary haste. Online check-in, which most airlines open 24 hours before departure, will significantly speed up the process. Save your boarding pass on your phone, and if you are travelling without luggage, you can go straight to the security checkpoint.

Security screening procedures at airports in the USA are conducted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and have their own standards. Remember the rules for carrying liquids in hand luggage: all containers must be no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent resealable bag. Large electronics, such as laptops and tablets, must be removed from your bag for separate scanning. Prepare your passport and boarding pass in advance so as not to hold up the queue.

When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences. A window seat is ideal for those who love to gaze at clouds and views of the earth, and also provides support for the head if you plan to sleep. An aisle seat provides more legroom and the ability to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. For passengers transferring in Pittsburgh, the airport will seem convenient and understandable. Immediately after arrival, find information on the departure gate for your next flight on the display board. Movement between the main terminal and the departure zone is carried out on a special automated train.

If you are arriving on an international flight, you will have to undergo customs and border control. Keep your passport and all necessary visa documents ready. The procedure is standard: first communication with a border service officer, then baggage claim and passing through the customs corridor. Be prepared to answer questions about the purpose of your trip and the items you are bringing in.

To save time and money, bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it at drinking fountains after the security zone. Non-liquid snacks are also allowed to be brought with you. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first of all, contact your airline representative to find out about rebooking options and possible compensation (meals, hotel). Be sure to subscribe to SMS or email notifications from the airline to receive information about schedule changes promptly.