Salt Lake City International Airport

Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is not merely a transit hub, but an impressive gateway to the natural landscapes of Utah, located just a few minutes' drive from the centre of the state capital. Following a recent massive renovation under "The New SLC" programme, the airport has transformed into a true architectural masterpiece, where advanced technology intertwines harmoniously with motifs of local scenery. Travellers are immediately immersed in an atmosphere of mountain adventures thanks to grand art installations and panoramic views of the majestic Wasatch peaks, visible directly from the terminals.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

• Unique "The Canyon" Design: The main highlight of the terminal is a large-scale installation by artist Gordon Huether. Wave-like panels on the walls with dynamic lighting mimic Utah's famous red canyons, creating a sensation of walking among the cliffs for passengers even before they step out into the city.
• Infrastructure for Skiers: Given Utah's status as a world capital of winter sports, the airport's baggage system has been specially adapted for oversized cargo. Enlarged belts and carousels allow for the quick and careful retrieval of skis, snowboards, and sports equipment.
• Convenient Transfer: The airport is directly connected to the city centre by the TRAX light rail line (Green Line). Comfortable trains depart every 15–20 minutes, allowing you to reach hotels and attractions quickly and economically.
• Major Delta Hub: SLC serves as a key hub for Delta Air Lines in the western USA, ensuring a huge selection of direct flights and convenient connections for travel across North America and beyond.
• Modern Comfort: The waiting halls provide everything for the convenience of the modern tourist: practically every seat is equipped with power outlets for charging gadgets, and fast, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the territory.

• Official Website: slcairport.com
• Information Service Phone: +1 801-575-2400 (General Information 24/7)
• Address: 776 N Terminal Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84122, USA
• Email: To contact the airport administration and submit inquiries, it is recommended to use the contact form on the official website.
• Social Media: You can follow airport news on the official pages on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram.
• Lost Luggage Information: If you have lost an item within the airport building (terminals, parking), contact the Lost and Found service at +1 801-575-2427 or fill out the online form. For issues related to lost checked luggage during a flight, you must contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Service: For general questions and assistance at the airport, please contact the main information service phone number or staff at the information desks in the terminal.

Getting to Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) from the city centre of Salt Lake City is quite simple thanks to a well-developed transport system. The airport is located just 10 km west of downtown, making it one of the most accessible major airports in the USA. Travellers can choose the most convenient option depending on their budget, time, and amount of luggage.

Public Transport: The most economical and convenient method is the TRAX light rail tram. The "Green Line" directly connects the city centre with the airport terminal. Trains depart every 15 minutes on weekdays and every 20 minutes on weekends. The trip from the central Arena station to the airport takes only about 20 minutes. This is an excellent choice for those travelling light and wishing to avoid traffic.

Taxis and Ridesharing Services: For maximum comfort and speed, you can use taxi services or popular apps such as Uber and Lyft. Special zones for passenger pick-up and drop-off are located right at the terminal exits. A trip to the city centre, excluding traffic, will take 10–15 minutes. This option is more expensive than public transport but ideal for those travelling with families or a large amount of luggage.

Car Rental and Private Transport: If you prefer independence in movement, driving is your choice. The road from the centre to the airport runs along the I-80 highway. Various parking options are available at the airport: from short-term parking located next to the terminal to more budget-friendly long-term parking (Economy Lot), from where free shuttles run to the terminals. All major car rental companies have counters directly at the airport.

Although Salt Lake City International Airport is the region's main transport hub, other airports may be convenient for certain routes. Nearby options include Ogden-Hinckley Airport (OGD) approximately 45 km away and Provo Airport (PVU) 67 km away. For trips further afield in the region, you might consider Vernal Regional Airport (VEL) or Pocatello Regional Airport (PIH).

Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) has undergone massive renovation and today represents a modern complex convenient for passengers. The old terminals were completely replaced by a new, unified structure, which significantly simplified navigation and movement through the airport.

Airport Structure: One Terminal, Two Concourses

In fact, SLC now operates with one large main terminal, which serves as the central hub for all passengers. Located here are the check-in zones, security screening points, and baggage claim area. After passing through security control, passengers enter one of two concourses:

• Concourse A — primarily serves flights for Delta Air Lines and its partners.
• Concourse B — serves flights for all other airlines, including Alaska, American, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, and United.

Moving Between Concourses

Concourses A and B are located parallel to each other and are connected by a spacious underground tunnel. This is the only way to move between them in the sterile area. Walking through the tunnel takes about 5-7 minutes; moving walkways (travelators) are installed for passenger convenience. The tunnel is also decorated with a large-scale art installation, making the transit more pleasant.

Departure and Arrival Zones and Procedure Times

The process for departing and arriving passengers is organized intuitively. Check-in and screening zones are in the main terminal. Thanks to the centralized security checkpoint, the process has become more orderly, although the airport is quite large and busy. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. The walk from the security zone to the furthest gates in Concourse B can take up to 20 minutes, so factor this time into your plan.

Navigation Recommendations

Orienting yourself in the new Salt Lake City airport is quite simple thanks to a clear signage system. The main advice is to immediately determine which concourse (A or B) your boarding gate is in after passing security, and head there. Inside the concourses, numerous shops, restaurants, and cafes await you, and huge panoramic windows offer an impressive view of the Wasatch Mountains — the airport's calling card.

The history of Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is a journey from a modest airfield to one of the key aviation hubs in the western USA. It all began in 1911, when a simple runway was created on this site for an air show. Initially, it bore the name Woodward Field. In 1920, the city purchased a plot of land and began developing it as a municipal airfield, and in 1925, the first commercial flight landed here, marking the beginning of the era of air travel in the region.

An important stage in the airport's development was the 1920s and 1930s. In 1927, the airfield was visited by the famous aviator Charles Lindbergh during his tour of the country in the "Spirit of St. Louis" aircraft, which drew immense attention to air travel. The first administration terminal was built in 1933. During World War II, the airport played a strategic role, serving as a base for training US Air Force pilots, which led to a significant expansion of its infrastructure.

With the advent of the jet age, the airport underwent radical modernization. In 1960, a new, modern terminal was opened, becoming the foundation for future growth. In subsequent decades, the airport became an important hub for Western Airlines, and after its merger with Delta Air Lines in 1987, one of the main hub airports for Delta. This defined its status as a major transfer point for flights throughout North America.

The most massive transformation in the airport's history began in 2014 with the launch of the "The New SLC" programme. This ambitious project provided for the complete replacement of old terminals and concourses with a unified, modern, and earthquake-resistant complex. The first phase of the new airport opened to passengers in the autumn of 2020, presenting spacious halls, advanced technologies, and a design inspired by Utah's natural landscapes. This project became one of the largest construction undertakings in the state's history and brought the airport to a completely new level of comfort and efficiency.

Among the interesting facts from the airport's history are its consistently high on-time departure and arrival rates, partly due to the region's favourable weather conditions. Today, Salt Lake City International Airport is not just a transport hub, but an important part of the state's economic and cultural life, continuing its history of growth and innovation.

Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) offers passengers modern infrastructure and a full range of services to make waiting for a flight as comfortable as possible. In the new terminal, you will find a multitude of dining options for every taste — from cafes with quick snacks and fresh pastries to full-service establishments where you can dine leisurely. For shopping enthusiasts, numerous stores are open, including Duty-Free, souvenir shops with local goods, and boutiques of famous brands.

For comfortable rest at the airport, premium waiting halls and VIP lounges are provided, where you can relax in silence, work, or have a snack. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations for gadgets are located in waiting areas by the boarding gates, in restaurants, and lounges, so you will always be connected.

Financial matters can be resolved directly at the airport: ATMs, bank branches, and currency exchange points are at your service. In case of need, a first aid station operates within the terminal building, ready to provide qualified support.

Salt Lake City Airport cares for all categories of travellers. Special nursing rooms with changing tables and comfortable chairs are equipped for passengers with children. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on full environmental accessibility: ramps, lifts, specially equipped restrooms, and the ability to request escort services.

If you need to stay overnight near the airport, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity, easily accessible by shuttle. For business travellers who need to hold a meeting or work in a quiet environment, business centres and conference rooms equipped with everything necessary for productive work are available.

At Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), passengers have access to a wide selection of establishments for every taste and budget. Whether you are looking for a quick snack before departure or a full dinner, you will easily find a suitable option. Most restaurants, cafes, and dining spots are located in the airside zone (after passing security control) in the main terminal and Concourses A and B, which is very convenient for departing passengers.

For those in a hurry, the airport offers many fast-food options. Here you will find popular coffee chains, such as Starbucks, and quick-service establishments where you can grab sandwiches, salads, or pastries. This is an ideal choice for travellers with short connections or those who prefer to take food with them on board the aircraft.

If you have time for a leisurely meal, consider the full-service restaurants. SLC prides itself on featuring famous local brands within its territory. Be sure to visit Squatters Pub Brewery or Wasatch Brew Pub — these are famous local establishments in Utah, offering local beverages and hearty American cuisine. Here you can experience the local atmosphere without leaving the airport and try gastronomic hits popular in the USA.

Travellers with specific dietary needs will also find suitable options. Many establishments offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes. For example, in pizzerias, you can often order pizza on a gluten-free base, and the menus of many cafes feature salads and snacks free from animal products. These options are often suitable for those seeking lighter or Halal-friendly meals. It is recommended to study the menu online on the airport website in advance or check available options with restaurant staff.

As for prices, they correspond to the standard level for airports — slightly higher than in the city. A quick snack will cost less, while the average bill in a full-service restaurant will be higher. The opening hours of most establishments are adapted to the flight schedule: they open early in the morning for the first departures and work until late in the evening to meet the last planes. However, some outlets may close earlier, so it is better to check current information before visiting.

Planning a trip through Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) will be easier with our tips. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before the departure of domestic flights and 3 hours before international ones. The new airport terminal is spacious and modern, but during peak seasons, especially in winter, it can be crowded. To save time, complete online check-in and print or save your boarding pass on your phone in advance.

Security control at SLC is organized efficiently, but be prepared for standard procedures. All electronics larger than a mobile phone must be removed from carry-on luggage. Liquids can be carried in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Check current rules on the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website before your trip. If you have access to the TSA PreCheck programme, this will significantly speed up the process.

Seat selection on the plane can influence your flight experience. For the best views of the Wasatch Mountains, choose a window seat. If comfort and the ability to stretch your legs are more important to you, an aisle seat is better. Book tickets in advance to have more options.

Salt Lake City International Airport is a major transfer hub, especially for Delta. If you have a connection, note that the distance between gates can be significant. The terminal consists of a long building with two main concourses (A and B), connected by an underground tunnel. Study the airport map in advance and allow sufficient time for the transition, which can take up to 20-25 minutes.

Those arriving in the USA on international flights will have to go through customs and border control. Have your passport, visa, and completed customs declaration (if required) ready. After passing passport control, you will collect your luggage and pass through customs with it. The process usually goes quickly, but be prepared for possible queues.

To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it after passing security control. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are generally high. You can get to the city centre on the TRAX light rail tram — this is the most budget-friendly and convenient method. The station is located right at the terminal.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information and possible rebooking options. Find out about your rights as a passenger, including the possibility of meals or accommodation being provided. SLC Airport has plenty of cafes, restaurants, shops, and free Wi-Fi to help pass the waiting time.