Located in Dulles, Virginia and opened in the year 1962, this popular Washington DC airport is one of the best in the United States. The namesake of John Foster Dulles who served as the United States’ 52nd Secretary of State, Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is among the most popular landmarks in the country. Serving the Washington Metropolitan area, the main terminal of Dulles Airport is one of the biggest landmarks the city has to offer. Sprawled across a massive 13,000 acres, Washington Dulles International Airport serves more than 20 million passengers every year. With four runways and 139 airline gates, Dulles Airport is a major hub for United Airlines.
Washington Dulles International Airport Terminals:
Apart from one main terminal, Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) has two midfield terminal buildings as well which are known as Concourses A/b and C/D. The main terminal welcomed an additional extension meant for international Dulles Airport arrivals. This new facility has the incredible capacity to process within an hour about 24,000 passengers. United Express and non-United flights operate out of concourses A and B while C and D are meant to be used only for United Airlines.
Washington Dulles International Airport permits public parking for 24,000 plus vehicles easily. There are hourly, daily, and valet parking options in four economy lots and two garages made available to passengers. Payment for parking is accepted in the form of cash, MasterCard, American Express, and Visa.
Passenger services at Washington Dulles International Airport:
- Airline Clubs and Lounges
There are scores of airline lounges at Dulles Airport since there are a number of airlines that operate out of it. There is an Air France Lounge (Air France) at concourse A, Galleries Club & Galleries First Lounges (British Airways) at concourse B, First & Business Class Lounge (Etihad Airways) opposite gate A15, Senator & Business Lounge (Lufthansa) at concourse B, a Turkish Airlines Lounge at concourse B, three United Clubs (United Airlines) – one at concourse D and two at C, and a Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse at concourse A. So premium passengers booking flights from Washington to Hyderabad or elsewhere with these airlines will enjoy access to such top airport lounges.
- Food and shopping
If your scan through Washington Dulles Airport map online, you will be guided to which shops are located where at the airport. You have the option to indulge in duty-free shopping as well. The map will also guide you to bars and restaurants across various terminals. Dulles Airport departures can stop by for a quick snack before their flight. Additionally, you will also be able to locate exchange services, spas, and other personal care facilities on the map. Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) also has a specials and promotions section you should check out.
- Car Rentals at Dulles Airport
Located right at Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) are several car rental companies that arriving passengers will find useful. There are free shuttle vehicles that passengers can use to get to and from rental lots to the Terminal. Some of the rental companies you will find here include Alamo, Avis, Hertz, Budget, Thrifty, Advantage and several more.
- Lost and Found Office
Passengers who lose their baggage or other items can head to the Lost and Found Office for assistance. Situated in the arrivals area baggage claim, the Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) Lost and Found Office is open Mondays to Fridays from 9am to 3pm. There are plenty of agencies at the airport that handle lost as well as found items so check online for details on whom to contact for what kind of help.
- Information Desks
You will find information desks across the main terminal and all concourses manned by Travelers Aid volunteers. They can easily be approached by passengers regardless of the type of assistance required. Passengers will also be guided through Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) should the need arise.
- Dulles Airport Ambassadors
Dressed in blue and yellow distinct shirts imprinted with Airports Authority logo, these Airport Ambassadors are there to guide confused passengers through Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD). Those who need assistance or help with directions can also approach them.
- Passenger Services for International Arrivals
Passengers whose final destination is Washington DC will exit at the Terminal arrival level baggage area. There is a waiting area outside where friends or relatives can wait for arriving passengers. Travelers who haven’t been cleared ahead will have to be screened by United States CBP (Customs and Border Protection). The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) will screen passengers who are about to board connecting flights from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD). They will also have to recheck their baggage.
- Special Assistance
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) offers a myriad of special assistance to passengers in need of it. Apart from offering wheelchair service, the airport has made restrooms, parking areas, telephones, and elevators easily accessible for disabled passengers. There are also Pet Relief Areas meant for service animals escorting differently-abled passengers. There are emergency medical services offered as well.
- Commuting to and from Dulles Airport
The Silver Line Express Bus is a non-stop one that directly connects the Wiehle Avenue Metrorail Station from Washington Dulles International Airport. This is the cheapest way in or out of the airport. Other commuting options include rental cars and taxis. Those who prefer arriving in their own vehicles will find plenty of parking options at the airport.
- Other Services
Apart from the ones mentioned above, there are several other services offered by Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD). Situated in concourse A is an interfaith chapel that’s always left open for travelers looking for a quiet place to reflect. Free Wi-Fi and charging stations are available as well for the convenience of travelers. At the Terminal is a USO Lounge meant to be used by Military personnel and their loved ones.
