Overview:
Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, also known as MSP Airport or simply Minneapolis Airport, is a joint civil-military airport located in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Minnesota. The airport serves as a major hub for Delta Air Lines and Sun Country Airlines, and is the 17th busiest airport in the United States.
Originally known as Wold-Chamberlain Field, the airport has a rich history dating back to the early 1920s when it began as a small airfield used for mail delivery. Today, it spans over 3,400 acres and has two terminals, seven concourses, and 131 gates.
MSP Airport offers a wide range of amenities for travelers, including free Wi-Fi, numerous dining and shopping options, and even a spa. In addition, the airport is committed to sustainability and has implemented several green initiatives, such as a comprehensive recycling program and the use of electric vehicles for transportation on the airfield.
Whether you’re flying in or out of Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, you can expect a seamless travel experience with top-notch facilities and services.
Terminals at Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport
Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport, also known as Wold-Chamberlain Field, has two terminals. Terminal 1-Lindbergh and Terminal 2-Humphrey are both connected by a light rail transit system that makes it easy for passengers to travel between them.
Terminal 1-Lindbergh is the larger of the two terminals and serves most major airlines. It has seven concourses (A through G) with more than 120 gates. This terminal has a wide variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, including restaurants, coffee shops, retail stores, and even a spa.
Terminal 2-Humphrey is smaller and serves mostly low-cost carriers. It has one concourse with 14 gates. This terminal also has a few dining options, as well as a duty-free store and a small convenience store.
One of the unique features of the terminals at MSP is the Arts@MSP program, which includes a variety of public art installations throughout the airport. From sculptures to murals to interactive exhibits, these artworks add a touch of creativity and inspiration to the travel experience.
Another notable feature of the terminals is the MSP Airport Mall, which offers a unique shopping experience with a curated selection of local and national brands. From apparel to accessories to souvenirs, this mall has something for everyone.
In addition to these amenities, both terminals offer free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and comfortable seating areas. There are also several lounges available for travelers who want to relax in a more private setting.
Overall, the terminals at Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport provide a convenient and comfortable experience for passengers, whether they are traveling for business or leisure. With a wide range of services, amenities, and attractions, these terminals have everything you need to make your journey enjoyable and stress-free.
Airlines and Destinations
The Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport / Wold–Chamberlain Field is served by numerous airlines, including Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, and Sun Country Airlines.
Delta Air Lines offers the most extensive service from MSP, with non-stop flights to destinations throughout North America, as well as international routes to Amsterdam, Paris, Reykjavik, and Tokyo.
American Airlines provides non-stop service to several domestic destinations, including Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, Miami, and Philadelphia.
Southwest Airlines offers non-stop service to cities throughout the United States, including Denver, Houston, Las Vegas, and Phoenix.
United Airlines offers non-stop service to several domestic destinations, including Chicago, Denver, Houston, Newark, and San Francisco.
Sun Country Airlines provides seasonal service to various vacation destinations throughout Mexico and the Caribbean, including Cancun, Cozumel, Mazatlan, Montego Bay, and Punta Cana.
Transportation Options at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport / Wold–Chamberlain Field
Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, also known as Wold–Chamberlain Field, is a hub for numerous airlines and is one of the busiest airports in the United States. As such, there are plenty of transportation options available for travelers to get to and from the airport.
One popular option is the SuperShuttle. This shared-ride service is available 24/7 and can take you to or from any address within the Twin Cities metro area. It’s a great option for solo travelers or small groups who don’t want to rent a car.
If you do want to rent a car, Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport has a consolidated rental car facility located at Terminal 1. There are several rental car companies to choose from, including Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Sixt.
Another option is the light rail train system, known as the METRO Blue Line. This train connects the airport to downtown Minneapolis, with stops at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. The train runs 24/7 and is an affordable way to get to downtown Minneapolis or other destinations along the route.
For those traveling to areas outside of downtown Minneapolis, there are several shuttle bus services available. One of the most popular is the Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA) shuttle, which provides service to cities in Scott and Dakota counties. Other shuttle services include Northfield Lines, Landline, and GO Rochester Direct.
Finally, there are several taxi and ride-share options available at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport. Uber and Lyft are both available for pick-up and drop-off at the designated ride-share areas located at both terminals. If you prefer a traditional taxi, there is a taxi stand located at Terminal 1, and taxi service can also be arranged at Terminal 2.
No matter your travel needs, Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport has an array of transportation options to choose from. From rental cars to shuttle buses, taxis to light rail trains, getting to and from the airport has never been easier.
Parking Options
Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport / Wold–Chamberlain Field offers a variety of parking options to accommodate travelers. The airport has several parking ramps, parking lots, and valet parking services available.
The daily parking rates for the Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 parking ramps are $26 and $15 respectively. The Main Terminal parking lot has a daily rate of $26, while the Quick Ride Ramp has a rate of $15 per day. The Value Parking lot is the most affordable option with a daily rate of $12.
For those who prefer valet parking, the airport offers the MSP Value Parking Plus service at Terminal 1 and the MSP Terminal 2 parking plus service at Terminal 2. Both services come with complimentary shuttle service and the daily rate is $45.
Travelers also have the option of using off-site parking facilities that offer shuttle service to and from the airport. These off-site parking facilities are often more affordable than on-airport parking options.
Overall, with the variety of parking options available at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport / Wold–Chamberlain Field, travelers can find a convenient and cost-effective solution to meet their needs.
Check-In Procedures
The check-in process at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport/Wold–Chamberlain Field varies depending on the airline being used, but there are a few general methods to choose from. Online check-in is widely available and allows passengers to check in for their flight in advance of arriving at the airport. This option can be particularly helpful for those who are running late or who prefer to avoid waiting in long lines.
Self-service kiosks are also available throughout the airport, allowing passengers to check in, print boarding passes, and even pay any baggage fees they may have. These kiosks are free to use and can be found in many locations around the airport.
For those who prefer a more traditional check-in experience, most airlines offer staffed counters where passengers can check in for their flight. These counters are typically located near the entrance to the terminal and offer the chance to speak with an airline representative in person.
Regardless of the method chosen, it is important to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare. Security lines can be lengthy, and flights cannot be held for passengers who are running late. By following the check-in procedures and arriving with ample time, passengers can ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.
Securing Your Journey at MSP Airport
MSP airport follows the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines for security check. Passengers need to go through a screening process, which includes body scanning, metal detection, and X-ray screening of carry-on bags.
To make the security check process smoother, arrive at the airport at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight. Place all the electronics, liquids, and gels in a separate bin. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that can be easily removed.
Remove belts, watches, and other jewelry that may set off the metal detectors. Take out laptops or any other large electronics from the carry-on bag and place them in a separate bin. If you have any medical devices, declare them at the security checkpoint and provide documentation if necessary.
Follow all the TSA rules and regulations to minimize the time and inconvenience spent in security checks. Always stay alert and report any suspicious behavior or unattended bags to the authorities.
Customs and Immigration Process at MSP Airport
When arriving at MSP Airport, passengers must first pass through customs and immigration. This involves presenting a passport and completing a customs declaration form. Depending on the traveler’s country of origin and the purpose of their visit, they may be subject to additional questioning or screening.
After completing the customs and immigration process, passengers can collect their baggage and proceed to the ground transportation area. When departing from MSP Airport, passengers will go through a similar process, which may involve additional security screenings and document checks.
Overall, the customs and immigration process at MSP Airport is designed to ensure the safety and security of all travelers, while also facilitating efficient and timely travel.
Amenities
- Restaurants and cafes, including fast food options and sit-down dining
- Gift shops and duty-free stores for last-minute shopping
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport
- ATMs and currency exchange services
- Skycap and baggage assistance services
- Business centers with printing, copying, and faxing facilities
- Quiet areas for relaxation and meditation
- Children’s play areas and family restrooms
- Pet relief areas for furry friends
- Shower facilities for travelers on long layovers
Accessibility Services
Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport / Wold–Chamberlain Field offers a variety of facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
These include wheelchair assistance, accessible parking, and specialized restrooms equipped with grab bars and accessibility features.
Service animals are also allowed throughout the airport, and visual paging is available for travelers who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Information about accessibility services can be found on the airport’s website, or by contacting the airport’s customer service team.
Connecting Flights at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport
Connecting flights at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport can be stressful, but with some preparation and knowledge, you can make it to your next flight on time.
First, check your arrival and departure gates and terminals before landing, as some terminals require a shuttle or tram to reach.
If your flights are in different terminals, allow extra time for transportation.
Follow signs for connecting flights and listen to announcements for gate changes or delays.
Consider downloading the airport’s app to stay updated on your flight status and gate information.
If time allows, grab a bite to eat or stretch your legs between flights.
Remember to always check your boarding pass and leave yourself enough time to reach your gate.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
After arriving at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, passengers can head to the baggage claim area to retrieve any checked bags. There are monitors throughout the airport that provide information on which baggage carousel to go to for each flight.
If a passenger’s bag is missing or damaged, they should report it to their airline’s baggage service office or to the airport lost and found department. They will need to provide information about the bag and their contact details. The airline will then work to locate and return the bag to the passenger, or offer compensation if it cannot be found.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency, trained personnel are available 24/7 at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport / Wold–Chamberlain Field.
The airport has its own fire department with trained firefighters and medical personnel who can respond to any emergency situation.
There are also several first-aid stations located throughout the airport terminals, staffed by medical professionals who can provide basic medical care and assistance.
Additionally, there are Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) located throughout the airport for use in case of sudden cardiac arrest.
If necessary, passengers can also be transported to nearby hospitals for more advanced medical care.
Hotel Accommodations
Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport offers a variety of hotel accommodations both within the airport and near the airport. Within the airport, travelers can stay at the InterContinental Minneapolis – St. Paul Airport or at the on-site airport hotels, including the Radisson Blu Mall of America and the Embassy Suites by Hilton Bloomington Minneapolis.
If you’re looking for accommodations outside the airport, there are many options available. The following hotels are within a 5-mile radius of the airport:
1. Hyatt Regency Bloomington-Minneapolis (0.7 miles)
2. Hampton Inn & Suites Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport/Mall of America (1.3 miles)
3. Best Western Plus Bloomington Hotel (2.4 miles)
4. Embassy Suites by Hilton Minneapolis Airport (2.9 miles)
5. Hilton Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport (4.1 miles)
Each of these hotels offers free shuttle service to and from the airport, making them convenient options for travelers.
Useful Tips for Navigating and Enjoying Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport / Wold–Chamberlain Field
When visiting the airport, it’s important to plan ahead and arrive early. This will give you plenty of time to navigate security and find your gate.
If you have a layover or some extra time before your flight, take advantage of the airport’s amenities. You can shop at one of the many stores, grab a bite to eat at a restaurant, or relax in one of the lounges.
Don’t forget to download the airport’s app before your trip. This will give you real-time information about flight status and gate changes.
Finally, if you’re traveling with kids, be sure to visit the airport’s children’s play area. It’s a great way for kids to burn off some energy before a long flight.
Contact Information
Customer service: 612-726-5555
Lost and found: 612-726-5141
Parking information: 612-726-5555
Airport police: 612-726-5122
TSA lost and found: 952-883-2211
Airport paging: 612-726-9111
Disabled services: 612-726-5575
Other Airports near Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport / Wold–Chamberlain Field
In addition to Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, there are several other airports in the vicinity:
- Flying Cloud Airport – located 15 miles southwest of MSP/Wold-Chamberlain Field, accessible by car or taxi.
- St. Paul Downtown Airport – located 9 miles east of MSP/Wold-Chamberlain Field, accessible by car or taxi.
- St. Cloud Regional Airport – located 70 miles northwest of MSP/Wold-Chamberlain Field, accessible by car or bus.
Transportation options to these airports vary, but typically include car rental, taxi, or public transportation. Some hotels also offer shuttle service to nearby airports. It’s important to check flight schedules and compare prices across all available airports before making travel plans.