Your Complete Guide to the Southwest Terminal at STL (St. Louis Lambert International Airport)
St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) serves as the primary airport for the greater St. Louis area and the state of Missouri. For thousands of travelers every day, especially those flying on low-cost carrier Southwest Airlines, STL is a central hub for travel across the United States. If you're flying with Southwest from or to St. Louis, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Southwest terminal at STL, including its location, amenities, parking, dining, security, and more.
Whether you're a seasoned flyer or a first-time visitor to STL, understanding the layout and features of the Southwest terminal will help you enjoy a smoother travel experience.
Overview of St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL)
St. Louis Lambert International Airport is located about 14 miles northwest of downtown St. Louis and is the busiest airport in Missouri. It features two main terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.
Terminal 1: Hosts a range of domestic and international airlines including United, American Airlines, Delta, and Air Canada.
Terminal 2: Dedicated primarily to Southwest Airlines, making it the go-to terminal for Southwest passengers.
With more than 15 million passengers served annually, STL is an important regional hub. For Southwest Airlines, it serves as a focus city, offering multiple daily flights to destinations all across the country.
Which Terminal Does Southwest Use at STL?
Southwest Airlines operates exclusively out of Terminal 2 at STL. This terminal is also referred to as the “East Terminal” and is smaller and easier to navigate than Terminal 1, making it ideal for travelers seeking quick and convenient boarding.
Terminal 2: Southwest Airlines’ Home at STL
Layout and Design
Terminal 2 at STL is a modern, streamlined facility designed to handle a high volume of passengers efficiently. Unlike the sprawling layout of some large international airports, STL’s Terminal 2 is compact and user-friendly.
The terminal consists of one concourse — Concourse E — which houses all the Southwest Airlines gates. The gates are clearly marked and easy to locate, with digital signage and helpful staff available to guide you.
Southwest Airlines Gates at STL
Most Southwest flights at STL depart from gates E2 through E40, though gate assignments can change depending on the time of day and schedule. Always check the flight information screens upon arrival at the terminal for the most up-to-date gate information.
Check-In and Baggage Services
When flying Southwest Airlines from STL, you’ll start your journey on the lower level of Terminal 2, where the airline has a dedicated check-in area. Here’s what to expect:
Self-Service Kiosks and Bag Drop
Southwest provides numerous self-service kiosks for travelers to check in, print boarding passes, and print bag tags. After tagging your checked luggage, proceed to the bag drop area where agents will assist with the process.
Curbside Check-In
During peak travel hours, curbside check-in is available for Southwest passengers. This service is particularly convenient if you're traveling with a lot of luggage or in a hurry.
TSA PreCheck and Clear
Southwest passengers at STL who are enrolled in TSA PreCheck or Clear can take advantage of expedited security screening at Terminal 2. Be sure your Known Traveler Number (KTN) is added to your reservation for PreCheck eligibility.
Security Checkpoint
The security checkpoint at Terminal 2 is known for its efficiency, especially during non-peak hours. However, during early mornings, weekends, and holidays, lines can be long.
Tips for quicker security screening:
Arrive at least 90 minutes to 2 hours before your flight.
Make use of TSA PreCheck if available.
Download the MyTSA app for real-time security wait time updates.
Dining and Shopping Options in Terminal 2
Though Terminal 2 is smaller than Terminal 1, it still offers a solid range of dining and shopping options to make your wait more enjoyable.
Dining Options
Here are some popular food and beverage choices located after security in Concourse E:
Schlafly Beer Bar – A local St. Louis favorite offering craft beers and hearty fare.
Great American Bagel – Perfect for breakfast or a quick snack.
Burger King – Fast food for those in a rush.
The Pasta House Co. – Sit-down Italian dining for travelers with more time.
Starbucks – Grab your favorite coffee or pastry before boarding.
Shopping Options
Hudson News – For magazines, snacks, and travel essentials.
Tech On The Go – For headphones, chargers, and other tech accessories.
STL Zoo Shop – Fun gifts and souvenirs with a wildlife theme.
Though not extensive, the dining and retail offerings at Terminal 2 are sufficient for most travel needs and reflect some local St. Louis charm.
Wi-Fi and Charging Stations
Free high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout Terminal 2, courtesy of STL Airport. Look for the “STL Free WiFi” network and follow the sign-in instructions.
Charging stations and outlets are available near most gates. If you need a quiet spot to recharge your devices (and yourself), head toward the gates at the far end of Concourse E, which are often less crowded.
Accessibility and Services
Mobility Assistance
Wheelchair services are available at the Southwest check-in area. It’s advisable to notify the airline in advance if you require special assistance.
Family Services
Family restrooms are located near the gates.
Nursing rooms and baby-changing facilities are also available, making STL family-friendly for parents with young children.
Pet Relief Area
There is a pet relief area located outside Terminal 2. Service animals and traveling pets can be taken there before heading through security.
Parking Options for Southwest Travelers
There are several convenient parking options at STL, especially for passengers flying Southwest from Terminal 2.
- Terminal 2 Parking Garage
Located just steps from the terminal, the Terminal 2 Garage offers the closest and most convenient parking. It is perfect for short trips or business travelers who value speed and proximity.
Rate: Approximately $23 per day.
Height clearance: 8'2"
- Lot D
Lot D is a more budget-friendly surface lot that offers shuttle service to Terminal 2. It's ideal for longer trips where you want to save on parking.
Rate: Around $10–12 per day.
Free shuttle: Every 8–15 minutes.
- Economy Parking
Economy lots provide long-term parking at the lowest rates and connect to the terminal via shuttle. These are great for vacations or extended stays.
Rate: As low as $7 per day.
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