Welcome to Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) – Your Gateway to Florida’s Gold Coast
Positioned just 3 miles (5 kilometers) west of downtown West Palm Beach, Palm Beach International Airport (PBI)serves as a prime air travel hub for travelers heading to Florida’s scenic Gold Coast and the lush Palm Beach County region. Known for its ease of navigation, modern amenities, and proximity to world-class beaches, PBI consistently ranks high in passenger satisfaction. This airport guide will help you discover everything you need to make the most of Palm Beach International Airport—from terminal details and parking to ground transportation, dining, and key travel tips. Bookmark this page on airport.co and let it guide your journey.
1. Quick Facts & Overview
- Airport Code: PBI
- Location: About 3 miles west of downtown West Palm Beach, near I-95 and Belvedere Road
- Passenger Volume: Over 6 million travelers annually (pre-pandemic data)
- Terminal Structure: One main passenger terminal with Concourse A, B, and C gates
- Primary Airlines: American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, United, Allegiant, Frontier, plus seasonal charter carriers
- Key Routes: Domestic flights across major U.S. cities (New York, Atlanta, Chicago) and limited seasonal/international charters
Situated in the heart of Palm Beach County, PBI offers quick access to West Palm Beach’s upscale shopping, Jupiter’s pristine beaches, and the vibrant nightlife of Delray Beach. With short walking distances and relatively low congestion, Palm Beach International Airport provides a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere for flyers.
2. Terminal Layout & Facilities
2.1 Main Terminal
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Check-In Counters
- Located on Level 2. Overhead digital boards highlight airline desk numbers—arrive 1–2 hours before domestic flights, 2–3 hours for any potential international routes.
- Self-service kiosks available for quick check-in; verify baggage drop times with your airline.
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Security Checkpoint
- A centralized TSA screening area leads to the concourses.
- TSA PreCheck lanes operate for expedited clearance—peak times often include early mornings and weekends.
2.2 Concourses & Gates
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Concourse A
- Gates A1–A9, commonly housing carriers like Southwest, Allegiant—check signage for updates.
- Amenities: Seating, charging stations, restrooms, light dining/retail.
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Concourse B
- Gates B1–B9, used by airlines such as Delta, United—some with widebody gate capacity for seasonal flights.
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Concourse C
- Gates C1–C12, often hosting American, JetBlue, Frontier—multiple dining options and souvenir shops.
2.3 Additional Passenger Services
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Free Wi-Fi
- Connect to “PBIA Free WiFi”—accept terms to surf or stream at no cost.
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ATMs & Limited Currency Exchange
- ATM machines found throughout the terminal; currency exchange offerings might be limited—plan ahead if traveling overseas.
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Information Desk
- Airport ambassadors or staff can assist with directions, lost items, or tourist information about Palm Beach County.
3. Ground Transportation
3.1 Taxis & Ride-Hailing
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Taxi Rank
- Outside Level 1 (Arrivals)—fares to downtown West Palm Beach typically range $15–$25 (~10–15 minutes).
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Ride-Share Services
- Uber, Lyft—designated pickup zones near arrivals; follow “Rideshare” signage for location details.
3.2 Shuttles & Buses
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Hotel Shuttles
- Many nearby hotels provide courtesy vans—arrange directly with the property or upon arrival.
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Palm Tran (Public Bus)
- Route 44 or 42 can connect PBI to West Palm Beach and surrounding areas (~$2 fare).
- Check schedules at the Ground Transportation desk or Palm Tran website.
3.3 Tri-Rail & Brightline (Nearby Rail Options)
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Tri-Rail
- Commuter rail station is ~5 miles from PBI—take a taxi or bus from arrivals to “West Palm Beach Station” for Tri-Rail service along the South Florida corridor (Fort Lauderdale, Miami).
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Brightline
- High-speed rail station in downtown West Palm Beach—also requires a short taxi or rideshare from the airport.
3.4 Car Rentals
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Rental Car Center
- On-site facility near baggage claim featuring brands like Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Thrifty.
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Driving Tips
- Quick access to I-95 and Florida’s Turnpike ensures easy travel to Jupiter, Boca Raton, or even Orlando (~2 hours north).
4. Parking at Palm Beach International Airport
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Short-Term Parking (Hourly Lot)
- Adjacent to the terminal—best for drop-offs/pick-ups or quick stays.
- Higher hourly rates, but minimal walking distance.
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Long-Term Parking (Daily Lot)
- A multi-level garage or surface lots with daily/weekly rates.
- A short walk or quick shuttle from the terminal entrance.
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Economy Lot
- Cheaper daily/weekly rates for budget-minded travelers—free shuttle runs every ~10–15 minutes.
- Allow extra time for shuttle pickup and gate arrival.
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Cell Phone Waiting Lot
- Free area for drivers waiting to collect arriving passengers—then proceed curbside when travelers are ready.
(Check PBI’s official website for real-time parking updates, promotions, or online reservation options.)
5. Lounges & Priority Services
5.1 Airline Lounges
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Delta Sky Club (Concourse C)
- Access for Delta Sky Club members, certain Amex cardholders, or top-tier frequent flyers.
- Amenities: Complimentary snacks, Wi-Fi, beverages (including alcohol), comfortable seating.
(No other major airline-specific lounges currently at PBI—check expansions or future announcements.)
5.2 Fast Track Security (TSA PreCheck)
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TSA PreCheck
- Expedite security screening if you’re enrolled—keep your Known Traveler Number in airline profiles.
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CLEAR
- Not presently available at PBI—confirm with official CLEAR site for possible expansions.
6. Dining & Shopping
6.1 Food & Beverage
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Local Florida Flavors
- Sample fresh seafood, Cuban sandwiches, or Key lime treats at select airport cafes.
- Some outlets highlight local produce or craft brews—perfect for a quick taste of South Florida.
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National Chains
- Starbucks, Dunkin’, Chick-fil-A, or quick-service pizza, sandwiches for short layovers.
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Bars & Lounges
- Full-service bars near certain gates—enjoy cocktails, wines, or local beers before boarding.
6.2 Retail & Duty-Free
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Newsstands & Convenience
- Hudson News, CNBC, or small convenience stores for reading materials, travel essentials, and souvenirs.
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Duty-Free
- Limited, as PBI primarily handles domestic routes—check if traveling internationally.
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Local Souvenirs
- Florida-themed gifts, palm tree decor, beach accessories, or golf apparel (Palm Beach County is known for top-notch golf courses).
7. Nearby Accommodations
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Hilton Palm Beach Airport
- ~1 mile away—free shuttle, lakeside views, on-site restaurant/lounge.
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Embassy Suites by Hilton West Palm Beach Central
- Mid-range hotel with complimentary airport shuttle, free breakfast, and meeting facilities.
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Courtyard by Marriott West Palm Beach Airport
- ~2.5 miles from PBI—comfortable rooms, shuttle service (check times), close to downtown West Palm Beach.
8. Top Attractions Near PBI
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Downtown West Palm Beach (~10 mins)
- Explore Clematis Street, CityPlace/Rosemary Square for shopping, dining, nightlife.
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Palm Beach Island (~15 mins)
- Home to Worth Avenue’s upscale boutiques, white sandy beaches, and the historic Breakers Hotel.
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Norton Museum of Art (~10–15 mins)
- Houses contemporary and European collections; ideal for culture enthusiasts.
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Lion Country Safari (~20–25 mins west)
- Drive-through safari park—great family attraction with wildlife encounters.
9. Travel Tips for Palm Beach International Airport
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Arrive Early
- 90 minutes before domestic flights; 2 hours recommended during peak holiday travel.
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Online Check-In
- Major carriers (Delta, American, Southwest) encourage e-boarding passes to reduce lines.
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Baggage Rules
- Confirm carry-on limits with budget or Basic Economy fares—Florida souvenirs can add weight.
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Weather Awareness
- Afternoon thunderstorms common in summer—monitor flight status via airline apps.
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Rental Car Bookings
- Reserve ahead for best rates, especially during winter high season (snowbird influx) or major local events.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How far is PBI from downtown West Palm Beach?
A: Approximately 3 miles. A quick 10–15 minute drive via I-95 or local roads, subject to traffic.
Q2: Does Palm Beach International Airport have free Wi-Fi?
A: Yes, “PBIA Free WiFi” is available throughout the terminal—open your browser and accept terms.
Q3: What airlines serve PBI?
A: American, Delta, Southwest, United, JetBlue, Allegiant, Frontier, plus seasonal charters.
Q4: Are there direct international flights from PBI?
A: Mostly domestic routes, though some seasonal or limited international charters may operate—check your airline’s schedule.
Q5: Any official lounge at PBI?
A: Delta Sky Club in Concourse C. Other carriers do not maintain dedicated lounges currently.
Conclusion
From its breezy concourses to an enviable location near Florida’s scenic Gold Coast, Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) ensures a smooth, traveler-friendly experience. Boasting straightforward parking, a range of ground transport options, and a relaxed terminal atmosphere, PBI stands as an excellent gateway for both business and leisure flyers discovering West Palm Beach and beyond. Reference this airport guide on airport.co for up-to-date intel on terminal logistics, lounge access, local transport, and essential travel tips—guaranteeing your time at Palm Beach International Airport is as warm and welcoming as the Sunshine State itself.
