Ultimate Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Welcome to the Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) guide—a thoroughly researched airport guide resource designed to help you navigate one of the busiest and most convenient airports in the United States. Whether you’re departing from Logan Airport, arriving in Boston for the first time, or simply passing through on a layover, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to ensure a smooth travel experience. From terminal layouts and dining options to transportation and parking, read on to discover why BOS is a critical gateway to New England.

Table of Contents

1. Overview of Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
2. Terminals at BOS Airport
3. Check-In, Security, and Customs
4. Ground Transportation Options
5. Parking at Boston Logan Airport
6. Baggage Claim and Lost & Found
7. Dining and Shopping at BOS
8. Airport Lounges and VIP Services
9. Layover Ideas: Exploring Boston from Logan Airport
10. Nearby Hotels and Accommodation
11. Tips for a Smooth Experience at BOS
12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
13. Conclusion

1. Overview of Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)

Boston Logan International Airport, commonly known as Logan Airport or BOS Airport, is located in East Boston, just 3 miles from Downtown Boston. Operated by the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport), BOS serves as a major hub for JetBlue and a key focus city for Delta Air Lines and American Airlines. With four passenger terminals (A, B, C, and E) and extensive domestic and international connections, Boston Logan is considered a primary gateway to New England.

Key Facts About BOS

• IATA Code: BOS
• Location: East Boston, Massachusetts, USA
• Distance to Downtown: Approx. 3 miles (5 km)
• Terminals: 4 (A, B, C, E)
• Annual Passenger Traffic: Over 40 million in typical years
• Major Airlines: JetBlue, Delta, American, United, Spirit, Southwest, and numerous international carriers

2. Terminals at BOS Airport

Boston Logan Airport features four passenger terminals, each with its own check-in areas, gates, security checkpoints, and amenities. Here’s a quick rundown:

1. Terminal A

   • Serves Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and some Delta Connection partners.
   • Divided into two concourses: A1 and A2.
   • Amenities include dining options like Dunkin’, Currito, and various grab-and-go markets.

2. Terminal B

   • Houses American Airlines, United Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and other carriers.
   • Features gates grouped by airline with separate security checkpoints.
   • Offers diverse eateries, coffee shops, and retail stores for travelers.

3. Terminal C

   • A key base for JetBlue, as well as some smaller carriers.
   • Variety of food outlets, including Starbucks, Stephanie’s, and Burger King.
   • Spacious seating areas, children’s play zones, and technology-friendly workstations.

4. Terminal E (International Terminal)

   • Handles international flights with airlines like British Airways, Lufthansa, Emirates, and more.
   • U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) facilities for arriving passengers.
   • Duty-free shops, global dining offerings, and lounges for premium travelers.

Navigating Between Terminals

• Massport Shuttle Buses run between terminals, the Rental Car Center, and public transit stations.
• Walkways connect some terminals (e.g., Terminal A and Terminal E are linked via a skybridge), but shuttle buses are often more convenient for speed.

3. Check-In, Security, and Customs

Domestic Check-In and Security

• Recommended Arrival Times:
  • 2 hours before a domestic flight
  • 3 hours before an international flight
• Most airlines offer online check-in through their apps or websites, along with self-service kiosks at terminal entrances.
• Each terminal has its own TSA security checkpoint. If you have TSA PreCheck, look for dedicated PreCheck lanes. CLEAR lanes may also be available for expedited security screening.

International Arrivals and Customs

• All international arrivals generally process through Terminal E, even if you land in another terminal (airlines sometimes bus passengers to E for customs).
• Global Entry lanes expedite immigration for pre-approved travelers.
• Have your passport (valid for at least 6 months), customs declaration form, and any required visas or travel documents on hand.

4. Ground Transportation Options

Boston Logan International Airport provides a range of transport choices to fit any budget or schedule:

1. MBTA (The ‘T’)

   • Blue Line Subway: Closest station is Airport Station; free Massport shuttles connect the terminals to the station.
   • Silver Line (SL1) Bus: Offers direct service from Logan Airport to South Station in Downtown Boston—free inbound to Boston.

2. Logan Express

   • Direct buses from Braintree, Framingham, Woburn, and Peabody.
   • Ideal for suburban travelers avoiding city traffic.

3. Taxis & Ridesharing

   • Official taxi stands are located outside each terminal’s arrivals/baggage claim level.
   • Uber and Lyft pickups follow designated lanes—check signage or your app for exact locations.

4. Water Taxi & Ferry

   • For a scenic route, you can take a water taxi from the Logan Airport Ferry Terminal near Terminals A & E to downtown Boston.
   • Fast, direct service and great views of Boston Harbor.

5. Rental Cars

   • A free shuttle bus from each terminal to the Rental Car Center (RCC).
   • Major agencies: Hertz, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and more.

5. Parking at Boston Logan Airport

Logan Airport offers several parking options, each with different rates and convenience levels:

1. Central Parking Garage

   • Connected by pedestrian walkways to Terminals A, B, and E.
   • Offers both short-term and long-term parking.

2. Terminal B Garage and Terminal E Lots

   • Directly adjacent to Terminals B and E for easy access.
   • Ideal if you need quick proximity to your gate.

3. Economy Parking

   • Located further from the terminals; shuttle buses operate 24/7.
   • Most cost-effective choice for extended stays.

4. Cell Phone Lot

   • Free wait area for drivers picking up arriving passengers.
   • Located minutes from the terminals.

Pro Tip: Consider booking parking in advance online, especially during busy travel seasons or holidays.

6. Baggage Claim and Lost & Found

Baggage Claim

• Each Logan Airport terminal has its own baggage claim area on the arrivals level.
• Monitors indicate the correct carousel for your flight.
• For connecting flights, your bags may be automatically forwarded—check with your airline during check-in.

Lost & Found

• For items lost at security, contact the TSA Lost and Found.
• For items lost in the terminals or parking facilities, reach out to Massport’s Lost and Found service.
• Items left onboard the aircraft are handled by the airline’s customer service department.

7. Dining and Shopping at BOS

Boston Logan Airport boasts a range of dining and shopping options to keep travelers energized and entertained:

1. Local Boston Eats

   • Legal Sea Foods (Terminals A, C, and E) for fresh clam chowder and seafood.
   • Boston Beer Works or Harpoon Tap Room for craft brews.

2. Quick Bites and Cafés

   • Dunkin’ shops throughout the airport for coffee and donuts.
   • Fast-food favorites like Burger King, McDonald’s, and Starbucks.

3. Sit-Down Restaurants

   • Stephanie’s in Terminal B for comfort food in an upscale setting.
   • Vineyard Grille in Terminal A for sandwiches, salads, and drinks.

4. Shopping

   • Duty-free stores in Terminal E.
   • Newsstands, souvenir shops, electronics kiosks, and travel essentials scattered in all terminals.

8. Airport Lounges and VIP Services

Travelers seeking extra comfort or privacy can opt for airport lounges at BOS:

• Delta Sky Club (Terminal A)
• American Airlines Admirals Club (Terminal B)
• United Club (Terminal B)
• The Club (Terminal E) – Available to Priority Pass members or for a day pass.
• British Airways Galleries Lounge (Terminal E) – For premium BA passengers and eligible oneworld members.

Most lounges offer complimentary snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, and quiet areas to relax or work. Some may offer showersand dedicated business centers.

9. Layover Ideas: Exploring Boston from Logan Airport

If you have a long layover at Boston Logan Airport and enough time to explore:

1. Downtown Boston Tour

   • Hop on the MBTA Blue Line or Silver Line to reach downtown in about 15–20 minutes.
   • Explore Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, or the Freedom Trail.

2. Boston Harbor

   • Take a water taxi or ferry for scenic views of the skyline.
   • Enjoy fresh seafood at local waterfront restaurants in the Seaport District.

3. Museums & Attractions

   • New England Aquarium, Boston Children’s Museum, or the Museum of Science are just a short ride away.
   • Perfect for families or quick cultural outings.

Keep in mind transit times, TSA security lines, and any mandatory check-in procedures if heading back for another flight.

10. Nearby Hotels and Accommodation

Several hotels cater to travelers seeking convenience near Logan Airport:

1. Hilton Boston Logan Airport

   • Direct skybridge to Terminals A & E (walkable in some cases) and free shuttle service.
   • Onsite dining and a fitness center.

2. Hyatt Regency Boston Harbor

   • Waterfront location with beautiful views of the Boston skyline.
   • Complimentary airport shuttle.

3. Embassy Suites Boston at Logan Airport

   • All-suite hotel with free breakfast and shuttle to terminals.
   • Business facilities and indoor pool.

4. Courtyard by Marriott Boston Logan Airport

   • Budget-friendly with complimentary shuttle and comfortable rooms.
   • Onsite bistro and easy access to major highways.

11. Tips for a Smooth Experience at BOS

1. Arrive Early

   • 2 hours for domestic, 3 hours for international flights to allow for security screening and check-in.

2. Use Public Transit

   • The MBTA Blue Line and Silver Line provide fast, affordable routes to and from downtown Boston.

3. Check Terminal Before You Go

   • Confirm which terminal your flight departs from—BOS terminals are not all connected post-security.

4. Enroll in TSA PreCheck or CLEAR

   • Save time at security checkpoints if you qualify for expedited screening.

5. Stay Connected

   • Free Wi-Fi is available throughout Logan Airport under “Boingo Hotspot” or “LoganWiFi.”

6. Consider Lounge Access

   • If you have a long layover, a day pass to one of the lounges can be a lifesaver for rest or remote work.

12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. How far is Boston Logan International Airport from downtown Boston?

• Logan Airport is roughly 3 miles (5 km) from downtown Boston. Travel time by car or MBTA can be anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Q2. Which terminal handles international flights at BOS?

• Terminal E (International Terminal) processes most inbound and outbound international flights at Boston Logan Airport.

Q3. Is there free Wi-Fi at BOS Airport?

• Yes. Complimentary Wi-Fi is accessible in all terminals. Look for the “LoganWiFi” or “Boingo Hotspot” network.

Q4. Can I store my luggage at Boston Logan Airport?

• Logan Airport does not currently offer a direct luggage storage facility due to security regulations. Consider third-party luggage storage services located in Boston if needed.

Q5. What is the best way to get from Logan Airport to Downtown Boston?

• The MBTA Silver Line (SL1) bus provides free service from Logan Airport to South Station inbound, making it a quick and cost-effective option.

13. Conclusion

Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) is a bustling travel hub that seamlessly connects New England with the rest of the world. With four modern terminals, robust transportation links, and a variety of dining, shopping, and loungingoptions, Logan Airport caters to the needs of every traveler. By understanding the terminal layouts, ground transport choices, parking facilities, and essential travel tips, you’ll be well-prepared for a stress-free experience at BOS.

For more airport guides, expert travel tips, and insider advice, explore airport.co—your go-to source for all things air travel. Safe travels, and welcome to Boston!