building ironwork arch with skyscraper in background

Everything you need to know about traveling to Pittsburgh International Airport and getting around it.

In this guide:

Arriving & Checking In

Facilities & Services

Arriving & Checking In

Address: Pittsburgh International Airport, Arlington, VA 22202

Getting to Pittsburgh International Airport

If you’re driving, GPS navigation will get you to the airport quickly and seamlessly.

Searching for low Pittsburgh Airport parking rates? Our parking lot operators offer you a great deal on Pittsburgh Airport long term parking or short term stays as an alternative to leaving your car at the lots at the airport. Reserving a space is quick and easy using our airport parking reservation service. Simply book online using a credit card and you are guaranteed a space to suit your needs.

For your convenience our compare & save service includes:

  • Access to the best rates from popular parking lots
  • 1000’s of real customer reviews
  • Free cancellations
  • Guaranteed bookings
  • Safe & easy to use reservation system

Arriving at the airport

How early to get to Pittsburgh Airport depends on the time of your flight and the airline you’ve booked to fly with:

  • Passengers for domestic flights should arrive at the airport two hours before departure.
  • Travelers on international flights should aim to get to the airport three hours before departure.

To avoid delays when traveling during the peak summer periods, we recommend arriving in plenty of time in accordance with your flight departure.

Pittsburgh International Airport Check-In

For a smooth departure from Pittsburgh International Airport, check your airline’s specific check-in requirements ahead of time, as policies may vary. The most accurate information can be found by contacting your airline directly.

Whenever possible, take advantage of online check-in to save time and skip long lines at the airport. Completing this step early ensures a hassle-free start to your journey, allowing you to focus on your upcoming travel plans.

Pittsburgh International Airport Security Screening

Once checked in, head to Pittsburgh Airport security screening to reach the departure lounge.

For a smoother departure from PIT Airport, we recommend arriving early to allow ample time for security screening. Wait times can fluctuate, especially during peak travel periods like early mornings, holidays, and the summer season. Planning ahead ensures a stress-free start to your journey.

Boarding & Connecting Flights at Pittsburgh Airport

Connecting flights at Pittsburgh International Airport? Staying updated on your next flight is essential. Check digital flight displays and airline apps regularly for real-time gate and departure information.

For those with checked luggage, verify if re-checking is necessary and review your airline’s baggage policies. Additionally, ensure you have all required boarding passes, as some connecting flights may require a new one. A bit of advance planning can help make your transfer smooth and stress-free.

Things to Know about Pittsburgh Airport

PIT, or Pittsburgh International Airport, feels more like a small town airport than a huge international gateway. In reality, it is the fourth largest U.S. airport as measured in landmass. Although its exterior and interior design is somewhat antiquated, it creates a homey ambiance for travelers. The tips below will give you a quick road map on how to enjoy your time at Pittsburgh Airport.

Facilities & Services

The good thing is that while you’re at Pittsburgh Airport, you’ll definitely know what city you’re in. The airport does a great job of presenting Pittsburgh’s local character in the airport. You’ll see a variety of artwork and memorabilia, which share special aspects of Pittsburgh’s history.

Pittsburgh International Airport Restaurants: Where to Eat?

Pittsburgh Airport isn’t exactly the culinary capital of airports. The type and quality of food found at TGIF Friday’s (which is also in the airport) pretty much sums up what you are likely to find here. There are, on the other hand, a few other options that might be a better choice.

Bar Symon probably serves the best food at Pittsburgh Airport. This bar/eatery is located in the Airmall, or center core on the airside of the terminal. Bar Symon serves interesting combinations like the Parmesan rosemary fries, and filling sandwiches such as the Lola Burger. They also have a wide selection of craft beers, although they are a little pricey. Don’t come here expecting anything exotic. Bar Symon basically serves your typical bar fare with a little twist; however, it is a lot better than eating at McDonald’s!

If you feel like trekking it to the pre-security side of the terminal, you can have a decent time at City of Bridges Cafe. Yet, you don’t necessarily want to come here for the food. The food really isn’t all that spectacular. The real draw here is the awesome view of Pittsburgh. In fact, you don’t even have to eat here; you can just come for drinks since it also has a full bar. If you do decide to eat, stay away from the pizza and grab a sandwich or salad instead.

PIT Airport Shops

Pittsburgh Airport has a number of good shops and plenty of restaurants. As mentioned, the floor plan is spacious enough to ensure that you can walk unimpeded and have plenty of opportunities to find seating. Accurate signage is posted throughout the terminals to help you navigate your way to different locations.

The shops, restaurants, and restrooms are also conveniently located close together so that you don’t have to do a lot of walking while toting carry on items.

An added bonus is that there are various massage chairs available to revive your weary body. There is even a spa/beauty salon on the premises (Xpress Spa) that offers full massages, manicures and facials.

What to Do at Pittsburgh Airport

If you find yourself with some time on your hands, there are many things to check out at PIT. First off, if you happen to hear that there is a Tyrannosaurus Rex in the terminal, don’t be alarmed! The Carnegie Museum of Natural History has a full replica of a T-Rex skeleton in the main, post-security terminal area. It’s an awesome photo op and a popular spot for travelling kids. You’ll encounter this prehistoric surprise on the transit level, which is located in the post-security portion of the terminal.

Sport enthusiasts will want to check out the life size statue of Hall of Fame Steeler’s running back: Franco Harris. The statue beautifully depicts Harris’s history making catch in what has since been called the “Immaculate Reception.” The statue was previously located in the arrivals area of the international terminal, however it was recently moved to the transit area at the bottom of the escalators.

History buffs might want to head to Concourse A to see the Tuskegee Airmen exhibit. This exhibit consists of a wall mural displaying pictures and information about the historic military unit.

Those who are in the mood for a little art can view paintings by Andy Warhol in Concourses C and D. These pieces, presented by the Andy Warhol Museum, are rather easy to spot as you walk down the concourse. Warhol’s iconic splashes of bright colors stand out remarkably in the otherwise grey and gloomy terminal.

On a sidenote, those traveling with young ones can take advantage of the play area situated in the post-security area. Kidsport can be found in Concourse C and features a scalable wall and plenty of area to run around. If the kids have ever seen a Mr. Rogers re-run, you might also want to take them to the Fred Rogers exhibit in Concourse C. This small exhibit showcases many of the items from the show, including cherished puppets such as Henrietta Pussycat and King Friday.

Pittsburgh International Airport WiFi

While you’re lounging in the terminals, you’ll have access to free Wi-Fi to watch some movies or browse the net. However, as is the case with any free Wi-Fi, the signal can be weak in certain locations and connections can be subject to periodic drops.

Sleeping at PIT Airport

If you need to sleep, go to Kidsport in Concourse C. There are a few couches there that can provide you with a comfortable place to rest. Whatever you do, stay away from the international gates or the customs exit area. Sleeping or napping in those spots will prompt security to give you a rude awakening!

Main image:

Photo by Jocelyn Allen – Unsplash