Miami

✈️

Airports

Miami is served by major international and regional airports that connect the city with domestic and global destinations.

Sections

1. Miami International Airport (MIA)

Overview

  • Location: 8 miles (13 km) northwest of Downtown Miami.
  • Primary Use: MIA is the main airport for Miami and one of the busiest international airports in the U.S. It serves as a hub for American Airlines and is a major gateway for flights to Latin America, the Caribbean, and Europe.
  • Code: MIA.

Transportation to and from MIA

  1. Public Transit:

    • Metrorail: The Orange Line connects MIA to Downtown Miami and other parts of the city. The MIA Metrorail Station is accessible via the MIA Mover (an automated people mover).
      • Cost: $2.25 per ride.
      • Travel Time: ~15-20 minutes to Downtown Miami.
    • Metrobus: Several bus routes serve the airport, including Route 150 (Miami Beach Airport Express), which connects MIA to Miami Beach.
      • Cost: $2.25 per ride.
      • Travel Time: ~30-40 minutes to Miami Beach.

  2. Ride-Sharing and Taxis:

    • Uber/Lyft: Available at designated pickup zones. Prices vary based on distance and time of day.
      • Cost: ~$15-$25 to Downtown Miami; ~$30-$40 to Miami Beach.
    • Taxis: Flat rates are available for certain zones.
      • Cost: ~$22 to Downtown Miami; ~$35 to Miami Beach.

  3. Car Rentals:

    • The MIA Rental Car Center houses most major car rental companies. It is accessible via the MIA Mover.
      • Cost: Varies by company and vehicle type, but expect ~$40-$80 per day.

  4. Shuttle Services:

    • Many hotels offer free or paid shuttle services to and from the airport. Check with your accommodation in advance.

Security and Boarding Procedures

  • TSA Security: Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights. MIA is a busy airport, and security lines can be long, especially during peak hours.
  • Global Entry/PreCheck: If you are enrolled in TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, you can use expedited security and customs lanes.
  • Immigration and Customs: MIA has a large international terminal, so expect longer wait times for immigration during peak hours. Automated Passport Control (APC) kiosks are available for U.S. citizens and certain travelers.

Amenities

  1. Dining and Shopping:

    • MIA offers a wide range of dining options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants, including Cuban cuisine (e.g., Café Versailles).
    • Duty-free shops and retail stores are available in all terminals.

  2. Wi-Fi:

    • Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.

  3. Lounges:

    • Several airline lounges (e.g., American Airlines Admirals Club) and independent lounges (e.g., VIP Lounge) are available. Some accept Priority Pass or allow paid entry.

  4. Other Services:

    • Currency exchange counters and ATMs.
    • Multilingual staff and signage.
    • Family-friendly facilities, including nursing rooms and play areas.

2. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)

Overview

  • Location: 28 miles (45 km) north of Downtown Miami, in Fort Lauderdale.
  • Primary Use: FLL is a secondary option for Miami visitors, especially for budget travelers. It is a hub for low-cost carriers like JetBlue, Spirit Airlines, and Southwest Airlines.
  • Code: FLL.

Transportation to and from FLL

  1. Public Transit:

    • Tri-Rail: A commuter train connects FLL to Miami and other cities in South Florida. A free shuttle runs between the airport terminals and the Tri-Rail station.
      • Cost: ~$3.75 one-way to Miami.
      • Travel Time: ~40-50 minutes to Miami.
    • Broward County Transit (BCT): Local buses connect FLL to nearby areas, but they are less convenient for Miami-bound travelers.

  2. Ride-Sharing and Taxis:

    • Uber/Lyft: Available at designated pickup zones.
      • Cost: ~$35-$50 to Downtown Miami; ~$40-$60 to Miami Beach.
    • Taxis: Metered fares are available.
      • Cost: ~$70-$80 to Miami.

  3. Car Rentals:

    • The Rental Car Center at FLL houses most major car rental companies.
      • Cost: Similar to MIA, ~$40-$80 per day.

  4. Shuttle Services:

    • Shared shuttles and private car services are available. Prices vary based on the provider and destination.

Security and Boarding Procedures

  • TSA Security: Similar to MIA, arrive 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
  • Global Entry/PreCheck: Available for expedited security and customs processing.
  • Immigration and Customs: FLL handles fewer international flights than MIA, so wait times are generally shorter.

Amenities

  1. Dining and Shopping:

    • FLL has a smaller selection of dining and shopping options compared to MIA, but you’ll still find fast food, coffee shops, and a few sit-down restaurants.
    • Duty-free shopping is available in international terminals.

  2. Wi-Fi:

    • Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.

  3. Lounges:

    • FLL has fewer lounges than MIA, but options like the Delta Sky Club and United Club are available.

  4. Other Services:

    • Currency exchange counters and ATMs.
    • Family-friendly facilities, including nursing rooms.

3. Key Considerations for Visitors

  1. Choosing Between MIA and FLL:

    • MIA: Best for those staying in Miami or traveling internationally. It is closer to Downtown Miami and Miami Beach.
    • FLL: A good option for budget travelers or those staying in Fort Lauderdale or northern Miami-Dade County.

  2. Costs:

    • Transportation costs are generally higher from FLL to Miami due to the greater distance.
    • MIA offers more public transit options, which can save money.

  3. Language:

    • Miami is a bilingual city, and Spanish is widely spoken. Airport staff are generally fluent in both English and Spanish.

  4. Cultural Tips:

    • Miami is known for its vibrant Latin American culture. Expect to hear Spanish frequently and encounter Latin-inspired food and music.
    • Tipping is customary in the U.S. (e.g., 15-20% for taxis and restaurants).

  5. Weather:

    • Miami has a tropical climate, so dress comfortably and be prepared for sudden rain showers, especially during the summer.

4. Final Tips

  • Plan Ahead: Check your flight status and terminal information before heading to the airport.
  • Pack Smart: Be aware of TSA regulations for liquids and prohibited items.
  • Stay Connected: Download the airport’s official app (if available) for real-time updates and maps.
  • Be Patient: Both MIA and FLL are busy airports, so allow extra time for security, customs, and transportation.

By understanding the layout, transportation options, and amenities of Miami’s airports, you’ll be well-prepared for a smooth arrival or departure. Safe travels!