Your Complete Guide to the Southwest Terminal at PHX (Phoenix Sky Harbor)

If you're flying with Southwest Airlines into or out of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), this all-in-one guide will help you navigate Terminal 4, where Southwest operates. From check-in to dining, security to baggage claim, and transportation to lounges—we’ve got you covered.

For real-time help, call Southwest customer support at +1-650-449-8575.

About Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX)

Located just 3 miles east of downtown Phoenix, PHX is Arizona’s busiest airport and a major domestic hub. It's often called “America’s Friendliest Airport” and handles over 40 million travelers each year.

Terminal Overview:

• Terminal 2 – Permanently closed in 2020

• Terminal 3 – Modernized, used by select carriers

• Terminal 4 – The largest terminal, home to Southwest Airlines and most other major domestic carriers

Where Is Southwest Airlines Located at PHX?

Southwest Airlines operates exclusively out of Terminal 4 at PHX.

Key Locations:

• Check-In & Ticketing: Terminal 4, Level 2 (near C Gates)

• Security Checkpoint: C and D Gates security zones

• Gates: Concourse C (C1–C10) and Concourse D (D1–D8)

• Baggage Claim: Level 1 (C & D carousel areas)

• Ground Transportation: Directly outside Terminal 4

Check-In Process at Terminal 4

Self-Service Kiosks & Ticket Counters:

You can check in, print boarding passes, and tag bags at any of the kiosks. Southwest customer service agents are also available for personal assistance or special needs.

EarlyBird Check-In:

If you’ve purchased EarlyBird, your boarding position is assigned earlier—though you’ll still need to check your luggage and go through security.

Pro Tips:

• Arrive at least 2 hours early for domestic flights

• Use the Southwest app or website to check in up to 24 hours ahead

• For help, call +1-650-449-8575

Security Checkpoints at Southwest Terminal (T4)

Most Southwest passengers use the C and D Gates checkpoints. These are efficient, but lines can be long during peak hours.

• TSA PreCheck is available

• CLEAR lanes offer fast, biometric-based entry

• If a checkpoint is backed up, you may be directed to another—Terminal 4 is fully connected post-security

Navigating Terminal 4: Layout for Southwest Passengers

Once past security:

• Concourse C: Gates C1–C10 (mostly Southwest)

• Concourse D: Gates D1–D8 (shared, verify your gate)

Clear signage, moving walkways, and information desks make navigation easy.

Baggage Claim & Assistance at PHX

After your flight, head to Level 1 of Terminal 4.

• Carousels are marked for each flight

• Digital displays help locate your baggage claim area

Need Help With Baggage?

• Visit the Southwest Baggage Services Office near baggage claim

• For lost or delayed luggage, file a report in person

• Oversized item pickup (golf bags, strollers, etc.) is located nearby

Dining & Shopping Near Southwest Gates

Whether you're hungry or just want to browse, Terminal 4 offers lots of options.

C Gates (Southwest-heavy):

• Matt’s Big Breakfast – Local favorite for hearty meals

• Pei Wei Asian Kitchen – Quick and flavorful

• Panera Bread – Soups, salads, and sandwiches

D Gates:

• Four Peaks Brewing Co. – Craft beer and sit-down meals

• Humble Pie – Pizza and small plates

Coffee & Quick Snacks:

• Starbucks

• Dunkin’ Donuts

• Shake Shack (pre-security)

Shopping:

• Tech on the Go

• Arizona Highways (gifts/books)

• Desert News (magazines/snacks)

Connectivity, Charging, & Business Amenities

Free Wi-Fi:

Connect to "PHX Free WiFi" throughout Terminal 4.

Charging:

Most seating areas, gates, and dining locations include outlets and USB ports.

Business Travelers:

• Quiet areas available—ask at the Navigator Information Desk

• USO Lounge is available for active-duty military

Family & Accessibility Services

Traveling With Kids:

• Family restrooms & baby changing areas

• Play zone (pre-security)

Accessibility Features:

• Wheelchair support available

• Accessible restrooms and elevators

• Visual paging, TTY phones, and assistance for hearing-impaired guests

Transportation from Southwest Terminal at PHX

Once you're outside Terminal 4, several options await:

Rental Cars:

• Access the PHX Rental Car Center via a dedicated shuttle

Ride Shares:

• Follow signs to the designated Uber/Lyft pick-up zones

Taxis:

• Located curbside on the south side of Terminal 4

Public Transit:

• Use the PHX Sky Train to connect to Valley Metro Light Rail for access to downtown Phoenix

Hotels & Lounge Access Near PHX

Hotels With Free Shuttle to Terminal 4:

• Hilton Garden Inn Phoenix Airport

• Crowne Plaza Phoenix Airport

• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Phoenix Airport

Lounges in Terminal 4:

• The Club PHX (D Gates): Available with Priority Pass or paid entry

• American Admirals Club (not for Southwest passengers, but nearby)

Final Travel Tips for Southwest at PHX

• Boarding: Southwest uses open seating by group (A, B, C)—check your position early

• Timing: Arrive 2 hours early for domestic flights

• Water Stations: Bring a reusable bottle and fill post-security

• Gate Info: Stay updated via the Southwest app or airport screens

Conclusion: Why Southwest at PHX Is a Great Experience

Flying with Southwest Airlines through Phoenix Sky Harbor’s Terminal 4 is easy, efficient, and traveler-friendly. From a streamlined check-in process to abundant food, shopping, and transportation options, this terminal offers everything you need for a smooth journey.

Still have questions? Speak to a live Southwest agent now at +1-650-449-8575.