When you’re booking a flight or planning a trip, knowing which terminal your airline uses can save time, prevent confusion, and reduce stress—especially during tight connections or unfamiliar airports.
If you’re booking with United Airlines, one of the world’s largest carriers and a key Star Alliance member, it’s helpful to know which terminals United operates from at major hubs and popular airports globally.
This guide explores United’s terminal usage by airport, explains how terminals are organized, offers tips to navigate terminals smoothly.
Why Terminal Info Matters
- Time saving: Knowing precisely where to go means less wandering and fewer missed flights.
- Simpler connections: Helps you plan gate-to-gate transit time accurately.
- Logistics planning: Essential when you’re using airport car services or parking facilities.
- Stress-free travel: Confidence in knowing your terminal before arrival sets the tone for a smooth journey.
🏙 Major U.S. Hubs & United Terminals
United is based in eight primary U.S. hubs—here’s where they operate:
1. Chicago O’Hare (ORD)
- Terminals used: Terminal 1 (Concourses B & C), some flights from Terminal 2, and Terminal 5 for international arrivals/departures.
- ORD has four terminals total; United primarily uses Terminal 1, occasionally Terminal 2, and Terminal 5 for international flights.
2. Denver International (DEN)
- Terminals used: Single terminal with Concourses A, B & C; United operates mainly from Concourse B.
3. Houston Intercontinental (IAH)
- Terminals used: United flies primarily from Terminal C, with international flights from Terminal E; Express flights may operate from other terminals .
4. Los Angeles International (LAX)
- Terminals used: United uses Terminal 7 for mainline flights and Terminal 8 for international/Polaris; both connected and function as a unified area.
5. Newark Liberty International (EWR)
- Terminals used: United flies from Terminal C, with select domestic flights in Terminal A, and international flights often in Terminal B.
6. San Francisco International (SFO)
- Terminals used: United operates mainly from Terminal 3, with some flights from Terminal 2 and the International Terminal.
7. Washington Dulles (IAD)
- Terminals used: Main terminal plus Concourses C & D for United mainline, with Express occasionally in Concourse A or B.
8. Guam International (GUM)
- Terminals used: Single terminal; United dominates operations.
✈️ Key International Airports
United also operates significant service from major international airports:
- JFK (New York): Uses Terminal 8 for arrivals and departures.
- Toronto Pearson (YYZ): Operates from Terminal 3, which includes U.S. Pre‑Clearance for flights to the U.S.
- Minneapolis–St. Paul (MSP): Flies from Terminal 1 (Lindbergh).
- Detroit Metropolitan (DTW): Uses the Evans Terminal, also called North Terminal, with United flights in Concourse D.
🗂 Understanding Terminal Layouts
Airport terminals may sound simple, but layouts can vary dramatically:
- Single Terminal + Concourses (e.g., DEN, IAH, SFO): One central terminal with multiple satellite concourses.
- Multiple Terminals (e.g., LAX, ORD, EWR, IAD, JFK): Separate buildings that may rely on shuttles or people movers.
- Terminal Pairs (e.g., LAX T7/8): Two connected spaces that function as one hub.
Tip: Always check if your itinerary requires walking or transportation between terminals—especially at LAX, ORD, JFK, and EWR.
✨ Navigating United Terminals Smoothly
Before You Arrive:
- Check your itinerary: Confirm your departure terminal.
- Use airport maps: United’s “Airport Maps” page offers interactive blueprints.
- Time your arrival: Allow extra time (30–45 mins for shuttles or security at multi-terminal airports).
- Pre-check security options: TSA PreCheck/Global Entry helps save time if you’re flying domestic or U.S.-bound from abroad.
At the Airport:
- Follow United signage: Look for UA/United/Polaris branding.
- Use airport apps or kiosks: These display live gate and terminal info.
- Ask staff if unsure: When in doubt, United agents can guide you to the right spot.
🧭 Insider Tips per Airport
- ORD: International arrivals land at Terminal 5; train connects to T2 and T3.
- LAX: Terminals 7 & 8 are connected. No external entrance for T8—check-in at T7 then walk across.
- JFK: United departs from Terminal 8; ongoing renovations across JFK may affect operations.
- EWR: Terminal C is key; nearby skytrax‑rated terminal upgrades make navigation easy.
- IAD: United uses Concourses C & D; mobile lounges serve international arrivals.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will my luggage transfer if United changes terminals?
Yes—under normal reassignments, United handles baggage transfers behind the scenes. Just confirm when checking in.
Does United ever use other terminals during disruptions?
Occasionally. Always check Change Notices via United.com or the app before heading to the airport.
How long does it take between LAX T7 and T8?
Just a few minutes on foot—T7 is the check‑in/security hub, T8 is attached.
Are terminals same for Express and mainline flights?
Not always. For example, IAD Express may use Concourse A/B, while mainline uses C/D.
What about international airports in Europe or Asia?
Terminal assignments vary—always check your ticket or the airport’s website. Major hubs (e.g., FRA, LHR, NRT) have designated United/Star Alliance zones.
✅ Summary Table
| Airport | United Terminals/Concourses = Your Departure Point |
|---|---|
| ORD | Terminal 1 (B/C); some T2; int’l via T5 |
| DEN | Single Terminal → Concourse B |
| IAH | Terminal C (domestic); Terminal E (intl) |
| LAX | Terminal 7 + Concourse 8 |
| EWR | Primarily Terminal C; some flights T‑A/B |
| SFO | Mainly Terminal 3; some in Terminal 2/Intl |
| IAD | Concourses C & D |
| GUM | Single Terminal |
| JFK (int’l) | Terminal 8 |
| YYZ | Terminal 3 with US Pre‑Clearance |
| MSP | Terminal 1 (Lindbergh) |
| DTW | Evans Terminal (Concourse D region) |
✨ Final Thoughts
Knowing which terminal United Airlines uses at your departure and arrival airports makes your journey smoother and faster. From bustling multi-terminal hubs like LAX, ORD, and JFK to streamlined operations at DEN or GUM, a little planning goes a long way.
Use this guide to:
- Check your exact terminal early
- Navigate terminals confidently
- Maximize your airport experience with on-time, stress-free travel
Safe travels—and see you at the gate! 🛫