Smart Traveler’s Guide to Palm Beach International Airport: Expert Tips & Real Reviews

Palm Beach Airport Terminal

All the information featured on this page was compiled and written by David Enrich, a renowned expert in aviation and airport guides, since 1999.

Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) is a vital gateway to South Florida, serving millions of passengers annually. Located just west of West Palm Beach, it is renowned for its convenience, efficiency, and traveler-friendly amenities. The airport has a single terminal that combines modern design with functionality, ensuring a seamless experience for both leisure and business travelers.

Historical Background

PBI’s origins date back to 1936 when it was established as Morrison Field, named after Grace K. Morrison, a pioneer in its development. Initially serving as a stop for Eastern Air Lines, Morrison Field played a crucial role during World War II as a military base for operations such as the D-Day invasion. After the war, the airport transitioned to civilian use and was renamed Palm Beach International Airport in 1948 to reflect its growing importance. Over the decades, the terminal has undergone significant expansions, including the dedication of the David McCampbell Terminal in 1988, which remains the heart of PBI today.

Terminal Overview

Palm Beach International Airport features a single terminal divided into three concourses: A, B, and C. The terminal is designed for ease of navigation and offers a wide range of services and amenities to enhance passenger comfort.

Levels

First Level (Arrivals)

  • Purpose: This level handles arriving passengers.
  • Key Features:
    • Baggage claim area.
    • Ground transportation options such as buses, taxis, rideshares, and car rentals.
    • Concourse A is located here and features hardstand gates primarily used by Bahamasair.

If you’re traveling with pets, take advantage of the pet relief areas conveniently located near this level.

Second Level (Departures)

  • Purpose: This level is dedicated to departing passengers.
  • Key Features:
    • Boarding gates for Concourses B (right side) and C (left side).
    • Amenities include nursing rooms, a kid’s play zone, spa services, and various food and drink concessions.

Families traveling with children can use the kid’s play zone to keep little ones entertained before boarding.

Third Level (Check-In)

  • Purpose: The check-in area for all airlines.
  • Key Features:
    • Ticket counters and curbside baggage check-in.
    • Security checkpoints are divided between Concourse C and Concourses A/B.
    • Retail stores offering travel essentials and souvenirs.
Arrive early during peak travel times to allow sufficient time for check-in and security screening.

Fourth Level

  • Purpose: Short-term parking facilities.

Ideal for quick drop-offs or pick-ups; parking is just steps away from the terminal.

Dining & Shopping

PBI offers an impressive selection of dining and shopping options that cater to diverse preferences:

Restaurants

  • Sam Snead’s Tavern: A sit-down dining option offering American cuisine with a golf-themed ambiance.
  • Starbucks: Perfect for grabbing coffee or snacks on-the-go.
  • The Marketplace: Features grab-and-go options for busy travelers.

For early morning flights, head to Starbucks or Sam Snead’s Tavern for a hearty breakfast.

Shops

  • Oceanfront News: Offers books, magazines, snacks, and travel essentials.
  • Duty-Free Stores: Available for international travelers seeking tax-free shopping.
  • Gallery at PBI: Displays local art pieces that reflect Palm Beach’s cultural heritage.

Check out the Gallery at PBI while waiting—it’s a unique way to experience local art without leaving the airport.

VIP Lounges

PBI provides two premium lounges for travelers seeking extra comfort:

Delta Sky Club (Concourse C)

  • Services: Complimentary Wi-Fi, snacks, beverages, newspapers, magazines, and workstations.
  • Hours: 4:30 AM – 7:30 PM

Escape Lounge – The Centurion® Studio Partner (Concourse B)

  • Services: Premium food options, Wi-Fi access, drinks, snacks, and comfortable seating areas.
  • Hours: 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM.
 Access is available via Priority Pass or Amex Platinum cards—perfect for frequent flyers looking to relax before their flight.

Popular Routes

Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) connects passengers to major domestic destinations with frequent flights operated by leading airlines. Below is an overview of these routes, including flight durations and the airlines servicing each destination.

1. Atlanta (ATL)

  • Flight Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 48 minutes.
  • Airlines: Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines.

2. Newark (EWR)

  • Flight Duration: Around 2 hours and 47 minutes.
  • Airlines: JetBlue Airways, United Airlines.

3. New York City (JFK & LaGuardia - LGA)

  • Flight Duration:
    • JFK: Approximately 2 hours and 54 minutes.
    • LGA: Similar flight times to JFK.
  • Airlines: Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways.

4. Boston (BOS)

  • Flight Duration: About 3 hours.
  • Airlines: JetBlue Airways, Delta Air Lines.

5. Charlotte (CLT)

  • Flight Duration: Roughly 1 hour and 50 minutes.
  • Airlines: American Airlines.

6. Philadelphia (PHL)

  • Flight Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
  • Airlines: American Airlines, Frontier Airlines.

7. Baltimore (BWI)

  • Flight Duration: About 2 hours and 20 minutes.
  • Airlines: Southwest Airlines.

8. White Plains (HPN)

  • Flight Duration: Roughly 2 hours and 40 minutes.
  • Airlines: JetBlue Airways, JSX.

9. Islip (ISP)

  • Flight Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.
  • Airlines: Frontier Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines.

Additional Amenities & Tips

  • Free Wi-Fi
    Stay connected throughout your journey with complimentary Wi-Fi available across the terminal.
  • Airport Clinic
    Medical assistance is readily available in case of emergencies—just ask airport staff for directions.
  • Lost & Found Office
    Located on Level 1; open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (+1 561 687 5906).
  • Accessibility Services
    PBI is fully equipped with facilities for disabled travelers, including elevators and accessible restrooms.
  • Charging Stations
    Free charging stations are scattered throughout the terminal—perfect for keeping your devices powered up before boarding.

Location Map

PALM BEACH AIRPORT (PBI) Full Inside Walking Tour