Indianapolis Airport Terminals Guide
Information compiled by David Enrich, aviation and airport guide expert since 1999.
Indianapolis International Airport (IND) is widely recognized as one of the most efficient and passenger-friendly airports in the United States. Unlike many large airports with multiple terminals, IND operates with one main terminal building that houses all passenger services and airline operations. This modern facility simplifies navigation and reduces transfer times for travelers.
The terminal is divided into two concourses: Concourse A and Concourse B, both connected through a central hall known as the Civic Plaza. This layout allows passengers to move easily between check-in, security, and departure gates.
Indianapolis Airport is consistently ranked among the best airports in North America for passenger satisfaction thanks to its easy layout and short walking distances.
History and Development
The current terminal, officially named the Colonel H. Weir Cook Terminal, opened in November 2008, replacing the older terminal complex that had served the airport since the 1950s. The new terminal was built as part of a major modernization project designed to improve passenger flow, expand airline operations, and provide modern facilities.
Since its opening, the terminal has received multiple awards for its architecture, efficiency, and passenger experience. The design places all key services—check-in, security, retail, and dining—within a central space before passengers proceed to the concourses.
The Civic Plaza features large glass windows with views of the airfield, making it one of the best spots in the airport for plane spotting.
Terminal Layout Overview
The airport terminal consists of three main functional levels:
- Lower Level: Baggage claim, ground transportation, and arrivals area.
- Main Level: Airline check-in counters, ticketing, security checkpoints, and the Civic Plaza.
- Upper Level: Access to the parking garage and pedestrian bridges.
After passing security, passengers enter the airside area where the two concourses are located.
| Area | Main Function | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Civic Plaza | Dining, shops, central hall | After security |
| Concourse A | Domestic departures | East side |
| Concourse B | Domestic departures | West side |
Concourse A
Concourse A hosts several domestic airlines and offers a variety of passenger services, dining options, and retail stores. The concourse features modern gate areas, charging stations, and comfortable seating.
Dining & Bars
Some of the best-rated restaurants in Concourse A include:
- Harry & Izzy’s – A local favorite steakhouse offering sandwiches, steaks, and cocktails. Located near the central plaza.
- Café Patachou – Popular breakfast and brunch spot serving coffee, pastries, and healthy meals.
- Starbucks – Ideal for quick coffee and snacks before boarding.
Café Patachou is one of the most loved local restaurants in Indianapolis and a great place to try regional flavors before your flight.
Concourse B
Concourse B serves several major U.S. carriers and features similar amenities to Concourse A, including restaurants, convenience shops, and comfortable waiting areas.
Dining & Cafés
- Shapiro’s Delicatessen – Famous for pastrami sandwiches and traditional deli meals.
- TGI Fridays – Casual dining restaurant offering burgers, salads, and cocktails.
- Burger King – Quick option for travelers needing a fast meal.
Shapiro’s is a historic Indianapolis deli founded in 1905 and highly rated by travelers.
Shopping at Indianapolis Airport (IND)
Although Indianapolis International Airport (IND) is not a large international shopping hub like Atlanta or Chicago, it still offers a pleasant and practical retail experience. Most stores are located after security in the main concourse and around the Civic Plaza, making it convenient for passengers to shop while waiting for their flights.
The airport focuses on a compact but well-selected range of shops combining travel essentials with locally inspired products representing Indiana culture.
Main Shopping Areas
Civic Plaza (Pre-Security)
This central public area connects the parking garage with the terminal and includes several retail options accessible to both travelers and visitors. It is a convenient place to buy gifts or travel necessities before passing through security.
Concourse Retail Area (Post-Security)
Most airport shops are located along the main concourse after security. Indianapolis Airport has a single passenger terminal with two concourses (A and B), so stores are easy to reach from most gates.
Shop Categories at IND
Main Stores at Indianapolis Airport
Local Products and Indiana Culture
One distinctive aspect of shopping at Indianapolis Airport is the emphasis on local products. Several stores offer goods representing the culture of Indiana.
- Indiana-made snacks and sweets
- Local artisan food products
- Indiana University and Purdue merchandise
- Indianapolis sports team souvenirs
This allows visitors to buy authentic regional gifts even during short layovers.
Duty Free
Duty-free shopping at Indianapolis Airport is very limited because the airport mainly operates domestic flights within the United States. The airport has a single terminal with two concourses primarily serving domestic routes.
- No large permanent duty-free store
- International departures are limited
- Retail is mainly focused on domestic travelers
Quick Summary
- Moderate but convenient shopping options
- Most shops located after security in the concourses
- Strong focus on travel essentials and local Indiana products
- Limited duty-free retail due to mostly domestic traffic
Overall, shopping at Indianapolis Airport is simple and practical, offering travelers essential items and a selection of local souvenirs without the scale of larger international hubs.
Airport Facilities
| Facility | Availability |
|---|---|
| Free Wi-Fi | Available throughout terminal |
| ATMs | Located in Civic Plaza and concourses |
| Charging stations | At most gates |
| Information desks | Civic Plaza area |
| Water refill stations | Multiple locations |
Family Services & Accessibility
Indianapolis Airport provides services designed for families and travelers with reduced mobility (PRM).
- Family restrooms and nursing rooms
- Wheelchair assistance through airlines
- Accessible restrooms and elevators
- Service animal relief areas
Travelers requiring wheelchair assistance should request it during airline check-in to ensure smooth boarding.
Security & Baggage Control
Security screening is operated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The airport generally offers efficient screening thanks to its centralized checkpoint.
Passengers should arrive:
- 2 hours before domestic flights
- 3 hours before international flights
Early morning departures (6–8 AM) typically experience the highest security traffic.
Lost & Found
Lost items within the airport terminal are handled by the airport’s Guest Services department.
- Phone: +1 317-487-7243
- TSA lost items: +1 317-532-1900
Items lost on aircraft should be reported directly to the airline.
Check-in and Boarding
All airline check-in counters are located on the main terminal level. After checking in, passengers proceed through the central security checkpoint before accessing the concourses.
Boarding usually begins 30–40 minutes before departure.
Use airline mobile apps to receive gate change alerts and boarding updates.
Popular Flights from Indianapolis
| Destination | Flight Time | Airlines |
|---|---|---|
| Atlanta | 1h 35m | Delta |
| Chicago | 1h | United, American |
| Dallas/Fort Worth | 2h 20m | American |
| Denver | 2h 45m | United, Southwest |
| Orlando | 2h 20m | Southwest, Spirit |
Typical Walking Distances Inside the Airport
| Route | Approx. Time |
|---|---|
| Security to Concourse A gates | 3–5 minutes |
| Security to Concourse B gates | 4–6 minutes |
| Terminal entrance to security | 3 minutes |
| Baggage claim to parking garage | 4 minutes |
Overall, Indianapolis International Airport stands out for its simple layout, short walking distances, and passenger-friendly design, making it one of the easiest airports in the United States to navigate.