Informational Guide to Philadelphia Airport - PHL - NON OFFICIAL

Philadelphia Airport Amenities & Services (PHL)

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

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) offers a wide variety of passenger services and airport amenities designed for both domestic and international travelers. From lounges and family facilities to shopping, dining, business services and accessibility assistance, PHL provides everything needed for a comfortable airport experience.

As one of the busiest airports on the U.S. East Coast, the airport has invested heavily in terminal modernization, passenger comfort and improved food and shopping experiences across all terminals.

The largest selection of restaurants, lounges and shopping areas can be found after security, especially in Terminals A and B/C.

Free Wi-Fi & Charging Stations

Free unlimited Wi-Fi is available throughout Philadelphia Airport terminals, boarding areas and lounges.

  • Free high-speed airport Wi-Fi
  • Available across all terminals
  • Charging stations near most gates
  • USB charging points in newer seating areas
  • Suitable for remote work and streaming

Gate areas in Terminal A-West and B/C generally offer the best seating and charging availability.

Family & Children’s Facilities

PHL offers several family-friendly services for passengers traveling with children and babies.

  • Family restrooms
  • Baby-changing stations
  • Nursing rooms
  • Children’s play zones
  • Family seating areas in food courts

Family facilities can be found across multiple terminals, particularly near major gate areas and food courts.

Morning departures during holidays can become crowded with families, so arriving early is recommended.

Accessibility & Reduced Mobility Services

Philadelphia Airport provides accessibility services and assistance for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM).

  • Wheelchair assistance
  • Accessible elevators and restrooms
  • Accessible shuttle buses
  • TDD/TTY telephones
  • Priority assistance available through airlines
  • Visual paging and hearing assistance systems

Passengers requiring wheelchair or mobility assistance should notify their airline in advance whenever possible.

Smoking Areas

Smoking is prohibited inside all airport terminals at PHL, including electronic cigarettes and vaping devices.

  • No indoor smoking lounges
  • Smoking permitted only outside terminals
  • Re-entry through security required after smoking

Passengers leaving the secure area to smoke should allow extra time for security screening when returning.

Chapel & Quiet Areas

PHL offers quiet spaces for prayer, meditation and relaxation away from the busiest gate areas.

  • Airport chapel available
  • Quiet seating areas in several terminals
  • Suitable for meditation and prayer
  • Less crowded during midday periods

Baggage Services & Storage

Passengers can access baggage-related services throughout the airport.

  • Baggage claim areas in arrivals
  • Oversized baggage assistance
  • Lost baggage airline desks
  • Luggage carts available
  • Bag wrapping services occasionally available seasonally

Checked baggage delivery at PHL is generally faster than at many large East Coast airports.

Lost & Found

Passengers who lose personal belongings should contact the airport’s Lost & Found office or their airline depending on where the item was lost.

  • Airport Lost & Found office
  • TSA Lost & Found services
  • Airline baggage service desks
  • Online reporting systems available for some airlines

Medical Services

Emergency medical assistance and first aid services are available throughout the airport.

  • Medical emergency response teams
  • Automated external defibrillators (AEDs)
  • Airport police and emergency services
  • Pharmacy and travel essentials stores

Business Services & Lounges

Business travelers at PHL can access premium lounges and work-friendly airport spaces.

  • American Airlines Admirals Club lounges
  • International premium lounges
  • Quiet seating areas
  • Charging stations and Wi-Fi
  • Business-friendly dining areas

Terminal A-West offers the airport’s best premium lounge experience for international travelers.

Best Restaurants & Dining Areas

Philadelphia Airport has significantly improved its food offerings in recent years, with local Philadelphia restaurants and national chains available across multiple terminals.

Restaurant Type Best For Typical Location Traveler Opinion
Local Philadelphia Food Authentic experience Terminals B/C Highly recommended
Coffee Shops Breakfast & quick snacks All terminals Very popular mornings
Fast Food Families & quick meals D/E terminals Busy during peak hours
Sports Bars Long layovers A & B terminals Good atmosphere
Premium Dining Business travelers Terminal A-West Best overall quality

Shopping & Duty Free

PHL offers shopping options ranging from travel essentials and bookstores to luxury goods and Duty Free shopping in the international terminal.

Shopping Category Available Products Best Terminal Traveler Notes
Duty Free Perfumes, alcohol, cosmetics A-West International flights only
Travel Essentials Adapters, snacks, magazines All terminals Easy to find
Sports & Souvenirs Philadelphia merchandise B/C terminals Popular with tourists
Luxury Retail Fashion & accessories A-West Premium shopping area

Best Areas to Relax During Layovers

Terminal A-West

Modern seating areas, quieter atmosphere and premium international facilities.

B/C Food Court

Large variety of restaurants and comfortable seating options.

Airline Lounges

Quietest areas for long layovers, work and charging devices.

Amenities Insider Tips

  • Terminal A-West offers the airport’s best overall facilities and dining.
  • Restaurants become crowded during morning and evening departure waves.
  • Power outlets can fill quickly near busy gates.
  • Family restrooms are easier to find near major food courts.
  • International passengers should shop Duty Free after passport control.
  • Smoking requires leaving the secure area completely.
  • Business lounges provide the quietest spaces during long delays.
  • Local Philadelphia food options are better in Terminals B and C.