Miami International Airport
The Miami International Airport (MIA) is one of the busiest airports in America, and it’s located in Miami-Dade County, Florida. The airport was founded in 1928 and has been under the management of the Miami-Dade Aviation Department since its inception. According to the most recent data published by Miami-Dade County in 2019, MIA generated an estimated $33 billion in economic activity and provided more than 73,500 jobs for the region. This underscores the importance of MIA as a major economic engine in Miami-Dade County and Florida as a whole.
Known for its impressive features and facilities, MIA is considered one of Miami’s most iconic landmarks. There are a variety of award-winning shops offering innovative shopping experiences and goods ranging from magazines to luxury leather goods and the latest fashion apparel, in addition to Duty-Free options. For food and beverages concourses D, E, F, G, H, and J offer a wide range of food and dining options ranging from snacks, cafes, bakeries, and fast food, to fine dining, such as at MIA Hotel’s Top of the Port restaurant, which offers panoramic views and is a great place to enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
A wide assortment of foreign currency exchange booths are also located throughout Miami International Airport. A total of four locations are located throughout the terminal on the 2nd level. There are two locations in each Greeter’s Lobby. Several locations are accessible via security checkpoints: one inside concourse J, one inside concourse D, and one inside the satellite building in concourse E. They are open daily from 5:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. While ATMs are located in concourses D, E, F, G, H, and J. Internet access on MIA’s network is complimentary with advertising. To avoid long lines when you travel, you should consider the Global Entry and TSA Precheck programs. Both programs offer you expedited service so that you can navigate your way through the airport faster. Plane Fun is located in Concourse E, near Gate E5, and also accessible from Concourse D. It is a unique and interactive area for children.
There is a Jetsetter Spa located on the second level of South Terminal H and it offers manicures, pedicures, massages, and spray tanning services. South Terminal J also offers a 10-minute express manicure, pedicure, or massage service on the second level. Additionally, on the first level, near Gate 21, there is the Yoga Room, which is open every day from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. If you regularly practice yoga and do not wish to be interrupted, this is the space for you. In all terminals except Concourse D, where there is a smoking area at TGI Friday’s near Gate D-36, smoking is not permitted. As a result, designated smoking areas are located outside the terminals on Level 1 and Level 2 across the street from Concourses D, E, F, H, and J.
MIA is also home to many interesting facts. For example, it was the first international airport in the U.S. with over 80 airlines landing there. MIA offers more flights to Latin America and the Caribbean than any other U.S. airport and is America’s third-busiest airport for international passengers. The airport is American Airlines’ primary gateway to Latin America along with a domestic hub for its regional affiliate American Eagle in the United States. It was also served by one fixed base operator (FBO), Signature Flight Support, which is located on the north side of the airport. The FBO has built a new facility that caters to an upscale international clientele. Located at NW 36th Street and 57th Avenue, their new building stands almost exactly where the old one used to be.
There are also a variety of transportation options available at Miami International Airport, including rental cars, taxis, ride-shares, limousines, shuttles, and buses. Public Bus #150, for instance, runs directly from/to South Beach’s Bus Station at the airport. Likewise, the Subway Orange Line offers direct service between downtown Miami and the airport’s subway station. To put it another way, the airport is conveniently located and easily accessible. Be assured you will find a parking space at the airport if you arrive by car. From one-day parking to long-term parking, Miami International Airport offers a variety of options. Off-airport parking is also available at the lots surrounding the airport, which are within 1.5 miles and 5-10 minutes by shuttle from the terminals.
Miami International Airport also consists of 131 aircraft gates at three terminals. All domestic flights into MIA arrive on Level 2 with passengers having to take an escalator or elevator down to baggage claim on Level 1. At MIA, most of the chairs have armrests, temperatures can be quite cold. It is often crowded and noisy, which creates a difficult sleeping environment. However, if you want to sleep here, there are a few options. Near baggage claim in the South terminal, some travelers set up on red benches, while others chose carpeted areas near the Auditorium or Admirals Club. Make sure also to bring earplugs or noise-canceling headphones to make the experience more comfortable. Travelers can also find some unique souvenirs at Miami International Airport.
Throughout its history, MIA has served as an integral facilitator for travel, business, trade, and tourism among Florida residents and visitors. Additionally, the airport has received some awards over the years, including the Airports Council International title for seven consecutive years between 2011 and 2018. It is evident from this that MIA is a leader in aviation and provides passengers with world-class amenities and services. It is no wonder why millions upon millions of people choose this stunning landmark when traveling around the world each year. It is because of the impressive facilities and features of MIA that the airport continues to be a major economic engine for Miami-Dade County and the state of Florida. With its history dating back to 1928, this airport is sure to remain an important travel facilitator for years to come.