Passengers Info at Portland Airport
All the information featured on this page was compiled and written by David Enrich, a renowned expert in aviation and airport guides since 1999.
Portland International Airport (PDX) is the main gateway to Oregon and the Pacific Northwest, known for its friendly atmosphere, local food options, and efficient layout. This guide mirrors the structure of your Pisa text but focuses entirely on Portland, helping you move smoothly from trip planning to boarding your flight.
Before Your Flight
Check-in procedures
Online check-in
Most airlines at Portland Airport offer online check-in, usually opening 24–48 hours before departure. This option lets you choose your seat, add bags in advance, and download or print your boarding pass, which helps you go straight to bag drop or security on arrival at the airport.
Airport check-in counters
The main check-in hall at PDX is in the central terminal area and serves all airlines. Counters typically open around 2–3 hours before international departures and 1.5–2 hours before domestic flights. Arriving with extra time is advisable during early‑morning and late‑afternoon peaks, when queues can grow quickly.
Self-service kiosks
Many airlines provide self‑service kiosks near their counters in the ticketing hall. You can check in, choose or confirm your seat, and print boarding passes and bag tags within minutes, then proceed to the bag‑drop desk.
Viewing areas
While PDX does not have a large public terrace like some European airports, you can still enjoy good views of the runways from certain gate areas with large windows. If you are an aviation fan, choose a seat near the windows in the C or D concourses to watch take‑offs and landings.
Baggage information
Carry-on luggage
Typical U.S. airlines allow one carry‑on bag plus one personal item (such as a laptop bag, purse, or small backpack). Size and weight limits vary by airline, so always verify details in your booking, but many follow a common standard around 55 x 35 x 23 cm for the main carry‑on.
Checked baggage
Checked‑baggage allowance depends on airline, route, and fare type. Economy passengers on domestic routes often pay per checked bag, whereas some international or premium fares include one or more bags of up to about 23 kg each. Always check your ticket rules to avoid unexpected fees at the counter.
Oversize and special items
If you are travelling with skis for Mount Hood, surfboards for the coast, bicycles, musical instruments, or other bulky items, contact your airline in advance. Most carriers require special handling and may charge extra, and oversized baggage is usually dropped at a designated “oversize baggage” belt near the regular check‑in area.
Prohibited items
Standard U.S. security rules apply. Explosives, flammable materials, and many sharp items are banned from both cabin and hold luggage. Liquids in cabin bags must follow the 100 ml container rule, placed in a clear plastic bag; exceptions exist for medicines and baby food but may require additional screening.
Left luggage
Traditional left‑luggage lockers are limited due to security regulations, so PDX is not designed as a long‑term baggage‑storage hub. If you need to store bags, consider arrangements with your hotel or specialized services in the city.
Security Screening
Security at Portland Airport follows Transportation Security Administration (TSA) procedures to ensure safety while keeping lines moving. After check‑in, you proceed to the main security checkpoints that serve all concourses.
Security checkpoints
You and your carry‑on items pass through screening machines. To speed things up:
- Keep your boarding pass and ID ready.
- Remove laptops and larger electronics if instructed (screening procedures can vary depending on equipment and TSA rules).
- Place liquids in a 1‑quart clear plastic bag with containers of 100 ml (3.4 oz) or less.
- Remove jackets, belts, and sometimes shoes if you are not in a trusted‑traveler program.
Liquids, aerosols, and gels (LAGs)
The 100 ml limit per container applies for carry‑on liquids. All must fit comfortably in a single clear resealable bag of about 1 liter capacity. Prescription medicines and baby formula are allowed in larger quantities but may be separately inspected.
Advanced screening technology
PDX uses modern scanners and X‑ray equipment designed to balance security and privacy. If you have medical implants, mobility aids, or other conditions that might affect screening, inform TSA officers; alternative screening methods are available.
Passport and Visa Requirements
Because Portland handles a mix of domestic and international flights, your documentation requirements depend on your route.
- For domestic U.S. flights, you need an acceptable form of ID such as a state‑issued ID, REAL ID–compliant driver’s license, or passport.
- For international travel, your passport usually must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay, though rules vary by destination.
- Some countries require visas or ESTA‑style electronic authorizations; always check your destination’s official government website well in advance.
If you are unsure, consult your airline and your country’s foreign‑affairs website before travelling.
At the Airport
Terminal layout
Portland International Airport has a single main terminal with several concourses branching out, making navigation easy compared with multi‑terminal airports.
Main level (ticketing and security)
This area contains airline check‑in counters, self‑service kiosks, and the main security checkpoints. Here you also find information desks, some shops, and access to ground transportation and parking facilities.
Lower level (arrivals and baggage claim)
Baggage carousels, car‑rental access routes, and exits to taxis, ride‑shares, shuttles, and the MAX Red Line station are on or near this level.
Airside concourses
After security, concourses host departure gates, most restaurants and shops, and airline lounges. Walking distances are moderate, and signage clearly points to each gate.
Accessibility
The entire terminal is designed to be accessible, with elevators, ramps, accessible restrooms, and reserved seating. Passengers with reduced mobility can request wheelchairs or escort assistance via their airline, both on departure and arrival.
Transportation links
Right outside the terminal are connections to the MAX Red Line light rail (for downtown and suburbs), local and regional shuttles, taxis, ride‑hail pick‑up zones, and car‑rental facilities. Planning your transfer in advance helps reduce stress, especially around peak times.
Airport Facilities
Dining options
PDX is famous for bringing Portland’s food culture into the terminal. You will find:
- Local coffee roasters offering high‑quality espresso and baked goods.
- Casual restaurants and bars featuring Oregon beers, burgers, and regional dishes.
- Quick‑service outlets and grab‑and‑go stands for sandwiches, salads, and snacks when time is short.
Many venues operate from early morning until the last evening departures, and some keep near “street pricing,” meaning prices similar to downtown rather than typical airport mark‑ups.
Shopping
Shops at Portland Airport include:
- Local‑themed stores selling Oregon wine, craft products, books, and souvenirs.
- Newsstands and convenience shops for travel essentials, snacks, and magazines.
- Apparel and accessory outlets, including outdoor and sportswear brands popular in the Pacific Northwest.
If you forgot a travel adaptor, headphones, or small gift, you can usually find them in these outlets without leaving the secure area.
More info about Shopping
Fast track / priority security
Some airlines and credit‑card programs offer access to priority security lanes for eligible passengers (premium cabins, elite status, or paid upgrades). These lanes can significantly reduce waiting time during the early‑morning rush.
Wi‑Fi and charging
PDX offers free Wi‑Fi throughout the terminal, usually fast enough for email, browsing, and streaming. Charging points and power outlets are scattered near many seating areas; if you rely heavily on your devices, carry a small power strip or multi‑USB charger to make sharing easier in crowded zones.
Banking and currency
ATMs are located both before and after security. Currency‑exchange services may be available for major foreign currencies, though rates can be less favorable than in the city. Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants.
Tourist information
While Portland itself is much larger than Pisa, helpful visitor information is available via brochures, digital kiosks, and local tourism desks or websites. Popular attractions include downtown neighborhoods, the Pearl District, Washington Park, the Portland Japanese Garden, and day trips to the Columbia River Gorge or the Oregon Coast.
Lounges
Alaska Airlines Alaska Lounge: Concourse C. Open from 4:30 am until 10:30 pm. Services: Premium food, Wi-Fi, snacks, TV, Newspapers and magazines, among others.
Alaska Airlines Alaska Lounge: Concourse B. Open from 4:30 am until 10:30 pm. Services: Premium food, Wi-Fi, snacks, TV, Newspapers and magazines, among others.
Delta Air Lines Delta Sky Club: Concourse D. Open from 4:45 am until 9:50 pm. Services: Snacks, Wi-Fi, drinks, TV, among others.
United Airlines United Club: Concourse E. Open from 4:15 am to 12:15 am. Services: Snacks, Wi-Fi, TV, beer and drinks, among others.
USO Northwest - Portland Center: Main Terminal. Open from 5:00 am until 9:00 pm. Services: Snacks, Wi-Fi, newspapers and magazines, TV, Wi-Fi, among others.
Popular Flights from Portland
Here is an example list of some of the most popular routes from Portland International Airport, with approximate flight times and typical airlines operating them:
Domestic flights from Portland (PDX)
International flights from Portland (PDX)
Airline networks and seasonal routes can change each year, but Portland maintains a strong mix of domestic connections across the United States and selected international links, making it a practical and pleasant starting point for many journeys.
Terminal Map
