DTW Detroit Airport Terminals
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) is one of the most important aviation hubs in the Midwestern United States and the main gateway to the city of Detroit. The airport currently operates with two passenger terminals: McNamara Terminal and Evans Terminal (formerly known as the North Terminal).
DTW underwent a major modernization program in the late 1990s and early 2000s to replace older terminals and improve passenger capacity. The most significant milestone was the opening of the McNamara Terminal in 2002, designed primarily for Delta Air Lines and its partners. Later, in 2008, the North Terminal opened to serve additional airlines and relieve congestion. In 2022, it was officially renamed the Evans Terminal in honor of Wayne County Executive Edward H. McNamara’s successor, Edward H. Evans.
Today, the airport handles more than 30 million passengers annually, offering efficient connections across North America, Europe, and Asia.
McNamara Terminal
The McNamara Terminal is the largest and busiest terminal at DTW and serves as a major hub for Delta Air Lines and its partners in the SkyTeam.
History and Development
Opened in 2002, the terminal replaced several older facilities that had become outdated. The project was part of a multi-billion-dollar redevelopment program intended to transform Detroit into one of the most efficient connection hubs in North America.
The terminal was designed to optimize connecting flights, allowing passengers to move quickly between gates.
Layout and Levels
The McNamara Terminal consists of three concourses: A, B, and C, with more than 100 gates.
Main areas include:
Departures Level
- Airline check-in counters
- Self-service kiosks
- Security screening checkpoints
Concourse Level
- Boarding gates
- Shops and restaurants
- airline lounges
Baggage Claim / Arrivals
- baggage carousels
- ground transportation access
- car rental shuttles
A notable feature is the ExpressTram, an automated train that runs inside Concourse A and significantly reduces walking time between gates.
If your connecting flight departs from Concourse A, the ExpressTram can save 10–15 minutes of walking time.
Another iconic feature is the LED light tunnel connecting Concourses A and B/C, synchronized with music.
Restaurants, Bars and Cafés
Some of the best-rated dining options inside the McNamara Terminal include:
Andiamo
- Italian cuisine
- Located in Concourse A near Gate A46
- Known for pasta, seafood, and Detroit-style hospitality
- Typical hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Cat Cora’s Taproom
- Mediterranean-inspired menu
- Near Gate A54
- Serves salads, sandwiches, and craft beer
National Coney Island
- Local Detroit classic
- Famous for Coney hot dogs and chili fries
- Located in Concourse A
Detroit is famous for its Coney Island hot dogs, so trying one before your flight is a very local airport experience.
Coffee options include Starbucks and Biggby Coffee, both open early for morning departures.
Shopping
Retail stores in McNamara Terminal include several categories:
Travel Essentials
- Hudson News
- Tech on the Go (electronics and chargers)
Fashion & Accessories
- Johnston & Murphy
- Brooks Brothers
Local Products
- Detroit-themed apparel and souvenirs
Duty Free
The Duty Free Americas store is located in the international departures area and offers:
- perfumes and cosmetics
- liquor and tobacco
- luxury accessories
Evans Terminal
The Evans Terminal serves airlines other than Delta and provides a modern and efficient travel experience.
History
The terminal opened in 2008 as the North Terminal to consolidate multiple smaller terminals that previously existed at DTW. In 2022, it was renamed Evans Terminal.
The facility includes about 29 gates and serves several major airlines.
Terminal Layout
The Evans Terminal has a compact and easy-to-navigate layout, making it convenient for travelers.
Key areas include:
Check-in hall
- airline ticket counters
- baggage drop
Security checkpoint
- centralized screening area
Gate concourse
- shops and dining
- airline lounges
- boarding gates
Because of its smaller size, the Evans Terminal is usually quicker to navigate, with most gates reachable within 10 minutes walking time.
Dining Options
Popular dining spots include:
Andiamo Pizza + Bar
- Italian-American dishes
- Located in the central concourse
Cat Cora’s Taproom
- Mediterranean-style menu
P.F. Chang’s
- Asian cuisine
- One of the most complete restaurant menus in the terminal
Flights in this terminal often depart early morning, so coffee shops open around 5:00–5:30 AM.
Shops
Retail options include:
Convenience & Travel
- Hudson News
- travel accessories stores
Gifts & Souvenirs
- Detroit sports merchandise
- Michigan-themed gifts
Duty Free is available for international departures.
Airport Facilities and Services
DTW terminals provide numerous services for passengers.
Wi-Fi
- Free high-speed Wi-Fi available throughout both terminals.
ATMs and Banking
- Multiple ATMs located in departure and arrival halls.
Luggage Services
- baggage carts
- baggage wrapping services
- storage options (limited availability).
Family and Accessibility Services
DTW offers facilities designed for families and passengers with reduced mobility.
Family services
- nursing rooms
- family restrooms
- children play areas in some concourses
Accessibility
- wheelchair assistance available through airlines
- accessible restrooms
- elevators and moving walkways throughout terminals.
Security and Baggage Control
Security screening is managed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
Passengers should arrive:
- 2 hours before domestic flights
- 3 hours before international flights
During peak travel periods, security lines can exceed 20–30 minutes, especially in early morning departure waves.
Lost and Found
Items lost in public areas of the airport are handled by the Wayne County Airport Authority Lost & Found office, while items left at security checkpoints are managed by TSA.
Passengers should report lost items as soon as possible.
Check-in and Boarding Information
Most airlines open check-in counters 2–3 hours before departure.
Boarding typically begins:
- 30–40 minutes before domestic flights
- 45–60 minutes before international flights
Many airlines also offer self-service kiosks and mobile boarding passes, allowing passengers to skip traditional check-in lines.
Popular Routes from Detroit (DTW)
Below is a summary of some frequent routes from DTW, including approximate flight durations and major airlines.