St. Louis Lambert International Airport is a central hub for travel within the Midwest, offering a significant operational base for Southwest Airlines. Serving both domestic and some international passengers, Southwest Airlines STL Terminal  is a well-designed airport with two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Southwest Airlines exclusively operates out of Terminal 2, which is tailored to support its high volume of flights. With facilities for boarding, baggage, dining, and passenger services, Terminal 2 is streamlined for Southwest’s specific needs and operational efficiencies.

Location and Layout of Terminal 2

Southwest Airlines operates solely from Terminal 2, which has a unique layout catering primarily to the airline’s passengers. Located at the eastern end of the airport, Terminal 2 is accessible from both the arrivals and departures areas, offering convenience for drop-offs, parking, and transportation. This terminal includes several gates designated for Southwest flights, providing efficient boarding processes for passengers. Passengers arriving at STL for Southwest flights can find the check-in counters near the terminal’s main entrance, leading directly to TSA security checkpoints and a dedicated concourse.

Check-In Process for Southwest Passengers at STL

The check-in process at STL’s Terminal 2 is straightforward, optimized for Southwest’s operations to enhance speed and efficiency. Upon entering Terminal 2, passengers will find Southwest’s check-in counters directly in front of the entrance. These counters are equipped with self-service kiosks and staffed desks where passengers can check bags, print boarding passes, and resolve any last-minute travel changes.

Southwest encourages passengers to check in online 24 hours before departure to ensure they receive a favorable boarding position, as the airline has open seating. For those with luggage, the bag drop section is nearby and well-labeled. Southwest allows two checked bags free of charge, making the check-in experience smoother by reducing congestion. Travelers are advised to arrive at least 90 minutes before departure for domestic flights, and about two hours early for flights with international connections to allow for any delays at TSA or during peak travel hours.

TSA and Security Procedures

Security at STL’s Terminal 2 is managed through the TSA checkpoint, which is located immediately after the Southwest check-in counters. Southwest’s operations often mean heavy passenger flow through Terminal 2, and STL has equipped the terminal with multiple TSA lanes to accommodate higher volumes, particularly during peak times.

To expedite security checks, passengers with TSA PreCheck status have access to dedicated lanes, allowing for faster screening without needing to remove shoes, belts, or laptops. The security area is organized to minimize waiting times and facilitate a quick flow from check-in to boarding. Southwest advises travelers to follow standard TSA guidelines for prohibited items and liquid limits to avoid delays.

Southwest Gate Areas and Boarding Process

After clearing security, passengers will arrive at the Terminal 2 concourse, where Southwest gates are located in close proximity. The terminal’s layout includes seating, charging stations, and electronic boards displaying flight updates, enhancing convenience for passengers awaiting their boarding call. Southwest’s unique boarding process, which assigns passengers to groups (A, B, or C) and numbered positions within each group, is in full effect here.

Passengers board in these groups, avoiding seat assignments by instead choosing seats on a first-come, first-served basis. EarlyBird Check-In is available for an additional fee, securing earlier boarding positions for travelers who prioritize seating options. Gates are equipped with sufficient waiting areas, and Southwest’s organized boarding system keeps queues manageable, ensuring efficient boarding.

Dining and Amenities at Terminal 2

Terminal 2 offers a variety of dining and shopping options, providing Southwest passengers with plenty of choices before boarding. Several restaurants, cafes, and quick-service outlets are available, featuring local favorites and well-known brands. The terminal includes options for coffee, snacks, fast food, and sit-down meals, catering to various tastes and dietary needs.

For shopping, travelers can browse through retail stores offering travel essentials, souvenirs, and duty-free items. The concourse also features newsstands, convenience stores, and specialty retailers. Charging stations and Wi-Fi access are available throughout Terminal 2, ensuring that passengers can stay connected while waiting for their flights. Families traveling with young children will find family-friendly amenities such as changing areas and play spaces, making it easier for families to relax before departure.

Baggage Claim and Arrivals for Southwest

For arriving passengers, the baggage claim area at STL’s Terminal 2 is conveniently located on the lower level, near the exits and ground transportation area. Southwest Airlines operates its own luggage handling system, aiming to promptly deliver checked bags to passengers. Monitors above each baggage carousel display real-time information, allowing passengers to easily locate the designated carousel for their flight.

Southwest’s free baggage policy, which includes two free checked bags per passenger, makes the baggage claim process smoother, as passengers rarely need to navigate additional fees or complications. The baggage claim area also offers direct access to car rentals, rideshare pick-up points, and public transportation options, simplifying ground transportation for arriving travelers.

Transportation and Parking Options at STL for Southwest Passengers

STL offers various parking options, including short-term, long-term, and economy lots. The economy lots provide a more budget-friendly option, with free shuttles running to Terminal 2. For those looking for more convenient access, short-term parking is located closest to Terminal 2, though at a higher daily rate. STL’s parking facilities are safe, secure, and provide accessible options for passengers with disabilities.

Passengers can also utilize public transportation options such as the MetroLink light rail, which stops directly at STL and provides connections to the greater St. Louis area. Rideshare services, taxis, and shuttles are readily available outside Terminal 2, making it convenient for passengers to continue their journeys.

Additional Services and Customer Support

Southwest’s commitment to customer service is evident at STL’s Terminal 2, where the airline provides customer support stations throughout the terminal. These stations are staffed to assist with a range of passenger needs, from ticketing issues to rebooking flights in case of delays. Additionally, travelers requiring special assistance, such as wheelchair support, can find designated areas and personnel ready to help.

For unaccompanied minors, Southwest offers a secure process to ensure children travel safely, with designated areas for drop-off and pick-up in Terminal 2. Southwest’s customer service counters also offer support for passengers in need of itinerary changes, making the experience seamless.

Conclusion

Southwest Airlines’ presence at St. Louis Lambert International Airport’s Terminal 2 provides a streamlined, passenger-friendly experience for domestic and limited international travelers. With efficient check-in, TSA screening, and organized boarding, Southwest passengers enjoy an intuitive process from curbside drop-off to takeoff. The terminal’s amenities, including diverse dining, shopping, and family-friendly options, create a pleasant environment for travelers awaiting their flights. Terminal 2’s thoughtful design, paired with Southwest’s well-regarded customer service, ensures that passengers have a comfortable and efficient experience while traveling through STL.