When does Reagan National open?
The Airport is open 24-hours-a-day, seven days a week. Check with specific airlines to find out when their ticket counters open and close.

How can I find information about weather at the Airport and the Airport's status?
MWAA Homepage at www.mwaa.com

How do I make ticket reservations?
Contact airlines directly for ticket reservations.

Click for list of Reagan National Airport's airlines

How can I find out if there are any delays at the Airport?
For airport-wide delays, go to FAA website and click on "DCA" for Reagan National.

For status of specific flights arriving at Reagan National, click on this link, and for status of specific flights departing out of Reagan National, click on this link.

To confirm information, call the airline for the most up-to-date flight arrival and departure times. The Airport Terminals also have flight display boards.

Which gates and Terminals will I need to use?
Check the flight information displays in the Terminal at the airport when you arrive.

For a general guide to airlines, go to Reagan National Maps.

What is the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority?
For “Frequently Asked Questions” about the Airports Authority, please see this link.

Reagan National is physically located in Virginia but has a Washington, D.C. mailing address. Where is the Airport located legally?
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is located in Virginia. Federal law and Virginia Code both state the Airport is "situated within the Commonwealth of Virginia" (see 59 Stat. 552 (1945); 1950 Va. Code Sec 7.1-10 (1983)). There are also court decisions holding the airport is located in Virginia (see Pfister v. Director, Office of Workers Compensation, etc., 675 F.2d 1314, 1315-16 (D.C. Cir. 1982); and Bryan v. District of Columbia Unemployment Compensation Board, 342 A.2d 45 (D.C. Ct. App. 1975)).

When the federal government operated Reagan National and Dulles prior to 1987, both Airports had Washington, D.C. postal addresses. To continue identifying the service area more easily for travelers, the Authority did not change the addresses.

What is the Perimeter Rule?
Federal law limits aircraft flights to nonstop distances of 1,250 miles or less. In 2000, Congress permitted the FAA to allow six round-trip flights to points outside the perimeter.

What is the High Density Rule?
The High Density Rule (or "Slot" rule) is a federal regulation, 14 CFR §93.123, which limits the aircraft operations (landings or takeoffs) occurring each hour. The rule is in effect at Reagan National because of the Airport's limited airfield capacity.

Where can I observe planes taking off and landing?
You can see the planes through the window walls of Terminal B/C and Terminal A without going through the security checkpoints.  At the north end of the upper level (ticketing) of Terminal C, beyond Door 6, there is a North Terrace area from which you may view the planes and also see the U.S. Capitol in the distance.

Off Airport property, there is an observation point at Gravelly Point Park, a public park off of the George Washington Memorial Parkway near the north end of the main runway. Indigo Landing Restaurant on Daingerfield Island at the Washington Sailing Marina offers views of the south end of the airport. Take George Washington Memorial Parkway south for one mile from Reagan National to the Washington Sailing Marina exit.

Is smoking permitted inside the Airport?
Visitors may smoke on the outside terraces located on the upper level of Terminal B/C. There is no smoking inside the building.

Note: Although TSA has announced that cigarette lighters are not permitted in carry-on baggage, each passenger is allowed up to four books of safety matches. (Strike-anywhere matches are prohibited.) 

Where can I find driving directions to the Airport?
Reagan National Directions

Or, if using an internet mapping website, look for "places of interest" or a list of airports.  Reagan National is also known as DCA.  Most of these websites have an airport list since the physical address is not widely known.

Which types of short-term and long-term parking are available? How much does parking cost?
Hourly and Daily parking garages are located adjacent to each Terminal and are connected to the Terminals via enclosed walkways.  An Economy parking lot is located near the South end of the Airport and is served by free shuttles.  Free shuttles operate between all parking lots, garages, and Airline Terminals.  There is also a free Cell Phone Waiting Area (limit one hour) where you must remain with your vehicle.  Please click here for parking details and rates.

Which types of ground transportation are available?
Metrorail, shuttles, taxis and rental cars are available from the Airport. Reagan National has its own Metrorail stop for passengers traveling to the immediate Washington, Maryland and Virginia region. SuperShuttle and taxis offer door-to-door service. You can take Metrorail from Reagan National Airport to West Falls Church and catch a Washington Flyer Coach to Dulles. You can also make connections to Amtrak stations using Metrorail, shuttles and taxis. Please click here for rates, pickup locations and contact information for specific questions.

Are there shuttles to help get around the airports?
Courtesy shuttles transport passengers from all parking areas to all terminals every 10 minutes, 24-hours-a-day. These buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts. 

Can persons without tickets accompany travelers to the airline gates?
According to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security measures, only ticketed passengers or authorized personnel are allowed through security checkpoints. Special arrangements can be made with your airline for accompanying children or others needing assistance to get to the gate. Please check with your airline for details.

Can I park a vehicle in front of the terminal long enough to get out and unload my luggage?
You will be allowed to unload your baggage on the departures/ticketing level. Just make sure someone is with the vehicle at all times. Unattended vehicles are subject to towing.

Where is the best place to wait for and meet arriving passengers?
At the Airport, you can meet arriving passengers at the baggage claim areas. You can also meet passengers on the concourse level as they exit the pier area.

Note: Curbside parking is prohibited except for immediate loading and unloading. If you are meeting a passenger, do not park along the curb. Unattended vehicles will be towed. Instead, park in any of the paid garages (first 20 minutes are FREE) or follow roadsigns the Airport's free Cell Phone Waiting Area. 

When should I check in for my flight?
Passengers are generally urged to arrive 1 ½ to 2 hours before domestic flights to allow time to get through airline ticketing and security. Contact your airline for more specific directions.  For airline contact information, please see this link.

Is curbside check-in available?
Some curbside check-in is available at Reagan National. However, this service varies by airline because of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) restrictions. Check with your airline ahead of time.

Note: If the national threat level is raised to Code Orange, or high risk of terrorist attack, curbside check-in may be closed. You can find more information on the current threat level and others at http://www.whitehouse.gov/homeland/.

How do I check in if I have an e-ticket versus a paper ticket?
Generally, passengers with e-tickets may check their luggage curbside and proceed to ticket counters or kiosks to obtain a boarding pass. However, contact the airline since procedures vary.

When passing through security checkpoints, you will need to show your boarding pass and photo ID.

Who operates the security checkpoints at Reagan National?
The Airport’s security checkpoints are staffed and supervised by the Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and are not under the Airport’s direct supervision. 

What can I bring through the checkpoint in my carry-on baggage?
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) prohibits weapons, explosives, and incendiaries. Other items that may seem harmless but may be used as weapons are also prohibited.  Please click here to see the TSA's full list of permitted and prohibited items.  Click here for TSA rules about carry-on liquids and gels.

Some carry-on items need to be removed from your carry-on luggage and visibly placed in a bin for screening at the checkpoint.  These include laptop computers, other electronic items, baby milk, and liquids and gels in 3-ounce containers in a one-quart zip-top plastic bag. Also, be prepared to turn on all electronic devices for screeners if they request it.  Please click here for details from TSA about the screening experience.

To contact the TSA directly with questions or feedback, call the TSA Contact Center toll-free at 1-866-289-9673 or visit: http://contact.tsa.dhs.gov/default.aspx

Are there any other security procedures I should expect?
You may be subject to random security checks, which are regulated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). These are strictly random and, according to code, you will need to have your carry-on items available for more detailed inspection.

Note: Increased TSA security measures are in place and passengers are required to have a government issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or current passport. You can help expedite clearing security by having your boarding pass and photo ID readily available prior to entering the security screening areas.

What are the baggage restrictions?
The airlines regulate baggage size and weight limits, so check with your airline. Travelers are permitted one carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a purse, briefcase or laptop computer.

Please note that Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security measures require screening of all carry-on luggage. Passengers are urged to leave any sharp objects (e.g., pocket knives, scissors) at home or in their luggage checked in at the ticket counter.

Are there any places to store baggage?
No. Both short-term and long-term baggage storage at the Airports has been suspended by order of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).  Contact your airline to see if they offer any services for checking baggage on a long-term basis. 

Is the Internet available at the Airport? How much does it cost?
Wi-Fi internet access is available throughout the airport from your wifi-enabled laptop computer. Simply activate your internet browser to connect. Rates are established by the service providers shown on the startup screen. Click here for more information.

Where can I exchange money?
Foreign currency exchange is generally available between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. at Business Service Centers in Terminal B/C on the concourse (middle) level. Hours are subject to change.

Whom do I contact for Lost and Found information?
The Authority Police keep lost items for 24 hours. Call 703-417-8560. After that period, the Central Lost and Found Office at 703-417-0673 will hold the items. For more details, visit Reagan National Lost & Found.

Can I reserve a meeting room at the Airport?
All Airport meeting rooms are for groups doing airport-related business with the Airports Authority. However, the local hotels may be able to assist you. A list of the hotels and their contact information is available from Traveler's Aid. At Reagan National, call 703-417-3974. 

What are the policies and regulations for traveling with children under the age of 16?
The child and adult must have boarding passes and the adult must have a valid photo ID and be able to vouch for the identity of the child.

What are the policies and regulations for traveling with pets?
The airlines that utilize Reagan National are familiar with the requirements of traveling with pets. For details and to make travel arrangements, contact your airline. Once you have entered the terminals, pets must be in a carry case. Only seeing-eye dogs are allowed on a leash inside the terminals.

Note: There is no grassy area for pets after passing through security. If you are catching another flight and a pet needs to use the grassy area, you will have to exit the terminal. Remember to take your photo ID and boarding pass outside with you so you can re-enter through security.

What do I do if I need wheelchair assistance?
Wheelchair assistance is a service provided by the airlines. You can pre-arrange for a wheelchair and other passenger services by contacting your airline.

What do I do if I have specific medical needs?
If you have medical metal pins, plates or screws and are concerned about going through security, contact your airline for special assistance. You can also contact a TSA Customer Service Representative for advice.  The 24/7 contact number is 1-866-289-9673.

Generally, all prescription medical supplies are allowed through security checkpoints, but if you have specific concerns contact a TSA Customer Service Representative at the number shown above. 

Which concessions and restaurants are available at Reagan National, and how can I contact them?
Reagan National has more than 30 eateries, 36 shops, and 17 retail carts throughout the terminal.  Concession hours vary.  You will need to check with each vendor individually to confirm hours of operation.  The Airport’s concessions and their contact information are listed at this link.

Whom should I contact if I am interested in concession opportunities at the Airport?
To inquire about concession opportunities at Reagan National Airport involving rental cars, parking, taxicabs, and general aviation, contact:

Gary Myers, Manager, Contract Management
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, MA-132
Washington, D.C. 20001-6000

To inquire about concession opportunities involving food & beverage, retail, newsstands, duty free, luggage carts, pay telephones, in-terminal advertising and land development, contact:

T. Paul Dorrington, Manager, Concessions & Property Development
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority
1 Aviation Circle, MA-430
Washington, D.C. 20001-6000

For more information, please call 703-417-8756 or visit this link.

Can I stay overnight in the Airport Terminal?
There are many hotels very close to Reagan National, many of which provide free, direct shuttle service. However, the Terminal is open 24 hours a day to passengers. Seating may be limited. Restroom facilities are available but concessions typically close down at night.

How can I get information on hotels close to the Airport?
You can find area hotels at this link. For more specific information, call the Travelers Aid center at 703-417-3974 or look for the centers in all terminals.

Where can I find a map of Washington, D.C.?
Go to the Washington, D.C. tourism website at http://www.washington.org/. 

What should I do if I want to work at the Airport?
For jobs within the Airports Authority, please see this link for available positions and application procedures.  The 24-hour Job Information Line phone number is 703-417-8366.

Send completed application forms to:

Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority
Employment Dept. MA-510
1 Aviation Circle
Washington, D.C. 20001-6000