Hartford-Bradley Airport Terminal
Bradley International Airport (BDL) is Connecticut’s primary airport, situated between Hartford and Springfield, MA. Opened as a military base in 1941 and transitioning to commercial service in 1947, BDL has evolved into New England’s second-largest airport, continually expanding to meet passenger needs. The current Terminal A, built in 1986 and expanded in the early 2000s, is the main hub for all passenger operations, while the International Arrivals Building (sometimes called Terminal B) handles incoming international flights.
Terminal Layout and Zones
Terminal A is organized for efficiency and ease of navigation, featuring two concourses:
- East Concourse (Gates 1–12): Home to Aer Lingus, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit, and Sun Country.
- West Concourse (Gates 21–30): Serves Air Canada, American, Breeze, and United.
A new expansion is underway, adding more gates and a state-of-the-art baggage screening facility, streamlining both arrivals and departures.
The terminal has two main levels:
- Lower Level: Arrivals, baggage claim, ground transportation, and meet & greet areas.
- Upper Level: Ticketing, check-in, and security screening.
Administrative offices are located on the third floor.
Services
- Free Wi-Fi: Available throughout the terminal (“BDL Public” network).
- Mobile Charging: Stations are conveniently placed near gates.
- Water Bottle Refill Stations: Located airside near restrooms.
- No luggage storage or showers available.
- Hotels: The Sheraton is directly connected to the terminal; other nearby hotels offer free shuttles.
For overnight stays, the airport is open all night, but security closes; plan accordingly for early flights.
Restaurants
Dining options include both national chains and local favorites, with most open between 11:00 AM and 7:00 PM. While there are no 24-hour food outlets, you’ll find coffee shops, fast food, and sit-down restaurants airside and landside.
- Tip: Try local New England specialties for a regional experience.
- Note: Food options are limited late at night, so plan ahead if you have a late departure or arrival.
Shops
Retailers offer travel essentials, gifts, souvenirs, and Connecticut-themed products. Most shops are located airside, with a few available pre-security.
Pick up last-minute travel items or unique local gifts before your flight.
Lounges
The Escape Lounge (near Gate 1, East Concourse) is open to all travelers for a fee, regardless of airline or class of service. Amenities include snacks, beverages, comfortable seating, and Wi-Fi.
Day passes are available, making this a great option for layovers or business travelers seeking a quiet space.
Most Popular Destinations & Airlines
BDL offers nonstop flights to over 40 destinations:
- Domestic: Atlanta, Chicago, Orlando, Miami, Denver, Washington, D.C., Dallas, Los Angeles, and more.
- International: Dublin (Aer Lingus, ~6 hours), Toronto (Air Canada, ~1.5 hours), plus seasonal flights to Cancun, Montego Bay, and Punta Cana.
- Major Carriers: American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, United, Aer Lingus, Air Canada, Breeze, Frontier, Spirit, Sun Country.
Book early for the best fares, especially during peak travel seasons.
Ongoing Improvements
BDL is undergoing significant upgrades, including more gates, expanded security, and improved baggage claim routes, all aimed at creating a faster, smoother, and more modern travel experience for passengers.
With its modern facilities, expanding amenities, and growing route network, Bradley International Airport continues to enhance the travel experience for both business and leisure travelers.