How to Transfer Between Terminals at DFW Airport
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) has five passenger terminals: A, B, C, D and E. If your connecting flight departs from a different terminal, you have two main transfer options: the Skylink people mover inside the secure area and the Terminal Link shuttle bus outside security.
Use Skylink for airside connections
Skylink is DFW’s automated people mover connecting all five terminals after security. Passengers with a valid boarding pass can use it to move between terminals without exiting the secure area. Follow airport signs for Skylink and check the route information on the official airport map.
Skylink is generally the best option when you are already airside and need to reach another terminal for a connection. Still, check your boarding pass, gate, boarding time and the airport’s current guidance before leaving your arrival gate.
Use Terminal Link for landside transfers
Terminal Link is the airport shuttle service that connects terminals outside the secure area. It is useful when you have not yet passed security, need to move between terminal curbside areas or have to collect checked baggage and check in again. Follow the current airport signs for shuttle stops and allow extra time for traffic around the terminals.
What if you arrive on an international flight?
International arrivals may need to complete U.S. entry formalities and collect checked baggage before continuing, depending on the itinerary and point of entry. Follow the instructions from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, airport staff and your airline. Do not assume that every international-to-domestic connection follows the same process.
How much connection time should you allow?
There is no single connection time that is right for every passenger. Your required time depends on whether your flights are on one ticket, whether baggage is checked through, whether you must clear immigration or security again, the distance between gates and any mobility needs. Ask your airline for the minimum connection time that applies to your exact itinerary and consider allowing a buffer for delays.
DFW terminal transfer checklist
- Check the arrival and departure terminals in your airline app.
- Confirm whether your connection stays inside the secure area.
- Follow signs for Skylink or Terminal Link as appropriate.
- Check whether you must collect and recheck baggage.
- Allow time for security, immigration and walking to the departure gate.
- Monitor gate changes and boarding announcements.
For live terminal maps, airport notices and passenger information, use the official DFW Airport website. Our DFW terminal guide provides a general overview, but your airline remains the source for itinerary-specific instructions.
