Dallas Airport Layover Guide: Planning a Connection at DFW or DAL
A layover in the Dallas–Fort Worth area can involve a connection at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Dallas Love Field (DAL), or—in some itineraries—a ground transfer between the two. These are separate airports, so the first step is to confirm the airport code for every flight on your booking.
Connecting at DFW Airport
DFW has five passenger terminals, A through E. If your onward flight departs from another terminal, the Skylink people mover connects all five terminals inside the secure area. Terminal Link shuttle buses operate outside security for landside transfers. Follow airport signage and monitor your airline app for gate changes.
International arrivals may need to complete entry formalities and baggage procedures before connecting. The exact process depends on your itinerary, airline and point of entry. Follow official instructions from airport staff and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Connecting at Dallas Love Field
Love Field has one passenger terminal, which can make a same-airport connection simpler to navigate than a multi-terminal transfer. However, you should still check your boarding pass, gate, boarding time and airline instructions. Do not assume that a flight shown as Dallas departs from Love Field; confirm DAL or DFW.
Transferring between DFW and DAL
DFW and DAL are not connected by an airside passenger transfer system. Travelling between them requires leaving the airport and using ground transportation. If your flights are booked separately or use different airports, allow substantial time for baggage collection, road traffic, airport check-in and security at the second airport. Ask your airline or travel agent whether your itinerary is protected if the first flight is delayed.
Can you leave the airport during a layover?
Whether you can leave the airport depends on your available time, immigration status, baggage arrangements, airline check-in deadlines and transport conditions. International travellers must meet U.S. entry requirements before entering the country. Check official government and airline guidance rather than relying on a general layover time estimate.
Layover planning checklist
- Confirm whether your connection is at DFW or DAL.
- Check if both flights are on one ticket and whether baggage is checked through.
- Review terminal, gate and boarding times in your airline app.
- Allow time for immigration, baggage, security and terminal transfers where required.
- Check airport notices and ground transportation before leaving the terminal.
Use the official DFW website and official Love Field website for current passenger information. Our guides to DFW terminals and Dallas airport public transportation provide additional planning help.
