Terminals at MIA
Getting to Miami International
Parking at MIA
Lounges at MIA
Top destinations from MIA
Airlines at MIA
5 things you didn't know about Miami International
Verified by the CompareFlights team- 1MIA is the world's largest hub for connecting flights to Latin America — over 60% of all US-to-Latin-America passenger traffic routes through here, making American Airlines' Miami operation more important than any of its other Latin gateways combined.
- 2The South Terminal expansion (2007) was the most expensive single-airport expansion in US history at the time — $6.4 billion, paid for largely by Miami-Dade County tourism taxes.
- 3Miami's MIA Mover (people mover) is one of the few US airport people movers that's free for the public — not just for arriving airline passengers — making it a popular cheap connection between rental cars and downtown shuttles.
- 4MIA was the first major US airport to deploy biometric exit-gates for international flights, beginning in 2018 — passengers can now leave the country without showing a passport at boarding.
- 5MIA has the highest concentration of pet imports of any US airport — the on-site quarantine and inspection facility processes over 100,000 dogs, cats and exotic animals each year.
Frequently asked about MIA
Which terminal does American use at MIA?
American Airlines uses the entire North Terminal (Concourse D) for both domestic and international long-haul flights. AA international arrivals process through the South Terminal's Federal Inspection Services facility, then connect via the Skytrain back to D for onward gates. Allow 75 minutes for an AA international-to-domestic connection.
How early should I arrive at MIA for an international flight?
Plan three hours ahead for international flights, especially during the heavy evening South American banks (8pm-midnight). Curbside drop-off backs up significantly along the LeJeune Road approach during these hours. Domestic flights need two hours during morning peaks.
Is there a train from MIA to Miami Beach?
There is no direct rail link to Miami Beach. The Metrorail Orange Line runs from MIA via the Miami Intermodal Center to downtown Miami, where you can transfer to local buses for the Beach. Most travellers find rideshare ($25-40) or a flat-rate taxi to be the most practical option.
What's the cheapest way from MIA to downtown Miami?
The Metrorail Orange Line at $2.25 from the Miami Intermodal Center to Government Center downtown is the cheapest option. The MIA Mover from terminals to MIC is free. Total time is around 25 minutes. Rideshare averages $30-50 and taxis a flat $25-30 to downtown.
Is there a hotel inside MIA?
Yes — the MIA Hotel sits inside the Central Terminal between Concourses E and F, on the upper level. Rooms overlook the apron. Off-airport hotels in the Doral cluster offer free shuttles from the lower arrivals curb.