Questions about Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), serving Washington, D.C. in the USA.
Washington Dulles International Airport (IATA: IAD; ICAO: KIAD) is one of three commercial airports serving washington-dc, the capital of the usa. It is located in northern virginia approximately 27 miles (43km) to the west of downtown Washington.
dca is significantly more convenient to the city center, and bwi is popular with low-cost carriers; however, most international and long-haul flights into the area are handled by Dulles, due to restrictions and due to the airport's status as a hub and transatlantic gateway for united-airlines.
The airport has a main terminal, where ticketing, baggage claim, and security facilities are located, and two midfield terminals connected by a peoplemover and so-called "mobile lounges." United uses concourses A, C, and D, and most other airlines use concourses A and B.
An extension of the Washington Metro's Silver Line is under construction and expected to open in 2020; until then, there are local and regional buses and shared van services connecting the airport to the area. For canonical answers on airport transfers, see
- How to get to/from Washington Dulles International Airport?
- Transfer from Washington National (DCA) to Washington Dulles(IAD)
- Which airport should I choose, DCA or IAD?
The airport's location makes it impractical to visit the city on most connections; however, visitors may be interested in the Udvar-Hazy Center of the National Air and Space Museum, which is a short taxi ride away from the main terminal.