Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) serves Baltimore, MD. BWI is Southwest's busiest base in the Mid-Atlantic and an affordable alternative for travelers headed to Washington or Baltimore. Call (800) 490-3234 to check live fares.
BWI at a glance
| Airport code | BWI |
|---|---|
| Serves | Baltimore, MD |
| Location | 39.18°, -76.67° |
| Standard time zone | Eastern (UTC-5) |
| Airline hubs | Southwest Airlines |
| Nearby airports | Washington, D.C. (DCA), Washington, D.C. (IAD) |
About Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
BWI is Southwest's busiest base in the Mid-Atlantic and an affordable alternative for travelers headed to Washington or Baltimore.
Airlines at BWI
Southwest Airlines has a hub or major base here, which usually means more nonstop options and easier rebooking if a flight is disrupted.
Getting to and from BWI
An Amtrak and MARC station near the terminal and the Light Rail make it easy to reach both cities.
Best time to fly
Fares here are often lower than DCA for the same trip, especially on Southwest.
Arrival and security tips
Plan to arrive about two hours before departure, and add time on holiday weekends, early mornings or when you check bags. Bring REAL ID-compliant identification or a passport. Our guide on arrival times covers the details.
Popular flights from and to BWI
Explore our guides for routes involving Baltimore:
Frequently asked questions about BWI
Which airlines operate at BWI?
Southwest Airlines has a hub or major operation at BWI. Other carriers also serve it, and schedules change by season.
How do I get from BWI to Baltimore?
An Amtrak and MARC station near the terminal and the Light Rail make it easy to reach both cities.
How early should I arrive at BWI?
A common guideline is about two hours before departure, and longer during holiday periods or when you are checking bags. Check your airline's cutoff times.
When is the best time to fly to Baltimore?
Fares here are often lower than DCA for the same trip, especially on Southwest.
Are there other airports near Baltimore?
Yes. Options include Reagan National (DCA) and Dulles (IAD). Compare fares and ground transport before choosing.
Last reviewed October 22, 2026. FlighTicketHub provides general information; confirm details with the airline before you travel.