At LaGuardia Airport (LGA), Southwest operates from Terminal B for all arrivals and departures. This guide explains how Terminal B is organized, where to check in and drop off bags, how to reach the terminal on public transit and by car, and what to expect for security and boarding. You will find verified layout notes, practical tips for moving through the terminal, and guidance for connecting flights so you can plan ahead with confidence.
How LaGuardia Airport Organizes Its Terminals
LaGuardia serves most short-haul Northeast and domestic flights with three passenger terminals arranged by airline groupings. The terminals use a numbered concourse system within each building, and Southwest has a single, contiguous operation in Terminal B. Understanding the high-level layout helps you locate check-in, security, and gates without unnecessary backtracking.
Terminal Responsibilities at LGA
| Terminal | Primary Airlines and Operations | Key Functions |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal A | Delta, JetBlue, American regional | Primarily domestic and some regional international |
| Terminal B | Southwest | Southwest arrivals, departures, bags, and support |
| Terminal C | American, select international carriers | Domestic long-haul and international flights |
Southwest Terminal at LaGuardia: Key Details at a Glance
Southwest uses Terminal B for every phase of your journey at LGA. The following snapshot captures the essentials you can rely on whether you are checking in for the first time or navigating the connection process.
Southwest at LaGuardia at a Glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal | Terminal B | LaGuardia Airport operator and Southwest route maps |
| Check-in Location | Concourse B, central check-in area | LGA terminal directory |
| Bag Drop | Concourse B, dedicated Southwest bag counters and kiosks | LGA terminal directory |
| Security Checkpoint | Concourse B landside, through secured corridor to gates | Current LGA security point layout |
| Primary Gates | Gates B1–B12 (subject to change) | LGA gate assignment data |
| Public Transit Access | Q70 SBS bus to Jackson Heights–Roosevelt Ave subway; nearby M60-SBS | MTA and Port Authority information |
| On-site Parking | Terminal B parking garage and nearby lots | LGA parking authority |
Checking In and Dropping Bags at Southwest Terminal B
When you arrive at LGA, head directly to Terminal B. Use online check-in up to 24 hours before departure to secure your boarding position and reduce time at the airport. In Terminal B, you will find dedicated Southwest bag areas with both staffed counters and bag-drop kiosks. Weigh your luggage before the counter to streamline the process, and confirm tag placement so your bags route correctly to your destination.
Navigating to Terminal B at LaGuardia
By Public Transit
The most common public transit option is the Q70 Select Bus Service, which runs to Jackson Heights–Roosevelt Avenue subway station and connects with the 7, E, F, M, and G lines. The Q47 also serves the airport. Allow extra time for potential delays, keep your MetroCard or OMNY ready, and check current service status on the MTA website before you travel. Taxis and rideshare vehicles load at designated areas outside Terminal B.
By Car and Drop-Off
Follow airport signage for Terminal B when driving. Use the terminal’s parking garage for the shortest walk to check-in, or consider nearby private lots if you prefer covered parking. For quick drop-offs, use the curbside zone on the arrivals side and remain with your vehicle until the passenger is inside the terminal. Note that short-term parking rates increase with duration, so check pricing displays before you leave.
Security and Access in Terminal B
After check-in and bag drop, proceed through security screening in Terminal B. Security lines can vary by time of day; early mornings and weekday afternoons often move more quickly. Keep laptops and large electronics accessible, follow TSA instructions, and use the designated secure corridor to reach the gates. Note that LGA currently uses a standardized layout where security entrances are landside, and each terminal’s gates are enclosed beyond the checkpoint.
Southwest Gates and Boarding at LaGuardia
Southwest gates at LGA are primarily located in Concourse B, numbered B1 through approximately B12. Gate assignments can change due to operational needs, so verify your gate on the airport displays and airline app. During boarding, listen for Southwest’s group and zone calls, and have your boarding pass ready. Because Terminal B handles only Southwest, you won’t need to cross through other terminals to reach your flight.
Connections and Transfers Within LaGuardia
If you are connecting through LGA, note that terminals are not airside-connected; you will need to exit secure areas and re-screen when moving between airlines that use different terminals. Southwest’s single-terminal layout simplifies this: if your incoming and outgoing flights are both on Southwest or if the partner is in Terminal B, you can stay landside and follow signs to your next gate. For interline connections that require a terminal change, factor in extra time for ground transportation between terminals and potential security re-screening.
Tips for Smooth Travel at LaGuardia with Southwest
- Check in online and use your mobile boarding pass to reduce time at kiosks.
- Arrive at least 90–120 minutes before domestic flights; more for holidays or peak periods.
- Monitor gate changes on the airport’s flight information displays and Southwest’s app.
- Use the Q70 SBS bus for reliable access to the subway; it runs frequently and is cost-effective.
- Keep printed confirmation of parking receipts and ride details when using on-site garages.
- If transferring, confirm whether you need to re-clear security when switching terminals.