Navigating transportation from Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) can be straightforward with the right information. Whether you’re heading to Center City, the surrounding suburbs, or connecting to other transit systems, PHL offers a range of options to suit your needs. This guide will detail your transportation choices, ensuring a smooth transition from the airport to your final destination.
SEPTA Regional Rail: The Airport Line for Quick City Access
For the quickest and most direct route to Center City Philadelphia, the SEPTA Airport Regional Rail Line is an excellent choice. This dedicated rail service operates frequently, whisking travelers from the airport terminals to the heart of the city in approximately 25 minutes.
Platform Access and Temporary Changes:
It’s important to note that platform rehabilitation is currently underway at PHL. Due to this construction, access to the SEPTA North platforms at Terminals A-B, C-D, and E-F is closed until Fall 2023. However, accessing the Airport Line remains convenient.
Passengers arriving at Terminals A-East, B, C, D, and E can easily reach the center platform to board trains towards Center City. After collecting your luggage from baggage claim, simply follow signs for “Ground Transportation” and proceed to the center platform via escalator, elevator, or stairs. For passengers arriving at Terminal F, the train platform can be accessed directly at Terminal E.
SEPTA Airport Line Service Details:
The Airport Regional Rail Line runs every 30 minutes, providing consistent and reliable service. Trains depart from Center City to the Airport between 4:25 AM and 11:25 PM, and from the Airport to Center City from 5:07 AM to 12:07 AM. Stops along the Airport Line include Terminals A-East, B, C-D, and E (with Terminal F passengers using the Terminal E stop).
Connections and Accessibility:
The Airport Line offers seamless connections to other major transit systems. At 30th Street Station, you can connect to Amtrak and New Jersey Transit for regional and national travel. Connections to SEPTA’s Market Frankford Line are available at 30th Street, Suburban, and Jefferson (Market East) Stations, while the Broad Street Line can be accessed at Suburban Station. SEPTA platforms and pedestrian bridges are equipped with elevators for accessibility. Bridge plates are also available to assist wheelchair users in boarding trains, and yellow safety stripes mark platform edges for enhanced safety. For fare information, please visit septa.org.
SEPTA Bus Services: Affordable and Local Routes
SEPTA also provides accessible bus services from Philadelphia Airport, offering cost-effective transportation to various destinations. Routes 37, 108, and 115 serve different areas:
- Route 37: Connects the airport to South Philadelphia.
- Route 108: Provides service to 69th Street Transportation Center in Upper Darby.
- Route 115: Travels to Suburban Square in Ardmore.
SEPTA buses board at Zone 1 outside the baggage claim areas of Terminals A-East, B, C, D, and E. Terminal F passengers can also access bus services from Terminal E’s Zone 1. For detailed route information and fares, consult septa.org.
CCT Connect: Customized Community Transportation
For registered passengers, seniors, and individuals with disabilities, SEPTA’s Customized Community Transport (CCT Connect) offers a specialized service. CCT Connect provides pick-up at Zone 1 outside each baggage claim area. To arrange a pick-up, registered users can call 215-580-7700 (TDD/TTY 215-580-7712) or visit www.septa.org/service/cct/.
Plan Your Transportation from PHL
Philadelphia Airport offers diverse transportation options to suit every traveler’s needs. From the speed and convenience of the Regional Rail to the affordability of bus services and specialized CCT Connect, getting to and from PHL is designed to be as easy as possible. Consider your destination and travel preferences to choose the best transportation method for your journey. For the most up-to-date schedules and fare information, always refer to the official SEPTA website.
