Washington National airport (DCA)
Location details, contact information, airlines, departure and arrival flight status, transportation, facilities and services, parking, special passenger amenities, nearby hotels and answers to passengers' frequently asked questions.
Passenger Guide
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), located just a few miles from downtown Washington, D.C., is the capital’s primary airport for short- and medium-haul flights. Due to its proximity to the U.S. seat of government, it operates under strict regulations and serves mainly domestic destinations, with a handful of pre-authorized routes to Canada and the Caribbean.
Official Website: flyreagan.com
Information Phone: +1 703 417 8000.
Terminals
The airport has two terminals: Terminal 1 (formerly Terminal A) and Terminal 2 (which consolidates the former Terminals B and C). Both operate 24 hours.
Internal Connections: A free shuttle service runs 24/7, linking both terminals, all parking facilities, and the airport’s Metrorail station.
Annual Passenger Traffic: 26.3 million passengers in 2024.
Information Points
Information desks are located on the baggage-claim (arrivals) level of both terminals. In addition, the airport has Travelers Aid volunteers and courtesy phones available for information requests.
Location
The airport is located in Crystal City, next to the Potomac River, and only 5 km (3.5 miles) south of downtown Washington D.C.
See MapParking services at Washington National airport (DCA)
Reagan National Airport (DCA) features parking options designed for both short and long-term stays, with the advantage of being physically connected to the terminals or accessible via a short shuttle ride. It is highly recommended to book online in advance to guarantee availability and secure reduced rates.
Cell Phone Lot (Free Waiting)
This is the designated area to wait for arriving passengers free of charge. You must remain inside your vehicle until your family member or friend calls to let you know they have collected their luggage and are at the curb ready to be picked up.
Location: Near the airport entrance. Follow the signs for "Cell Phone Lot".
Time limit: Maximum 1 hour.
Terminal Garages
These are multi-level structures ideal for parking close to the check-in counters. They feature a grace period (generally up to 60 minutes free) to facilitate pick-ups and drop-offs, although this is subject to change.
Parking 1 (Terminal 1)
Formerly known as Garage A. Primarily serves Terminal 1 airlines (Air Canada, Frontier, Southwest).
Access: Connected to Terminal 1 via an underground pedestrian walkway.
Parking 2 (Terminal 2)
Formerly known as Garage B/C. This is the most convenient option for American, Delta, United, Alaska, and JetBlue.
Access: Two covered pedestrian bridges connect the garage directly to Terminal 2 (Ticketing Level).
Electric Vehicles: Charging stations available on the Ground Level and Level 2 (rows U and V). Chargers are also available in Parking 1 (Level 1).
Economy Parking
Located further from the terminals, it offers the lowest rates for extended stays. A courtesy shuttle bus is required to reach the terminals.
Important note: This lot often requires advance online reservation during peak seasons and does not accept cash.
Booking and Rates
Rates vary based on demand and how far in advance you book. You can check current prices and secure your spot on the official website.
Facilities for passengers with special needs
Reagan National Airport (DCA) has implemented comprehensive programs to assist passengers with diverse needs, from physical and sensory disabilities to families and seniors. It is recommended to plan ahead and contact the airline or TSA if specific services are required.
Reduced Mobility
The airport is fully accessible, featuring ramps, elevators with Braille signage, and automatic doors in all terminals.
Wheelchairs: This service is provided by the airlines and must be requested at the time of booking or at least 48 hours in advance. Attendants can escort you from the check-in counter to your seat on the plane.
Accessible Transportation: Shuttle buses between terminals and parking lots are equipped with lifts. Accessible taxis can be requested at the curb, but it is recommended to book in advance by calling taxi dispatch (+1 703 417 4333) to avoid waits.
Sensory and Hidden Disabilities
Sunflower Lanyard Program: DCA participates in the "Sunflower Lanyards for Hidden Disabilities" program. Passengers with non-visible conditions (autism, anxiety, dementia, etc.) can request a distinctive lanyard for free at information counters (pre-security) or the USO Lounge. This lanyard discreetly signals to staff that the passenger may need more time or patience.
Visual Assistance (Aira): The airport subscribes to the Aira service, which allows blind or low-vision passengers to connect for free via an app with a human agent who will guide them visually through the terminal.
TSA Cares: It is recommended to contact the TSA Cares helpline (+1 855 787 2227) 72 hours before travel to request assistance during the security screening process or clarify questions about medical equipment.
Families and Nursing
Nursing Rooms: Private and comfortable spaces for breastfeeding or pumping, equipped with rocking chairs, power outlets, and changing tables.
- Terminal 1: One room before security (near the Historic Lobby) and one after security (near Gate 9).
- Terminal 2 (Pre-security): Baggage claim level, near carousels 1 and 12.
- Terminal 2 (Post-security): National Hall (near the Metro entrance), Concourse B (near Tumi), and between Concourses C/D and in Concourse E.
Minors and Seniors
Companion Pass (Gate Pass): If you need to escort a minor traveling alone, a senior, or a person with a disability to the boarding gate, you can request a non-traveler pass at the airline counter. A valid government ID is required, and it is recommended to arrive with extra time, as the pass is subject to approval and security screening.
Service Animals
Pet Relief Areas are distributed throughout the facility.
Post-Security Locations (Airside):
- Terminal 1: Accessible near gates 1-9.
- Terminal 2: North end of National Hall and near gates E46-E59.
Pre-Security Locations (Landside):
- Terminal 1: At the north and south ends of the terminal curbside.
- Terminal 2: Near the north and south entrances of the Metro station (street level).
Latest updates: December 10, 2025
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