Southwest Airlines, which has its headquarters in Dallas, Texas, is globally renowned as the foremost low-cost carrier. It runs an extensive network of over 4,000 daily flights to multiple domestic and international destinations.
Southwest has key operating bases in Atlanta (ATL), Baltimore (BWI), Chicago-Midway (MDW), Dallas-Love (DAL), Denver (DEN), Houston-Hobby (HOU), Las Vegas (LAS), Los Angeles (LAX), Oakland (OAK), Orlando (MCO), and Phoenix-Sky Harbor (PHX).
In this informative travel guide, we will take a look at the Southwest Oakland Terminal as OAK serves as one of the primary operational bases for Southwest flights.
Table of Contents
Which terminal is Southwest in Oakland?
Oakland International Airport (OAK) is located in Oakland, California, and serves the San Francisco Bay Area. It is the primary hub for cargo carrier FedEx, and also one of the key operating bases for Southwest flights.
The airport features 4 asphalt runways, and two terminals with a total of 32 gates. Terminal 1 accommodates 18 gates while Terminal 2 holds 14 gates.
Southwest Airlines operates from both Terminal 1, and Terminal 2 at Oakland Airport (OAK). All departures, and arrivals are handled from these terminals.
The airline offers various amenities, and services to the arriving, and departing passengers at the airport’s terminal.
Southwest Gates at Oakland Airport
Terminal 1 – Gates 4, 6, 8A, 10
Terminal 2 – Gates 20-32
Amenities offered by Southwest at OAK
- Charging Stations
- Airport-Provided WiFi
- Priority Lane
- Express Lane
- Self-Tagging
- Customer Service
- Ticketing/Check-in
- Baggage Handling
Southwest Ticket counters at Oakland Airport are operational every day. The counter services begin 100 minutes before the first departing flight.
Southwest Airlines recommends that passengers arrive at the airport a minimum of 120 minutes before their scheduled departure time for domestic, international, and Hawaii flights. This allows enough time for check-in, security screening, and avoids any unforeseen delays, while also providing ample time to enjoy the airport amenities.
IMPORTANT NOTE: All bags must be checked 45 minutes prior to scheduled departure.
TRAVEL TIP FOR INT’L PASSENGERS: To ensure a smooth boarding process, it is necessary to have your passport verified by an agent or kiosk at the Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter at least 60 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
Are you planning to bring your furry friend along on your next adventure with Southwest Airlines? Before you pack up their favorite toys and treats, take a moment to review the airline’s pet policy.
This will help ensure that you and your four-legged companion have a safe and comfortable journey.
Ground Transporation Facility at Oakland Airport
- Rental Cars: Oakland Airport features a rental car center located at 7600 Earhart Road, Oakland, CA 94621. Rental Car Shuttle services operate between the terminals, and the Rental Car Center, every 10 minutes or less.
- BART & Public Transportation: BART Trains, Amtrak, and AC Transit services are available at OAK Airport.
- Rideshares: Services including Lyft, Uber, and Wingz offer ride-sharing services at Oakland International Airport.
- Shuttle Buses: OAK-permitted courtesy shuttle services are offered to the passengers.
- Taxis & Limousines: OAK-permitted taxis, and limos serve passengers at Oakland Airport.
Southwest Oakland Terminal Map
The above image shows the terminal map of the Southwest terminal at Oakland International Airport. The terminal infrastructure is divided into two Concourses: A, and B. Southwest flights are operated from both Concourses.
What terminal is Southwest departures at Oakland Airport?
If you’re flying out of Oakland Airport with Southwest Airlines, make sure you know which terminal your flight is departing from. Flights operate from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, and it’s important to check your flight status for any unexpected changes.
Luckily, both terminals offer a range of facilities and services for departing passengers. From baggage service to Wi-Fi, priority and express lanes, self-tagging, customer service, and food and dining options, there’s plenty to keep you comfortable and entertained before your flight.
What terminal is Southwest arrivals at Oakland Airport?
When arriving at Oakland Airport with Southwest Airlines, passengers will disembark at either Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 depending on their origin.
Once you’ve arrived, Southwest provides various services and amenities to make your arrival as smooth and comfortable as possible.
From baggage claim to immigration and security clearance, there are many services available to ensure a hassle-free experience. Additionally, you can also take advantage of various food and dining options, Wi-Fi access, and car rental services.
Food, and Shopping Options at Oakland Airport
Passengers traveling via Oakland Airport get the opportunity to taste delicious cuisines, and beverages, and also enjoy shopping at retail spaces.
| Restaurants in Terminal 1 | Location |
| Oaklandish Coffee Collective | Gate 4 |
| Escape Lounge | Gate 8 |
| Peet’s Coffee | Gate 8A |
| Vino Volo | Gate 14 |
| Restaurants in Terminal 1 | Location |
| Farley’s Cafe | Gate 22 |
| Tay Ho | Gate 23 |
| Pyramid Brewing Co. | Gate 24 |
| Vino Volo | Gate 25 |
| Subway | Gate 26 |
| Peet’s Coffee | Gate 26 |
| Oakland Draft House | Gate 28 |
| Calavera | Gate 29 |
| Retail Shops in Terminal 1 | Location |
| OAK Tribune | Pre-Security Check-in Gate 4 |
| Duty Free | Gate 1 |
| See’s Candies | Gate 4 |
| Retail Shops in Terminal 2 | Location |
| OAK Tribune | Gate 24 |
| Bayfront News | Gate 30 |
| Sunglass Icon | Gate 30 |
| See’s Candies | Gate 27 |
| Newsstand | Gate 26 |
| TechZoom | Gate 26 |
| Sports Scene | Gate 22 |
Where to park at Oakland Airport for Southwest flights?
Oakland International Airport (OAK) offers a convenient on-site parking facility featuring premier parking, daily/hourly parking, economy parking, and a free 30-minute waiting area.
Southwest customers can choose to park at the Premier Parking lot as it is the closest, and most convenient facility located directly in front of the OAK Terminals.
The rate of parking at the Premier Lots is $4 per 30 minutes and a maximum of $38 per 24-hour period.
Other parking options include Daily (Long-Term), Hourly (Short-Term), and Economy Lots ($18 flat rate per 24-hour period).
| DAILY PARKING LOTS | PARKING RATE |
| 0 – 1 hour | $5 |
| 1 hour – 2 hours | $10 |
| 2 hours – 24 hours | $24 |
| HOURY PARKING LOTS | PARKING RATE |
| 0 – 12 minutes | $1 ($5 per hour) |
| 24-hour period | $34 |
Car Rental Services at Oakland Airport
Oakland Airport features a Rental Car Center in which 10 rental car providers offer services to the OAK passengers.
Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar Rent A Car, Enterprise, Fox Rent A Car, Hertz, National Car Rental, Payless Car Rental, and Thrifty are the top rental companies at the Rental Car Center.
OAK offers 24/7 rental car shuttle bus services that operate between the terminals, and the Rental Car Center, every 10 minutes or less.
Tips for Arriving Passengers
Passengers arriving at OAK Airport can reach the Rental Car Center by using the Rental Car Shuttle service. For off-site rental, they can call their respective providers to arrange a transfer.
Tips for Departing Passengers
Departing passengers can return the rental car to the Rental Car Center. After returning, they can use the Rental Car Shuttle service to reach the terminal for departure.
If you are an AAA member, AARP member, active-duty military personnel, national guard, and federal government employee, you get exclusive car rental discounts, and benefits.
(Check out the following blogs to grab the discounts, and amenities.)
How to get car rental discounts with AAA?
A Comprehensive Guide to Car Rental Discounts with AARP.
Discover Military Discounts for Car rental services.
Explore 15+ PRO TIPS to get cheaper car rental discounts every time.
Conclusion on Southwest Oakland Terminal Guide
Oakland International Airport (OAK) serves as a primary hub for Southwest Airlines, offering convenient air travel to multiple destinations across the United States and select international locations.
If you’re planning to fly with Southwest from OAK, our comprehensive guide can help you easily navigate the Southwest Terminal.
Our guide covers everything you need to know, from the terminal layout to flight arrival and departure information, travel tips, available amenities and services, food and dining options, parking facilities, car rental services, and more.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time flyer, our guide can ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience at the Southwest Terminal of OAK Airport. Be sure to check it out before your next flight.
Let’s conclude with some important travel tips.
- Southwest Airlines operates flights from both Terminals 1 and 2 at Oakland Airport, with all departures and arrivals handled from these terminals.
- As a passenger, it is recommended that you check your flight status regularly for any changes or updates.
- Before heading to the airport, ensure that you know your gate number. This information can be found on your boarding pass or by checking the Southwest website or app.
- It is crucial to allow enough time to get through security and reach your gate, especially since the Southwest terminal at Oakland Airport can get crowded. Plan accordingly to avoid missing your flight.
- Navigating the Southwest terminal at Oakland Airport is easy, thanks to clear signage. Simply follow the signs to your gate. However, don’t hesitate to ask for help if you ever get lost or confused. Southwest employees are available to assist you and ensure that you find your way.
FAQs on Southwest Terminal at Oakland Airport
How many terminals are in Oakland?
Oakland International Airport (OAK) is equipped with two terminals: Terminal 1, and Terminal 2. There are a total of 32 gates in these terminals.
What terminal is Southwest at OAK?
Southwest Airlines operates from both Terminal 1, and Terminal 2 at Oakland Airport. All departures, and arrivals are handled from these terminals.
How early to arrive at Oakland Airport for the Southwest flight?
Southwest advises its passengers to arrive at least 2 hours prior to their domestic departure, international departure, and Hawaii flights from Oakland International Airport (OAK).
What airlines are in Terminal 1 Oakland?
Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air, Contour, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and Volaris are in Terminal 1 at Oakland Airport (OAK).
