About Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
DFW Airport is one of the busiest and largest airports in the United States. Located roughly midway between the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, this international hub serves over 70 million passengers annually and offers direct flights to destinations across North America, Europe, Asia, and South America.
Spread across five main terminals (A through E), DFW provides a modern, efficient, and traveler-friendly environment. Frontier Airlines operates out of Terminal E, which is conveniently located on the eastern edge of the airport.
Frontier Airlines at DFW: Terminal Overview
What Terminal is Frontier Airlines at DFW?
Frontier Airlines operates exclusively out of Terminal E at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. This terminal handles a number of low-cost and domestic carriers, including Spirit Airlines and JetBlue. Terminal E is known for its easy access, short wait times, and a no-fuss approach to travel — perfect for the value-minded Frontier flyer.
Terminal E Key Facts:
Gates: E2 through E38
Ticketing & Check-In: Located on the upper level
Baggage Claim: Lower level
Security Checkpoints: Three security screening areas (E10, E16, and E18)
SkyTrain Access: Connected to all terminals via the Skylink and Terminal Link systems
Check-In and Security at the Frontier Airlines DFW Terminal
Check-In Options
You can check in with Frontier Airlines in several ways:
Online Check-In: Available 24 hours before departure on Frontier’s website or mobile app
Airport Kiosks: Located near Frontier’s counters in Terminal E
Ticket Counter: For baggage check or customer service assistance
Frontier charges fees for many extras, including carry-ons and seat selection, so be sure to handle those selections before arriving at the airport to save money.
Security Screening
Terminal E typically has shorter wait times compared to other terminals at DFW. However, it’s always recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before your domestic flight.
Travelers can speed through security with:
TSA PreCheck: Available at checkpoint E16
CLEAR Plus: Enrolled members can use biometric scanning for faster screening
Frontier Airlines Gate Locations at DFW
Most Frontier Airlines flights depart from Gates E20 to E38, though gate assignments may change, so always check your boarding pass or the airport’s real-time flight information displays.
Gate areas at Terminal E are clean, well-lit, and feature ample seating, charging stations, and free Wi-Fi, which helps make the wait more pleasant.
Dining and Shopping Options in Terminal E
While Terminal E isn't as expansive as some other terminals at DFW, it still offers a solid selection of food and beverage outlets and retail stores.
Dining Options:
Dunkin’ Donuts (Gate E13): For quick coffee and breakfast
Blue Mesa Taco & Tequila Bar (Gate E33): Tex-Mex favorite with tacos and margaritas
Uno Due Go (Gate E31): Quick pizza, salads, and sandwiches
Smashburger (Gate E18): Great burgers and fries
Einstein Bros. Bagels (Pre-security): Good for early morning flights
Shopping Options:
Hudson News: Magazines, snacks, and travel essentials
Tech on the Go: Electronics, headphones, chargers
DFW TravelMart: Souvenirs and Texas-themed gifts
If you have more time or want additional options, consider hopping on the Skylink train to another terminal. Terminal D, in particular, has upscale restaurants and lounges.
Lounges and Relaxation Options
Frontier Airlines is a budget carrier and does not operate its own lounge at DFW. However, you still have a few ways to unwind before your flight.
Available Options:
The Club at DFW (Terminal D): Day passes available for purchase — includes snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, and showers.
Minute Suites (Terminal A): Private suites available by the hour; good for naps or work.
If you have a Priority Pass or LoungeBuddy membership, you can access some of these lounges regardless of your airline or class of service.
Ground Transportation to and from Terminal E
Terminal E at DFW is well connected to all ground transportation options. Whether you’re being picked up by a rideshare or renting a car, you'll find the process relatively smooth.
Options Include:
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): Pick-up zone is located on the lower-level curbside near baggage claim.
Taxi Services: Staged outside baggage claim; flat rates available to Downtown Dallas or Fort Worth.
Rental Cars: Take the Rental Car Shuttle from Terminal E to the consolidated Rental Car Center.
Public Transit: DART Rail service is accessible via Terminal A; use Terminal Link for transport.
Parking: Terminal E has its own garage (E1-E2) and remote parking lots with shuttle service.
Accessibility and Family Services
DFW is fully ADA compliant and offers numerous services to passengers with reduced mobility or special needs. At Terminal E, you'll find:
Wheelchair assistance: Arrange ahead with Frontier or request at the check-in counter.
Family restrooms: Available near all restrooms
Nursing rooms: Private spaces for breastfeeding mothers
Pet relief areas: Located pre-security near the parking garage
Nearby Hotels and Accommodations
If you’re arriving late, have a long layover, or simply want to stay close to the airport, there are plenty of hotel options within a short distance of the DFW terminal.
Top Picks:
Hyatt Regency DFW: Located directly inside the airport, walkable from all terminals.
Grand Hyatt DFW: Attached to Terminal D — luxury experience for business travelers.
La Quinta Inn & Suites: Affordable, with free shuttles to the terminal.
Marriott DFW Airport South: Includes airport shuttle, breakfast, and business services.
Flight Destinations from Frontier Airlines at DFW
Frontier Airlines primarily offers domestic, non-stop flights from DFW to major and secondary markets across the U.S. Popular routes include:
Denver (DEN)
Las Vegas (LAS)
Orlando (MCO)
Phoenix (PHX)
Atlanta (ATL)
San Diego (SAN)
Miami (MIA)
New destinations are added frequently due to Frontier’s dynamic route planning model. Frontier’s hub at Denver often acts as a connecting point for travelers heading farther west or to smaller airports.
Tips for Flying Frontier Airlines from DFW
Flying Frontier is all about customizing your experience and keeping costs down. Here are some insider tips:
Buy bags in advance: Frontier charges for both carry-on and checked luggage. Prices increase at the airport.
Check seat selection fees: If you don’t care where you sit, skip the extra cost and get assigned randomly.
Bring snacks: Frontier doesn’t offer complimentary drinks or snacks on board.
Board early: Frontier uses a zone boarding system; paying for a seat can get you on earlier.
Watch for delays: As a low-cost carrier, Frontier sometimes has fewer backup aircraft. Monitor your flight status closely.
Use the app: The Frontier mobile app provides mobile boarding passes, gate updates, and in-app check-in.
Environmental Initiatives and Fleet Details
Frontier Airlines brands itself as “America’s Greenest Airline,” thanks to its modern, fuel-efficient Airbus A320neo family fleet. If you’re concerned about carbon emissions, this is a notable advantage.
At DFW, Frontier aircraft are typically parked at remote stands overnight and towed to gates before morning departures — a common practice to reduce gate fees and keep fares low.
Final Thoughts: Is Terminal E a Good Experience for Frontier Travelers?
Yes — Terminal E at DFW is ideal for travelers flying with Frontier. It's not only convenient but also streamlined for efficient check-ins, quick security, and easy boarding. While it lacks luxury lounges and extensive food courts, its ease of access, clean facilities, and short walking distances make it one of the more user-friendly terminals at DFW.
Frontier’s operations at DFW Terminal E align with the airline’s low-cost model: minimal frills, but maximum value. Whether you’re a seasoned budget traveler or flying Frontier for the first time, understanding the terminal layout and services can make your journey through frontier airlines dfw terminal smooth and stress-free.
