Ontario Airport Terminals
Information compiled by David Enrich, aviation and airport guide expert since 1999.
Ontario International Airport (ONT) is one of the main gateways to Southern California’s Inland Empire. Although smaller than major hubs like Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), ONT is widely appreciated by travelers for its efficiency, shorter security lines, and easy terminal navigation. The airport currently operates two main passenger terminals — Terminal 2 and Terminal 4 — which handle both domestic and limited international traffic.
The airport originally opened in 1942 as a military airfield during World War II. After the war, it gradually developed into a commercial airport serving the fast-growing Inland Empire region. During the 1960s and 1970s, new terminal facilities were built to accommodate increasing passenger demand. The modern terminals used today were expanded and renovated in the 1990s and later upgraded to improve passenger comfort and security.
Today, the two terminals are located within walking distance of each other and share a similar layout. Travelers will find check-in counters, security checkpoints, restaurants, shops, and boarding gates organized in a simple and easy-to-navigate structure.
One of the biggest advantages of Ontario Airport is that distances inside the terminals are short. In most cases, passengers can reach their boarding gate within 10–15 minutes after passing security.
Terminal 2
Terminal 2 is one of the primary passenger terminals at Ontario Airport and serves several major airlines including Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, and Alaska Airlines. The terminal is modern, efficient, and designed to handle domestic flights with a streamlined passenger experience.
The terminal is organized on two main levels:
- Upper Level (Departures): Check-in counters, airline ticketing desks, and access to the security screening area.
- Lower Level (Arrivals): Baggage claim, ground transportation access, and passenger pickup areas.
After security, passengers enter the departures concourse where the boarding gates, restaurants, and shops are located.
Restaurants and Cafés in Terminal 2
Although Ontario Airport is smaller than other major airports in the region, Terminal 2 still offers several quality dining options.
- Einstein Bros. Bagels – A popular breakfast spot offering bagels, sandwiches, and coffee. Located near the security checkpoint.
- Starbucks – Ideal for coffee and quick snacks before boarding.
- Farmer’s Market Grill – Offers American comfort food such as burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
Early morning flights can get busy around coffee shops, so arriving a little earlier can help you avoid lines.
Shops in Terminal 2
- Travel Essentials Stores – Magazines, snacks, travel accessories.
- Gift Shops – Souvenirs, local products, and California-themed gifts.
- Convenience Stores – Drinks, packaged meals, and travel supplies.
Terminal 4
Terminal 4 is the other main passenger terminal at Ontario International Airport and serves airlines such as American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Frontier Airlines. It is generally the busiest terminal due to the large number of Southwest flights operating from Ontario.
Like Terminal 2, Terminal 4 also features two main passenger levels:
- Departures Level: Airline check-in counters, self-service kiosks, and security checkpoints.
- Arrivals Level: Baggage claim, rental car shuttles, and transportation services.
The terminal concourse includes several dining areas, comfortable seating spaces, and charging stations for electronic devices.
Best Rated Restaurants in Terminal 4
- Rock & Brews – One of the most popular restaurants in the airport, offering burgers, craft beer, and American cuisine.
- Panda Express – Quick Chinese-American dishes such as fried rice and orange chicken.
- Starbucks – Coffee, pastries, and light snacks.
Rock & Brews is one of the highest-rated dining spots in the airport and is ideal if you have time for a sit-down meal before your flight.
Duty Free and Shopping
Although Ontario Airport is mainly focused on domestic travel, passengers can still find travel retail stores offering cosmetics, souvenirs, and travel accessories. The retail options are smaller than those found in major international airports but still provide essential items for travelers.
- Travel accessories and electronics
- Books, magazines, and snacks
- California souvenirs and gifts
Airport Facilities and Passenger Services
Ontario Airport provides a variety of services designed to make the passenger experience comfortable and efficient.
Services for Families and Passengers with Reduced Mobility
Ontario Airport is designed to be accessible for all passengers. Elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms are available throughout both terminals. Airlines can also provide wheelchair assistance if requested in advance.
- Family restrooms and baby changing facilities
- Accessible parking near terminal entrances
- Wheelchair assistance available through airlines
- Priority boarding for passengers with reduced mobility
Security, Check-in and Boarding
Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours before domestic flights. Check-in counters and self-service kiosks are available in the departure halls of both terminals.
After check-in, travelers proceed to the TSA security checkpoint before entering the departure concourse where the boarding gates are located.
Ontario Airport generally has shorter security lines than larger airports in Southern California, but morning departures can still be busy.
Lost and Found
Lost items within the airport terminals can be reported to the Lost & Found office located in Terminal 2 near the information desk. Items left on aircraft should be reported directly to the airline.