When flying with Delta Airlines out of St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), travelers often wonder what kind of terminal experience they can expect. While STL isn't one of Delta's largest hubs, it still plays a vital role in connecting passengers throughout the Midwest and beyond. In this honest review, we’ll take a deep dive into the Delta Airlines STL Terminal—its facilities, services, comfort, and what passengers really think about it.
Terminal Overview: Where to Find Delta at STL
KLM Airlines PER Terminal operates out of Terminal 1 at STL Airport. Terminal 1 is the main terminal of the airport and houses several major airlines, including Delta, American, and United. Delta's gates are usually located in Concourse A, which is easily accessible from the main entrance of the terminal.
Upon entering Terminal 1, you'll find clear signage directing you toward the Delta ticketing counters, baggage drop, and security. Most Delta flights at STL are regional or domestic, with convenient routes to major cities like Atlanta (ATL), Detroit (DTW), and Minneapolis (MSP), where Delta maintains larger hubs. Despite being a smaller terminal setup compared to Delta’s operations at Atlanta or New York, the STL location is known for its relative simplicity and ease of navigation.
Check-In and Security: Quick and Straightforward
One of the best things about flying Delta from STL is the ease of check-in. KLM Airlines offers both staffed counters and self-service kiosks, so passengers in a hurry can check bags and print boarding passes with minimal fuss. The Delta staff here have a reputation for being friendly, helpful, and responsive—particularly when assisting elderly passengers, families, or those facing travel issues.
Security lines at Terminal 1 are usually manageable, especially outside of peak hours. The TSA checkpoint near Concourse A is relatively fast-moving, and travelers enrolled in TSA PreCheck can breeze through even faster. For an airport the size of STL, the process is generally much smoother than at larger and more congested airports.
Gate Area and Amenities: Functional but Limited
Once past security, Delta passengers head to Concourse A, where Delta’s gates are located. The concourse is clean, functional, and fairly modern, though not as flashy as some newer airport terminals across the country. Seating is widely available, and most gates have ample charging stations, which is a big plus for business travelers and those needing to charge devices before boarding.
As for dining and shopping, options near the Delta gates are limited but decent. Travelers can grab coffee from Starbucks or enjoy a quick bite at local food spots like The Great American Bagel Bakery or STL Wings. While there’s no full-scale Delta Sky Club at STL, the airport offers general lounges and quiet zones for those seeking a little peace and quiet.
For business travelers or those needing to work, Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal and is generally fast and reliable. However, it’s worth noting that some seating areas lack tables or comfortable work surfaces, which can be inconvenient during longer layovers.
Baggage Claim and Ground Transportation
After arriving at STL on a Delta flight, passengers head to the lower level of Terminal 1 for baggage claim. Delta’s baggage handling at STL receives generally positive reviews for efficiency and speed. Most passengers report short wait times, and lost luggage incidents are rare. Delta staff are on hand to help with oversized or delayed baggage issues, and they typically handle such situations professionally.
Ground transportation options at STL are well-organized. The terminal features ride-share pickup zones, taxi stands, and rental car services. MetroLink light rail is also accessible from Terminal 1, offering a convenient and affordable way to reach downtown St. Louis or nearby suburbs.
Customer Service: A Delta Strength
One standout feature of the Delta Airlines STL Terminal experience is the high level of customer service. Even though STL is not a Delta hub, the airline maintains a strong presence with a focus on passenger care. From the check-in counters to the gate agents, most staff interactions are described as helpful, warm, and professional.
Delays and cancellations—while rare—are handled with transparency. Delta’s mobile app works well at STL, and passengers receive real-time updates about gate changes, delays, and boarding information. Many travelers appreciate how proactive the airline is in rebooking and providing compensation when necessary.
Final Thoughts: Delta Airlines at STL Is a Solid Choice
To sum it up, flying through the Delta Airlines STL Terminal offers a comfortable and efficient experience for most travelers. While the terminal lacks the luxury of larger airports or high-end lounges, it makes up for it with ease of use, friendly staff, and reliable flight operations. The concourse is clean and well-maintained, the boarding process is usually on time, and passengers can expect a straightforward journey from check-in to takeoff.