One map, pinned from each airport’s published coordinates.
Category scores
Overall is the published weighted sum. A highlighted score is ahead; a tie stays plain.
Ease of use
25% · Wayfinding, security wait, and layout.
AUS7.5
SAT7.5
Comfort & amenities
20% · Seating, Wi-Fi, cleanliness, and quiet.
AUS7.3+0.5
SAT6.8
Food & retail
15% · Food and retail quality and variety.
AUS8.0+0.6
SAT7.4
Ground access
15% · Transit, taxi, and parking to the city.
AUS7.8+0.5
SAT7.3
Reliability
15% · Delays, cancellations, and weather resilience.
AUS6.5
SAT6.5
Lounges
10% · Worth-it density and access quality.
AUS7.7+0.6
SAT7.1
Best for
AUS
Local food and live musicEasy PreCheck/CLEAR accessAffordable public transit to cityGrowing nonstop options
SAT
Quick domestic trips with light bagsLocal Texas food and BBQ cravingsMilitary travelers (USO + parking perks)Easy downtown access via bus or short rideshare
Watch out for
AUS
Morning security peaks 30-45+ minOngoing construction disruptionsNotable delay rates vs national averageConstruction around former South Terminal / midfield taxiways
SAT
Only one public lounge that closes mid-afternoon/eveningNo airside terminal transfer—re-clear securityLimited late-night food; no 24h options beyond vendingPeak security and parking demand mornings/afternoons
Amenities and tips
AUS
Live MusicLocal DiningWiFiParkingFamily AreasAccessibility
Arrive 2.5 hours early domestic
Plan for peak morning security lines of 30-45 minutes.
One terminal for every airline
All commercial flights check in and depart from Barbara Jordan Terminal.
Prioritize local spots airside
Hit breakfast tacos or craft beer before security if time allows.
SAT
Local dining boomUnited ClubFree Wi-Fi and chargingFamily facilitiesVIA bus and rideshareUSO and meditation
Arrive 90 min domestic, watch early lounge close
Security is usually quick but peaks 5-8am and 3-6pm; United Club shuts by 5:15-6:30pm.
Stay landside to switch A/B freely
Terminals adjoin; clear the correct checkpoint as airside transfer requires re-screening.
Prioritize new local spots airside
Skip chains for Bakery Lorraine, Southerleigh, Tre Pizzeria, La Gloria, or Smoke Shack.
AUS · Solid mid-tier US airport with strong local food/music but growing pains from rapid expansion and occasional long delays.
SAT · Solid, low-stress midsize airport with short lines, walkable layout, and improving local food, traded off against sparse lounges, early closes, and basic amenities.
