The original airport code for Washington Dulles International Airport is DIA, however, it is sometimes confused with DCA in Washington. To minimize confusion, the code was changed to IAD. Because of the nonstop routes to the destinations, IAD provides better services for foreign flights.
In January 2010, the AeroTrain system was made available to the general public. IAD now features a single terminal, four runways, and five concourses.
IAD was named after John Foster Dulles, who served as Secretary of State during Dwight D. Eisenhower's presidency.
Passengers can also celebrate the arts at the airport through live concerts and art exhibits.
There is enough parking for over 24,000 automobiles. Both cash and credit cards are accepted.
There are multiple options for short and long-term parking at the airport.
Key takeaways
The airport offers a valet parking option. Valet parking offers the highest level of service for parking patrons.
There is a free cell phone waiting area available for passenger pick-up. The maximum waiting time is one hour. You cannot leave cars unattended in this lot.
Hotel lots allow you to park at nearby hotels and the hotel shuttle takes you to the airport. There are a few options available for IAD if you want to try to save money.
If you are able to use hotel parking, you may be able to find a great rate. Last I checked, prices ranged from $5 - $35 per day with the best rates found at Book 2 Park.com and Way.
Depending on the lot you choose to park at the airport and the duration, the rate of the parking lot ranges from $6 to $27. Parking at the Terminal Parking is $6 per hour and $27 per day. Parking Garages 1 and 2 offer an hourly rate of $6 and $19 per 24 hours.
If you want to ditch parking fees at The Dulles Airport, you may use the cell phone lot for free for the first few minutes. This cell phone lot is ideal if you’re simply planning to pick up a passenger.
Generally, the cheapest parking at IAD Airport is the Economy Lot. Parking here doesn’t have hourly rates and charges $12 per day. If you are looking for a shorter-term option, Parking Garages 1 & 2 offer an hourly rate of $6.
Yes. However, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, valet parking at AID Airport is currently closed. On its operating day, this service provides you with curbside drop-off located at Zone 3 on the Departures Level in front of the Airport Terminal. It costs $35 per day – hourly service is not available. To learn more about the current availability of this service, check this link.
Yes. You can find charging spots at Garage 1 - Two units on Level 1 (handicap spaces), Ten units on Level 3 (all 240V) and Garage 2 - Twelve units on Level 1 (2 handicaps spots and all 240V), Four units on Level 3 (all 240V). You will find signage that says “electric vehicle charging only”. You don’t have to pay an additional fee to use the stations, but regular parking rates apply as you leave the garage. These parking spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis.