Looking for a place to smoke at Austin-Bergstrom Airport? Here is your guide to smoking areas at AUS, Austin’s primary airport built on a former Air Force base.
Smoking at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport – AUS – 2026
Austin-Bergstrom International is entirely smoke-free indoors. There are no smoking lounges or indoor smoking areas.
Barbara Jordan Terminal:
The main terminal has a single linear concourse with gates on both sides. Designated outdoor smoking areas are on the lower level (arrivals and ground transportation area). Exit through baggage claim and follow the signage to the curbside designated zones.
South Terminal:
The smaller South Terminal handles charter and some ultra-low-cost carrier flights. It has outdoor smoking areas near its entrance.
The City of Austin’s Smoke-Free Workplace Ordinance prohibits smoking inside all public places, including the airport. While Texas does not have a statewide indoor smoking ban, Austin’s local ordinance is strict and covers all airport buildings.
AUS has a single-terminal layout, making the walk from most gates to the outdoor area relatively straightforward. Plan about 25 to 35 minutes for the round trip including TSA re-screening.
Smoking Areas at Austin-Bergstrom Airport
Austin-Bergstrom International is entirely smoke-free indoors. There are no smoking lounges or indoor smoking areas.
Barbara Jordan Terminal:
The main terminal has a single linear concourse with gates on both sides. Designated outdoor smoking areas are on the lower level (arrivals and ground transportation area). Exit through baggage claim and follow the signage to the curbside designated zones.
South Terminal:
The smaller South Terminal handles charter and some ultra-low-cost carrier flights. It has outdoor smoking areas near its entrance.
Austin-Bergstrom Airport Smoking Policy
The City of Austin’s Smoke-Free Workplace Ordinance prohibits smoking inside all public places, including the airport. While Texas does not have a statewide indoor smoking ban, Austin’s local ordinance is strict and covers all airport buildings.
AUS has a single-terminal layout, making the walk from most gates to the outdoor area relatively straightforward. Plan about 25 to 35 minutes for the round trip including TSA re-screening.
Tips for Smokers at Austin-Bergstrom Airport
- Outdoor areas are on the lower level (arrivals/ground transportation)
- AUS has a single main terminal — the round trip is about 25-35 minutes
- The airport was built on the former Bergstrom Air Force Base
- Austin’s city ordinance bans indoor smoking even though Texas has no statewide ban
- Vaping and e-cigarettes are treated the same as traditional cigarettes
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I smoke inside Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)?
No. All US airports prohibit indoor smoking under federal and state regulations. You must go outside to designated smoking areas.
Where are the smoking areas at Austin-Bergstrom Airport?
Outside the terminal building at designated smoking areas, usually on the lower level (arrivals) or curbside. Look for signs near exits.
Is there a smoking area after security at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)?
Generally no. Most US airports require you to exit the secure area and re-clear security after smoking outside. A few exceptions like Las Vegas (LAS) have indoor smoking lounges.
Can I vape at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)?
Vaping and e-cigarettes are subject to the same rules as smoking at US airports. You must use the designated outdoor smoking areas.