Discover Convenience and Comfort at the United Airlines TPA Terminal +1-888-839-0502

United Airlines TPA Terminal has established procedures for check-in, luggage, security, boarding, and other services at TPA in order to guarantee a seamless and effective travel experience for every traveler. A detailed description of these policies can be found below. 

Check-In and Arrival Time

Travelers departing from TPA are advised by United Airlines to arrive at least two hours prior to the departure of their scheduled domestic flight. Arriving three hours early is advised for international flights. Up to 24 hours prior to departure, passengers can check in online using the United app or website. United has self-service kiosks and full-service counters at Airside E for passengers checking in at the airport. 

Baggage drop-off counters close one hour prior to international flight departures and forty-five minutes prior to domestic aircraft departures. Boarding normally starts 45 minutes prior to departure, and passengers must finish the security check and arrive at the gate at least 30 minutes before departure.

Baggage Policy

TPA is subject to United Airlines' usual baggage policies: 

• Carry-On Baggage: There is no fee for one normal carry-on and one personal item, such as a backpack or pocketbook. However, unless they are Premier members or have a United credit card, Basic Economy passengers are only allowed to bring one personal item.
• Checked Baggage: Unless travelers are exempt by having United status or premium cabin tickets, fees often apply for the first and second checked bags. Although they vary, baggage costs typically begin at $35 for the first bag.
• Oversized/Overweight Bags: Checked bags that weigh more than fifty pounds or are more than sixty-two linear inches are subject to additional fees.
• Special Items: In accordance with accepted special item policies, United allows mobility aids, musical instruments, and athletic gear.

Security Screening

Before arriving at the gate area, United travelers leaving from Airside E must go through a TSA screening. The same TSA rules apply for electronics, liquids, and restricted items. Eligible travelers can use TSA PreCheck lanes, which enable quicker screening without requiring them to take off their shoes, belts, or computers.

During the screening procedure, passengers must provide a valid boarding pass and a photo ID issued by the government. Additionally, passports and any other travel visas must be presented by foreign visitors.

Boarding Procedures

United Airlines uses group numbers to board flights at TPA; these numbers are often assigned depending on price class, seat location, and frequent flyer status. Group 1 consists of Business Class, Premier 1K, and Premier Platinum customers. Groups two through five include Premier Silver, United credit cardholders, Economy Plus, and regular economy passengers.

It is recommended that passengers get to the gate at least 30 minutes before departure. Late arrivals may not be permitted to board United.

Customer Assistance

In Airside E, United customer service agents may be found at the ticket booths and gates. They help with:

• Flight booking and rebooking
• Upgrades to the seats
• Questions about lost and found
• Requests for special services (unaccompanied minor processing, wheelchair help)

Although there isn't currently a United Club facility at TPA, United also runs a special United Club lounge there. Other lounges within the terminal are accessible to qualified patrons through partnerships or membership programs.

Flight Delays and Cancellations

In case of flight delays or cancellations, United Airlines follows standard rebooking procedures. Passengers may rebook flights at the service desk near the gate, use self-service rebooking kiosks, or rebook via the United mobile app.

Compensation policies for cancellations and significant delays comply with U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) guidelines. United may offer meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, or rebooking assistance depending on the situation and passenger eligibility.

Accessibility Services

At TPA, United Airlines guarantees complete adherence to the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Services provided consist of: 

• Wheelchair assistance
• Accessible check-in counters
• Priority boarding for customers with disabilities
• Assistance for passengers with visual, auditory, or cognitive impairments

COVID-19 and Health Policies (if applicable)

Although pandemic-era restrictions have largely lifted, United encourages passengers to:

• Use hand sanitizing stations available throughout TPA
• Wear face coverings if feeling unwell
• Practice respectful distancing when possible
  
  

Lost and Found

Passengers should notify United Airlines TPA Terminal staff or file a claim online if they misplace an item at the gate, on the aircraft, or at baggage claim. TPA Airport Lost & Found is responsible for handling misplaced items in the pre-security general terminal areas.