✈️ Flight Guide: Phoenix (PHX) → Washington, D.C. (BWI)

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) typically experiences moderate TSA checkpoint wait times in September as summer travel winds down. Expect shorter lines midweek and during off-peak hours (early morning or late evening); enroll in TSA PreCheck to speed up screening. Check the airport's live security wait time page before you leave and arrive at least 90 minutes for domestic flights and 2–3 hours for international or peak holiday travel.

September in Phoenix is still warm, with daytime highs frequently in the mid-90s°F and cooling nights; monsoon season tends to taper off during the month. Heat rarely causes large-scale cancellations, but late-summer thunderstorms and dust storms (haboobs) can delay departures or arrivals. Check local weather alerts and plan extra buffer time for transfers if storms are forecast.

Direct nonstop service between Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) is available seasonally and varies by carrier and year. In September you may find a limited number of nonstop flights offered by major carriers or low-cost airlines; otherwise, one-stop connections via hubs like Dallas/Fort Worth, Charlotte, or Philadelphia are common. Use fare alerts and filter by nonstop when searching to lock in the best PHX to BWI nonstop fares for September.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) offers economy, garage, and cell phone waiting lot options; garages are best for short trips while economy lots suit long-term parking with shuttle access. In September, parking demand is generally lower than summer peak but always reserve covered parking if you want protection from heat. Reserve or compare Park, Stay & Fly packages and check airport parking maps to choose the closest lot to your terminal.

From downtown Phoenix and Scottsdale you have several transit options to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX): Valley Metro Light Rail connects to the airport via a short shuttle, ride-shares and taxis provide curbside pickup, and many hotels offer shuttle services to the terminals. In September, traffic is typically lighter than peak tourist season but allow extra travel time during morning and evening rush hours or ASU football weekends.

In September, airlines operating at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) run regular baggage operations but still recommend checking baggage policies in advance for fees and size limits. Most carriers provide curbside check-in and kiosks inside the terminal; arrive early if you have oversized or sports equipment. Consider airline loyalty or co-branded credit cards to waive checked-bag fees and always label luggage with contact info.

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) offers multiple ground transportation options including the BWI MARC/Amtrak station shuttle to downtown Baltimore and Washington, D.C., ride-share pickups, taxis, and car rentals. In September, traffic to downtown Baltimore and the Beltway toward Washington can be moderate during rush hours, so consider the MARC train or pre-booked shuttles for predictable travel times. For Annapolis, Columbia, or Odenton, car rental or ride-share is often fastest.

September at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) brings mild to warm temperatures, with highs typically in the low to mid-70s–80s°F and cooler evenings as fall approaches. Humidity decreases compared with summer, but occasional rain or thunderstorms remain possible early in the month. Pack layers for fluctuating morning and evening temperatures and include a light rain jacket if you plan outdoor activities in Baltimore, Washington, D.C., or nearby Annapolis.

September can bring several events in the greater Baltimore and Washington region—such as college football games (Terrapins and nearby universities) and regional festivals—that may increase traffic to Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). The Maryland Renaissance Festival and Baltimore Book Festival often occur in the September–October timeframe and can affect rental car and hotel availability. Check event calendars and leave extra time for transfers if you're traveling on busy event weekends.

To reach Annapolis from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), the fastest options are rental car or ride-share (about 25–35 minutes depending on traffic). Columbia is similarly accessible by car or rideshare in roughly 20–30 minutes. Some shuttle services offer direct trips to nearby business parks and hotels; book in advance in September to secure the best rates and avoid event-related surges.

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) provides restaurants, baggage services, rental car counters, and passenger lounges across terminals, and many facilities remain fully staffed in September. Traveler services like family restrooms and accessibility assistance are available; if you require special assistance, request it in advance to ensure a smooth arrival experience. For last-mile connections to Washington, D.C., consider the Amtrak/MARC train or shared shuttle services to avoid peak-hour traffic.

As of September, general travel health guidance can change; Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) follows CDC and local public health recommendations which may include masking in medical facilities. It's wise to check the latest airline and airport health advisories before travel, carry hand sanitizer and any required documentation, and review the return-to-work or local venue policies if attending events in Baltimore or Washington, D.C.