A terminal is made up of several gates where planes park and passengers wait to board. In large terminals, these gate areas may be divided into sections known as concourses, filled with dining, shopping and lounge options, as well as restrooms and other facilities.

Passengers primarily wait for their flight departure in the departure lounge or at the specific boarding gate assigned to their flight. After clearing security and immigration (if traveling internationally), travelers enter the "airside" portion of the terminal, which features seating areas, retail shops, and dining options. In 2026, many major hubs like Singapore Changi, Doha Hamad, and London Heathrow have expanded these spaces into multi-functional environments, offering everything from indoor gardens to digital art installations. For those with premium tickets or specific credit card memberships, airline lounges provide a more secluded and comfortable waiting experience with complimentary food, beverages, and sometimes even shower or nap facilities. In the event of significant flight disruptions, as seen recently in the Middle East during March 2026, passengers may find themselves waiting for extended periods in these terminals, where airlines are legally required to provide "duty of care" including refreshments and access to information while they wait for their re-routed or delayed departures.