A Guide to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

You have entered a guide to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the bustling hub of air transportation. It consistently ranks as the busiest airport globally by passenger traffic and flight operations. Serving as the central hub for Delta Air Lines and a gateway for international and domestic travel, this facility manages 100 million travelers annually through its expansive network of terminals and concourses. 

The thing is that the sheer size of Atlanta Airport can be too overwhelming for most seasonal travelers. It can easily be a daunting experience for travelers flying out to this airport for the first time. Luckily, this guide is all you need to make your airport navigation a butter-smooth experience. This guide discusses everything, from group transportation options to exploring luxurious lounges.

A Quick Overview of Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Before extending every part of this facility, just take a glance at the Atlanta Airport layout. The following table depicts the whereabouts and some crucial things about the airport.

Concerned Airport	Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport
Address	6000 N Terminal Pkwy Suite 4000, Atlanta, GA 30320, United States
Code	ATL
Number of runways	05
Hub for	Delta Air Lines
Operating base	Frontier Airlines Southwest Airlines Spirit Airlines
Contact Number	+1 800-897-1910
Annual Passenger Traffic	108,067,766
Official Website	https://www.atl.com/

Getting to the ATL International Airport

There are multiple ways through which you can get to the facility of the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Just take a glance at these options and decide which one would be the most convenient for you.

Ground Transportation Options

You will find several ways to reach the Atlanta International Terminal through various ground transportation options:

Public Transit:

• MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) trains run directly to the airport.
• Trains arrive approximately every 10 minutes during peak hours.
• Connect from multiple points throughout Atlanta.

By Car:

• Access via Interstate 85, Interstate 75, or Camp Creek Parkway.
• Clear signs guide drivers to appropriate terminals.
• Follow signs for domestic or international terminals based on your flight.

Rideshares:

• Uber and Lyft have designated pickup and drop-off zones.
• Available at both domestic and international terminals.
• Often more convenient than driving yourself.

Airport Shuttle Service:

Several free and paid shuttle options are available:

• Hotel Shuttles: Many nearby hotels offer complimentary shuttle service.
• ATL SkyTrain: Free transportation between the airport, rental car center, and Georgia International Convention Center.
• Off-Site Parking Shuttles: Most economy parking lots provide regular shuttle service to terminals.

Facilities to Park at Atlanta International Airport

Travelers get round-the-clock parking facilities at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. These parking slots offer easy access to both international and domestic terminals. Even in a hurry, you can park your car and quickly reach your terminal. Check out all the available options:

Onsite Parking

The Atlanta Airport layout includes several parking options:

Parking Type	Location	Best for	Features
Hourly Parking	Adjacent to the terminals	Short visit, pickup/drop-off	Closest to the passenger terminals
Daily Parking	Close to the terminals	Trips lasting several days	Covered parking
Economy Lots	Further from the terminals	Extended stays	Budget-friendly parking rates

Park-Ride Facilities and Off-site Parking

For budget-conscious travelers or those planning extended trips, Park-Ride lots A and C provide substantial savings compared to other convenient garage options. Complimentary shuttle buses make a round of these lots every fifteen minutes, conveniently dropping passengers at their terminal. Additionally, several off-site parking slots surround the Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport. They often provide economical rates along with amenities like car washing and maintenance.

Park-Ride Lots A and C	Off-Airport Parking
Most affordable on-airport parkingFree shuttle service every 15 minutesDirect service to terminals	Even lower rates than official airport parkingMany offer extra services like car washing.Regular shuttles to the terminal.

Navigating the ATL Airport Structure

Getting your head around the map of Hartsfield Jackson International Airport is important for easy navigation through this massive complex that spans over 150 acres of built facilities.

Atlanta Airport Layout of Passenger Terminals

The Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has two terminals to facilitate flight operations. Its domestic terminal is divided into South and North terminals, primarily distinguished as platforms managing flight operations within the United States.

The Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal, commonly referred to as the Atlanta International Terminal, handles international departures and arrivals with dedicated customs and immigration processing facilities.

Concourse Structure and Connectivity

The airport has seven concourses arranged in a linear fashion:

• Concourse T: Attached directly to the domestic terminal.
• Concourse A through D: Primarily serves domestic flights.
• E and F Concourses: Handle most international operations.
• All concourses connect via the underground Transportation Mall.

Inter-Terminal/Concourse Transportation

The airport provides two main ways to move between concourses:

Plane Train:

• Automated people mover connecting all areas.
• Arrives approximately every 90 seconds.
• The complete circuit takes under 15 minutes.
• Stops at every concourse and both terminals.

Transportation Mall:

• Underground walkway parallel to train tracks.
• Features include moving walkways for easier walking.
• Displays art installations highlighting Atlanta’s culture.
• Walking option for shorter distances between concourses.

Interactive Map of Hartsfield Jackson International Airport

You can also refer to the map of Hartsfield Jackson International Airport to better understand the layout. Using it will help in easy navigation, planning, and preparation, and a smoother airport experience overall. Plus, accessing it is even simpler; just head to the airport website and open the “Map” option available at the topmost section of the page. 

For instance, if you are soon to depart from the South terminal, you can easily explore its layout on the Terminal S Map of Atlanta Airport. This will help you find specific locations like the check-in area, restrooms,  and amenities, and even plan your route.

Check-in and Security Procedures

If you are soon to catch a flight from Hartsfield Jackson Airport, you need to know how the airport handles pre-boarding facilities.

Airline Check-In Locations

Major airlines operating out of the Atlanta Airport have dedicated counters at their respective terminals, with Delta Air Lines occupying most of the South Terminal. In contrast, other domestic carriers are primarily located in the North Terminal.

Similarly, Atlanta International Terminal checks in passengers located inside the terminal itself. Though some international flights operated by domestic carriers might require passengers to check in at a domestic terminal instead. It’s better to cross-check the details mentioned on your ticket confirmation before arriving at the airport.

Self-kiosks available throughout both terminals offer expedited check-in options for passengers traveling with electronic tickets and carrying only carry-on bags.

Here’s a list of airlines operating at Atlanta Airport and their respective terminals:

Domestic Terminal
Delta Air Lines	Concourse A
Alaska Airlines	Concourse B
Delta Air Lines
AirTran Airways (Southwest Airlines)	Concourse C
Delta AirLines
Delta Connection
Southwest Airlines
AirTran Airways (Southwest Airlines)	Concourse D
Delta Air Lines
Delta Connection
Frontier Airlines
United Airlines
United Express
US Airways
US Airways Express

Security Screening Wait Times and Tips

Passengers departing from the Hartsfield Jackson Airport must plan to arrive at least two hours before the departure time. Those hopping on an international flight should arrive at least three hours before. This is because the wait times at the airport significantly change throughout the day. It is busiest from 5 in the morning to 9 a.m., including weekends, holidays, and peak travel seasons.

Only the passengers holding a relevant flight ticket are allowed to pass through the security checkpoint. Airlines can provide gate passes enabling one adult to accompany a disabled passenger or an unaccompanied minor.

Before the screening process begins, make sure your bags and other things are packed and kept as per the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Some items are prohibited beyond security checkpoints and onboard an aircraft. Therefore, make sure you go through the restrictions imposed by the airline and the TSA.

The TSA has issued the following advice to help travelers get ready:

•  Starting May 7, 2025, US residents of every state and territory must show a REAL ID-compliant license or ID, or another valid form of identification, to go through airport security.

• If travelers don’t have a REAL ID, it’s a great idea to bring along another form of identification. Some good alternatives include a passport, a DHS trusted traveler card like Global Entry, or a military ID.

• These guidelines are also applicable to members of TSA PreCheck.

• International flights will allow non-citizens who choose to self-deport to board without denial under this provision.

Additionally, all concourses and gates are easily accessible to passengers from any checkpoint. Just make sure to pay attention to the following hours of operation.

Terminals	Security Screening Type	Timings
Domestic Terminal Main	Standard Screening	Open 24 hours a day
Domestic Terminal North	Standard and Priority Screenings	4:00 A.M. to 10:00 P.M.
Lower North Domestic Terminal	Standard Screening and CLEAR Standard	3:30 A.M. to 11:00 P.M.
South Side of Domestic Terminal	TSA PreCheck and CLEAR w/ PreCheck	4:00 A.M. to 10:00 P.M
Atlanta International Terminal	Standard Screening and TSA PreCheck	Standard – 4:30 A.M. to 12:00 A.M.TSA – 7:00 A.M. to 10:00 A.M.2:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M.

Atlanta International Terminal

When arriving from another country at the Aeropuerto de Atlanta, your flight will land at the international terminal. The arrival procedure will look like the following steps.

Immigration

Right after landing, proceed towards the passport control at the Atlanta International Terminal. You can also use the automated kiosk if eligible. When you interact with the immigration office, you will have to answer some questions regarding your stay and the purpose of your travel and provide the necessary documents for verification.

Baggage Claim

Once the verification is complete, head to the baggage claim section to reunite with your checked bags and other belongings. Keep the baggage receipt that you received while checking your items. You will have to show it while collecting your bags from the conveyor belt.

Customs

Appearing at the customs duty section after collecting your bags is compulsory. There is a possibility that officials will inspect your bags during the baggage screening process.

Connection or Exit

Passengers awaiting another connecting flight can recheck their luggage and head to the departure concourse. However, passengers whose flight ends here can proceed to the arrival hall.

Dining Options Throughout the Airport

Atlanta Airport shops offer multiple dining options to passengers departing from or arriving at different terminals. Taste authentic southern cuisine at these local favorites like One Flew South, Paschal’s Southern Cuisine, and Atlanta Bread Company. And when you are in a hurry, try fast options like Quick Service and Grab-and-Go. Aside from this, the Atlanta airport shopping and dining scene also includes flavors from around the world.

Dining Options	Location	Open at
40/40 Club	Concourse D	09:00 A.M.
The A Bar Grill	Domestic Terminal: MezzanineNorth East Atrium	24 Hours6:00 A.M. – 10:00 P.M.
Arby’s	Concourse E	6:00 A.M.
ATL Shops by Hudson	Next to Gate B26 Southeast of Center	6:30 A.M. – 10:00 P.M. 4:30 A.M. – 11:00 P.M.
Atlanta Bagel Co.	Concourse B	8:00 A.M. – 10:00 P.M.
Braves	Concourse D	7:00 A.M.
Atlanta Bread & Bar	Concourse A	6:00 A.M.
Atlanta Bread	Next to Gate B7 Next to Gate C30 Concourse F Center	9:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M. 4:30 A.M. – 10:00 P.M. 6:00 A.M. – 10:00 P.M.
Atlanta Hawks Basketball Club	Concourse A	7:00 A.M.
Still House	Concourse T	5:00 A.M.
BAJA Fresh	Concourse C	6:00 A.M.
Bang House Pizza	Concourse D	9:00 A.M. -10 P.M.
Bantam & Biddy	Concourse C	8:00 A.M.
Blue Moon	Concourse B	6:00 A.M.
Bar’s Head Cafe	Concourse A	5:00 A.M.
Boardwalk Burgers & Fries	Concourse A	6:00 A.M.
Brioche Doree	Concourse A	5:30 A.M.
Buffalo Wild Wings	Concourse D Mezzanine	9:00 A.M.
Burger King	Domestic Terminal	5:00 A.M. – 2:30 A.M.
Cantina Laredo	Concourse T	9:00 A.M. – 10:00 P.M.
Chick-fil-A	Concourse A Concourse C	5:30 A.M. – 10:00 P.M. 5:30 A.M. – 10:00 P.M.
Chipotle	Concourse D	9:00 A.M.
Dunkin Donuts	Concourse B Concourse T	6:00 A.M. – 9:00 P.M. 5:00 A.M. – 10:00 P.M.
McDonald’s	Concourse E Concourse A	Open 24 Hours 6:00 A.M. – 11:00 P.M.
Subway	Concourse E Concourse T	7:00 A.M. – 9:00 P.M. 6:00 A.M. – 10:00 P.M.

Shopping Experience at ATL International Airport

Indulge yourself in some retail therapy before boarding or after arriving at the airport. The Atlanta Airport shopping list includes luxurious brands, beauty & accessories, souvenirs, and other travel essentials.

Luxury and Brand-Name Retailers

Find high-end clothes and other items throughout the Atlanta Airport shopping areas.

Luxury Brands:

• Coach
• Michael Kors
• Swarovski
• Salvatore Ferragamo

Fashion Retailers:

• Sean John
• Ermenegildo Zegna
• Brooks Brothers

Beauty and Accessories:

• MAC Cosmetics
• Kiehl’s
• Pandora

Atlanta-themed Souvenirs

Take home a piece of Atlantia with you for yourself or your loved ones.

Sports Team Stores:

• Atlanta Hawks (Concourse C)
• Atlanta Falcons (Concourse D)
• Atlanta Braves (Concourse C)

Local Products:

• Sweet Auburn Market (Concourse B): Local food products
• Georgia Aquarium Store: Ocean-themed souvenirs
• Savannah’s Candy Kitchen: Southern sweets and treats

Travel Essentials and Electronics

Find everything you need for your journey.

InMotion Entertainment (multiple concourses):

• Headphones
• Chargers and adapters
• Travel electronics

Simply Books (Concourses B and D):

• Reading materials
• Travel necessities
• Snacks and drinks

CNBC News (Multiple locations):

• Magazines and newspapers
• Basic travel items
• Quick snacks

Relaxation and Comfort Amenities

The Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport provides comforting amenities to enhance your well-being so that you can enjoy your time at the airport.

Airport Lounges

Escape the crowds in these comfortable spaces:

Airline Lounges:

• Delta Sky Clubs in every concourse except F
• United Club in Concourse T
• The Centurion Lounge in Concourse E

Independent Lounges:

• The Club ATL in Concourse F
• Day passes available
• Priority Pass accepted
• Shower facilities
• Complimentary food and drinks

Rest and Relaxation Zones

Find quiet spaces to relax and chill.

• Quiet Zones are in designated areas throughout the concourses.
• Minute Suites in Concourses B and T:

• Private rooms for hourly rental
• Comfortable daybeds
• Sound-masking systems
• Television entertainment

Seating Areas:

• Comfortable chairs near the gates
• Power outlets for charging
• Some with reduced noise levels

Smoking Areas

For smokers, there are designated smoking areas Atlanta Airport locations:

Pre-Security:

• Outside both domestic and international terminals

Post-Security:

• Enclosed smoking lounges in Concourses T, A, B, and D.
• Ventilated spaces to prevent smoke exposure to other passengers.
• Only permitted smoking locations within the airport.

Special Services and Facilities

In addition to enjoyable and essential amenities at the airport, special services are also available. If you require assistance with mobility or are traveling with children or pets, the airport offers facilities to ensure your journey is smooth and hassle-free.

Family-friendly Amenities

Traveling with your kids? Find these helpful services:

Nursing Rooms:

• Located in the concourse
• Private, comfortable spaces
• Equipped with changing tables
• Electrical outlets for breast pumps

Family Restrooms:

• Throughout all terminal areas
• Larger spaces for parents assisting children
• More privacy than standard facilities

• Children’s Play Areas:

• Located near the gates in some concourses
• Safe spaces for kids to burn energy

Accessibility Services

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport accommodates all travelers to ensure easy traveling for everyone.

Wheelchair Service:

• Arrange through airlines before arrival.
• Dedicated personnel to assist throughout the airport.

Communication Assistance:

• Visual paging systems.
• TTY phones are available.
• Assistive listening devices upon request.

Accessible Features:

• All elevators and restrooms are ADA compliant.
• Service animal relief areas.
• Reserved seating near gates.

Pet Relief Areas

Feel free to bring your pet to the airport, as it has all the required facilities onboard.

Indoor Pet Relief Areas:

• Located in all concourses (A-F and T)
• Artificial turf
• Cleaning supplies
• Waste disposal facilities

Outdoor Relief Areas:

• Near ground transportation zones
• Natural settings for animal relief
• Located before security checkpoints

Business Centers and Meeting Spaces

Handle work needs while traveling! The following services and facilities at the office make it easier for you to meet your work deadlines.

• Printing, copying, and faxing services.
• Desk spaces in some lounges.
• Quiet areas suitable for working.
• Professional environment for business gatherings.
• Minute Suites for private work.

Exploring Beyond Atlanta Airport

When you have a long layover or your flight is delayed significantly, try these things to do near Atlanta Airport:

Quick Trip Opportunities

Take a quick trip to the Georgia International Convention Center. It is conveniently connected via the free ATL SkyTrain service. According to the City of College Park, the GICC features more than 150,000 square feet of exhibit space and a total area of 300,000 square feet, which includes Georgia’s largest ballroom.

Another good option is the College Park Neighborhood. Conveniently located near ATL, this place combines academic energy with community warmth, creating an attractive destination for visitors. Plus, various local restaurants serve authentic Southern cuisine worth tasting. You’ll also find small shops and historic architecture, resulting in a pleasant visit.

Transportation to Atlanta Attractions

When you have some extra time, explore the beautiful corner of the city. Take the MARTA train, as it offers direct service to downtown Atlanta. It’ll take you only a 20-minute ride to reach the city center. Hopping on this ride will give you access to major attractions, such as:

• Centennial Olympic Park
• Georgia Aquarium
• World of Coca-Cola
• CNN Center

Airport Shuttles

Metropolitan Shuttle at Atlanta Airport offers access to key destinations within the city. You can easily head to Downtown, Midtown, and Buckhead, and even visit nearby cities like Savannah! Moreover, the free SkyTrain links various airport terminals and provides access to rental car centers and hotel shuttle pick-up locations.

If traveling between Chicago and Atlanta on routes like ORD to ATL, consider extending your layover to explore the city.

Common Questions About ATL Airport