Everything you need to know about traveling to Atlanta International Airport and getting around the airport.
In this guide:
- Getting to Atlanta Airport
- Arriving at the airport
- Atlanta Airport Check-In
- Atlanta Airport Security
- Boarding & Connecting Flights at Atlanta Airport
- Atlanta Airport Restaurants: Where to Eat?
- Atlanta Airport Shops
- Atlanta Airport Duty Free
- Atlanta Airport WiFi
Arriving & Checking In
Address: 6000 N Terminal Pkwy Suite 4000, Atlanta, GA 30320
Getting to Hartsfield-Jackson Airport
There are accessible routes to ATL Airport for both drivers and those using public transit. Various options exist beyond driving, including local buses, dedicated airport shuttles, and train services. For drivers, GPS provides straightforward navigation to ATL. Compare on-site and off-site parking options via our online booking tool; off-site parking frequently offers cost savings, with shuttle services ensuring timely terminal arrival on your day of travel.
Driving directions to Atlanta Airport can be found by entering the destination into your satnav, but you’ll most likely want to drive to your parking lot. Offsite Atlanta Airport parking can prove much cheaper than onsite options, and shuttle services ensure you reach your terminal on time, making these lots worth considering.
Arriving at the airport
How early to get to Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport depends on the time of your flight and the airline you’ve booked to fly with:
- Passengers for domestic flights should arrive at the airport two hours before departure.
- Travelers on international flights should aim to get to the airport three hours before departure.
Allow ample time for arrival at ATL, particularly during busy travel times, to ensure a stress-free experience.
Atlanta Airport Check-In
The opening times of airline check-in desks at ATL are determined by individual flight schedules. Please consult your airline for the most up-to-date information regarding your flight. To speed up the process, you can also ask about online check-in.
Atlanta Airport Security
Avoid potential delays at ATL Airport security by planning ahead of your journey. Wait times change based on busy periods and flight schedules, so give yourself extra time for screening when traveling during peak times.
Boarding & Connecting Flights at ATL
Track your ATL flight departure with real-time updates on airport displays and online flight trackers via the ATL Airport website. Displays are available throughout all terminals, meaning you have access to up-to-date information regarding your flight.
For connecting flights, a new boarding pass is required, issued after customs for international arrivals. Luggage re-check policies differ by airline, so confirm with your carrier.
Facilities & Services
Atlanta Airport Restaurants: Where to Eat?
Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport caters to every palate with a wide array of dining choices. From quick bites to sit-down meals, you’ll find options in every terminal, both pre and post-security. Check out our guide to the best Atlanta Airport restaurants.
Enjoy authentic heritage soul food at Paschal’s in Terminal B, or opt for familiar favorites such as LowCountry Restaurants in Terminal A. For added comfort, ATL Airport Lounges offer food services within each booking.
Atlanta Airport Shops
Shopping at Atlanta Airport is a fantastic experience. ATL Airport houses a variety of different shops and popular brands throughout the terminals. You can find luxury brands such as Michael Kors, MAC Cosmetics and Swarovski.
There are also on-the-go shops available for travel essentials and convenience, including ATL Shops by Hudson, Brookstone and Newsstands like Atlanta Daily World.
Atlanta Airport Duty Free
All terminals at ATL Airport have Duty Free stores available to explore before you fly. Offering great deals and discounts on your favorites, Duty Free Americas is a great choice to get last-minute gifts if you are flying home too.
Atlanta International Airport Wi-Fi
Passengers can join the free ATL Airport Wi-Fi network ATL Free Wi-Fi to stay connected when visiting the airport. Wi-Fi is available at every location, including the transportation mall.
If you’ve got time on your hands between flights check out these things to do at Atlanta Airport to while away the hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Atlanta Airport from downtown Atlanta?
The distance between Atlanta Airport and downtown Atlanta is 11.4 miles, and the drive is approximately 25 minutes.
How many terminals does Atlanta Airport have?
There are two main terminals at Atlanta Airport, the Domestic Terminal and the Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal. There are 7 concourses that branch off these terminals. Delta Airlines can be found at Concourses T, A, B, C and D and primarily operates from the Domestic Terminal. Concourses E and F are used in the International Terminal.
Can you walk between terminals at Atlanta Airport?
It is possible to walk between terminals at Atlanta Airport, but keep in mind ATL Airport is a large airport. Walking paths are available that connect the terminals, but for a quicker journey we recommend the Plane Train which connects terminals and concourses.
What time does TSA open at Atlanta Airport?
Opening hours for TSA at Atlanta Airport vary based on when flights are operating. In general, hours are usually from around 3:30am with TSA pre-check open from 5am until 9pm.
You can apply for TSA precheck in Atlanta Airport post security in Concourse A. It is also possible to start the process at home and complete it at ATL Airport.
How to get a wheelchair at Atlanta Airport?
The primary way to arrange wheelchair assistance is by contacting your airline directly.
It's highly recommended to do this when you book your flight or at least well in advance of your travel date.
Does Atlanta Airport have curbside check-in?
Curbside check-in offers a convenient way to check bags before entering the terminal and is a popular way to check-in for airlines such as American Airlines and Delta Airlines. It is always a good idea to check with your specific airline for the most up to date information.
How to get a gate pass at Atlanta Airport?
Gate or escort passes are primarily issued by individual airlines. These passes are usually granted to individuals assisting unaccompanied minors, and passengers with disabilities or special needs. Elderly passengers requiring assistance are also included and sometimes family members of active military personnel. Typically, you'll need to go to the airline's check-in counter at the airport and present a valid government-issued ID.
Does Atlanta Airport have a pet relief area?
Yes, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) does have pet relief areas. These are located within the secure area of the airport, in every concourse. They are located near Gates T7, A10, B33, C17, E15, F7, and D-Centerpoint.
There is also the Poochie Park which is an outdoor dog park located in the Ground Transportation area on Domestic Terminal South, outside of doors W1 and W2.
There's also a pet relief area on the arrivals level of the International Terminal, right outside of door A1.
Is there a nail salon in Atlanta Airport?
Yes, there are nail salons in Atlanta Airport. Be Relax Spa is located in Terminal B and they offer massages, facials, nail services, and other treatments. XpresSpa offers manicures and pedicures, as well as massage and spa services within Terminal C.
Is there a barber shop in Atlanta Airport?
Yes, there is a barber shop in Atlanta Airport. The Barber Shop Atlanta Salon is located pre-security in the North (Blue) Terminal.
Does Atlanta Airport have a smoking area?
The airport is entirely smoke-free indoors which includes the use of e-cigarettes. ATL does provide designated smoking areas located outside of the domestic and international terminals. These areas are situated at least 25 feet away from the terminal entrances.
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