Lois Larson
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is a major hub for travellers, offering both domestic and international flights. For those with connecting flights, it is important to understand the layout of the airport and the transit options available. SFO has multiple terminals, all connected by walkways and the AirTrain system, which operates 24 hours a day with frequent departures. Passengers with connecting flights should exit through the doors marked Connecting Flights and may need to go through security again before boarding their next flight. Additionally, SFO offers convenient ground transportation options, including BART trains, which connect the airport to downtown San Francisco and other Bay Area destinations, as well as Caltrain and SamTrans bus services.
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What You'll Learn
Transferring between terminals
Yes, you can transfer between terminals at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) by walking or by riding the AirTrain, SFO's automated terminal transit system. All SFO terminals are connected by both pre and post-security walkways.
If you are transferring from Terminal 1 to the International Terminal "G" Gates, exit Terminal 1 and proceed to the "G" Gates security checkpoint. If you are not checked in for your onward flight, visit your airline's ticket counter in the International Terminal Main Hall.
If you are transferring from Terminal 2 or 3 to the International Terminal "A" Gates, exit your arrival terminal and proceed to the International Terminal "A" Gates security checkpoint. You can either walk or take the AirTrain to the International Terminal A Station.
The AirTrain's Blue Line connects all terminals, the Rental Car Center, terminal garages, the BART Station, and the Grand Hyatt at SFO. It takes about 25 minutes to complete the entire loop. The AirTrain Red Line does not connect to the Rental Car Center or Long-Term Parking.
The BART Station is located on the Departures/Ticketing Level of the International Terminal (G Gates side). You can access BART from any terminal by riding the AirTrain to the Garage G/BART Station stop.
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Security and customs
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has six security checkpoints, each located at the entrance to the boarding areas of each gate. Only ticketed passengers are allowed beyond these checkpoints. Passengers can enter through any checkpoint at any terminal, provided they have a valid boarding pass for the same day of travel. After clearing security, passengers can walk to any gate.
Passengers arriving at SFO on international flights that have been pre-cleared are not required to undergo the federal inspection process upon arrival. They will disembark into the post-security area of the terminals. However, international passengers connecting to onward flights must go through the federal inspection process, exit, and re-enter security. They should exit the Arrivals Hall through the doors marked "Connecting Flights" and proceed to the security checkpoint.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has detailed information about the security checkpoint process on its website. Covenant Aviation Security, a private company under contract with the TSA, provides passenger and baggage screening at SFO. Passengers can also refer to the FAA's PackSafe website to learn about what items are allowed in checked bags or carry-ons.
The Mobile Passport app allows eligible arriving passengers to submit their passport and customs declaration information via their mobile device instead of a paper form. They can then proceed to the Mobile Passport Control express lane. The CBP's Deferred Inspection office provides assistance to individuals who need to review or correct their entry documentation.
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Ground transportation options
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) offers a variety of ground transportation options to suit different needs and preferences. Here are some of the choices available for travellers:
Public Transit Systems
SFO is well-connected to the San Francisco Bay Area's major public transit systems, providing easy access to and from the airport. These include:
- BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit): BART offers a rapid rail service to northern San Mateo County, San Francisco, and the East Bay directly from SFO. The SFO BART Station is conveniently located on the Departures/Ticketing Level of the International Terminal (G Gates side). Passengers can easily access the BART station from any terminal by riding the AirTrain to the Garage G/BART Station stop, free of charge. Clipper Cards, which are required for payment, can be purchased at the SFO BART Station or through mobile wallets.
- Caltrain: This rail service connects San Francisco to San Jose, with express trains operating during weekday commute hours. To transfer to Caltrain from SFO, passengers can take a Millbrae-bound BART train and board Caltrain at the Millbrae station.
- SamTrans: SamTrans provides bus services to and from the airport, with Route 292 stopping directly at the Airport terminals. Routes ECR Owl and 397 offer limited service to and from SFO late at night, operating north to San Francisco and Daly City, and south to Palo Alto.
- Muni, San Francisco Bay Ferry, and Golden Gate Ferry: These services, along with Caltrain and SamTrans, accept payment through Clipper Cards, which can be purchased at the SFO BART Station or through mobile payment options.
Shuttle and Private Transportation Services
For those seeking more personalised or private transportation options, there are several services available:
- Super Shuttle Express: This service offers transportation to and from SFO, ensuring travellers arrive at their terminal on time. They provide flexible scheduling, accommodating delayed flights and rescheduling ride times accordingly. Super Shuttle Express serves over 70 airport locations worldwide.
- Airport Express/MG Alliance Inc.: Serving multiple airports and cruise terminals in the San Francisco Bay Area, Airport Express provides stress-free travel with upfront pricing. They offer rides from anywhere to anywhere and are available for as long as travellers need them.
- Airport Express SF: This service provides reliable transportation to and from SFO and Oakland International Airport (OAK). They also offer chauffeured trips at an hourly rate to destinations like wine country.
- Private Car Services: Travellers can book a luxurious black car, SUV, or private van for transportation to or from SFO through various private car services.
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Airport parking
There are a variety of parking options available at San Francisco International Airport (SFO). The airport's parking options include short-term and long-term parking, premium valet parking, and ParkFAST.
Short-term parking is ideal for those who plan to park for less than 24-48 hours, while long-term parking is more suitable for trips lasting several days. The rates for long-term parking are $18 per 24 hours or $2 per 15 minutes. This option offers safe and secure garage and surface lot parking, with AirTrain Blue Line connections to all terminals.
For those seeking convenience and efficiency, premium valet parking is located directly on airport grounds at Grand Hyatt at SFO. This option is connected to all terminals via the AirTrain, making it a great choice for both business and leisure travellers. ParkFAST is another dedicated parking space with its own entry, located in the Domestic Garage.
Electric Vehicle Charging (EVC) stations are available in all SFO garages, including Long-Term Garage 1 & 2, International Garage G & A, and Domestic Garage G. These spots are labelled as "Green Vehicle Parking" and charging your vehicle is complimentary. However, for Level 1 charging, you will need to have your own connection cable.
To access long-term parking from Highway 101 North or South, take the San Bruno Avenue exit and follow the signs. If you're coming from 380 East, exit at North Access Road/South Airport Boulevard and turn right.
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Connecting to other flights
Firstly, passengers connecting to other flights should exit the Arrivals Hall through the doors marked "Connecting Flights". If you need to recheck baggage, you can do so at the Baggage Desks outside the exit. If an agent is unavailable, or your baggage is not tagged to its final destination, you will need to visit your airline's ticket counter. Connecting passengers exit into the airport's public area and must clear security before boarding their next flight.
To transfer between terminals, you can either walk or take the AirTrain, SFO's automated terminal transit system. The AirTrain operates 24 hours a day, with departures as frequent as every four minutes. It is also wheelchair accessible. The Red Line connects all terminals, terminal garages, the BART Station, and the Grand Hyatt at SFO, while the Blue Line connects Long-Term Parking, the Rental Car Center, and all terminals, garages, and stations.
If you are transferring to an international flight, you may need to go through the security checkpoint at the International Terminal "A" Gates. This may involve going through immigration and customs, which can be time-consuming. It is recommended to plan ahead and allow for potential delays.
In terms of ground transportation, Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) trains connect SFO with downtown San Francisco, downtown Oakland, and other Bay Area destinations. The BART station is located in the International Terminal, a short walk from Terminals 1 and 3. You can also take the AirTrain to the BART station. Additionally, Caltrain provides rail service between San Francisco and San Jose, with transfers available at Millbrae Station.
When using BART, you can purchase a Clipper card, which is a regional transit card valid for all Bay Area transit systems, including BART, Muni, Caltrain, SamTrans, and ferry services. Clipper Cards can be purchased in advance and added to your mobile wallet or as a physical card at the airport.
By following these guidelines, you can efficiently navigate San Francisco International Airport when connecting to other flights.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can transit through San Francisco Airport (SFO).
You can transfer between terminals by walking or riding the AirTrain, which is SFO's automated terminal transit system. The AirTrain connects you with Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) via the Garage G AirTrain/BART station stop.
It is recommended to allocate at least 2 hours for a layover when transiting through San Francisco Airport. However, there are many variables such as delays, lost luggage, immigration, and security checks, so it is not guaranteed that you will make your next flight.
BART trains connect SFO with downtown San Francisco and other Bay Area destinations. The BART station is located in the International Terminal and is accessible from any terminal by riding SFO's AirTrain. You can purchase a Clipper card to use on all transit in the Bay Area.
Airport parking is available at San Francisco Airport, but it can be expensive. An alternative option is to purchase multi-day reserved parking at a BART station and take the train to the airport.
