The Massive Scale Of Atlanta's Airport: A Comprehensive Overview

Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is the primary airport serving Atlanta and its metropolitan area in the US state of Georgia. It is located 10 miles (16 km) south of Downtown Atlanta and covers 4,700 acres (7.3 sq mi; 19 km2) of land. ATL is the world's busiest airport by passenger traffic since 1998, except for 2020 when travel restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic caused a dip in passenger numbers. The airport features five parallel runways, with the longest measuring 12,390 feet (3,776 m) and capable of handling the Airbus A380, the largest passenger aircraft in the world.

Airport size and runway information

Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport covers 4,700 acres (7.3 sq mi; 19 km2) of land and has five parallel runways aligned in an east–west direction. There are three runways that are 9,000 feet (2,743 m) long, one runway that is 10,000 feet (3,048 m) long, and the longest runway measures 12,390 feet (3,776 m) long, capable of handling the Airbus A380. The airport is conveniently located near Interstates 20, 75, 85, and 285, about 10 miles (16 km) south of Downtown Atlanta.

The airport's expansive footprint and strategic location make it a significant transportation hub, not just for the city of Atlanta but for the entire surrounding metropolitan area. Its five runways enable efficient aircraft movement, accommodating a high volume of air traffic. The longest runway, at 12,390 feet, is specifically designed to accommodate large aircraft like the Airbus A380, ensuring the airport can facilitate both domestic and international flights.

The Hartsfield–Jackson Rental Car Center, which opened in 2009, is a testament to the airport's size and scope. This complex houses ten airport rental agencies with room for more, boasting 9,900 parking spaces across two four-story parking decks covering 2.8 million square feet (260,000 m2). It also includes a spacious 137,000-square-foot (12,700 m2) customer service center and a maintenance center with 140 gas pumps and 30 wash bays.

Additionally, the airport's tall air traffic control tower stands out in the North American aviation landscape. At an impressive height, it earns the distinction of being the tallest air traffic control tower in North America. This tower plays a critical role in managing the complex air traffic patterns associated with such a large and busy airport.

Transport to and from the airport

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is located 10 miles (16 km) south of the Downtown Atlanta district. The airport covers 4,700 acres (7.3 sq mi; 19 km2) of land and has five parallel runways. With the exception of 2020, when its passenger traffic dipped due to the COVID-19 pandemic, ATL has been the world's busiest airport by passenger traffic since 1998.

The Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport offers a variety of transport options for travellers to and from the airport.

Rental Cars

The Hartsfield-Jackson Rental Car Center (RCC) is a one-stop facility that houses 12 rental car brands and vehicles for ATL guests. Operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the RCC is just a few minutes away from ATL via the SkyTrain, an electric-powered automated people mover system. The SkyTrain also connects to the West Parking Deck, GICC, Gateway Center Arena, and several hotels in the area.

Public Transportation

The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) operates Atlanta's local public transportation system. The Airport station is currently the southernmost station in the MARTA system. The International Terminal Shuttle provides service between the International Terminal and the Rental Car Center, running approximately every 15 minutes.

Ride-Share Services

Uber and Lyft are authorized to pick up passengers from the airport.

Limousine Services

More than 200 companies provide limousine services to and from the airport, with many offering stretch limousines and executive car services.

Shuttle Services

Prime Time Shuttle offers reliable shuttle services to and from the airport, with a range of vehicle options to suit different group sizes.

Taxi Services

Taxicab services are available at the Domestic Terminal, located in the Ground Transportation Center/West Curb, immediately outside and between the W-1 and W-2 door.

Inter-City Transportation

Greyhound Flightlink provides transportation services from the Airport to selected cities and states. The pickup location is on the North lower level, near Door LN1.

History of the airport

Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is the primary international airport serving Atlanta and its surrounding metropolitan area, in the U.S. state of Georgia. The airport is located 10 miles (16 km) south of the Downtown Atlanta district. It is named after former Atlanta mayors William B. Hartsfield and Maynard Jackson.

The history of the airport can be traced back to 1909 when it was an abandoned auto racetrack known as The Atlanta Speedway. On April 16, 1925, Mayor Walter Sims signed a five-year, rent-free lease on 287 acres of land, with the agreement that it would be turned into an airfield. The property was renamed Candler Field after its former owner, Coca-Cola tycoon and former Atlanta mayor, Asa Candler. The first flight into Candler Field was a Florida Airways mail plane flying from Jacksonville, Florida, on September 15, 1926.

In 1928, the airport's weather station became the official location for Atlanta's weather observations. By the end of 1930, it was the third-busiest airport in the country, with sixteen daily arriving and departing flights. Candler Field's first control tower opened in March 1939. In October 1940, the U.S. government declared it a military airfield, and the airport was jointly operated by the United States Army Air Forces, who used it to service various types of transient combat aircraft. During World War II, the airport doubled in size, and in 1942, Candler Field was renamed Atlanta Municipal Airport.

In 1948, more than one million passengers passed through a war-surplus hangar that served as a terminal. Atlanta Municipal Airport was ushered into the "'Jet Age'" in 1956, with the arrival of the first scheduled turbine airliners, Capital Viscounts. The first scheduled jets were Delta DC-8s in September 1959. In 1957, Atlanta saw its first jet airliner, a prototype Sud Aviation Caravelle. By 1957, Atlanta was claiming to be the country's busiest airport, with more than two million passengers passing through. Work began on a new $21 million terminal, which opened in 1961.

In 1979, Southern Airways ceased its short-haul routes to and from Atlanta, which had been operating since the end of World War II. In 1998, Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport became the world's busiest airport by passenger traffic and has retained this title for most years since. The airport has continued to expand and improve its facilities, including the addition of a fifth runway, the largest public works project in Georgia's history.

Busiest times at the airport

Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is a major hub for air travel, serving Atlanta and its metropolitan area in the US state of Georgia. Covering 4,700 acres of land, it has been the world's busiest airport by passenger traffic since 1998, excluding 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With such a high volume of travellers, it is important to be aware of the busiest times at the airport to ensure a smooth journey.

During peak travel periods, ATL experiences longer-than-usual wait times, so it is recommended that passengers arrive at the airport three hours before their domestic or international flight to allow sufficient time to navigate the airport and clear security. On average, it takes around 17 minutes to get through security, but this can increase to 30 minutes during busy times. Therefore, checking real-time updates on security checkpoint wait times before heading to the airport is advisable to ensure a stress-free experience.

The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) operates from 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. across all terminals at Atlanta International Airport. The TSA PreCheck programme, which allows passengers to expedite their security check-in process, is available from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the main security checkpoint. Additionally, the CLEAR facility, which helps passengers speed through security, is open from 4:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily.

The airport's official website, mobile app, and social media accounts provide valuable resources for travellers, offering real-time updates on security wait times, announcements about potential delays or changes, and other important information. By staying informed and planning ahead, passengers can effectively manage their time and have a more pleasant travel experience at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

Food and shopping at the airport

Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is a culinary destination in its own right, offering a diverse range of dining options for travellers. From fast-food chains to sit-down restaurants, there's something to suit every palate. The airport covers 4,700 acres of land and has five parallel runways, with an exceptional volume of passenger traffic.

For those seeking a quick bite, popular fast-food chains include Five Guys Burgers & Fries, McDonald's, Arby's, Chick-fil-A, Shake Shack, and Wendy's. For coffee and pastries, travellers can visit The Bakery Cafe near Gate A12, or Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint in Concourse C.

If you're after a more refined dining experience, One Flew South in Concourse E is a top pick, offering dishes with Southern influences and exceptional sushi. Atlanta Chophouse & Brewery in Concourse A serves steaks and craft beer in a lively atmosphere, although it might be too noisy for those seeking a quiet meal. Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant is another sit-down option, offering a range of craft beers and food.

For sports fans, the Atlanta Braves All Star Grill at Gate D8A offers a relaxed atmosphere and a variety of American dishes. Those craving Mexican flavours can enjoy fresh tacos and margaritas at Tacos & Tequila in Concourse D, although some reviews suggest that the prices are a bit high for the quality.

When it comes to shopping, ATL has a variety of options to suit different needs. For high-end clothing and accessories, travellers can visit Brooks Brothers in Concourse E. News Express in Concourse T offers a range of books, magazines, and travel accessories, while B Iconic in Concourse T features trendy fashion accessories. Shellis News, with multiple locations, offers a variety of newspapers, magazines, and travel essentials.

Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a refined dining experience, or some last-minute shopping, Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport has something to offer. With its vast array of options, travellers can explore and find something to suit their tastes and preferences.

Frequently asked questions