Owais Crawford
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is the world's busiest airport, serving over 100 million passengers annually. It is located 10 miles from Downtown Atlanta, and is accessible via the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) train, bus, or car. The airport spans 4,700 acres, with 156 acres dedicated to terminals, and offers a wide range of dining, shopping, and other amenities. ATL is also known for its convenient hotel options and easy access to the city of Atlanta and the surrounding area.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Mostly in unincorporated areas of Clayton County, but it spills into the city limits of Atlanta, College Park, and Hapeville, in territory extending into Fulton County |
| Size | 4,700 acres (7.3 sq mi; 19 km2) |
| Number of runways | 5 parallel runways |
| Length of runways | 3 runways are 9,000 feet (2,743 m) long, 1 runway is 10,000 feet (3,048 m) long, and the longest runway is 12,390 feet (3,776 m) long |
| Number of eateries and retail businesses | Over 300 |
| Number of employees | 55,300 |
| Payroll | $2.4 billion |
| Direct and indirect economic impact | $3.2 billion on the local and regional economy |
| Annual regional economic impact | Over $19.8 billion |
| Number of destinations | Over 150 domestic and international destinations |
| Number of airlines | 23 |
| Primary airline | Delta Air Lines |
| Transport to Atlanta city | Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) train |
| Transport time to Atlanta city | 15 minutes |
| Transport to neighbourhoods south of the airport | MARTA Bus 191 |
Explore related products
The airport's history
Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport, also known as ATL, is located in the unincorporated areas of Clayton County. However, it also extends into the territories of Fulton County, Atlanta, College Park, and Hapeville. The airport covers 4,700 acres of land, featuring five parallel runways aligned east-west.
The history of the airport began in 1925 when Mayor Walter Sims signed a five-year, rent-free lease on 287 acres of land that was once an abandoned auto racetrack called The Atlanta Speedway. This lease signified the city's commitment to transforming the site into an airfield, with room for future expansion. Over the years, the airport has expanded to accommodate a growing number of passengers and flights.
In 1978, after airline deregulation, United Airlines ceased serving Atlanta, while Delta Air Lines, one of the world's largest carriers, established Atlanta as a hub between the Midwest and Florida, giving it a competitive advantage in the Atlanta market. This contributed to the airport's growth and status as a bustling hub for air travel.
In 2003, the Atlanta City Council voted to rename the airport Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport to honour former mayor Maynard Jackson, who played a pivotal role in Atlanta's development and race relations. Jackson was the first African American mayor of a southern metropolis, and the airport now bears his name alongside that of William B. Hartsfield, Atlanta's longest-serving mayor, who was instrumental in shaping the city's aviation industry.
Today, the airport is a major economic driver, employing about 55,300 people across various sectors and generating a direct and indirect economic impact of over $20 billion annually. With its proximity to Atlanta's city centre, just a 15-minute train ride away, and its status as the world's busiest airport, serving over 100 million passengers annually, Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport remains a vital aviation hub.
Auckland Airport's Performance Benchmarks: What Metrics Matter?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Transport options
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is located just 10 miles from Downtown Atlanta, and the city centre is only a 15-minute drive away. The airport covers 4,700 acres of land and has five parallel runways. The airport's domestic terminal is served by the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA)'s Red and Gold rail lines, with trains departing regularly and frequently. If you're travelling to or from a neighbourhood south of the airport, you can take the MARTA Bus 191, which goes directly to the international terminal and departs every 40 minutes. Various other bus routes (82, 89, 180, 188, 189, 172, 195, 196, 181, 192 and 193) connect to MARTA train stations close to the airport.
If you're arriving by train, you can arrive at Atlanta Peachtree Station in midtown and then take the MARTA train or opt for a taxi or rideshare to the airport. The airport has designated a specific area for pick-up and drop-off by rideshare services (such as Uber and Lyft) near domestic ticketing and baggage claim, separate from the main park-and-ride area.
The hotel shuttle service and the SkyTrain entrance are located in the Ground Transportation Center/West Curb area. The West curb is located outside between the Domestic North and Domestic South Terminals and is accessible by using the W-1 or W-2 door. If you're arriving via the international terminal, you must exit the airport to access the hotel shuttles and ATL SkyTrain. A complimentary shuttle departs from the curb outside the international terminal and drops off passengers at the West end of the domestic terminal, adjacent to the SkyTrain entrance and hotel shuttle pick-up area.
Hotels near the airport are priced an average of 30% lower than those with the same amenities in Downtown Atlanta, and many include free airport transportation. The ATL SkyTrain provides free access to the Gateway Centre's hotels, including the AC Hotel Atlanta Gateway, Atlanta Airport Marriott Gateway, Renaissance Atlanta Airport Gateway, and SpringHill Suites Atlanta Airport Gateway.
Temporary Licenses: Valid for Air Travel?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Dining and drinking
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is a culinary destination in itself, with over 60 restaurants, cafeterias, and eateries. The airport offers a wide variety of dining options, from quick bites and coffee to elegant dining and traditional Southern dishes.
For those in a rush, there are several options for a quick meal. Chick-fil-A and Shake Shack in Concourse A are solid choices, although be prepared for long lines during busy periods. Goldberg's Fine Foods in Concourse T and A serves New York-style bagels, while Varasano's Pizzeria in Concourse A offers thin-crust pizza and authentic flavours. If you're craving Mexican, Tacos & Tequila in Concourse D serves fresh tacos and margaritas. Concourse D is also home to Chicken + Beer, co-owned by Atlanta native Ludacris, serving fried chicken, stout-braised beef cheeks, and modern Southern dishes. For a sweet treat, Sweet Georgia's Juke Joint in Concourse C offers Southern pastries and coffee in a relaxed setting.
If you have more time and are looking for a high-end dining experience, One Flew South in Concourse E is a top pick, especially for sushi lovers. This upscale restaurant has been ranked as one of the best airport restaurants in the world and offers excellent food, service, and cocktails. Ecco, located in Concourse D, is another great option for a glass of wine and a nice meal before your flight.
For a lively atmosphere and steaks with craft beer, Atlanta Chophouse & Brewery in Concourse A is a good choice. The airport also has several well-known dining establishments, including McDonald's, which can be found in Concourse A (Gate A11) and Concourse E, and Panda Express in Concourse T.
For a relaxed drink, Atlanta Braves All Star Grill is ideal, although service can be slow during busy times.
Smuggling Diamonds: Airport Tricks and Tips
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Shopping
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is the busiest airport in the world, with over 104 million passengers travelling through its concourses each year. With around 2,100 arrivals and departures per day, it's a hub of activity and a destination or stopover for many global travellers.
The airport offers an extensive list of shops in both the Domestic and International Terminals and throughout the concourses. The overall experience has been likened to shopping in a large mall, with a variety of options, impressive art installations, and multilingual signage.
For those interested in jewellery, accessories, and handbags, Brighton (in Concourse C) is a must-visit. International travellers frequently stop by, but some have noted that the store's operating hours can be inconsistent.
When it comes to electronics and gadgets, Brookstone has garnered mixed reviews. While some customers appreciate the convenience, others have voiced frustrations around the lack of refunds or exchanges for defective products.
For a quick haircut, the Barber Shop at the airport is often praised for its friendly and professional service.
Concourse A offers a variety of electronics, beauty products, and clothing stores. Passengers can find shoe stores, jewellery shops, and gift shops. Concourse C is also a great option for jewellery, handbags, gifts, and clothes.
Concourse D features beauty shops, InMotion Entertainment, and an Apple Store. Concourse E offers additional electronic stores and an Apple Store, while Concourse T provides a variety of stores focusing on convenience and essential travel amenities.
Other shops at ATL include:
- 11 Alive Travel Store (Concourse B)
- All ATL (Concourse D)
- ATL Luggage & Gifts (Concourses C & D)
- Atlanta Daily World (Concourses B, C, & D)
- Kiehl's (Concourses B & F)
- L'Occitane (Concourse A)
- MAC (Concourses A & F)
- Brooks Brothers (Concourse E)
- Johnston & Murphy (Concourse D)
- SPANX
Vancouver International Airport: Free WiFi Access for Travelers
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Hotels
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is located just 10 miles from downtown Atlanta, providing easy access to the city and its surrounding areas. The airport is accessible via the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) train, with regular and frequent trains connecting the airport to downtown Atlanta in just 15 minutes. The Red and Gold lines serve the airport's domestic terminal.
There are several hotels located near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, offering convenient accommodation options for travellers. The Gateway Center's hotels, including AC Hotel Atlanta Gateway, Atlanta Airport Marriott Gateway, Renaissance Atlanta Airport Gateway, and SpringHill Suites Atlanta Airport Gateway, are easily accessible via the ATL SkyTrain, which operates free of charge at all hours. These hotels offer a quiet and relaxed atmosphere, and their proximity to the airport makes them a convenient choice for travellers.
The hotel shuttle service and the SkyTrain entrance at the airport are located in the Ground Transportation Center/West Curb area. For those arriving at the international terminal, it is necessary to exit the airport to access the hotel shuttles and the ATL SkyTrain. A complimentary shuttle is available to transport passengers to the West end of the domestic terminal, where they can access the SkyTrain and the hotel shuttle pick-up area.
Legoland Florida: Airport Pickup and Travel Options
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is home to over 300 eateries, including quick cafes, gourmet restaurants, bars, and fast-food outlets. Options include Papi's Cuban Grill, Shake Shack, Chick-fil-A, Goldberg's Fine Foods, Varasano's Pizzeria, Atlanta Braves All Star Grill, and Atlanta Chophouse & Brewery.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport spans 4,700 acres, of which 156 acres are terminals. The airport offers various shops, lounges, and other amenities to keep travellers entertained.
The Gateway Center's hotels, including AC Hotel Atlanta Gateway, Atlanta Airport Marriott Gateway, Renaissance Atlanta Airport Gateway, and SpringHill Suites Atlanta Airport Gateway, are easily accessible from the airport via the ATL SkyTrain.
If you are not driving, you can take the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) train or bus to the airport. The Red and Gold train lines serve the airport, and the bus route 191 goes directly to the international terminal.
