Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is one of the world’s busiest airports, serving as a major hub for Delta Air Lines and connecting millions of passengers annually. Located just 10 miles south of downtown Atlanta, ATL is renowned for its efficiency despite its massive size, featuring seven concourses connected by the world’s largest airport train system.
Terminal Layout and Navigation
Main Terminal Structure
ATL operates as a single terminal with seven concourses (T, A, B, C, D, E, F) connected by the Plane Train, an automated people mover system. You can also walk from terminal to terminal in the tunnel alongside the Plane Train, which includes a walk through a digital rainforest. The main terminal houses check-in counters, baggage claim, ground transportation, and security checkpoints.
The terminal complex measures 156.1 acres (63.2 hectares), or 6.8 million square feet. Within these concourses, there are a total of 192 gates, comprised of 152 domestic and 40 international gates. The Airport is free of any architectural barriers to people with disabilities.
Concourse Breakdown
- Concourse T: Domestic arrivals and departures (Gates T1-T15)
- Concourse A: Primarily Delta domestic flights (Gates A1-A34)
- Concourse B: Delta domestic and some international (Gates B1-B36)
- Concourse C: Delta domestic flights (Gates C1-C53)
- Concourse D: Delta domestic and international (Gates D1-D48)
- Concourse E: International flights and various airlines (Gates E1-E36)
- Concourse F: International and domestic flights (Gates F1-F18)
Using the Plane Train
The Plane Train runs 24/7 and connects all concourses to the main terminal. Travel time between the furthest points is approximately 5-7 minutes. The system announces stops clearly and displays maps showing your current location.
Airlines and Hubs
Atlanta is the largest hub for Delta Air Lines, serving over 200+ destinations around the world with over 950+ daily flights. Frontier Airlines offers flights to nearly 50 destinations and continues to build a formidable presence at ATL with eight new routes launching in late 2025. Southwest averages 90+ flights per day to 40 destinations.
Since 1998, ATL has been the busiest airport in the world, except for 2020. In 2024, the airport served 108.1 million passengers, the most of any airport in the world. It is also the world’s busiest airport by aircraft movements. Atlanta averages 286,000 passengers a day and, on average, there are 2,100 arrivals and departures daily. Plus, Atlanta is within a two-hour flight of 80 percent of the United States population.
Domestic Airlines: Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Avelo Air, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Southern Airways Express, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and United Airlines.
International Airlines: AeroMexico, Air Canada, Air France, British Airways, Copa Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Korean Air, LATAM Airlines, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, WestJet
Transportation Options
Getting to/from ATL
MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority)
- Direct rail connection to downtown Atlanta
- Gold and Red lines serve the airport
- Cost: $2.50 one-way
- Travel time to downtown: 15-20 minutes
- Operates 4:45 a.m. to 1:15 a.m. (limited late-night service)
Rideshare Services
- Uber and Lyft pickup locations on the North and South sides of the terminal
- Cost varies by destination and demand (typically $15-40 to downtown) and peak times may have surge pricing
Taxi Services
- Available at designated taxi stands outside baggage claim
- Flat rates to downtown Atlanta: approximately $30-40
- Accept cash and credit cards
Rental Cars
- All major rental companies operate from the Rental Car Center
- Free shuttle service connects the terminal to the Rental Car Center and runs every 2-3 minutes during peak hours
Hotel Shuttles
- Many area hotels provide complimentary shuttle service, pickup locations vary by hotel (check with your accommodation), and some shuttles require advanced reservations
Airport Parking
- Hourly/Daily parking: Available in North and South economy lots
- Park-Ride lots: Most economical option with shuttle service
- Premium parking: Covered parking closer to the terminal
- Cell phone waiting lot: Free short-term waiting area
Dining and Shopping
Dining Options by Concourse
- Concourse A | Chick-fil-A (Atlanta-based favorite), Starbucks, TGI Friday’s, local Atlanta restaurants
- Concourse B | The Varsity (iconic Atlanta drive-in), Paschal’s Restaurant (Southern cuisine), Bar Symon, various grab-and-go options
- Concourse C | One Flew South (upscale dining), Sweetwater Brewing Company, Cafe Intermezzo, multiple fast-casual options
- Concourse D | Ecco (Mediterranean), The Original Pancake House, Shake Shack, International cuisine options
- Concourse E | International food court, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Atlanta ChopHouse & Brewery, various ethnic restaurants
- Concourse F | Local Atlanta favorites, coffee shops and bars, quick dining options
Shopping Highlights
- Duty-free shops (International concourses)
- CNN Store (Atlanta-based network)
- The Coca-Cola Store (Atlanta headquarters)
- Hudson News and WHSmith for travel essentials
- Local Atlanta souvenirs and gifts
- Electronics and accessories stores
Services and Amenities
Passenger Services
- Free WiFi throughout the airport
- Charging stations at every gate and common areas
- Business centers with computers and printing
- Currency exchange in international areas
- ATMs located throughout all concourses
Special Needs Services
- Accessibility services including wheelchairs and assistance
- Pet relief areas on each concourse
- Nursing mothers’ rooms for privacy
- Medical services and first aid stations
- Lost and found services
Lounges
- Delta Sky Clubs (multiple locations across concourses)
- American Airlines Admirals Club
- United Club
- International airline lounges (Lufthansa, Air France, etc.)
- Priority Pass lounges for eligible members
Security and Check-in
TSA Security
- Multiple security checkpoints serving different concourses
- TSA PreCheck and Clear lanes available
- General security wait times: 15-45 minutes, depending on time and season
- Peak travel periods: Early morning (5:00-9:00 a.m.) and late afternoon (4:00-7:00 p.m.)
Check-in Options
- Online check-in recommended (available 24 hours before departure)
- Mobile boarding passes accepted
- Kiosk check-in available for most airlines
- Curbside check-in for select airlines (additional fee)
Navigation Tips
Getting Around Efficiently
- Allow extra time: Minimum 2 hours for domestic, 3 hours for international
- Use the Plane Train: Fastest way to travel between concourses
- Check your gate location: Gates can change, especially for Delta flights
- Download airport maps: Available on ATL’s official app
- Follow digital signage: Clear directional signs throughout
Time-Saving Strategies
- Mobile check-in and digital boarding passes
- TSA PreCheck or Clear enrollment for faster security
- Pack smart: Follow TSA guidelines to avoid delays
- Know your airline’s policies: Baggage fees, carry-on restrictions
Layover Guide
Short Layovers (Under 2 Hours)
- Stay in your concourse if possible
- Monitor flight boards for gate changes
- Grab quick snacks from nearby vendors
- Use restrooms and charge devices
Long Layovers (2+ Hours)
- Explore different concourses via Plane Train
- Dine at sit-down restaurants
- Visit airport attractions like the art installations
- Shop for Atlanta souvenirs
- Relax in airport lounges if eligible
Overnight Layovers
- Airport hotels: Renaissance Concourse Atlanta Airport Hotel (connected to terminal)
- Nearby hotels: Many options with shuttle service
- Airport sleeping: Some quiet areas available, but not ideal for extended rest
Seasonal Considerations
Peak Travel Times
- Summer months: June-August (family travel season)
- Holiday periods: Thanksgiving week, Christmas/New Year’s
- Spring break: March-April
- Weather delays: Most common in winter and severe weather seasons
Weather Impact
- Summer thunderstorms: Can cause significant delays
- Winter weather: Rare but impactful when it occurs
- Hurricane season: Potential for flight disruptions
Contact Information and Resources
Essential Numbers
- Main Airport Information: (800) 897-1910
- Lost and Found: (404) 530-2100
- Ground Transportation: (404) 530-6600
- MARTA Information: (404) 848-5000
Digital Resources
- ATL Official Website: atl.com
- Official ATL App: Available for iOS and Android
- Flight tracking: Use airline apps or FlightAware
- Social media: @ATLairport for real-time updates
Emergency Services
- Airport Police: Available 24/7
- Medical emergencies: Call 911 or contact any airport employee
- Customs and Border Protection: Located in international arrival areas
Insider Tips for Success
Before You Travel
- Check your airline’s specific terminal/concourse
- Sign up for flight alerts to monitor delays
- Consider TSA PreCheck for regular travelers
- Download airline and airport apps
Day of Travel
- Arrive early: Better to wait than miss a flight
- Stay hydrated: Bring an empty water bottle through security
- Keep important documents easily accessible
- Charge devices before and during your visit
- Have backup plans for ground transportation
For Families
- Stroller-friendly design throughout airport
- Family restrooms available in all concourses
- Children’s play areas in select locations
- Priority boarding for families with young children
ATL’s reputation as one of the world’s most efficient airports is well-earned, but preparation and knowledge of the facility will ensure your experience is as smooth as possible. Whether you’re connecting through Atlanta or making it your final destination, understanding the airport’s layout and services will help you navigate with confidence.
