โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
International โ Domestic
90
minutes
International โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
San Francisco International Airport operates as a major Pacific gateway with four distinct terminals: Terminals 1, 2, and 3 serving domestic operations, and the International Terminal (Harvey Milk Terminal 1) handling most international flights and some domestic operations. The AirTrain Blue Line connects all terminals and parking facilities, operating 24/7 with service every 4 minutes during peak hours and every 8-15 minutes during off-peak periods.
Terminal 1 primarily serves Southwest Airlines with some international carriers, Terminal 2 accommodates American Airlines and Virgin America operations in a newly renovated facility, Terminal 3 serves as United Airlines' primary West Coast hub with extensive domestic and international operations, and the International Terminal handles the majority of international carriers along with some domestic flights. Each terminal features multiple levels with departures on the upper level and arrivals on the lower level, connected by escalators, elevators, and moving walkways.
Security checkpoints are located in each terminal, with Terminal 3 featuring the most extensive TSA facilities including dedicated United Club security, multiple PreCheck lanes, and CLEAR kiosks. Wait times vary significantly by terminal and time of day, ranging from 20-30 minutes during off-peak periods to 60-120 minutes during peak international departure times, particularly for Asian flights departing in late evening hours. The airport's role as a major Pacific gateway creates concentrated international traffic patterns.
International operations flow primarily through the International Terminal, which houses comprehensive customs and immigration facilities including numerous Global Entry kiosks, automated passport control systems, and expansive baggage claim areas. Passengers transferring between the International Terminal and domestic terminals must exit the secure area, take the AirTrain, and re-clear security, adding significant time to connections. United's operations in Terminal 3 include some international flights with customs facilities, allowing for more efficient connections within United's network.
San Francisco's terminals showcase Bay Area culture and innovation with amenities including restaurants featuring California cuisine, local wine selections, and fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, retail shops highlighting San Francisco products and technology, and multiple airline lounges including United Clubs, American Admirals Clubs, and various international carrier lounges in the International Terminal. The airport is renowned for its art installations, museum-quality exhibits, free Wi-Fi throughout, abundant charging stations, and panoramic views of San Francisco Bay. Sustainability initiatives include extensive recycling programs, locally-sourced food options, and environmental exhibits throughout the terminals.
๐ Connection Tips
SFO is a major international gateway. International Terminal transfers require re-security screening. AirTrain connects all terminals.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Apalachicola Regional Airport (AAF) in Florida, USA, functions as a small, regional airport primarily serving general aviation and a limited number of charter flights. Its terminal facilities are notably compact, designed for efficiency and ease of use rather than extensive amenities. The layout typically involves a single building housing a small waiting area, a check-in counter (often unstaffed for non-commercial flights), and direct access to the tarmac. Given its scale, there are no separate terminals or complex inter-terminal connections. Passengers experience minimal walking distances, usually a few steps from the parking lot to the aircraft, making for an exceptionally quick and straightforward pre-flight experience.\n\nSecurity procedures at AAF are highly streamlined, reflecting its general aviation focus. Formal TSA security checkpoints are not typically in place for the majority of operations, though specific charter flights might arrange for ad-hoc screening. For general aviation, security primarily involves adherence to FAA regulations and airport authority guidelines, with a focus on general aviation safety protocols. Wait times for any necessary checks would be minimal, if not non-existent. As a domestic airport, there are no immigration or customs facilities on site, as these processes are handled at larger international ports of entry. Travelers should expect a relaxed, small-town airport atmosphere.\n\nAmenities at Apalachicola Regional Airport are very limited. There are no airline lounges, and dining options are generally non-existent beyond perhaps a vending machine. Retail facilities are absent. Passengers should not expect concessions and are advised to arrive with any necessary snacks, drinks, or personal items. Accessibility features are basic, with ground-level access throughout the small terminal building. Specialized assistance for passengers with reduced mobility may require prior arrangement with a charter operator or fixed-base operator (FBO). Family facilities, such as play areas or nursing rooms, are not provided. The airport's primary function is to support flight operations, with passenger comforts being secondary to its operational role.
๐ Connection Tips
Plan ground transfers; nearest commercial airports are ECP and TLH.
โ Back to San Francisco International Airport