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
Ambler Airport (ABL) in Alaska, USA, functions as a very small, remote regional airport, serving the Native Alaskan village of Ambler and its surrounding isolated communities. It is primarily a lifeline airport for essential services, cargo, and occasional passenger flights, connecting to larger hubs like Kotzebue, with services often provided by Easy Fly Express. Its terminal facilities are extremely rudimentary, often consisting of a single, basic building or a simple shelter that acts as a modest waiting area and a point for cargo handling. The layout is minimalist, with direct access from a small gravel landing strip to the boarding area, often a designated spot on the tarmac. There are no complex multi-terminal configurations or extensive ground facilities; all operations are conducted within this singular, basic setup. Walking times are negligible, typically mere seconds from arrival to aircraft, emphasizing its functional role in providing essential access to remote regions.\n\nSecurity procedures at ABL are minimal, consistent with its classification as a small, remote regional airfield. Formal TSA security checkpoints are typically not present for the limited passenger traffic. Instead, security protocols focus on general aviation safety guidelines and direct coordination with local air carriers or charter operators like Easy Fly Express. There are no significant wait times for any checks. As a domestic airfield, there are no immigration or customs facilities on site; these functions would be handled at larger international airports for any international travel. Passengers should expect a highly informal and direct process, reflecting the very low volume of air traffic and the challenging operational environment of rural Alaska.\n\nAmenities at Ambler Airport are exceptionally sparse. Passengers should not expect any airline lounges, dedicated dining facilities, or retail shops. Any available provisions would be extremely limited, possibly from a very basic local store in the village, and travelers are strongly advised to bring all necessary supplies, including food, water, and personal items. Seating in the waiting area is basic and often outdoors, and very limited. Accessibility features are rudimentary, primarily consisting of ground-level access. Travelers requiring assistance must coordinate thoroughly in advance with their air operator or local contacts. Family facilities, such as play areas or nursing rooms, are entirely absent. The airport's primary purpose is essential logistical support and access for remote communities, not passenger comfort or convenience.
๐ Connection Tips
Connections via OTZ; operations can be weather and daylight dependent.
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