โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
International โ Domestic
90
minutes
International โ International
120
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Sacramento International Airport operates from two main terminal buildings, Terminal A and Terminal B, which are not physically connected airside. Terminal A serves carriers like American, Delta, and United, while the modern Terminal B features an iconic 'Red Rabbit' sculpture and handles Southwest along with most international routes. A landside shuttle bus or a pedestrian bridge connects the two terminals.
The terminal layout is designed for efficiency, but travelers should note that Terminal B utilizes an automated people mover (APM) to transport passengers between the main terminal building and the airside concourse. Security wait times are generally manageable, but weekday morning and Sunday evening peaks can see increased congestion. Free Wi-Fi and ample charging stations are available throughout both facilities.
Ground transportation is well-organized, with a consolidated rental car facility accessible via a 10-minute free shuttle ride from the arrivals area of either terminal. Public transit options are robust for a regional hub, including the SacRT Route 142 express bus to downtown. For travelers needing long-term parking, dedicated shuttles run frequently from the East, West, and South economy lots.
Amenities include a wide selection of Northern California-themed dining and retail shops, providing local flavors from the Central Valley and nearby Napa region. Accessibility services are provided across both terminals, including wheelchair assistance and accessible restrooms. Family-friendly features include nursing rooms and children's play areas in the central hubs.
๐ Connection Tips
Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is a highly user-friendly hub serving the California state capital and the broader Central Valley. Yolobus Routes 42A and 42B also offer reliable connections to Davis and Woodland. A critical tip for connecting passengers is that Terminals A and B are physically separate and not connected airside; if you must switch terminals, you will need to exit security and use the landside pedestrian bridges or the airport shuttle bus. For travelers heading to the nearby wine regions or Lake Tahoe, the consolidated rental car facility is easily reached via a 10-minute free shuttle ride that runs every 10 minutes from both terminals.
Navigating ground transportation here is exceptionally efficient. For those preferring ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft, follow the signs for 'App-Based Rides' to the designated pickup zones located on the ground floor of Terminal A and Level 1 of Terminal B. Arriving 90 to 120 minutes before your departure is usually sufficient, though Monday mornings can be busier than expected.
For the best value, the SacRT Route 142 (Airport Express) provides a direct link to downtown Sacramento every 20โ30 minutes for just $2. 50. Traditional taxis are available at the ground level curbs of both terminals, with a ride to downtown typically costing around $33. If you have downtime, Terminal B's 'The Central' offers a good variety of local dining options.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
75
minutes
International โ Domestic
75
minutes
International โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) is the primary international airport serving New Mexico, located just three miles southeast of downtown Albuquerque. The airport boasts a distinctive Pueblo-style architectural terminal, which is both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. This single, multi-level terminal efficiently manages all arrivals and departures, featuring a logical layout designed for passenger convenience. The lower level is dedicated to arriving passengers, housing baggage claim areas (three in total to serve Concourses A and B) and providing direct exits to ground transportation.
The upper level of the terminal is the departure zone, where travelers will find airline ticketing counters, security checkpoints, and access to the two main concourses, Concourse A and Concourse B. Concourse A primarily serves American Airlines, Delta, and United, while Southwest Airlines predominantly operates out of Concourse B. The terminal has a total of 22 gates, ensuring ample capacity for its scheduled domestic flights and limited international services. Recent upgrades include a TSA Checkpoint Terminal Connector Project, which has enhanced security screening with up to four lanes and modern passenger amenities like new escalators and elevators.
Amenities at ABQ are comprehensive for a regional international facility. Passengers can enjoy free Wi-Fi, numerous charging stations, a variety of shops (including those offering local artisanal gifts), and diverse dining options ranging from cafes and fast-food outlets to restaurants serving New Mexican cuisine. Additional facilities like a Meditation Room and an observation deck contribute to a comfortable travel experience, complemented by a notable art collection displayed throughout the terminal.
๐ Connection Tips
Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) offers excellent ground transportation connectivity just 3 miles southeast of downtown. ABQ RIDE provides completely free bus service (fare-free since November 2023) with Route 50 connecting the airport to downtown via Union Square Bus Station every 15-30 minutes, taking just 24 minutes total - the bus stop is conveniently located on the lower level at the west end of the shuttle island. Route 50 also connects to the Alvarado Transportation Center downtown where passengers can transfer to the New Mexico Rail Runner Express.
Rail Runner connections are enhanced through Route 350 (Railrunner Connecting bus) and free bus transfers when you have a valid Rail Runner ticket purchased in advance online or via mobile app - otherwise pay the driver a $1 fare each way. Official taxi service is available with fares starting at $35 to downtown Albuquerque through companies like ABQ Metro Taxi (505-450-8580) and Aspen Rides (505-388-3692). Ride-sharing via Uber and Lyft requires pre-booking as street hailing is not permitted.
For Santa Fe destinations, Groome Transportation operates 30 daily trips taking 75 minutes with variable pricing, while RoadRunner Charter provides door-to-door service to Santa Fe and Los Alamos areas. The Rail Runner Express connects Santa Fe, Albuquerque, and Belen with convenient airport shuttle connections. Recent December 2025 improvements under the ABQ RIDE Forward Network Plan enhanced transit connectivity throughout the metropolitan area.
โ Back to Sacramento International Airport