San Francisco airport guide: what you need to know
San Francisco International serves travellers flying to, from and through San Francisco. This guide brings together the essentials for planning the trip before departure and getting around after arrival.
Northern California's major long-haul international gateway. Your operating airline and ticket determine where you check in, while your arrival time and onward destination affect the best journey from the airport.
San Francisco International offers rail connections toward San Francisco and the Bay Area.
Check whether your flights use the domestic or international terminal areas, especially on separate bookings.
Choose onward transport after checking the arrival time and luggage you will carry.
San Francisco International terminals and check-in
Passenger terminal areas listed for this airport: Terminals 1, 2, 3 and International. Use the latest flight confirmation to identify the correct check-in area. Departures, airline counter locations and gate assignments can change, so always check your airline's latest instructions.
- Confirm the operating airline, especially on codeshare tickets.
- Check the required check-in and baggage drop deadline for your fare.
- Allow time for security, border checks and reaching the correct gate.
- If transferring, check whether you must collect and check in your baggage again.
Getting from San Francisco International to San Francisco
BART rail and AirTrain serve terminal and regional connections.
When comparing airport transfer options, consider the full door-to-door journey: where the service stops, how often it runs, the number of bags you have and whether you'll arrive late at night. Travellers with mobility requirements should check accessible routes before booking.
Airport parking, drop-off and pick-up
Looking for SFO airport parking? The nearby locations below can help you start your search. Short-stay, long-stay, meet-and-greet and pick-up rules differ between operators. Check the correct terminal, current fees and availability before setting off.
Finding parking locations near the airport…
If you are meeting a passenger, check whether the airport uses a dedicated collection area or charges for stopping outside the terminal. Driving directly to the departure kerb may not be permitted for arrivals.
Live flights near San Francisco International
See aircraft moving in the airspace around San Francisco. Select a plane to view its last reported position, altitude and speed. This map follows aircraft movement; it is not an official departure or arrival board.
Questions about San Francisco International
Which airport is SFO?
SFO is the three-letter airport code for San Francisco International, serving San Francisco, United States.
How do I get from San Francisco International to San Francisco?
BART rail and AirTrain serve terminal and regional connections. Compare timetables, accessibility and journey time with the operator before you travel.
Which terminal does my flight use at San Francisco International?
The airport's listed passenger terminals include Terminals 1, 2, 3 and International. Terminal assignments depend on the airline and flight; confirm yours in your booking or on the airline's official website.
Can I track planes near San Francisco International?
Yes. Open the live flight map centred on SFO to see recently reported aircraft positions. Aircraft on the map are not a confirmed arrivals or departures schedule.
Where can I check San Francisco International parking and pick-up options?
Use the airport transport and parking guide for nearby options, then check the airport or parking operator for current charges, access rules and space availability.