Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Welcome to a true "city in the sky," where life bustles 24 hours a day. Hartsfield-Jackson is not just a transport hub, but a global phenomenon that has held the title of the busiest airport on the planet for years. Despite its colossal scale and the flow of millions of passengers, this aviation giant operates with amazing precision, serving as the main gateway to the US South and connecting hundreds of destinations worldwide.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Atlanta's main pride is its incredible efficiency. The airport is designed to minimize delays, even while handling a record number of flights. The unique underground system, The Plane Train, is an automated train that quickly moves passengers between terminals and concourses, eliminating the need for long walks. The journey from the check-in area to the furthest departure gate takes mere minutes.

Inside the terminals, travelers can expect more than just waiting for a flight; they can expect a cultural immersion. The airport is famous for its art programme: permanent and temporary art installations are located in the walkways between halls, including a famous exhibition dedicated to the city's history and displays of modern art. For those wishing to rest, special Minute Suites sleep pods are provided, and gourmets will appreciate the variety of restaurants offering everything from Southern cuisine to fine dining.

• Official Website: For the latest information, including flight status, terminal maps, and services, please visit the airport's official website: www.atl.com.
• Help Desk Phone: For general enquiries, you can call +1 (800) 897-1910.
• Address: 6000 North Terminal Parkway, Suite 4000, Atlanta, GA 30320, USA.
• Email: The airport typically does not provide a direct email address for general queries. It is recommended to use the contact forms available on the official website for communication.
• Social Media: Follow the latest news and airport updates on its official pages on popular social networks such as X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram.
• Lost and Found Information: If your items were lost in public areas of the airport, you should contact the Lost and Found service. Contact information and the claim form can be found in the relevant section of the airport website. If luggage was lost by an airline, you must contact their representatives directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For questions related to your flight, tickets, or check-in, please contact your airline directly. General questions about airport operations can be asked via the help desk phone.

Reaching Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta, one of the world's busiest aviation hubs, is possible via several convenient methods. Choosing the optimal option depends on your budget, time, and comfort preferences. Overall, the city's transport system is well-integrated with the airport, making the journey simple and predictable.

Public Transport (MARTA)

The fastest and most economical way to get to the airport from the city centre is the MARTA metro system. Trains on the Red and Gold lines travel directly to the Airport station, which is the terminus and is located right inside the Domestic Terminal. The trip from the central Five Points station in downtown takes only about 15-20 minutes. This is an excellent way to avoid Atlanta's famous traffic jams, especially during peak hours. The fare is affordable, making this the best choice for budget travellers.

Taxis, Ridesharing, and Shuttles

For greater comfort, you can use taxi services or popular ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Lyft. Designated pick-up and drop-off zones are located at the terminals. A trip from central Atlanta will take from 20 to 45 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The cost will be significantly higher than MARTA, but it is a convenient option for travellers with heavy luggage or those not travelling from the centre. Shared-ride shuttles are also available, which may be slightly cheaper than a private taxi.

Car Rental and Private Transport

If you are travelling by private or rented car, the airport provides numerous parking options. For short stops, there are hourly car parks right by the terminals. For longer trips, daily and economy parking lots located slightly further away are more suitable. Free shuttle buses run from these lots to the terminals. All major car rental companies are represented at the dedicated Rental Car Center (RCC), which can be reached from the terminals in a few minutes via the free SkyTrain. It is recommended to check availability and parking rates on the official airport website in advance.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is one of the busiest in the world, yet its structure is quite logical and easy to navigate once you understand the principle. The airport consists of two main terminals and seven parallel halls (concourses) connected to each other.

Structure and Terminals

Effectively, Atlanta has two main terminals divided by flight type:

• Domestic Terminal: Located on the western side of the airport complex and serves domestic flights within the USA. It is further divided into the North Terminal and South Terminal. The choice between them depends on your airline—check-in counters and baggage claim for different carriers are located in different parts.
• Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal: Located on the eastern side and serves all international departures and arrivals.

Between these two terminals lie seven halls (concourses) with boarding gates, designated by letters: T, A, B, C, D, E, and F. Concourse T is adjacent to the Domestic Terminal, while Concourse F is part of the International Terminal. Concourses E and F primarily serve international flights.

Navigation and Transfer Between Terminals

The fastest and most convenient way to move between terminals and all concourses is the automated underground Plane Train. It operates with short intervals 24/7 and is complimentary. The train stops at the Domestic Terminal (in the baggage claim area), at each of the concourses (T, A, B, C, D, E, F), and at the International Terminal. Besides the train, there is a pedestrian corridor with moving walkways running parallel to the train route, connecting all concourses. A walk along it can take from 5 to 30 minutes depending on the distance.

Departure, Arrival Zones, and Processing Time

Check-in and security screening zones are located in both the Domestic and International terminals. After passing security, you enter the "sterile" area and can move freely between all concourses via the Plane Train to reach your departure gate. Given the airport's size and traffic, it is recommended to arrive early: at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and at least 3 hours before an international one. Security lines can be long, especially during peak hours.

Navigation Recommendations

• Know your airline: If flying domestically, check in advance which terminal (North or South) your carrier uses to choose the correct entrance and check-in zone.
• Use the Plane Train: This is the most efficient way to get to the required concourse. Screens at stations and announcements on the train will help you not miss your stop.
• Follow signs: Navigation in the airport is very well thought out. Follow the signs to your concourse and gate number.
• Allow extra time: Moving between the furthest concourses (e.g., from T to F) can take 15-20 minutes even using the train. Always leave a buffer for unforeseen delays.

The history of Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta is a fascinating tale of transforming an abandoned racetrack into the busiest aviation hub on the planet. It all began in 1925, when the city leased a plot of land with a racing track to establish an airfield named Candler Field. The first commercial flight landed here in 1926, marking the beginning of a long and glorious history.

Over the years, the airport grew rapidly. An important milestone was the opening of a new passenger terminal in 1961, which at the time was the largest in the country and allowed the airport to cope with the growing passenger flow in the jet age. In 1971, the airport was named after former Atlanta Mayor William B. Hartsfield, who played a key role in its development. However, the real breakthrough was the opening of the modern Central Passenger Terminal in 1980, which forms the core of the airport today.

Preparation for the 1996 Summer Olympic Games in Atlanta gave a new impetus to development: international Concourse E was built, reinforcing the airport's status as the most important air gateway to the southeastern USA. Since 1998, Hartsfield-Jackson has held the title of the world's busiest airport by passenger traffic. In 2003, the name of Maynard Jackson, the city's first African-American mayor, was added to the title in recognition of his contribution to modernization and expansion.

Today, Hartsfield-Jackson Airport is not just a transport hub, but a veritable city within a city that continues to develop and set new records, serving over one hundred million passengers annually while remaining a symbol of aviation progress and Southern hospitality.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) offers passengers a full range of services and amenities to make their stay as comfortable as possible, whether for a short transfer or a long wait for a flight. It is a true city within a city, where every detail is thought out for the convenience of travellers.

Restaurants and Shops: The airport features a huge selection of establishments for every taste and budget—from popular fast-food chains to fine dining restaurants where you can enjoy a quiet dinner. Numerous coffee shops will help you perk up before your flight. For shopping enthusiasts, there are many stores, including Duty-Free, where you can purchase perfumes, cosmetics, gifts, as well as boutiques of famous brands, souvenir shops, and bookstores.

Rest and Work: For a comfortable wait, passengers can use various airline lounges or paid VIP lounges offering food, beverages, quiet, and work zones. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous gadget charging stations allow you to stay connected. Business centres and conference rooms are equipped for business travellers.

Financial and Medical Services: Bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points are located in the terminals, allowing you to easily resolve any financial matters. In case of need, passengers can seek medical assistance at health stations.

Services for Families and Passengers with Special Needs: The airport cares for the youngest travellers: there are mother-and-child rooms for infant care and changing. A barrier-free environment has been created for passengers with reduced mobility, including ramps, elevators, and specially equipped restrooms. Escort services can also be requested.

Accommodation: If you have a long layover or an early departure, you can stay at one of the hotels located directly on the airport grounds or in the immediate vicinity. Many of them are connected to the terminals by shuttles or the SkyTrain, making movement quick and convenient.

Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta (ATL) offers travellers a huge selection of dining options for every taste and budget. Whether you are looking for a quick snack before departure or a full dinner, you will find a suitable option in any of its terminals. Most restaurants and cafes are located airside, meaning after passing security control.

For those wishing to experience local cuisine, the airport offers several excellent establishments. Be sure to try classic Southern US cuisine. For example, Paschal's (Concourse B) serves famous fried chicken, and at SweetWater Brewing Company (Concourse B and T), you can enjoy local specialties. The jewel of the airport is considered to be the restaurant One Flew South (Concourse E), which regularly ranks among the best airport restaurants in the world thanks to its exquisite dishes with Southern notes.

If you are short on time, numerous fast-food chains are at your service. Here you will find the icon of Atlanta—Chick-fil-A (located in several concourses), as well as Shake Shack (Concourse B), Popeyes, and Starbucks. For a quieter and more substantial lunch, besides the aforementioned One Flew South, you can visit the Italian restaurant Ecco (Concourse F) or the steakhouse LongHorn Steakhouse (Concourse C).

Passengers with special dietary preferences will also be well catered for. Many restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes, which are usually marked on the menu. It is recommended to check the ingredients with the staff. While certified Halal establishments may be difficult to find, the menus at most restaurants feature a variety of fish and vegetable dishes.

The price range varies: a quick snack will cost on average $15-25, while dinner at a full-service restaurant will be from $30-50 and above per person. Most establishments open early in the morning to serve passengers on morning flights and operate until late evening. However, operating hours may change, so it is better to check current information on the official airport website before travelling.

Travelling through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, one of the busiest in the world, requires preparation. To avoid unnecessary stress, arrive at the airport in advance: no less than 2-3 hours before a domestic flight and 3-4 hours before an international one. This time will be sufficient for check-in, baggage drop, and passing security control without rushing.

To save time, check in for your flight online and get a mobile boarding pass. Security lines at Atlanta airport can be long. Keep your passport and boarding pass ready. To speed up the process, remove all metal items from your pockets in advance, and place laptops and liquids (in containers up to 100 ml) in a separate tray.

When choosing a seat on the plane, base it on your preferences. A window seat offers beautiful views and the ability to lean against the wall while sleeping. An aisle seat allows you to freely access the restroom and stretch your legs. Seats in the emergency exit row offer more space, but restrictions may apply (for example, for passengers with children).

Be sure to pack all valuables in your carry-on luggage: documents, money, electronics, chargers, and necessary medications. It is also useful to have a change of clothes and basic hygiene supplies in case of flight delays or lost luggage. Remember the liquid allowance rule: all containers must be no more than 100 ml and packed in one transparent bag.

If you have a transfer in Atlanta, act quickly. The airport consists of several terminals (concourses) connected by the high-speed Plane Train. Immediately after landing, check the screens for the gate number of your next flight and follow the signs. Moving between distant concourses can take up to 20-30 minutes, so do not delay.

Arriving in the USA on an international flight, you will have to undergo border and customs control. First, you will proceed to a border officer, then collect your luggage and pass through the customs zone. Fill out the customs declaration in advance if necessary, and keep your passport and visa ready. Be prepared for questions about the purpose of your trip and the contents of your luggage.

To save money, bring an empty reusable water bottle—it can be filled at special stations after passing security. Food and beverage prices at the airport are high, so your own snacks will help reduce expenses. To save time, use airline mobile apps and the airport map.

In case of a flight delay, contact your airline representative first to find out about the flight status and your rights (for example, for the provision of meals or a hotel). Atlanta Airport has many shops, restaurants, and even art exhibitions that will help pass the waiting time. Free Wi-Fi is also available throughout the territory.