What Terminal Is Southwest Airlines In at the Atlanta Airport?

If you’re flying Southwest Airlines to or from Atlanta, Georgia, you’ll be using Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). Knowing exactly which terminal and concourse Southwest uses can save you time, stress, and a lot of backtracking.

Here’s how Southwest works at ATL, plus what to expect with check-in, security, baggage claim, and connections.

Quick Answer: Where to Find Southwest at ATL

Southwest Airlines operates out of:

• Main Terminal:Domestic Terminal – North (for check-in, ticketing, and baggage drop)
• Gates / Boarding Area:Concourse C (primarily), connected to the terminal via the Plane Train and pedestrian tunnel

ATL is laid out with one main terminal complex (Domestic and International) and multiple concourses (T, A, B, C, D, E, F) that all connect underground. Southwest is a domestic carrier at ATL, so you’ll be using the Domestic side, not the International Terminal.

Understanding ATL’s Layout for Southwest Travelers

Domestic Terminal vs. Concourses

At ATL, it helps to separate two ideas:

1. Where you check in and drop bags

   • For Southwest, this is the Domestic Terminal – North.

2. Where you board your flight

   • For Southwest, this is usually on Concourse C.

You do not check in on Concourse C. You first go to the Domestic Terminal, clear security, then ride the Plane Train or walk through the tunnel to your concourse and gate.

Southwest Airlines: Check-In and Baggage at ATL

Where to Check In

If you’re starting your trip in Atlanta:

• Go to Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport
  • General address: 6000 N Terminal Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30320
• Follow signs for Domestic Terminal – North
• Look for the Southwest Airlines check-in counters and kiosks

You can:

• Check bags
• Print boarding passes (if you didn’t check in online)
• Speak with an agent about reservations, same-day changes, or special assistance

Security Checkpoint to Use

Once checked in:

• Use the North Security Checkpoint (closest to Southwest counters)
• After clearing security, you’ll arrive in the domestic atrium leading to the concourses

From there, follow signs to:

• Plane Train → ride to Concourse C
• Or use the underground pedestrian walkway if you prefer to walk

Boarding: Southwest Gates in Atlanta

Southwest flights typically operate from:

• Concourse C at ATL

After security:

1. Take the Plane Train

   • Look for the “C” stop.
   • It’s only a few minutes from the main terminal.

2. Or walk via the underground connecting tunnel

   • Well-marked, with moving walkways and artwork along the way.

At Concourse C, follow the monitors for your specific gate number. Gates can shift during the day, so always confirm on the display screens or the Southwest app.

Arriving in Atlanta on Southwest

If you’re landing in Atlanta on Southwest:

Deplaning and Getting to Baggage Claim

1. You’ll arrive at a gate on Concourse C.
2. Follow the signs to Plane Train / Baggage Claim.
3. Take the Plane Train to:
   • Domestic Terminal – North baggage claim (this is where Southwest’s luggage usually arrives).

Look for baggage claim monitors listing:

• Your flight number
• The carousel where your bags will come out

Ground Transportation From Southwest Flights

Once you have your bags, you’ll still be in the Domestic Terminal – North area. From there, you can reach:

• Rideshare pick-up: Follow signs for “Rideshare / App-Based Rides”
• Taxis: Taxi stand near the ground transportation level
• MARTA (Atlanta’s rail system):
  • Follow signs to MARTA Station, located at the west end of the Domestic Terminal, accessible by a short indoor walk and escalators.
  • Good option if you’re heading to major areas like Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, or to connect with local buses.

Connecting Flights on Southwest at ATL

Domestic-to-Domestic Connections

If you’re connecting between two Southwest flights:

• You will usually stay on Concourse C or move between nearby concourses.
• You do not need to exit and re-clear security if you’re just changing planes at ATL.

Steps:

1. Follow signs for “Connecting Flights”.
2. Check the overhead screens or the Southwest app for your next gate.
3. If your next gate is on a different concourse (C to B, for example), just:
   • Take the Plane Train to the new concourse.

Tight Connections Tips

• ATL is large, but Concourse C is compact compared to the whole airport.
• If your layover is short, go straight to your gate—it’s common for gates to change, especially during busy times.
• Use airport display boards located:
  • Near gate areas
  • At Plane Train stops
  • In the concourse central corridors

Using MARTA and Other Transport to Reach Southwest at ATL

Many Atlanta residents and visitors prefer public transit or rideshare to reach the airport. Knowing the layout helps you line up directly with Southwest’s area.

From Downtown / Midtown / Buckhead by MARTA

• Take a southbound MARTA train (Red or Gold Line) to the Airport Station.
• The station exits directly into the Domestic Terminal.
• Once inside, follow signs to North Terminal / Airline Check-in.
• Look for Southwest counters for check-in and baggage drop.

This can be faster than driving during peak traffic times, especially from Downtown or Midtown Atlanta.

Driving to the Airport for Southwest

If you’re driving:

• Set your GPS to: 6000 N Terminal Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30320
• Follow signs for:
  • Domestic Terminal – North for drop-off and check-in
  • North economy or daily parking if you’re parking your car

For passenger drop-off (departures):

• Use the upper level at the Domestic Terminal and follow the overhead signs for North Terminal.
• Southwest is located along that stretch of curbside departures.

For passenger pick-up (arrivals):

• Use the lower arrivals level, again following North Terminal signage.
• Coordinate with arriving passengers by identifying a door number or sign marker along the curb.

Key Southwest–ATL Details at a Glance

Practical Tips for Southwest Travelers in Atlanta

• Arrive early: ATL is one of the busiest airports in the country. For Southwest departures, many travelers plan:
  • About 2 hours before domestic flights, more during rush hours or holidays.
• Check your gate often: Even if Southwest mainly uses Concourse C, gate assignments can change.
• Use the Plane Train: It’s the fastest way between the terminal and concourses. Trains run frequently and are clearly marked.
• Know your terminal: If someone is picking you up or dropping you off, make sure they know you’re flying Southwest out of the Domestic Terminal – North, not the International Terminal.

By keeping Domestic Terminal – North for check-in and Concourse C for gates in mind, you’ll have a smoother experience flying Southwest in and out of Atlanta.