Atlanta International Airport: Your Practical Guide to Hartsfield‑Jackson (ATL)

If you’re flying into or out of Atlanta, Georgia, you’re almost certainly dealing with Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)—often called “Atlanta International Airport” or just “ATL.” It’s one of the busiest airports in the world and a major hub for both domestic and international travel.

This guide focuses on how ATL works specifically for people who live in, visit, or connect through Atlanta, with clear tips on getting there, navigating terminals, parking, ground transportation, and what to expect inside the airport.

Where Atlanta International Airport Is and How It’s Set Up

Official name: Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport
Airport code: ATL
Location: About 10 miles south of Downtown Atlanta in Clayton County

Main address:

Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport
6000 N Terminal Pkwy
Atlanta, GA 30320
Main information line: (404) 530‑7300

ATL is divided into two main sides:

• Domestic Terminal
  • North Terminal (primarily Delta ticketing and check‑in)
  • South Terminal (other domestic airlines)
• Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal
  • Often referred to as Concourse F or International Terminal

All concourses (T, A, B, C, D, E, F) are connected by:

• An underground Plane Train (automated people mover)
• A central walkable tunnel with moving walkways

You can move between concourses without exiting security, which is important for connections.

Getting to ATL from Around Atlanta

By Car

From Downtown / Midtown Atlanta:

• Take I‑75/85 South
• Follow airport signs for Domestic Terminal or International Terminal

From the north suburbs (Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta):

• Take GA‑400 South to I‑85 South, then follow signs to the airport

From the west (Douglasville, Lithia Springs):

• Take I‑20 East to I‑75/85 South toward the airport

From the south (Jonesboro, McDonough):

• Take I‑75 North and follow airport signs

Traffic around ATL can be heavy during morning (6–9 a.m.) and afternoon (3–7 p.m.) rush hours, especially along I‑75/85.

By MARTA (Atlanta’s Rail System)

Many Atlanta residents and visitors use MARTA to avoid parking and traffic.

• Rail station: Domestic Terminal (Airport Station)
• Lines: Red and Gold lines go directly to the airport
• You enter the Domestic Terminal near the South security checkpoint

From:

• Downtown (Five Points, Peachtree Center): Usually a 15–20 minute ride
• Midtown/Buckhead: About 25–35 minutes
• Doraville or North Springs: Often 40+ minutes

For the International Terminal (Concourse F):

• MARTA does not stop there directly
• Take MARTA to the Domestic Terminal, then:
  • Use the Plane Train (inside security) if you already have a boarding pass and can clear security domestically, or
  • Use the free shuttle bus outside (landside) between Domestic and International Terminals

Rideshare, Taxi, and Shuttles

Rideshare (Uber, Lyft, etc.):

• Domestic Terminal pickup: Typically from a designated rideshare zone in the parking structures (follow airport signs in the terminal)
• International Terminal pickup: Ground Transportation area outside Concourse F

Taxi service:

• Taxi stands are available outside both terminals
• There are often flat rates to central Atlanta (e.g., Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead), which makes pricing predictable

Hotel & private shuttles:

• Many Atlanta hotels near the airport and in Downtown/Midtown offer shuttles
• These pick up and drop off in the Ground Transportation zones—check with your hotel for exact details

Domestic vs. International Terminals: Which One Do You Use?

ATL can be confusing if you’re not sure which terminal to head to. Use this as a rule of thumb:

Use the Domestic Terminal if:

• You’re flying within the United States (including Alaska/Hawaii)
• You’re flying most domestic flights, including:
  • Delta (North Terminal)
  • Southwest, American, United, Spirit, Frontier, and others (South Terminal – airline assignments can change, so always check your ticket)

Use the International Terminal (Concourse F) if:

• You’re departing from or arriving directly on an international flight
• Many international airlines check in and arrive here

However, some international flights arrive at Concourse E (also an international concourse), and passengers may clear customs there or be routed to Concourse F. The airport directs you once you land.

Security Checkpoints and Time Planning

Security at ATL is known to get busy, especially at:

• Early mornings (5–8 a.m.)
• Late afternoon and early evening (3–7 p.m.)
• Holiday periods and major event weekends in Atlanta

How early should you arrive?

These are general guidelines often used by frequent ATL travelers:

• Domestic flights: Arrive 2 hours before departure
• International flights: Arrive 3 hours before departure

If you’re flying at peak times, leaving extra time is wise, especially if you’re:

• Checking bags
• Traveling in a group or with children
• Unfamiliar with the airport

If you use TSA PreCheck or similar programs, you can often go through shorter, dedicated lines at ATL, but you should still build in reasonable buffer time.

Navigating the Concourses and Plane Train

Once you clear security (Domestic or International), you’ll enter the main Atrium or Concourse F. From there:

• Plane Train: Automated train stopping at:
  • Domestic Terminal (T gates)
  • Concourses A, B, C, D, E, F
• Underground walkway: A long corridor with moving walkways and art exhibits, connecting all concourses if you prefer to walk

Each concourse has:

• Its own gate areas
• Multiple dining and shopping options
• Restrooms, nursing rooms, and seating

Most connections at ATL happen entirely airside (inside security). You usually do not need to re‑check in or leave security unless:

• You’re arriving internationally and must clear U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• There is a specific instruction from your airline

Parking at Atlanta International Airport

ATL offers several parking options depending on cost and convenience.

Main Types of Parking

Parking availability can fluctuate during holidays, summer travel season, and big Atlanta events like major conventions or sports championships. Many locals check availability or status updates before leaving home.

If you live in metro Atlanta and fly frequently, you might also consider off‑site airport parking near ATL, which often includes shuttle service to the terminals.

Ground Transportation from ATL into Atlanta

Once you land, you have several ways to reach Atlanta neighborhoods and nearby cities.

1. MARTA Rail

Best for: Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, and some Perimeter-area riders.

• Airport Station is inside the Domestic Terminal
• Direct train service to:
  • Five Points (Downtown)
  • Peachtree Center (Downtown)
  • Civic Center, North Avenue (Midtown edge)
  • Midtown, Arts Center (Midtown)
  • Buckhead, Lenox, Brookhaven, Chamblee, Doraville, Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, North Springs

From the International Terminal, take the free shuttle to the Domestic Terminal to reach MARTA.

2. Taxi

Taxis line up outside baggage claim at both terminals. For many destinations inside the city, taxis use posted flat rates from the airport area, which makes budgeting simpler for:

• Downtown Atlanta
• Midtown Atlanta
• Buckhead

Always confirm approximate fare or flat‑rate zones with the driver before departure.

3. Rideshare (Uber, Lyft, etc.)

You’ll be directed to a designated pickup area:

• Follow airport signs after baggage claim
• At the Domestic Terminal, this is often in the parking structure or special rideshare zone
• At the International Terminal, pickups are in Ground Transportation areas

Rideshare is heavily used in Atlanta, especially for late‑night arrivals or trips to areas not well covered by MARTA.

4. Rental Cars

Most major rental car companies operate at ATL through the Rental Car Center (RCC):

• Located off‑site but connected via the SkyTrain, an elevated people mover
• The SkyTrain station is near the Domestic Terminal; follow signs to the Rental Car Center

From the RCC, you’ll drive out onto nearby highways such as I‑85, I‑75, or Camp Creek Parkway, depending on where in Atlanta you’re headed.

Services and Amenities Inside Atlanta International Airport

Food and Shopping

ATL has a wide range of restaurants, quick‑service spots, and shops spread across:

• Main Atrium
• Concourses T, A, B, C, D, E, and F

You’ll find:

• Local Atlanta‑inspired eateries
• National chains
• Coffee shops, bakeries, and bars
• Newsstands, bookstores, travel essentials, and souvenir stores

If you have a long layover, consider riding the Plane Train between concourses to see different food options; Concourse E and F (International) often have additional sit‑down restaurants.

Wi‑Fi and Charging

• ATL typically offers free Wi‑Fi throughout terminals and concourses
• Many seating areas have power outlets and USB ports, especially near gate areas and at newer or renovated sections

Lounges

Several airline and independent lounges operate in different concourses at ATL. Access is generally restricted to:

• Eligible ticket holders (premium cabins)
• Certain credit card members or lounge memberships

If a comfortable, quiet place matters to you, check your airline and card benefits before traveling.

Accessibility and Special Assistance

Hartsfield‑Jackson provides services for travelers who need extra support, such as:

• Wheelchair assistance (request through your airline in advance)
• Elevators and accessible restrooms in all concourses
• Designated areas for passengers with disabilities

If you or a family member need specific accommodation, it’s wise to notify your airline before your trip, then confirm at the check‑in counter when you arrive.

Tips for Atlanta Locals Using ATL

If you live in or near Atlanta, a few local habits can make ATL easier to handle:

• Use MARTA during peak traffic
  When I‑75/85 is backed up, MARTA can be more predictable, especially from Downtown, Midtown, or Buckhead.

• Know your side of town

  • Southside residents (College Park, East Point, Riverdale) may prefer driving and parking or short taxi/rideshare trips.
  • Intown residents (Old Fourth Ward, Virginia‑Highland, West Midtown) often weigh MARTA vs. rideshare depending on time of day and luggage.

• Check terminal and concourse before you leave home
  Your boarding pass or airline app usually lists your:

  • Terminal (Domestic or International)
  • Concourse and gate (e.g., B12, F5)

• Build in buffer time for security
  Atlanta‑area travelers often plan extra time around holidays and Monday mornings, when business travel peaks.

Tips for Visitors Flying into Atlanta International Airport

If you’re visiting Atlanta for the first time, ATL is your gateway to the city and the wider region.

Key pointers:

• Know your ultimate destination in the city:

  • Downtown hotels: MARTA or taxi / rideshare are all reasonable.
  • Midtown & Buckhead: MARTA is very direct from the Airport Station.
  • Suburbs (Marietta, Kennesaw, Lawrenceville, Newnan, etc.): Rental car or rideshare is often more practical.

• Use airport signage
  ATL has clear signs for:

  • Baggage claim
  • Ground Transportation
  • Rental Car Center
  • Plane Train and Concourses

• For international arrivals

  • You’ll go through Customs and Border Protection after landing at ATL
  • After clearing customs, follow signs to baggage claim and onward connections or ground transportation
  • If you have a domestic connection, look for transfer counters and recheck your bag if needed

Helpful Airport and Local Transit Contacts

• Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)

  • General info: (404) 530‑7300
  • Lost and Found (airport-operated; not airlines): Often reached through the main line or via the airport’s official contact directory

• MARTA Customer Service

  • Phone (commonly listed): (404) 848‑5000
  • For rail schedules, routes, and Airport Station information

For the latest gate information, delays, or baggage questions, your airline’s customer service or app usually provides the most up‑to‑date details for your specific flight.

Whether you live in Atlanta or are just passing through, understanding how Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is laid out—and how it connects to the rest of the city—can make your trip noticeably smoother. Use the Domestic vs. International terminal rules, give yourself enough time, and choose the ground transportation that best fits where you’re staying or living in the metro area.