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Aviation and Airports

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Airport Layout and Terminals

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, often simply referred to as ATL, is not only the busiest airport in the world but also a major hub for both domestic and international travel. The airport spans over 4,700 acres and boasts two primary terminals—Domestic and International—each further divided into concourses.

The Domestic Terminal is split into two parts: Terminal North, where Delta Airlines primarily operates, and Terminal South, which serves other domestic carriers. From the Domestic Terminal, passengers can access Concourses T, A, B, C, and D via the Plane Train, an underground people mover, or the pedestrian walkway, which features moving sidewalks and dynamic art installations.

The Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal, commonly known as Concourse F, handles all international flights, with some operations also taking place in Concourse E. This terminal is equipped with modern amenities, including automated passport control kiosks and expedited customs processing, making it efficient for international travelers.

Transportation to and from the Airport

Hartsfield-Jackson's location just 10 miles south of downtown Atlanta makes it accessible via multiple transportation options. One of the most convenient ways to reach the airport is through MARTA, Atlanta's public transit system. The MARTA Red and Gold lines both stop at the Airport Station, located next to the Domestic Terminal. For those traveling from the International Terminal, a free shuttle service connects to the Domestic MARTA station.

For travelers preferring ground transportation, taxis and rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are readily available. Both rideshare services have designated pick-up zones located at the Domestic Terminal's north and south parking decks. Rental car facilities are also available on-site at the Rental Car Center, which is connected to the terminals via the ATL SkyTrain.

Additionally, several shuttle services operate between the airport and various neighborhoods and cities in the metropolitan area, providing an alternative for those outside MARTA's reach.

Regional Airports

DeKalb-Peachtree Airport

DeKalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK) serves as the primary reliever airport for ATL and caters mainly to general aviation traffic, including private, corporate, and charter flights. Located in the northeastern part of Atlanta, PDK is approximately 20 miles from downtown, offering a convenient option for private pilots and smaller-scale commercial operations.

PDK is equipped with multiple runways and sophisticated facilities that handle around 200,000 operations annually, making it one of the busiest general aviation airports in the region. The airport also houses several flight schools, private hangars, and aviation-related businesses, contributing to its reputation as a hub for aviators.

Other Local Airstrips

Aside from Hartsfield-Jackson and DeKalb-Peachtree, several smaller airstrips and airports serve the Atlanta metropolitan area, each catering to specific needs:

  • Gwinnett County Airport (LZU): Located in Lawrenceville, this airport primarily supports general aviation and serves as a base for recreational flights, flight training, and private charters.

  • Cobb County International Airport (RYY): Situated in Kennesaw, RYY provides services for business aviation and charter operations and features a Customs office for international flights.

  • Fulton County Airport (FTY): Also known as Charlie Brown Field, this airport, located west of downtown Atlanta, offers services for corporate and general aviation.

These regional airports and airstrips collectively complement Atlanta's aviation landscape by alleviating congestion at the main airport while providing tailored service to different segments of air traffic.