SFOUpdated September 25, 2026

Frequently asked questions: San Francisco airport

San Francisco · United States

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SFO · FAQs

Quick answers about San Francisco airport (SFO)

Questions about SFO

Answers to the questions travelers ask most about San Francisco airport (SFO). See also the airport guide for general information.

You can easily move between terminals free of charge using the AirTrain, an automated people mover operating 24 hours a day connecting all terminals, the BART train station, parking garages, and the Rental Car Center. Additionally, all terminals feature continuous post-security and pre-security pedestrian connector walkways.
The fastest public transit option is the BART train located on Level 3 of the International Terminal; the ride to downtown stations (Civic Center, Powell St, Montgomery St, Embarcadero) takes approximately 30 minutes and costs $10.50 to $11.00 each way via contactless bank cards or Clipper cards. The most economical choice is the SamTrans bus (routes 292 and 397), charging $2.05.
For domestic flights (Terminals 1, 2, and 3), designated rideshare pickups are situated on Level 5 of the Domestic Garage. For international flights, passenger pickups take place on the center island roadway of the Departures Level in zones 14 through 17.
All major rental car agencies are consolidated inside the Rental Car Center at 780 North McDonnell Road. From any terminal, take the free AirTrain Blue Line, which delivers passengers directly to the 4th floor of the rental building in approximately 10 minutes.
Yes, SFO remains open 24 hours a day and permits overnight stays for ticketed passengers. Padded, armrest-free seating is available in the International Terminal and in domestic concourses after the final flights depart. Vending machines and free unlimited Wi-Fi operate around the clock.
Yes, short-term and multi-day baggage storage is provided by the Airport Travel Agency, located on the pre-security Departures level of the International Terminal Main Hall. It does not open 24 hours, so please check their operating hours before dropping off items.
The Domestic Garage and International Garages A & G are ideal for short visits and passenger pickups. For multi-day trips, Long-Term Parking offers economical daily pricing with 24/7 AirTrain connection. Pre-booking online at parking.flysfo.com provides discounted rates and touchless QR-code garage entry.
Yes, the luxury Grand Hyatt at SFO is located directly on airport grounds and features its own dedicated AirTrain station (Red and Blue Lines), connecting guests straight into all terminal halls in minutes without stepping outdoors.

More questions? Ask AERO, our 24/7 airport assistant.

German Giudici

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