San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is a major global gateway serving the San Francisco Bay Area and Northern California. As the second-busiest airport in the state, it plays a critical role in connecting the region with destinations across North America, Europe, and Asia. Located approximately 13 miles south of downtown San Francisco in San Mateo County, the airport is directly accessible from the city via US Highway 101. Public transportation is a popular option for travelers, with the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system offering a direct rail link to the International Terminal, and SamTrans buses providing local service.

Opened in 1927 as Mills Field Municipal Airport, SFO has grown into a large-scale international hub. It operates with four terminals: Terminals 1, 2, and 3 primarily handle domestic flights, while the dedicated International Terminal is divided into A and G gate areas. SFO serves as a major hub for United Airlines and Alaska Airlines and is served by dozens of other domestic and foreign carriers. Annually, it facilitates travel for tens of millions of passengers. The airport is also recognized for its on-site SFO Museum, the first accredited museum located within an airport, which features rotating art and cultural exhibits throughout the terminals.

Travelers will find a wide array of amenities across the airport. The four terminals are connected landside by the AirTrain, a free automated people mover that also links to parking garages, the rental car center, and the BART station. Dining options range from fast-casual eateries to full-service restaurants showcasing local cuisine, while retail includes newsstands, travel essential stores, and luxury brand boutiques. Numerous airline lounges, a yoga room, and hydration stations are available for passenger comfort.

For a smooth travel experience, arriving at SFO at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international departure is recommended. When connecting between flights, passengers should use the AirTrain to move between terminals and allow sufficient time to reclear security if necessary. BART provides a reliable and cost-effective method for reaching downtown San Francisco. Due to the region's coastal climate, fog can occasionally cause flight delays, so checking flight status prior to arriving at the airport is advisable.