Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport (IATA: ATL, ICAO: KATL) is the primary airport serving Atlanta, Georgia, and is one of the busiest airports in the world in terms of passenger numbers and aircraft movements. Located approximately 16 kilometres south of downtown Atlanta, the airport is a global hub for domestic and international travel and the primary hub for Delta Air Lines.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a central hub for travel in the United States and worldwide. It handles over 1,000 daily flights, connecting passengers to over 225 domestic and international destinations. This makes it one of the busiest airports in terms of passenger numbers and flight volume.

The airport serves as Delta Air Lines’ central hub and is about 10 miles from Downtown Atlanta. Its location offers easy access to the city and surrounding areas, making it a convenient choice for travellers passing through or visiting the region.

With modern facilities and efficient operations, Hartsfield-Jackson serves millions of passengers every year. It plays a key role in global air travel and is a critical link between the US and the rest of the world. The official airport website has more details.

Contents

Overview of Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a key transport hub with a rich history, impressive operational data, and a clear management structure. It supports many flights daily and serves millions of passengers annually. The airport’s governance influences its development and daily operations.

General Information

Location: Atlanta, Georgia
Country: United States
Airport Type: Public, International
IATA Code: ATL
ICAO Code: KATL
Elevation: 1,026 feet (313 metres)
Coordinates: 33°38′12″N 84°25′41″W
Timezone: UTC−5 (EST), UTC−4 (EDT in summer)
Distance from City Centre: Approx. 16 km (10 miles) south of downtown Atlanta
Website: www.atl.com
Operator: Atlanta Department of Aviation
Services: Extensive domestic and international passenger flights, cargo, and general aviation

Airport Details

Runways: 5
Runway Designations and Lengths:
08L/26R: 2,743 m (9,000 ft) – Asphalt
08R/26L: 2,743 m (9,000 ft) – Concrete
09L/27R: 3,780 m (12,401 ft) – Concrete
09R/27L: 2,743 m (9,000 ft) – Concrete
10/28: 2,591 m (8,500 ft) – Asphalt
Runway Surfaces: Asphalt and concrete
Runway Strength: Supports all aircraft, including Code F
Fire Services: ARFF Category 10
Tower Frequency: Available
Ground Frequency: Available
Navigation Aids: ILS, VOR/DME, RNAV, GPS
Customs and Immigration: U.S. CBP available for international arrivals
Aircraft Types: All commercial and private aircraft types
Terminals: Two terminals (Domestic and Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal) with 7 concourses (T, A, B, C, D, E, F)
Cargo Facilities: Major cargo hub with dedicated facilities for FedEx, UPS, and DHL
Fuel: JET A, AVGAS
FBOs: Signature Flight Support, Atlantic Aviation
Equipment: GPU, potable water, lavatory service, de-icing
Ground Services: Full commercial, cargo, and private aviation support

Flight Operations

Permit Time: 24–48 hours for international GA with CBP coordination
Permission Required: Yes, for non-scheduled international flights
Slots: Required for certain operations
Aircraft Types: All types, including Code F
Alternate Airports:
PDK: DeKalb-Peachtree Airport (General Aviation)
CSG: Columbus Airport
BHM: Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport

Contact Information

Enquiries: +1 800-897-1910
Email: contact@atl.com
FBO Coordination: Signature ATL – atl@signatureflight.com; Atlantic Aviation ATL – atlanta@atlanticaviation.com

Passenger Information

Immigration Requirements: U.S. visa, ESTA, or passport as per national entry requirements
Crew Requirements: Passport, crew ID/license, General Declaration, visa if applicable
Transport Options: MARTA rail, taxis, Uber/Lyft, car rentals, hotel shuttles
Nearby Accommodation:
Near Airport: Renaissance Concourse Atlanta Airport Hotel, Atlanta Airport Marriott Gateway
In Atlanta: The Ritz-Carlton Atlanta, Hotel Clermont, Loews Atlanta Hotel
Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD); major credit cards accepted

History and Development

The airport opened in 1926 as Candler Field. It was renamed Atlanta Municipal Airport before becoming Hartsfield Atlanta Airport in 1971, honouring former mayor William B. Hartsfield. In 2003, Hartsfield-Jackson was adopted after Maynard Jackson, the city’s first Black mayor.

Over the decades, the airport expanded, adding multiple terminals and runways to meet demand. Its location, about 10 miles from Downtown Atlanta, supports rapid travel to and from the city. Today, it remains one of the busiest airports worldwide.

Key Facts and Statistics

Hartsfield-Jackson handles over 1,000 flights daily, connecting to 225 domestic and international destinations. The airport serves more than 100 million passengers each year.

It operates five parallel runways and two terminals. Delta Air Lines uses it as its primary hub, responsible for most of the airport’s traffic. The airport covers approximately 4,700 acres, making it one of the largest in the world.

Ownership and Management

The City of Atlanta owns Hartsfield-Jackson, and the Atlanta Department of Aviation manages it. The department oversees operations, maintenance, and improvements.

Funding comes from airport fees and bonds, ensuring the airport remains financially self-sufficient. Management focuses on efficiency and passenger experience, maintaining the airport’s status as a significant national and international hub.

More information can be found at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport Wikipedia page.

Terminals and Facilities

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has two main terminals connected by multiple concourses. Each terminal serves specific flight types and hosts various passenger services. The airport also provides various lounges and business facilities to enhance the travel experience.

Domestic Terminal

The Domestic Terminal primarily handles flights within the United States. It is centrally located and divided into concourses T, A, B, C, and D. This terminal offers quick access to most domestic airlines, including Delta Air Lines, which operates many flights from here.

The Domestic Terminal includes airline check-in counters, security checkpoints, and baggage claim areas. Passengers can use various dining options, retail shops, and customer service desks. It also features conveniences such as Wi-Fi, ATMS, and charging stations.

International Terminal

The Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal is designed for international arrivals and departures. It includes Concourses E and F. This terminal has customs and immigration facilities to process passengers arriving from other countries.

It also houses a range of international airlines, baggage services, and customs inspection areas. Facilities include currency exchange counters, duty-free shops, and international dining options. The terminal supports smoother connections for travellers moving between global and domestic flights.

Concourses and Amenities

The airport’s seven concourses link the two main terminals. Concourse T is attached to the Domestic Terminal and serves regional flights. Concourses A, B, C, and D mainly support domestic routes. E and F are part of the International Terminal.

Amenities throughout the concourses include restrooms, seating areas, information kiosks, and charging points. Various restaurants and retailers are located along the concourses, offering quick service and sit-down dining. Digital displays provide real-time flight information and gate updates.

Lounges and Business Services

Hartsfield-Jackson offers multiple lounges operated by airlines and third parties. Major carriers like Delta provide exclusive lounges with comfortable seating, refreshments, and business centres.

The airport also includes several meeting rooms, workspaces, and quiet zones. Business travellers can access printing and Wi-Fi services. Some lounges require membership or day passes for entry, giving passengers flexible options depending on their needs.

More details on terminals and concourses are available at the Atlanta Airport Terminals and Concourses page.

Flight Operations – Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport manages a large volume of flights daily, serving both passengers and freight. It supports numerous airlines flying to domestic and international locations, with carefully coordinated arrivals and departures. The airport also handles significant cargo operations vital to trade and logistics.

Airlines and Destinations

The airport is a central hub for several airlines, with Delta Air Lines being the largest operator. Many other carriers, including Southwest, American Airlines, and international airlines, also serve ATL. Flights connect to over 150 domestic destinations and over 75 global cities.

Services cover regions in North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean. Regular routes include major cities such as New York, London, Mexico City, and Tokyo. This extensive network makes the airport one of the busiest in terms of passenger volume and flight connections.

Arrivals and Departures

Hartsfield-Jackson handles around 700,000 flight operations annually. It has multiple runways and terminals designed to manage many takeoffs and landings efficiently.

Flight arrivals and departures operate throughout the day and night, with no significant delays reported on average. The airport uses advanced tracking systems to monitor flights in real time, helping maintain smooth operations during peak hours.

Passengers can check real-time updates on arrivals and departures through airline websites or live tracking tools. This access allows for timely planning for connections and transportation.

Cargo and Logistics

The airport also serves as a crucial cargo hub, handling hundreds of thousands of metric tonnes of freight annually. Cargo operations include air freight for goods ranging from electronics to perishable food items.

It has specialised facilities, including warehouse space and customs processing centres, to support fast and efficient cargo movement. Logistics companies work closely with the airport to ensure timely distribution and delivery.

Hartsfield-Jackson is essential in supply chains, helping businesses move products domestically and globally. This aspect supports regional economic growth and international trade.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport – Wikipedia

Ground Transportation and Access

Getting to and from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is simple, with several transport choices to suit different needs. Visitors and travellers can use trains, shuttles, taxis, rental cars, or private services to reach their destinations quickly.

Public Transport Links

The airport is directly connected to the city’s MARTA rapid transit system. The MARTA train stops at the domestic terminal, providing fast access to downtown Atlanta and key suburbs. Trains run frequently, usually every 10 to 15 minutes during peak hours.

Travel by MARTA is cost-effective and avoids traffic. The station is accessible and offers clear signage. Passengers arriving at the international terminal can quickly shuttle to the domestic terminal to catch the trains. MARTA service covers popular locations like the Georgia State station and Five Points, which are ideal for connecting travellers.

Parking Options

Hartsfield-Jackson offers various parking facilities to match different trip lengths and budgets.

  • Hourly Parking: Near each terminal, meant for short stays or pickups.
  • Daily Parking: Larger lots with shuttle service to terminals.
  • Park-Ride Lots: Located farther away, with free shuttle service suitable for more extended stays.

Pricing varies; hourly parking is more expensive, and park-ride lots offer cheaper rates. Garages have covered parking, and electric vehicle charging stations are in some areas.

Car Hire and Ride Services

Multiple car rental companies operate at the airport with counters in the terminals. Rental vehicles can be picked up at a nearby designated car rental centre, accessible by a shuttle.

Taxis and ride-share options like Uber and Lyft operate from the ground transportation area outside each terminal. A dedicated shuttle called the International Shuttle Connector moves passengers quickly between terminals if needed. Limousines and private car services are also available on request. These choices give travellers options for flexible and convenient travel.

See the Comprehensive Guide to Ground & Shuttle Transportation for more details on transport services.

Future Expansion and Development

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport plans significant changes to support growing passenger numbers and modernise facilities. These efforts focus on expanding gates to handle larger aircraft and improving infrastructure with an eye toward environmental responsibility.

Planned Projects

The airport is undergoing a large-scale expansion to increase gate capacity and improve passenger comfort. This includes widening concourses by 29 feet and raising ceiling heights by 18 feet. These changes allow larger-capacity jets to dock and help reduce gate congestion.

Construction involves modular and traditional methods to speed progress while maintaining quality. The project is part of the ATLNext master plan and is expected to finish by 2029. Passenger numbers are projected to grow from about 110 million in 2025 to 125 million by 2029, driving the need for this expansion.

Additional upgrades include expanding restrooms and enhancing infrastructure to support expected growth in domestic and international flights.

Sustainability Initiatives

The airport also focuses on reducing its environmental impact during and after expansion. This involves using energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems throughout the new and renovated buildings.

Water conservation measures are incorporated, and efforts to reduce waste during construction help limit the project’s carbon footprint. The airport aims to balance growth with sustainability, ensuring long-term operational efficiency.

Renewable energy use and improved public transit access are planned to reduce emissions further. These steps support broader environmental goals and ensure a more sustainable future for Atlanta’s airport.

The ATLNext master plan information and recent news on the ambitious expansion project provide more details about the expansion and sustainability plans.

Local Attractions

Georgia Aquarium

It is one of the largest aquariums in the world, home to thousands of marine animals and immersive exhibits.

World of Coca-Cola

An interactive museum dedicated to the history and legacy of the Coca-Cola brand.

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

A cultural and historical site celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Atlanta Botanical Garden

A lush urban oasis with themed gardens, walking paths, and seasonal exhibits.

Piedmont Park

Atlanta’s premier green space is ideal for walking, biking, and relaxing, with skyline views.

CNN Studio Tours

A behind-the-scenes look at the global news network’s headquarters.

Travel Tips

Best Times to Visit:
Mar–May and Sep–Nov: Pleasant weather and seasonal events
Jun–Aug: Popular travel season, though hot and humid

Additional Notes:
Hartsfield-Jackson offers extensive domestic connections and international gateways, making it a key transit hub. The airport features free Wi-Fi, varied dining, and efficient passenger services. The Plane Train and pedestrian walkways ensure quick transfers between concourses.

Frequently Asked Questions – Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport

The airport has multiple terminals connected by a people mover system that helps passengers move quickly. Departure rules include security checks and boarding processes. Several dining choices are spread across terminals, and real-time flight updates can be accessed easily. Information on events and the international terminal is also available for passengers.

How can I navigate the different terminals at Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport?

Hartsfield-Jackson has two main terminals: the Domestic Terminal (South and North Concourses) and the Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal.

Travellers use the Plane Train, an automated people mover, to travel between terminals quickly and comfortably.

What are the current departure procedures at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport?

Passengers must go through security screening at TSA checkpoints before reaching their gates. Boarding usually starts 30-45 minutes before the flight’s departure time.

It is recommended to arrive at least two hours before domestic and three hours before international flights.

Where can I find the best dining options within Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport?

Dining options are available in all terminals, from fast-food outlets to full-service restaurants.

Popular spots near gate areas in both the Domestic and International Terminals.

What updates are there on today’s events at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport?

The airport hosts special events and promotions, including art exhibits or live music.

Passengers can check the airport’s official website or customer service for the latest event information.

How do I check real-time flight arrival information at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport?

Real-time airport flight arrivals and departures are available on digital display boards.

Online tracking tools and the official airport website provide updated flight status and gate information.

Is there a guide to the international terminal at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport?

Yes, the Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal serves all international flights and has dedicated customs and immigration facilities.

It offers amenities including lounges, currency exchange, and international dining options to assist global travellers.

For more detailed info and specific FAQS, consult the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport FAQS.