If you are flying through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), you are not alone. 

In 2024, ATL served over 108 million travelers, making it the busiest airport in the world. With that kind of traffic, it is no surprise many passengers find themselves asking the same question:

How do you get from one terminal to another at ATL?

The good news is that despite its massive size, ATL is one of the easiest major airports to navigate – if you know the layout and your options ahead of time. 

In this guide, you will learn exactly how to get between terminals at ATL, how much time to allow, and which method is best based on your flight, baggage, or mobility needs.

This is not just a list of directions. It is a full ATL terminal transfer guide, built to help you:

• Choose the fastest way to get around
• Understand the terminal layout and Plane Train system
• Prepare for domestic or international flight connections
• Avoid common mistakes that cause delays

We will walk through airside and landside options, how the Plane Train works, when to take the shuttle, and even give tips on walking underground between concourses.

So whether you are rushing to a tight connection, managing bags from an international arrival, or just exploring your way to a lounge, this guide will help you move through ATL like a pro.

ATL Airport Layout And Terminal Overview

Navigating Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) starts with understanding its layout. 

Despite being the largest airport in the United States by passenger volume, ATL has a logical design that helps travelers move smoothly between terminals and gates.

The Basic Structure: Terminals, Concourses, And Connectors

ATL has two main terminals:

• Domestic Terminal (split into North and South sides)
• International Terminal (also called Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal)

Between these terminals lie seven concourses labeled T through F:

• Concourse T connects directly to the Domestic Terminal
• Concourses A, B, C, and D support domestic flights
• Concourses E and F support international flights

These concourses are parallel to each other and run east to west. 

The Domestic Terminal sits at the western end of the airport, while the International Terminal is at the eastern end. 

Think of it like a fishbone: the Domestic Terminal is the head, the International Terminal is the tail, and the concourses are the ribs connected by a spine underneath.

That “spine” is the Plane Train (also called the ATL SkyTrain in some materials) – a free, automated train that runs underneath all concourses on level 0.

TPA Pro Tip: You can enter security at either terminal, as long as your airline has a check-in counter there or you have a boarding pass already.

Security And Check-In Flexibility

• Carry-On Only: If you checked in online and have no checked baggage, you can enter through either terminal’s security – Domestic or International.
• With Checked Baggage: You must check in where your airline operates its baggage service.

For example:

• Flying Delta? Most Delta flights check in from Domestic Terminal South or Concourse F for international flights.
• Flying Lufthansa or British Airways? You must check in at the International Terminal.

Travel Tip For First-Time Visitors

• Concourse gates are labeled by their concourse.
  • Example: Gate B17 is in Concourse B.
• Each concourse has a center entry point, and gates branch out to both sides.
  • Odd-numbered gates = eastern side
  • Even-numbered gates = western side
• Each concourse is roughly half a mile long. Allow 5–10 minutes to walk from the center to the farthest gates.

ATL Terminal Transfer Methods

When you need to transfer between terminals or concourses at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), you have several reliable options. 

The best choice depends on your location, time between flights, and whether you are before or after security.

Here is a breakdown of the most common ways to get around ATL:

• Plane Train (also called the ATL SkyTrain)
• Pedestrian Walkways (Transportation Mall)
• Airport Shuttle Bus
• Taxi or Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
• Airport Cart Service

Choosing The Right Airport Transfer Option

To decide which method is best, consider the following:

• If your flights are connected on the same ticket: You can usually remain inside security and take the Plane Train or walk.
• If you must re-check baggage or re-enter security: You will need to exit and possibly take the shuttle bus landside.
• Tight connection? Use the Plane Train. It departs every 2 minutes and connects all concourses quickly.
• Want to stretch your legs or enjoy airport art? Take the pedestrian tunnel between concourses.

TPA Pro Tip: If your layover is tight or you want the quickest route to your gate, the Plane Train is almost always the fastest and most reliable method.

Taking The Plane Train (ATL SkyTrain) – The Fastest Way To Get Around ATL

If you want to move quickly between concourses at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), the Plane Train is your best bet. 

This free, automated tram runs underground on level 0, connecting every terminal and concourse from T to F.

Despite some travelers referring to it as the “ATL SkyTrain,” the correct name for this internal airside system is the Plane Train. It is not to be confused with the SkyTrain that runs between the airport and rental car facilities.

How The Plane Train Works

• The Plane Train operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• A train arrives every 2 minutes, so wait times are very short.
• It runs on a 3-mile loop between the Domestic Terminal (Concourse T) and Concourse F (International Terminal).
• Stops include Concourse T, A, B, C, D, E, and F.
• Inside the train, you will see maps, LED signs, and audio announcements to help you find your stop.

How To Use The Plane Train

• After clearing security, take an escalator or elevator down to level 0.
• Follow signs for the Plane Train.
• Board the train in the direction of your gate.
• Get off at the concourse listed on your boarding pass.
• Take the elevator or escalator up to your departure gate level (level 2).

Time-Saving Benefits

• Travel between stops is only about 1-2 minutes.
• A full ride from Concourse T to Concourse F takes less than 10 minutes.
• Since the train runs in both directions, you can transfer quickly from domestic to international or the reverse.

Example: Going from Concourse A to Concourse E? That is four stops on the Plane Train and takes about 8 minutes total, including boarding time.

Accessibility Features

• Elevators and escalators are available at every stop.
• There is little or no gap between the train and the platform, making it wheelchair accessible.
• Airport staff can assist travelers who need extra help.

TPA Pro Tip: On level 0, next to the Plane Train route, there is a pedestrian walkway with art exhibits and history displays. If you are not in a rush, you may want to explore this area by foot instead.

Walking Between Terminals At ATL – The Pedestrian Tunnels

If you would rather stay on your feet or avoid the crowds on the Plane Train, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) offers a walkable underground route that connects all concourses from T to F. 

These pedestrian tunnels, also known as the Transportation Mall, are located on the same level as the Plane Train – level 0.

Walking between concourses can be a pleasant experience, especially for travelers with extra time, light baggage, or a desire to stretch their legs.

What To Expect When Walking

• The tunnels are well-lit, climate-controlled, and equipped with moving walkways in both directions.
• Along the way, you will pass through a variety of art installations, historical exhibits, and multimedia displays.
• Walking paths connect Concourse T through Concourse E.
• The walk between Concourse E and F is separate and takes a bit longer.

How Long Does It Take To Walk Between Concourses?

Here are the average walking times between each set of concourses at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL):

• Concourse T to Concourse A: 5 minutes
• Concourse A to Concourse B: 5 minutes
• Concourse B to Concourse C: 5 minutes
• Concourse C to Concourse D: 5 minutes
• Concourse D to Concourse E: 5 minutes
• Concourse E to Concourse F: 10 minutes

Total walking time from Concourse T to F: Around 35 minutes, assuming a steady pace and minimal stops.

Pros And Cons Of Walking

Pros:

• Free and accessible
• Offers more space and less crowding
• Art and history displays provide a more engaging experience
• Great for those looking to stay active during travel

Cons:

• Takes significantly longer than the Plane Train
• May not be ideal with tight connections or heavy luggage
• No moving walkways inside the individual concourses – only between them

Accessibility And Tips

• Elevators and escalators connect the walking tunnels to upper levels at each concourse.
• Wheelchair users or those needing assistance can request help from airport staff.
• The walkways are flat and suitable for all mobility levels.

TPA Pro Tip: If your gate is just one concourse away, walking can be just as fast as waiting for the Plane Train – especially during peak times.

ATL Ground Transportation Before Security – Airport Shuttle Bus

Not all travelers can remain inside security during their terminal transfer at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). 

If you are connecting between flights on separate tickets, switching from an international to a domestic carrier, or need to check bags at a different terminal, you will likely need to use the airport shuttle bus system.

This service connects the Domestic Terminal and the International Terminal on the landside, meaning it operates outside of security.

Where To Catch The Shuttle Bus

From the Domestic Terminal:

• Exit the baggage claim area through doors W1 or W2
• Follow the signs for Ground Transportation
• Look for the designated shuttle pick-up zone

From the International Terminal:

• Exit the arrivals level through doors A1 or A2
• The shuttle stop is clearly marked outside the terminal

ATL Shuttle Details

• The shuttle runs every 15 minutes, though it may arrive sooner during peak travel times
• The ride between terminals takes about 12 minutes
• This is a free service offered by ATL
• Shuttles are accessible to passengers with mobility needs and can accommodate luggage
• Seating is available, and standing space is provided if the shuttle is full

Who Should Use The Airport Shuttle

• Travelers arriving via MARTA (the airport’s rail service) and departing from the International Terminal
• Passengers switching terminals for check-in
• Those connecting on separate tickets with airlines that operate from different terminals
• Anyone who must re-check bags or re-enter through a different security checkpoint

TPA Pro Tip: The shuttle is only available before security. Once you pass through security, you will use the Plane Train or the pedestrian tunnels to move between concourses.

ATL Ground Transportation After Security – Airside Transfer Options

Once you have passed through security at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), getting around becomes much easier. 

Inside the secure area – also known as airside – you have two main options for moving between concourses: the Plane Train and the pedestrian tunnels.

These methods allow passengers to reach any gate within the airport without exiting and re-entering security. This is especially helpful for domestic-to-domestic or domestic-to-international connections on the same itinerary.

What You Cannot Do Airside

• You cannot access the Domestic Terminal from the International Terminal without exiting and using the landside shuttle
• You cannot take a taxi or rideshare from inside security
• You cannot check in bags once you are inside the secure area – you must check luggage before security

TPA Pro Tip: If you are unsure of your gate, head to your assigned concourse first, then check the flight monitors for updates. The Plane Train makes it easy to backtrack if needed.

Navigating The Domestic Terminal At ATL

The Domestic Terminal at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is located on the western end of the airport. It is the main hub for most U.S.-based airlines and serves millions of travelers every year. 

Despite the crowds, the layout is simple and easy to follow – especially if you know where your airline operates.

Domestic Terminal: North vs. South

The Domestic Terminal is split into two sides:

Domestic Terminal North:

• Home to Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, Spirit Airlines, JetBlue, and Alaska Airlines
• Features its own check-in counters, baggage claim, and security checkpoint
• United Airlines has a dedicated baggage claim area on the ground level, accessible via elevators and escalators

Domestic Terminal South:

• Primarily used by Delta Air Lines
• Includes curbside check-in, Delta ticket counters, and a large baggage claim area
• Also has a separate security checkpoint and easy access to Concourse T

In the center of the terminal sits the atrium, a shared public space with shops, restaurants, and airport services. This atrium connects both the North and South sides of the terminal.

Security Checkpoints And Entry To Concourse T

There are three security checkpoints in the Domestic Terminal:

• Main Checkpoint: Located in the atrium; the busiest and largest
• North Checkpoint: Closer to Southwest and United ticket counters
• South Checkpoint: Convenient for Delta passengers

After clearing security, you will enter Concourse T, which is part of the Domestic Terminal itself. From there, you can walk to your gate or take the Plane Train to reach other concourses.

Gate Numbering And Layout Tips

Gates in Concourse T are labeled T1 to T21

• Gates T1 to T8 are on the right
• Gates T9 to T21 are on the left

Every concourse entry is located at the midpoint, with gates branching off in both directions

• Odd-numbered gates are generally on the eastern side
• Even-numbered gates are on the western side

Each concourse is about half a mile long, so it takes around 5 minutes to walk from the midpoint to the farthest gate

TPA Pro Tip: If you are flying Delta, use the South security checkpoint for quicker access to your gate in Concourse T or beyond.

ATL Concourses T–F: What To Expect And How to Connect

After you pass through security at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), you will enter one of the seven main concourses: T, A, B, C, D, E, or F. 

These concourses are connected by the Plane Train and underground walkways, making transfers smooth and straightforward. 

Below is a full breakdown of each concourse to help you plan your route.

Concourse T

Concourse T is the only concourse directly connected to the Domestic Terminal. It is the entry point for most domestic travelers who clear security at the Domestic Terminal. 

Several major U.S. airlines operate from here, and it offers a convenient starting point for connections deeper into the airport.

• Location: Adjacent to the Domestic Terminal
• Gates: T1 to T21
• Major Airlines: Delta, United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Southwest Airlines, WestJet
• Lounge: Delta Sky Club near gate T6
• Connection Tip: Walk to gates or take the Plane Train to other concourses

Concourse A

As one of the main Delta hubs at ATL, Concourse A handles a high volume of domestic traffic. 

It is well-equipped with lounges, shops, and quick dining options. The concourse is busy but highly efficient, with two Delta Sky Clubs and an XpresSpa in the central area.

• Location: One stop from Concourse T via Plane Train
• Gates: A1 to A34
• Major Airlines: Delta
• Lounges: Delta Sky Club near gate A17, Delta Sky Club in the central area
• Services: XpresSpa, fast food, convenience shops
• Connection Tip: Use the Plane Train or walk from T or B

Concourse B

Another Delta-dominated concourse, Concourse B offers more gates and similar amenities to Concourse A. 

It is a popular transfer point for Delta connections and includes services like Minute Suites and a spa. Expect busy hallways and lots of travelers heading to and from short-haul domestic flights.

• Location: Between Concourses A and C
• Gates: B1 to B36 (not sequential)
• Major Airlines: Delta, Alaska Airlines
• Lounges: Delta Sky Club near gate B18
• Services: Minute Suites (B16 and B24), Be Relax Spa
• Connection Tip: Use the Plane Train or walk from A or C

Concourse C

Concourse C features a mix of Delta and other domestic carriers. 

It is known for its broad gate layout and useful amenities. Like A and B, it is accessible by Plane Train or walkway, and it is designed for quick access to domestic gates.

• Location: Between Concourses B and D
• Gates: C1 to C55 (non-sequential)
• Major Airlines: Delta, Southwest Airlines
• Lounge: Delta Sky Club near gate C37
• Services: XpresSpa, restaurants, coffee shops
• Connection Tip: Ideal for short-haul domestic flights

Concourse D

Concourse D handles a variety of domestic and smaller international flights. 

This concourse serves multiple carriers and features two Delta Sky Clubs. It is one of the longest concourses and includes both gates and amenities on each end.

• Location: Between Concourses C and E
• Gates: D1 to D46 (includes D1A)
• Major Airlines: American Airlines, Delta, United Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Frontier Airlines
• Lounges: Delta Sky Club near D12 and D27
• Services: XpresSpa, snack bars, convenience kiosks
• Connection Tip: Allow extra time to walk due to longer layout

Concourse E

Concourse E supports many international departures and arrivals. It features premium lounges and long-haul gate assignments. 

Whether arriving from the International Terminal or connecting domestically, you can access E by walking or using the Plane Train.

• Location: Adjacent to Concourse F on the east side
• Gates: E1 to E37 (non-sequential)
• Major Airlines: Delta, British Airways, Lufthansa, Korean Air, Air France, KLM
• Lounges: Delta Sky Club near E14, Centurion Lounge near E11
• Services: XpresSpa, Minute Suites near E26
• Connection Tip: 10-minute walk from Concourse F

Concourse F

Located within the International Terminal, Concourse F is the final stop on the Plane Train loop. It serves fewer gates but offers fast access to international security and customs processing. 

This concourse is sleek, modern, and designed for international arrivals and departures.

• Location: Easternmost point of the airport
• Gates: F1 to F14 (excluding F11 and F13)
• Major Airlines: Delta, British Airways, Lufthansa, Korean Air, Air France, KLM, Virgin Atlantic
• Lounge: Delta Sky Club on the mezzanine level
• Services: Dining and shopping on levels 2 and 3
• Connection Tip: Take elevator to level 0 for the Plane Train or walkway access

TPA Pro Tip: Gates are labeled by concourse. For example, B25 is in Concourse B. Always check gate numbers after security to plan your transfer path.

Flight Connections At ATL – Baggage, Security, And Customs

Making a connecting flight at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is usually smooth, thanks to the centralized layout of the airport and efficient transportation system. 

However, the process can vary depending on where you are coming from, where you are headed, and whether you have checked baggage.

Understanding the rules for baggage re-check, security clearance, and customs procedures can help you avoid delays and missed connections.

Domestic-To-Domestic Connections

If you are arriving on a domestic flight and connecting to another domestic flight:

• You do not need to collect your bags if they are checked through to your final destination
• You do not need to exit or re-clear security
• Simply check the monitors for your next gate and walk or take the Plane Train to the right concourse

TPA Pro Tip: This is the easiest connection scenario at ATL – ideal for travelers with carry-ons or through-checked luggage.

Domestic-To-International Connections

If you are connecting from a domestic flight to an international flight:

• You usually remain airside, with no need to clear security again
• Just head to your departure concourse, often E or F
• If you checked a bag, make sure it is tagged all the way to your final international destination at your first check-in

TPA Pro Tip: Not all domestic airlines can check your luggage to international destinations. Check with your airline when you first check in.

International-To-Domestic Connections

If you are arriving on an international flight and connecting to a domestic flight:

• You must go through U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• You will be required to collect your checked luggage, even if it is tagged through
• After customs, you will enter a special baggage re-check area where you drop off your bags again
• Then, you proceed through security screening and continue to your next gate using the Plane Train or walkway

TPA Pro Tip: Allow at least 90 minutes for international-to-domestic connections due to the customs and security steps.

International-To-International Connections

If you are connecting between two international flights:

• You will still need to clear U.S. customs
• You will be required to collect your checked baggage, then re-check it
• After customs, you must go through security again before heading to your next flight

TPA Pro Tip: Even if your bag is tagged to your final international destination, U.S. regulations require you to claim and re-check it after arriving at ATL.

Connecting Flights On Separate Tickets

If your next flight is on a separate itinerary (e.g., booked through a different airline or travel site):

• You may need to exit the secure area, especially if the second airline uses a different terminal
• You must collect and re-check your bags
• You will need to take the landside shuttle between terminals if switching from International to Domestic
• After check-in, go through security again before proceeding to your next gate

TPA Pro Tip: Separate ticket connections are riskier. Build in extra time, ideally 3+ hours, to avoid missed flights.

Accessibility And Special Assistance At ATL

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is designed to be fully accessible for all travelers, including those with mobility limitations, disabilities, or other special needs. 

Whether you are using a wheelchair, traveling with a service animal, or navigating the airport with a stroller, ATL offers a wide range of support services to make your journey smooth.

General Accessibility Features

• Elevators: Located at every terminal, concourse, and transportation level, including access to level 0 for the Plane Train and pedestrian walkways
• Escalators and Ramps: Available throughout the airport for easy movement between levels
• Accessible Restrooms: Clearly marked and available throughout the terminals and concourses
• Visual and Audio Announcements: All gate and security areas feature clear signage and speaker announcements for important updates

Wheelchair And Mobility Assistance

• Wheelchair service is available by request through your airline – request it at least 48 hours before your flight if possible
• Curbside assistance is offered at both the Domestic and International Terminals
• Inside the concourses, airport staff can provide assistance with electronic carts or escorts
• The Plane Train has level boarding and wide entrances, making it ideal for travelers with wheelchairs or walking aids

Traveling With Children Or Medical Needs

• Stroller use is permitted throughout the airport and in TSA security lanes
• Family restrooms and nursing rooms are available near gates and food courts
• Passengers with medical equipment can coordinate special screening procedures with TSA at security checkpoints
• Service animals are allowed, and pet relief areas are available both inside and outside the secure area

TPA Pro Tip: If you need help after arriving, go to the nearest information desk or use a white courtesy phone to contact airport assistance.

Final Thoughts

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is the busiest airport in the world, handling over 100 million passengers each year. Despite its massive size and heavy traffic, ATL is impressively efficient and easy to navigate when you understand its layout and transfer options. 

Whether you are connecting between domestic gates or moving from a domestic arrival to an international departure, the airport’s smart design keeps most connections within reach.

The key to success at ATL is preparation. 

Knowing which terminal your airline uses, whether you need to re-check luggage, and how to reach your next gate can save you time and stress. 

The Plane Train is your fastest option for most transfers, but walking the underground transportation mall can be just as effective for nearby concourses – and even enjoyable thanks to the ATL art installations. 

For travelers who need to move between the Domestic and International Terminals before security, the free shuttle bus provides reliable service every 15 minutes.

If you are traveling with children, using a wheelchair, or carrying medical equipment, ATL has thoughtful accessibility features across all terminals and concourses. 

And if your connection includes customs or baggage re-check, building in extra time will make your journey smoother.

In short, do not let the size of ATL or passenger numbers intimidate you. 

With a little planning and the right information, getting between terminals at ATL can be one of the easier parts of your trip.

Kevin Zanes