SFO International Terminal (A & G) Guide

Terminal Overview

SFO’s International Terminal is the airport’s main hub for international departures and arrivals, split into two concourses: A Gates and G Gates. You’ll also see a mix of international and a few select domestic/international operations depending on airline schedules, with many Star Alliance carriers using the terminal—especially on the G side. If you’re flying long-haul, arriving from abroad, or connecting internationally, this is the terminal you’ll most likely use.

One of the biggest perks here is the overall passenger experience: the terminal is built around a large central hall with lots of natural light, clear signage, and a solid lineup of shops, food, and lounges. It’s also the easiest terminal at SFO for public transit access because the BART station is directly connected, making downtown San Francisco and the East Bay straightforward without a car.

Airlines & Destinations

  • G Gates (many long-haul international carriers): Common operators include Air Canada, Air China, Air India, Air New Zealand, ANA, Asiana, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, SWISS, TAP Air Portugal, Turkish Airlines, EVA Air, Japan Airlines, Emirates, plus United on many international routes.
  • A Gates: A mix of international carriers (often including Europe-bound service) and some airline-specific operations that can vary by season and schedule.

Key destinations from this terminal typically include major hubs in Asia (Tokyo, Seoul, Singapore, Taipei, Hong Kong), Europe (London, Frankfurt, Zurich, Paris, Istanbul, Lisbon), Oceania (Auckland, Sydney/seasonal depending on carrier), plus Canada and India. Always verify your concourse (A vs G) on your boarding pass or the SFO screens—some airlines can shift gates day-to-day.

  • Star Alliance: Strong presence (e.g., United, ANA, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, SWISS, Turkish, Air New Zealand, TAP, Air Canada).
  • SkyTeam / Oneworld: Present via select international partners depending on schedule and operating terminal assignments.

Layout & Navigation

The International Terminal is organized with a central ticketing/check-in area and two separate concourses: Concourse A and Concourse G. After check-in, you’ll pass through security checkpoints leading into your concourse’s airside gate area. Once airside, the gate corridors are linear and easy to follow, with amenities clustered near the busier central sections rather than at the far ends.

  • Security: Expect dedicated checkpoints for the International Terminal; queue times swing heavily by the late afternoon/evening long-haul departure banks.
  • Walking: Plan roughly 5–10 minutes to get from central concourse areas to mid-range gates, and 10–15+ minutes if you’re assigned a far-end gate (especially if you stop for food or duty-free).

Connecting to other terminals: Pre-security, the free AirTrain runs 24/7 and links all terminals, parking, and rental cars (trains every few minutes, in two directions). Post-security, SFO has been adding more airside connectors—notably a connection between Terminal 3 (United) and the International Terminal G side, which can save time if you’re connecting between United domestic and United/international flights without re-clearing security (when access is open and your itinerary allows).

Amenities & Services

  • Lounges: The International Terminal hosts several of SFO’s most-used lounges, including options associated with major international airlines and alliances (for example, Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge in the International complex, and other partner/contract lounges that serve multiple carriers). Access rules vary—check your cabin, status, or credit card benefits before you arrive.
  • Food & shopping: You’ll find a strong mix of fast-casual and sit-down spots, plus duty-free and travel essentials. The best concentration is typically near the main concourse spines rather than the far gate ends—grab what you need before walking all the way down to a quiet gate.
  • Business needs: Plenty of seating clusters for laptop work, with charging often easiest to find near café seating and along wall-side counters. If you need a guaranteed quiet work zone, lounges are the most reliable option.
  • Family amenities: Look for family restrooms and nursing/mother’s rooms within the terminal complex, plus stroller-friendly wide corridors that make it easier than some older terminals.
  • Accessibility: Elevators, accessible restrooms, and step-free paths are standard throughout. If you’re connecting between concourses or terminals, AirTrain is also accessible and tends to be simpler than long walks with bags.

There’s also an SFO Medical Clinic in the International Terminal area, which can be a lifesaver if you need urgent (non-emergency) help while traveling.

Practical Tips

  • Best areas for a long layover: Stay near the central sections of A or G after security—more food options, better seating turnover, and easier access to restrooms and shops.
  • Quietest spots: Walk toward the farther gate ends (away from the main crossroads). These areas are often calmer between departure waves, especially midday.
  • Power outlets: Your best bet is to scout seating zones near cafés and along the walls; if you see counter-style seating, it often has more consistent access to plugs than random gate seats.
  • WiFi: SFO offers free airport WiFi. Connect to the airport’s network and follow the prompts—if it feels slow during peak hours, moving closer to a central seating area often helps.

If you’re arriving internationally and connecting onward, build in extra buffer for immigration, baggage recheck, and security. SFO can be efficient, but the international arrival rushes can stack up quickly—especially in the afternoon and early evening.