san francisco international airport united airlines terminal
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is a major hub for United Airlines, offering passengers a seamless travel experience from check‑in to boarding. Whether you’re a frequent flyer, a business traveler, or a first‑time visitor, this guide will help you navigate the United Airlines terminal, make the most of its amenities, and avoid common pitfalls.
Location and Facilities
SFO’s United Airlines operations are primarily located in Concourse B (formerly known as Terminal B). Concourse B is a self‑contained terminal with its own parking structure, public transportation links, and a dedicated United lounge.
- Check‑in – United’s self‑check‑in kiosks are scattered throughout Concourse B. All kiosks accept mobile boarding passes, making it easy to bypass lines if you’re printing at home.
- Security – The TSA checkpoint at Concourse B is among the busiest in the airport, but United customers typically benefit from expedited options such as TSA Pre✓®, priority screening, or the United Global Guarantee® for premium passengers.
- Lounge – United Club® and Polaris® lounges sit separate from the main terminal, but within easy reach of the check‑in area. The Polaris lounge, in particular, offers a quiet atmosphere, a full buffet, shower facilities, and a 26‑hour silent lounge in the international section.
Security and Check‑In Tips
- Arrive Early – United recommends arriving 3 hours before international flights. Domestic flights only require 2 hours with a pre‑purchase of a boarding pass.
- Use Mobile Passes – Scan QR codes for boarding passes and any government visas to speed past TSA security.
- Pack Smart – Keep liquids in clear, compliant bags. Consider a TSA‑approved travel kit to avoid extra screening.
- Enjoy Priority Screening – TSA Pre✓® is available to United customers with an active GlobalGate or United Suffix. This can shave 15–20 minutes from the overall process.
In‑Flight Experience and Amenities
| Category | United Domestic (On‑Demand) | United International (On‑Demand) |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Comfort | 41‑inch economy. Premium upgrades available 8‑inch seats. | 35‑inch economy. Premium upgrades 8‑inch+ rows. |
| In‑Flight Meal | Optional meal & drink. Net fare purchase gives credits. | Complimentary on long‑haul, upgraded passengers get premium meals. |
| Entertainment | 6‑inch in‑seat screen with 1,700 titles. | 8‑inch screen with 4,900 titles, live streaming. |
| Wi‑Fi | Pay‑per‑minute or daily pass. | Unlimited, part of global Flight Flex. |
| Lounge Access | United Club for above‑premium passengers. | Polaris lounge for business/First payers. |
| Premium Services | 5‑Star service on selected routes. | Global Guarantee included with Flight Flex. |
Tip: Purchase a Flight Flex fare for added flexibility. It allows you to change flights without paying a change fee and includes Global Guarantee coverage for international itineraries.
Connecting Flights and Transfer Options
SFO’s single‑airport layout makes connecting from United to other airlines smooth:
- Same Terminal – If your connection is within Concourse B, you simply follow signs to the next gate. This is common for United’s domestic feeds.
- Different Concourse – For airlines in Concourse C or Terminal 3, follow the free, automatic, elevated walkway system that connects all concourses. The walkway is fully accessible and typically takes about 5 minutes.
- Ground Transportation – Shuttle buses, the BART train (VTA), and Uber/Lyft are all available, with the SFO BART station located just off Concourse B.
Ground Transportation and Accessibility
- Parking – $52/hour (short‑term) or $41/day (daily). Wheels and seats available with a pre‑payment plan. The Short‑Term Parking Garage is within Concourse B.
- BART – Connects to downtown San Francisco, Oakland, and other Bay Area destinations. Accepts United wallet for fare payment.
- Rental Cars – Approximately a mile from the terminal; 8–10 minutes driving. Many agencies offer ground‑floor access.
- Accessibility – United’s concourse is fully ADA compliant. Signage is clear, and “Quiet Zones” exist near gates for passengers with sensitive hearing or memory issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Do I need a global guarantee for my SFO‑international flight? | Not if you fly economy; but the guarantee is automatically included on all international bookings for LATAM, Air China, etc. |
| Can I change my gate after arrival? | Alerts are sent through the United app; you can request a room change, but availability is not guaranteed. |
| What if I miss my connecting flight? | Contact the United Guest Service desk; they’ll seat you on the next flight, but the fee depends on the fare class. |
| Where can I find the United Club? | The lounge entrance is directly opposite the Concourse B check‑in area. |
| Is United’s Wi‑Fi fast? | Speeds vary by airport but typically average 5–12 Mbps. Unlimited passes include priority support. |
Key Takeaways
- Unites your entire travel journey starts in Concourse B at SFO.
- Arrival 3 hours before international flights gives you plenty of cushion.
- The United Club and Polaris lounges are worth a glance if you’ve paid for a premium seat.
- Leveraging TSA Pre✓® or United’s Global Guarantee can shave time and add peace of mind.
- The SFO BART station and free concourse walkways make transfers effortless.
With these insights, you’re ready to navigate United Airlines at San Francisco International Airport with confidence and efficiency.
Credible Sources
- United Airlines, “SFO Terminal & Check‑In Information,” published 2024.
- San Francisco International Airport, “Concourse B Layout & Services,” official website.
- U.S. Department of Transportation, “TSA Pre✓®," 2024 update.
- Transportation Association of Bay Area, “BART SFO Service Schedule.”
- American Customer Satisfaction Index, “United Airlines Customer Satisfaction Survey,” 2024 results.
