United Airlines SFO Terminal

When flying with United Airlines from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), it’s essential to understand terminal details to ensure a smooth, stress-free travel experience. As the airline’s major West Coast hub, United Airlines operates extensively from SFO, offering both domestic and international connections.

This guide offers everything you need to know about United Airlines' terminal at SFO, including terminal layout, check-in procedures, lounge access, parking options, transportation, dining, shopping, and more.

United Airlines Terminal at SFO: Terminal 3 and the International Terminal (Concourse G)

United Airlines operates primarily from Terminal 3 and the International Terminal (Concourse G) at San Francisco International Airport.

• Terminal 3 is exclusively used for domestic United Airlines flights.
• Concourse G in the International Terminal is designated for United’s international departures and arrivals, along with some domestic long-haul flights.

Terminal 3 Overview

Terminal 3 is modern, efficient, and well-equipped to handle thousands of passengers daily. It is divided into:

• Concourse E
• Concourse F

Each concourse is connected by a secure walkway, allowing easy transfers without exiting the security zone. Automated walkways, digital displays, and high-speed Wi-Fi ensure convenience and accessibility throughout.

Check-In and Security Information

United Airlines Check-In Areas

Check-in for United Airlines flights at SFO is available in:

• Terminal 3 Main Hall – for domestic flights.
• International Terminal, Aisle 7 – for international flights.

Passengers can choose from:

• Full-service counters
• Self-service kiosks
• United’s bag drop system (for those who’ve checked in online)

To speed up the process, travelers are encouraged to check in online or via the United mobile app up to 24 hours before departure.

Security Checkpoints

Terminal 3 features efficient TSA security checkpoints with options for:

• Standard screening
• TSA PreCheck
• CLEAR lanes

Security lines can get long during peak hours (early mornings and late afternoons), so early arrival is strongly advised:

• Domestic flights: Arrive at least 2 hours before departure.
• International flights: Arrive at least 3 hours in advance.

United Club and Polaris Lounge Access

United Club Locations

United Club lounges at SFO provide a quiet and luxurious environment for eligible travelers:

• Terminal 3, Concourse E (near Gate E4)
• Terminal 3, Concourse F (near Gate F11)
• International Terminal, near Gate G6

These lounges offer:

• Complimentary snacks and beverages
• Comfortable seating and power outlets
• Free high-speed Wi-Fi
• Business centers and reading materials

United Polaris Lounge

Exclusively available to Polaris Business Class passengers and Star Alliance long-haul First Class travelers, the United Polaris Lounge is located in Concourse G of the International Terminal. It offers:

• Premium buffet and à la carte dining
• Quiet suites with daybeds
• Shower suites with spa-like amenities
• Full-service bars and personalized service

Baggage Claim and Ground Transportation

Baggage Claim Areas

• Domestic United flights: Claim baggage in Terminal 3, lower level.
• International United flights: Claim baggage in International Terminal, Arrivals Hall.

Real-time baggage tracking is available through the United mobile app.

Ground Transportation Options

SFO offers multiple ground transportation choices:

• Ride-shares (Uber, Lyft): Pickup locations are clearly marked outside baggage claim.
• Taxis: Available curbside, with uniformed dispatchers for assistance.
• Rental cars: Access via AirTrain Blue Line to the Rental Car Center.
• Public transit (BART): The SFO BART station is accessible from the International Terminal G.

Terminal Transfers and AirTrain System

If you need to move between terminals, the AirTrain is your best option. It's a free, automated people mover that runs 24/7 and connects:

• All SFO terminals
• Parking garages
• Rental Car Center
• Grand Hyatt hotel

The Red Line services all terminals in a clockwise loop every 4–5 minutes, while the Blue Line adds access to the Rental Car Center.

Dining and Shopping Options

Restaurants at Terminal 3 and International Terminal

SFO offers a diverse culinary selection. Notable dining options include:

• Bun Mee – Vietnamese street food
• Napa Farms Market – organic and local California fare
• Yankee Pier – seafood-focused sit-down meals
• Amy's Drive Thru – vegetarian and vegan fast-casual options
• Peet’s Coffee and Starbucks – multiple locations for your caffeine fix

Many restaurants offer mobile ordering via the SFO website or app, saving time for travelers on the go.

Retail and Duty-Free Shopping

United Airlines SFO Terminal and Concourse G offer a mix of high-end and essential stores:

• Burberry
• DFS Duty-Free
• Marilla Chocolate Company
• Books Inc.
• Tech on the Go

These shops make it easy to grab last-minute gifts, electronics, reading material, or travel essentials.

Parking and Accessibility

Parking Options at SFO

• Terminal Parking Garages A & G: Located directly across from the International Terminal.
• Domestic Parking Garage: Best for Terminal 3.
• Long-Term Parking: Connected via AirTrain Blue Line.

Parking can be reserved in advance via the official SFO website, often at a discounted rate. Electric vehicle charging stations are available in all major garages.

Accessibility Services

United Airlines and SFO offer comprehensive accessibility support:

• Wheelchair assistance
• TTY phones
• Accessible restrooms and elevators
• Service animal relief areas

Contact United’s accessibility desk at least 48 hours in advance to ensure personalized assistance.

Travel Tips for United Passengers at SFO

• Download the United app: for boarding passes, flight updates, baggage tracking, and lounge access.
• Arrive early, especially for international or early morning flights.
• Take advantage of CLEAR and TSA PreCheck to breeze through security.
• Use mobile food ordering to skip dining lines.
• Check AirTrain routes before terminal transfers to avoid delays.

Final Thoughts

Flying with United Airlines at SFO offers a premium travel experience backed by modern infrastructure, world-class lounges, and efficient operations. With a well-organized terminal layout, rich dining choices, and easy connections, SFO continues to be a cornerstone of United’s West Coast operations.