Get Information About United Airlines San Francisco Airport Terminal

june martin

July 28, 2025

Table of Content

When flying with United Airlines from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), it’s essential to know where you’re going, what services are available, and how to navigate the terminals seamlessly. Terminal 3 at SFO is the primary hub for United Airlines’ domestic flights, offering state-of-the-art amenities, efficient services, and exceptional passenger experience.

Overview of What terminal is united airlines at SFO – United Airlines at SFO

Terminal 3 is exclusively operated by United Airlines and United Express, making it one of the busiest terminals at SFO. This modern terminal features two concourses: Concourse E and Concourse F, housing gates E1–E13 and F1–F22, respectively. It’s directly connected to the International Terminal (Terminal G) via a secure walkway, allowing easy access for international connections.

United Airlines utilizes Terminal 3 for the majority of its domestic flights, while some international flights depart from Terminal G. Thanks to the AirTrain system, passengers can move freely between terminals, parking garages, rental car centers, and other key locations within SFO.

Check-In and Ticketing Services

Travelers flying with United can check in at Terminal 3’s Departure Level, where they’ll find ample United Airlines check-in counters and self-service kiosks for faster processing. Premier Access counters are also available for MileagePlus Premier Members, United First, and Business Class passengers, ensuring a streamlined experience.

For digital-savvy passengers, United’s mobile app and website allow for mobile check-in, digital boarding passes, and baggage tracking – reducing wait times and enhancing convenience.

Security and TSA PreCheck

Terminal 3 at SFO is equipped with multiple TSA security checkpoints, including dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes that expedite the screening process for eligible travelers. Security checkpoints typically open at 4:00 AM and operate until the last departure of the day.

To further optimize your time, United offers Clear lanes and Premier Access security lines, making it one of the most efficient terminals for business and frequent travelers.

Terminal Layout and Gate Information

Terminal 3 consists of:

Concourse E (Gates E1–E13): Located closest to the terminal entrance, mainly for short-haul flights.
Concourse F (Gates F1–F22): Often used for longer domestic routes, premium services, and higher passenger volumes.

There is also a secure airside connection from Concourse F to the International Terminal (G gates), which enables travelers on international United flights to transfer without re-clearing security.

United Airlines Lounges

For passengers seeking luxury and relaxation, United Airlines offers multiple lounges within Terminal 3:

United Club – Concourse E and F

Location: Near Gates E4 and F11
Access: Available to United Club members, MileagePlus Premier Gold and above, Star Alliance Gold members, and eligible business class passengers.
Features: Comfortable seating, complimentary snacks, beverages, business amenities, and free Wi-Fi.

United Polaris Lounge – International Terminal G

Location: Near Gate G1, accessible via secure connector from Terminal 3
Access: Exclusive to long-haul international business class passengers
Features: Premium dining, shower suites, workspaces, and serene lounging areas.

Dining and Shopping Options

Terminal 3 is home to a wide range of award-winning restaurants, coffee shops, and retail stores. Whether you’re looking for a gourmet meal, a quick snack, or a last-minute souvenir, Terminal 3 has you covered.

Popular Restaurants

Boudin Bakery – San Francisco’s iconic sourdough sandwiches and soups.
Yankee Pier – A sit-down seafood restaurant showcasing fresh, local cuisine.
SF Uncork’d – Wine bar and tapas ideal for a relaxing pre-flight moment.
Starbucks and Peet’s Coffee – Widely available for quick coffee runs.

Retail Outlets

The Body Shop, Hudson News, Benefit Cosmetics, and Tumi offer everything from travel essentials to luxury skincare and accessories.

Technology and Traveler Amenities

Terminal 3 is one of the most technologically advanced terminals in the U.S., designed to enhance comfort and efficiency:

Free High-Speed Wi-Fi
Ample Charging Stations
Workstations and Quiet Zones
Hydration Stations for refilling water bottles
Interactive Wayfinding Kiosks for navigating the terminal

Travelers will also appreciate the Kids’ Spot play areas, nursing rooms, and pet relief zones, making Terminal 3 family- and pet-friendly.

Accessibility Services

SFO and United Airlines are committed to providing accessible travel for all passengers. Terminal 3 offers:

Wheelchair assistance
TDD phones
Visual paging systems
Accessible restrooms
Braille signage

Passengers can request additional assistance when booking flights or at any United service counter within the terminal.

Baggage Claim and Ground Transportation

Upon arrival, United Airlines passengers can retrieve their checked bags at the United Airlines San Francisco Airport Terminal baggage claim area, which is located on the Arrival Level. Clear signage and baggage carousel screens make the process seamless.

Ground Transportation Options

Rideshare Services (Uber, Lyft) pick up at Level 5 of the Domestic Parking Garage.
Taxis are available curbside.
Rental Cars can be accessed via the AirTrain Blue Line to the Rental Car Center.
BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) station is connected to the International Terminal, just a short walk via AirTrain from Terminal 3.
SamTrans and Caltrain shuttles also serve the airport for convenient access to the greater Bay Area.

Parking and Accessibility

Domestic Parking Garage G is the closest to Terminal 3, offering short-term and long-term parking options. Passengers can pre-book their parking online for discounts and guaranteed spots.

Accessible parking is clearly marked and available near elevator banks, and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are installed throughout the garage.

Connecting Flights

SFO is a major United Airlines hub, which makes connecting flights more efficient. If you’re connecting to an international flight, you may use the secure walkway from Terminal 3 to Terminal G. All gates are accessible airside, so you won’t need to exit and re-enter through security.

Connection times are optimized thanks to close proximity between gates, moving walkways, and United’s flight coordination systems. However, always allow adequate time, especially during peak travel hours.

Tips for a Smooth United Airlines Experience at SFO

Arrive at least 2 hours early for domestic flights and 3 hours for international.
Download the United App for real-time flight updates, digital boarding passes, and baggage tracking.
Use Clear, TSA PreCheck, or Premier Access if eligible, to breeze through security.
Check gate info frequently as gate changes can occur.

For frequent flyers, families, and business travelers alike, United Airlines Terminal 3 at SFO offers a streamlined, comfortable, and modern airport experience. With top-tier lounges, diverse dining options, efficient services, and accessible facilities, it’s no surprise that Terminal 3 continues to receive high marks from United passengers.

Meta Title: Get Infromation About United Airlines San Francisco Airport Terminal
Meta Description: Are you using San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to fly with United Airlines? This is what you should know. For domestic flights, United mainly uses Terminal 3, and for international flights, it uses the International Terminal (G gates).
Meta Tags: travel,