When traveling through San Francisco International Airport (SFO), choosing United Airlines offers travelers efficiency, convenience, and premium services. As United Airlines’ primary West Coast hub, SFO plays a vital role in connecting domestic and international flights. This comprehensive guide provides all the essential details about United Airlines operations at SFO, including terminal layout, check-in procedures, lounges, dining, and amenities for both casual and frequent travelers.
United Airlines Terminal at San Francisco Airport (SFO)
United Airlines operates from Terminal 3 and the International Terminal (Concourse G) at San Francisco International Airport.
- Terminal 3 handles domestic United flights.
- International Terminal G manages United’s international departures and arrivals.
Both terminals are seamlessly connected by AirTrain, walkways, and moving sidewalks, offering travelers easy and fast transfers between gates.
Domestic Departures: Terminal 3 Details
Concourse Layout and Gates
Terminal 3 is split into two concourses:
- Concourse E (Gates E1-E13)
- Concourse F (Gates F1-F22)
Concourse F is the main United Airlines hub for check-in, baggage drop, and security screening. Many United Club lounges and amenities are centered here.
Check-In and Baggage Services
Travelers flying domestically can access United Airlines check-in counters on the departure level of United Airlines SFO Terminal, just outside Concourse F. Self-service kiosks are widely available for:
- Baggage tag printing
- Boarding passes
- Same-day flight changes
United Premier Access counters are provided for MileagePlus Premier members, Star Alliance Gold passengers, and business/first-class travelers.
International Departures: International Terminal (Concourse G)
United Airlines’ international operations are housed in Concourse G of the International Terminal.
Gates and Destinations
- Gates G91-G102 are typically used for international flights.
- Flights include routes to Asia, Europe, South America, and Australia.
Customs and Immigration
International arrivals at Concourse G go through CBP (Customs and Border Protection) processing. United Global Services and Premium passengers have expedited clearance options.
Check-In and Lounge Access
United international check-in desks are available in Aisle 5 of the International Terminal. Passengers traveling in United Polaris, Business Class, or holding Star Alliance Gold status receive priority access through designated check-in and security lanes.
United Airlines Lounges at SFO
United Club Locations
- Terminal 3, Concourse E (near Gate E4)
- Terminal 3, Concourse F (near Gate F11)
- International Terminal, Concourse G (near Gate G98)
United Club lounges offer complimentary snacks, beverages, high-speed Wi-Fi, private workspaces, and customer service desks for flight assistance.
United Polaris Lounge
Located in the International Terminal G, the Polaris Lounge caters exclusively to long-haul business class travelers. Features include:
- Restaurant-style dining
- Shower suites
- Quiet zones with recliners
- Premium wine and cocktail service
This premium lounge is a significant highlight of United’s upscale international offering from SFO.
Dining and Shopping
Terminal 3 offers a wide range of dining options, including:
- Amy’s Drive Thru – vegetarian and organic fast food
- Boudin Bakery Café – famous for San Francisco sourdough
- Burger Joint – gourmet burgers and fries
- Starbucks, Napa Farms Market, and other snack counters
Duty-Free and Shopping
Concourse F and G feature high-end shopping experiences, with retailers such as:
- Burberry
- Coach
- DFS Duty-Free
- Newsstands and tech stores for travel essentials
Family-Friendly and Accessibility Services
Kids’ Play Area
Terminal 3 has a Kids’ Spot play area at Concourse E, designed to keep young travelers entertained.
Nursing Rooms and Family Restrooms
Clean and private nursing suites are located throughout Terminal 3 and the International Terminal. Family restrooms are conveniently placed near every gate.
Mobility Assistance
United provides wheelchair services, elevators, and ADA-compliant facilities in all its SFO terminals. For assistance, passengers should request mobility support during booking or at check-in.
Connectivity and Transfers Between Terminals
AirTrain
The AirTrain Blue Line connects Terminal 3 to all other terminals, including the International Terminal and the BART station (Bay Area Rapid Transit). It’s free, automated, and operates 24/7.
Walking Path
A pedestrian corridor connects Terminal 3 and International Terminal G airside, making it easy to walk between domestic and international gates without re-clearing security.
Parking Options
United passengers can access:
- Domestic Garage (closest to Terminal 3)
- International Garage G for international departures
Premium parking, EV charging stations, and long-term economy options are available. Real-time availability is shown on the SFO Parking app or website.
Ground Transportation
Ride-Share and Taxis
Designated Lyft, Uber, and taxi pickup zones are located on the departures level at United Airlines San Francisco Airport Terminal. Curbside signage makes navigation easy.
Public Transit
- BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) connects SFO to San Francisco, Oakland, and beyond.
- SamTrans buses also provide access to surrounding areas.
Rental Car Center
Reachable by AirTrain Blue Line, the SFO Rental Car Center offers all major car rental agencies with fast shuttle service.
Premium Services and Enhancements
United Polaris Services
Business travelers using United Polaris can access:
- Lie-flat seats
- Priority security and boarding
- Private Polaris check-in lobbies
- Elevated dining in Polaris Lounges
Premier Access
United’s Premier Access includes:
- Exclusive check-in counters
- Dedicated TSA PreCheck lines
- Early boarding
These benefits are available to MileagePlus Premier members and premium cabin travelers.
Conclusion
Navigating United Airlines’ operations at San Francisco International Airport is seamless, efficient, and designed for every type of traveler. Whether you’re flying domestically from Terminal 3 or internationally from Concourse G, you can expect premium services, world-class lounges, and convenient terminal amenities. United Airlines’ expansive presence at SFO ensures travelers experience the best of comfort, innovation, and connectivity.
