Buzz
At Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, one of the busiest and most renowned airports in the world, getting to the Plane Train – the automated transit system that shuttles passengers between terminals – can be a bit intimidating. This efficient system ensures swift travel across terminals, making it especially useful for first-time travelers or those with tight connections who need to get to their gates quickly. While it's most straightforward to access the Plane Train from the Main Terminal (where the escalators to the train are just past the Security Checkpoint), getting between terminals is easy with a little guidance. This guide will walk you through how to board the Plane Train and navigate to your gate with ease.
Instructions
Terminal Transfers
Disembark your plane (if you've just arrived on a connecting flight). Don't wander off too far.
- Once you're inside the terminal, airport staff can assist you in finding your gate. They’re familiar with both your current location and where you need to go, even if you’ve missed the Plane Train's path.
Check the terminal letter and gate number for your flight. Depending on your arrival, you could be at gates T, A, B, C, D, E (from west to east) or a dedicated International Terminal, which is only accessible by a walkway. Your gate will also have a specific number assigned.
- Some airline apps will directly tell you the gate you’ve arrived at, but it's equally simple to look around and figure out the terminal. Take a moment to step aside or sit down to assess, or ask an airline representative for assistance.
- Terminal maps are available in places like the T-terminal near baggage claim and various airport information desks, but you can also access these maps through the airport's app via Wi-Fi or your mobile data, which is convenient and easy to navigate.
Know your next gate in advance if you have a connecting flight. Before reaching the Plane Train walkway, you can often find current flight and gate details on the Departure boards. These are updated regularly and may be more accurate than the information on your ticket or boarding pass.
- Keep an eye on any gate changes while moving toward the Plane Train, as sometimes gates may change last-minute.
- Be prepared for potential delays or changes, but don’t stay in one spot for too long—especially if you have a short connection.
Walk briskly (but don't rush) through the terminal. The Plane Train in each terminal is located along a walkway about halfway between the terminal's entrance and the far end, so head toward it.
- Use any moving walkways available to speed up your walk if necessary, but keep a steady pace.
Arrive at the Plane Train walkway and check for direction signs. Depending on the terminal, signs will indicate which gates are served by the Plane Train in your direction, with the opposite direction serving the other concourses. Look for the classic "P" signs above the doors leading you downstairs.
- Near the escalators (often by a small shop or a well-known restaurant), many passengers check their flight details.
- If you need an elevator, follow the signs pointing you toward it, and it will lead you around the bend toward the proper terminal. The signs will be either overhead or around the opposite escalator, so be sure to look carefully.
Take the escalator down. If others are moving faster than you, make sure to stand to one side.
- Passengers with mobility challenges or large carry-on bags may need to use elevators, which are located near most escalators.
Head towards the double doors leading to the Plane Train.
- The Plane Trains run every couple of minutes, so if one isn’t there yet, another will arrive shortly. The system operates continuously, so there’s no need to rush.
Step onto the Plane Train. Walk briskly into the train, but avoid running for your safety.
- Make sure to hold onto the handrails and move clear of the doors before they close.
Be mindful of others on the train. Don’t push or rush past people, whether or not you have carry-on baggage. Move carefully through the train to find a spot where you can stand comfortably.
Don’t stress about finding a seat. The Plane Train trip between terminals usually takes less than two minutes, though some stretches may take a bit longer due to additional stops. There are no seats on the train, so just hold onto the overhead bars and enjoy the ride. Listen for the calm voice overhead. Her soothing announcements will inform you of the terminal you are approaching. Even though the train is moving forward, it may feel like you’re gliding sideways between terminals.
Exit at your destination terminal. Avoid rushing to get off with the crowd if people are pushing or trying to squeeze past you. Find a spot where there aren’t many people moving before you step off.
- Once you reach the terminal, follow the hallways and take the escalators to your gate.
- Be considerate of your fellow passengers. Let them exit before you, unless you’re blocking the line or need to step aside to let others pass.
From the Main Terminal
Locate your gate as soon as you arrive at the airport. If you're in the T terminal, there's no need to worry about the Plane Train since you’ll already be in the heart of the terminal. For other terminals, look up at the boards in the Atrium as you enter to check your gate assignments. Although your ticket offers some details, the most accurate and up-to-date information can be found on the screens or via your airline’s app.
Pass through the Security Checkpoints. You’ll need to clear both the main and north/south checkpoints before you can proceed. If you're flying out of the T terminal, you don’t have to travel far after security as your gate will be on either side of the main checkpoint. To avoid the Plane Train, use the North or South security checkpoints and you can head directly to your gate.
Take the escalators or elevators down. Move aside if others are trying to get by quickly.
- If you need an elevator, follow the signs directing you toward it. The signs may be overhead or located near the opposite escalator, so pay attention to the directions accordingly.
Head towards the double doors leading to the Plane Train.
- Plane Trains arrive every one to two minutes, so if one isn’t there right away, it won’t be long before the next one arrives.
Step onto the Plane Train. Enter the train quickly, but avoid running—even if the train is empty.
Be considerate of others inside the train. Avoid pushing or shoving, and move carefully to find a safe spot to stand.
Don't worry about finding a seat. There are no seats on the Plane Train. Hold onto the overhead bars while the train moves. While it may feel like you're moving sideways, the train is traveling forward between terminals.
Exit at your destination terminal. Don’t rush to exit with the crowd if others are pushing or trying to move around you. Find a clear space to exit the train calmly.
- Once off the train, follow the hallways and take the escalators to your gate.
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Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport serves as the corporate hub for Delta Airlines, as well as its maintenance facility. If you didn’t spot the "Fly Delta Jets" or "Fly Delta Air" signage upon arrival, you’ll likely see it when departing, especially if you're sitting on the same side of the plane. Delta's corporate address is 1030 Delta Blvd, located just north of the airport.
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In the airport, the term 'concourses' is used to refer to the terminals, even though they’re all on a single level. Don't be confused by this term, as it simply means different areas within the same floor.
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Though Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International serves many airlines, Delta is by far the most prominent. As the airline's headquarters is based at this airport, you'll notice Delta terminals in abundance throughout the facility.
Important Reminders
- As you navigate the hallways, they might feel like they go on forever. Stay patient!
- Keep a close eye on your luggage while making your way through the crowded hallways to the Plane Train. This airport can get really busy.
