Photo by Taylen Lundequam on PexelsHow long do I need for a layover at San Francisco International (SFO)?
We recommend at least 1 hour for a comfortable connection at San Francisco International. The minimum connection time is 60 minutes for domestic flights and 90 minutes for international flights. Transit between terminals takes up to 30 minutes.
What is the minimum connection time at SFO?
Domestic-to-Domestic: 60 min. Domestic-to-International: 75 min. International-to-Domestic: 60 min. International-to-International: 90 min. These are the shortest layovers airlines will sell at San Francisco International.
Is SFO easy to connect through?
SFO is United's largest hub and works well for international-to-domestic connections thanks to a large international terminal, but domestic-to-domestic connections often require exiting security and re-screening in a different terminal. Layout is spread across four main terminal buildings connected by an elevated AirTrain, so allow extra time if your connection changes terminals. The AirTrain Red and Blue lines circle the terminal complex on an elevated guideway, with each hop taking about 5-8 minutes plus waiting time. Most domestic-to-domestic connections require leaving the secure area, riding the AirTrain, and clearing TSA security again in the new terminal, while many international arrivals can connect to United domestic flights via a sterile corridor without re-clearing security.
Is 30 minutes enough for a layover at SFO?
Too tight unless staying within the same boarding area with no security re-clear. See full 30 min guide →
Is 45 minutes enough for a layover at SFO?
Workable only if both flights are in the same terminal and no security re-screening is needed. See full 45 min guide →
Is 1 hour enough for a layover at SFO?
Meets SFO's standard domestic-domestic minimum connect time under normal conditions. See full 1 hr guide →
Is 1 hour 15 min enough for a layover at SFO?
Comfortable for domestic-international connections including AirTrain transfer and security. See full 1¼ hr guide →
Is 1½ hours enough for a layover at SFO?
Solid buffer for most terminal changes and standard security wait times. See full 1½ hr guide →
Is 2 hours enough for a layover at SFO?
Very comfortable, covers peak security delays and slow AirTrain waits. See full 2 hr guide →
Is 2½ hours enough for a layover at SFO?
Generous buffer well beyond any realistic SFO connection scenario. See full 2½ hr guide →
Is 3 hours enough for a layover at SFO?
More than enough time to relax, eat, or shop between flights. See full 3 hr guide →
Is 4 hours enough for a layover at SFO?
Excess time; consider lounge access or a quick BART trip into the city if truly needed. See full 4 hr guide →