Overview of Sacramento International Airport
Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is the main airport in the Sacramento region and serves millions of passengers annually. Located approximately 10 miles northwest of downtown Sacramento, the airport is easily accessible from major highways and offers a variety of transportation options for travelers.
The airport has two terminals, Terminal A and Terminal B, as well as an extensive range of amenities and services for passengers. These include restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops, as well as business centers, ATMs, and currency exchange facilities.
Sacramento International Airport operates flights to various domestic and international destinations, including Mexico and Canada. The airport is served by several major airlines, such as Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines, among others.
Passengers traveling through the airport can enjoy a wide range of parking options, from short-term to long-term parking. There are also rental car services available at the airport, including several major rental car companies.
Overall, Sacramento International Airport offers a convenient and efficient travel experience for passengers, with excellent facilities and a wide range of services. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, the airport provides everything you need to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
Terminals at Sacramento International Airport
Sacramento International Airport has two terminals, named Terminal A and B.
Terminal A serves primarily Southwest Airlines, while Terminal B serves all other airlines, including Delta, American, United, and Alaska Airlines.
Both terminals offer a variety of services, including dining options, shopping, and free Wi-Fi.
Terminal A has a food court area with chains such as Starbucks, McDonald’s, and Burger King, while Terminal B has a wider range of restaurants, including local favorites such as Paesanos and Iron Horse Tavern.
In addition to food options, both terminals have a number of shops, including newsstands, bookstores, and gift shops.
Passengers can also take advantage of the airport’s free Wi-Fi, available throughout the terminals.
For travelers with disabilities or special needs, the airport offers a range of services, including wheelchair assistance and accessible parking.
Overall, Sacramento International Airport’s two terminals provide travelers with a range of amenities and services to make their journey as comfortable and convenient as possible.
Airlines and Destinations
Several major airlines operate from Sacramento International Airport, including American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Alaska Airlines.
American Airlines offers nonstop flights to Dallas/Fort Worth, Phoenix, and Chicago O’Hare, while Southwest Airlines serves destinations such as Las Vegas, Denver, and Los Angeles.
Delta Air Lines provides nonstop service to Salt Lake City, Seattle, and Atlanta, and United Airlines operates flights to Denver, San Francisco, and Chicago O’Hare.
Alaska Airlines offers nonstop service to Seattle, Portland, and San Diego.
International destinations include Guadalajara, Mexico through Volaris Airlines, as well as seasonal routes to Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta through Southwest Airlines.
It is important to note that airline routes and schedules are subject to change, so be sure to check with your airline for the most up-to-date information.
Transportation Options at Sacramento International Airport
Sacramento International Airport offers a variety of transportation options for travelers arriving and departing from the airport. One of the most convenient options is the airport shuttle service, which provides transportation to and from the airport to various locations throughout the city. The shuttle service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and can be booked in advance or on the day of arrival.
Car rentals are another popular transportation option at Sacramento International Airport. The airport has several car rental companies located on-site, including Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, and Budget. Travelers can easily reserve a rental car online before arriving at the airport or can rent a car upon arrival. Car rentals offer flexibility and convenience, especially for those who plan to travel outside the city during their stay.
For those who prefer a more budget-friendly option, the airport shuttle bus is a great choice. The Yolobus Shuttle Bus Service operates seven days a week between Sacramento International Airport and downtown Sacramento. The shuttle runs every hour, and the fare is affordable, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Train lines are also available at Sacramento International Airport, with the Regional Transit Light Rail system providing transportation to downtown Sacramento, as well as other cities and suburbs in the area. The light rail system is an efficient and eco-friendly way to travel, and fares are reasonable.
In addition to these transportation options, taxis and ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft are available at the airport. Taxis can be found outside the baggage claim area, while ride-hailing services have designated pick-up areas outside both terminals.
Overall, traveling to and from Sacramento International Airport is a breeze with the convenient transportation options available. Whether you prefer the flexibility of renting a car or the affordability of taking the shuttle bus, there’s something for everyone. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy your travels in Sacramento!
Parking Options at Sacramento International Airport
Sacramento International Airport offers various parking options to suit the needs of different travelers. For those who prefer convenience, the Terminal B garage is located just steps away from the terminal and offers covered parking. The rate for this garage is $2 for the first hour and $29 per day after that.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the Economy lot is a great choice. It’s just a short shuttle ride away from the terminal and costs $2 for the first hour, $10 for 1-24 hours, and $15 per day after that. The daily max rate is $15.
For longer trips, the daily/hourly surface lot is another option. The rate is $2 for the first hour, $18 per day after that with a daily max rate of $18. This lot is also a short shuttle ride away from the terminal.
Lastly, if you’re picking up or dropping off someone at the airport, there are designated areas in front of both terminals for this purpose. These areas are free for the first 30 minutes.
Overall, Sacramento International Airport offers a range of parking options to suit different needs and budgets. Be sure to plan ahead and choose the option that works best for you.
Check-In Procedures
At Sacramento International Airport, there are three ways to check-in for your flight: online, self-service kiosks, and traditional check-in counters.
Online check-in is available up to 24 hours before your departure time and can be done through the airline’s website or mobile app. This option allows passengers to select their seat, add baggage, and receive their boarding pass electronically.
Self-service kiosks are located throughout the terminal and provide a quick and efficient way to check-in for your flight. Passengers can scan their boarding pass or enter their confirmation number to retrieve their reservation, select their seat, and print their boarding pass.
For those who prefer the traditional method of checking in, there are several airline counters located in the terminal. Passengers can approach the counter and provide their identification and reservation information to the agent who will then print their boarding pass and assist with any additional needs such as checking baggage.
It is important to note that each airline may have specific check-in requirements and deadlines, so it is recommended that passengers arrive at least 90 minutes prior to their scheduled departure time to allow for ample time to complete the check-in process and pass through security.
Overall, Sacramento International Airport offers a variety of check-in options to ensure a smooth and efficient start to your journey.
Security Measures and Tips for a Smooth Check at Sacramento International Airport
Security at Sacramento International Airport is taken seriously to ensure the safety of all passengers. The airport uses advanced screening technology to detect potential threats. All passengers are required to go through the security checkpoint before boarding their flight.
To make the security process smoother, it is recommended that passengers arrive at the airport early, wear easily removable shoes and avoid wearing heavy jewelry or accessories that may trigger the metal detector. Additionally, travelers should pack liquids and gels in 3.4-ounce containers or smaller and place them in a clear plastic bag to expedite the screening process.
Passengers should also remove laptops and other electronic devices from their bags and place them in a separate bin. Lastly, travelers should calmly follow the instructions given by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers during the screening process to avoid any delays or issues.
Customs and Immigration at Sacramento International Airport
Arriving passengers at Sacramento International Airport will go through customs and immigration after they disembark from the plane. The first step is to follow the signs to passport control. You will then need to present your passport and any necessary travel documents to an immigration officer. After that, you will collect your bags and go through customs.
For departing passengers, the process is similar but in reverse. You will need to check in for your flight and drop off any luggage at the airline’s counter. Then you will go through security and passport control. Once you clear customs, you will be able to board your flight. It’s important to arrive early to allow enough time to go through these processes.
Amenities
– Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport
– A variety of dining options including fast food, sit-down restaurants, and cafes
– Retail stores selling gifts, snacks, and travel essentials
– ATMs and currency exchange services
– Charging stations for electronic devices
– Conference rooms and business centers for meetings and work
– Pet relief areas for service animals
– Nursing rooms for mothers
– Art galleries showcasing local artists and exhibitions
– Interactive exhibits and displays on Sacramento’s history and culture
– Accessibility services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
Accessibility Services
Sacramento International Airport provides a range of facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
These include accessible parking, wheelchair assistance, and accessible restrooms throughout the terminal building.
Passengers can also request special assistance from airline staff, including boarding and deplaning assistance.
Service animals are welcome and relief areas are available throughout the airport.
Additionally, the airport offers TTY phones and visual paging systems for those with hearing impairments.
Connecting Flights at Sacramento International Airport
When catching a connecting flight at Sacramento International Airport, it’s important to plan ahead. Check the airline’s website or app for gate information and any updated flight times.
If you have a short layover, try to sit towards the front of the plane for a quicker exit. Follow signs for your connecting flight and don’t be afraid to ask airport staff for directions if needed.
If you have extra time before your next flight, explore the airport’s shops and restaurants, or take advantage of charging stations and free Wi-Fi. Remember to keep an eye on the time and board your next flight with plenty of time to spare.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
Once you have landed at Sacramento International Airport, make your way to baggage claim. There will be signs directing you to the baggage claim area for your airline.
If you cannot locate your bag, head to your airline’s baggage office to fill out a lost baggage report. Be sure to have your baggage claim ticket and any identification you may need.
If your luggage is damaged, report it to the airline immediately. They will provide you with information on how to file a claim for any repairs or replacements needed.
If you discover that you have left an item behind at the airport, contact the airport’s Lost and Found department. You can either fill out an online form or call their hotline.
It is important to note that the airport is not responsible for lost or damaged baggage. These issues should be reported directly to your airline.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency, Sacramento International Airport has a fully equipped emergency department.
There are qualified medical professionals who are available to provide medical assistance around the clock.
The airport also has Automated External Defibrillators (AED) positioned throughout the premises for use in case of cardiac arrests.
For individuals requiring medical attention, there is a first aid station located in Terminal A and B.
Moreover, there are several ambulances on standby to transport patients to nearby hospitals, if necessary.
Hotel Accommodations
There are several hotel options available within or near Sacramento International Airport.
1. Holiday Inn Express Sacramento Airport Natomas- Located just 2 miles from the airport.
2. Courtyard by Marriott Sacramento Airport Natomas- Just a 5-minute drive from the airport.
3. Hampton Inn & Suites Sacramento-Airport-Natomas- Only 3 miles from the airport.
4. Homewood Suites by Hilton Sacramento Airport – Natomas- A 10-minute drive from the airport.
5. DoubleTree by Hilton Sacramento- Located 4 miles from the airport.
These hotels offer a range of amenities such as free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, swimming pools, and airport shuttles for the convenience of their guests.
Useful Tips:
– Arrive early to avoid long lines and stress.
– Check in online before you arrive at the airport.
– Pack smartly and avoid bringing prohibited items.
– Take advantage of the free Wi-Fi throughout the airport.
– Grab a bite to eat or a drink at one of the airport’s many restaurants and bars.
– Stay connected with your loved ones with charging stations located throughout the airport.
– Keep track of your flight information and gate changes by subscribing to SMS or mobile alerts.
– Ease your travel stress with services such as valet parking, baggage wrapping, and lounge access.
Contact Information
Lost and Found: (916) 874-0670
Parking Information: (916) 874-0670
TSA Lost and Found: (916) 923-5684
Taxi/Limousine Services: (916) 444-0008
Wheelchair Service: (916) 874-0717
Travelers Aid: (916) 285-6782
Customer Feedback: (916) 874-0711
Security: (916) 874-0701
Airport Police: (916) 874-5111
Airport Operations: (916) 874-0716
Cargo Information: (916) 874-0709
Emergency Information: 911
Airports Near Sacramento International Airport
There are several airports in the vicinity of Sacramento International Airport.
- Stockton Metropolitan Airport: Located approximately 50 miles south of Sacramento International Airport, Stockton Metropolitan Airport offers commercial flights via Allegiant Air. Transportation options to reach this airport include rental cars, taxis, and shuttle services.
- San Francisco International Airport: Located approximately 90 miles southwest of Sacramento International Airport, San Francisco International Airport is a major international airport offering both domestic and international flights. Transportation options to reach this airport include rental cars, taxis, shuttle services, and the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) system.
- Oakland International Airport: Located approximately 90 miles southwest of Sacramento International Airport, Oakland International Airport offers domestic and international flights. Transportation options to reach this airport include rental cars, taxis, shuttle services, and the BART system.
For travelers considering alternative flight options or those with layovers or connecting flights, these nearby airports offer additional options for air travel.