Whenever I run out of ideas for new articles here on SANspotter.com, I reach into my mail bag for ideas. This just so happens to be one of those weeks, so I did a little digging. Interestingly enough, the question of “how long of a layover do I need Atlanta” was asked exactly 3 times in the past six weeks. Let’s dig deep into that one, shall we?
What is the minimum layover for domestic flights in Atlanta?
The short answer (based on my own personal experience) is that the minimum connection time for domestic flights in Atlanta is 35 minutes. It doesn’t matter what terminal you arrive at and what terminal you’re departing from. 35 minutes is doable. Anything less than that, not so much.
For the record, I’ve successfully completed a handful of 35-minute connections arriving in the T gates with a departing flight out of concourse F (at the far opposite end of the airport). ATL may be big and scary, but it’s extremely efficient and easy to traverse.
What is the minimum layover for international flights in Atlanta?
Generally speaking, flying internationally into and out of Atlanta is relatively easy. The very first international flight of my life (to Madrid on a Delta L-1011) was from ATL, and even as a total newbie, it was a piece of cake.
Connecting TO an international flight
You’ll need about 45 minutes for connecting to international flights due to the need of being on board sooner. However, you may get away with less. Not all international flights depart from the international terminal, so there may not be a need for you to make a mad dash across the entirety of the airport in order to catch your flight.
Connecting FROM an international flight
Personally, I wouldn’t be comfortable with anything less than an hour and a half to connect from an international to a domestic flight at ATL. Getting through customs and immigration can be as quick as 10 minutes – or it can take multiple hours. It all depends on what kind of luck is following you around on that particular day.
FYI, this is a lower amount of time compared to other major airports in the US. For example, minimum international to domestic connection times at SFO are nearly double the amount of time needed at ATL IMHO.
If you haven’t done so already, do consider using a fast-track method such as Global Entry or Mobile Passport to get you through this process faster. If you’re not sure which one is for you be sure to read my in-depth Mobile Passport vs Global Entry comparison.
A brief overview of the terminal layout at Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL)
Atlanta Hartsfield Jackson International Airport (ATL) is a beast. Not only is the name a mouthfull, it’s also the busiest airport in the world with thousands of daily departures and arrivals from every corner of the globe.
- The airport consists of two terminals (domestic and international)
- The domestic terminal has 4 concourses (T, A, B, C, D)
- The international terminal has 2 concourses (E and F). Note that some domestic Delta flights operate in and out of concourse E.
All terminals and concourses are connected via both an underground walkway and a very efficient train system. The really nice thing about ATL (despite how big and gnarly it is) is the fact that all terminals are accessible without having to re-clear the security checkpoint each time. As a matter of fact, it’s the same reason why 1 hour layovers are possible in Seattle.
The reason why short layovers are ok in Atlanta
First time visitors to the Atlanta airport are often intimidated by it’s size and bustling amounts of activity. I know for a fact that I was. Anyway, having flown in and out of ATL more than 60 times in my life so far, I’ve come to learn that it’s actually one of the easiest airports to get around in. It’s also extremely fast and efficient thanks to its underground tunnel featuring a large walkway and a very punctual transfer train.
Another reason why short layovers in Atlanta are possible is because of how big and efficient the hometown airline is. Assuming you’re flying Delta Air Lines, the chances of them leaving you stranded are slim to none.
- You become a liability to them the moment you miss your flight, and the faster they can get you to your destination the better. That’s why they will often hold your connecting flight if you’re arriving flight is a few minutes late.
- They would rather hold that other flight (and everyone else on board) if it means avoiding having to put you up in a hotel for the night.
This has happened to me several times, and I have to say that it’s a nice secret little perk of flying Delta in and out of ATL. Not only that, it’s really fun to walk onto a fully-loaded airplane knowing that it was held at the gate just for you.
Travel time between all terminals at ATL
As I’ve already mentioned, the process of of moving between terminals and concourses in Atlanta is extremely fast. And easy! You have two options:
- The underground walkway
- The transfer train in said underground walkway
As long as you keep moving, short butt-clenching layovers are very possible at this airport. Here’s a detailed description of how long it takes to get between all terminals and concourses at ATL. All times are approximate:
From the T gates
- To anywhere within the T gates: 1-7 minutes
- To concourse A: 6 minutes to walk, 3 minutes via the train
- To concourse B: 12 minutes to walk, 6 minutes via the train
- To concourse C: 18 minutes to walk, 9 minutes via the train
- To concourse D: 24 minutes to walk, 12 minutes via the train
- To concourse E: 30 minutes to walk, 15 minutes via the train
- To concourse F: 36 minutes to walk, 18 minutes via the train
From the A concourse
- To anywhere within the A concourse: 1-7 minutes
- To concourse T: 6 minutes to walk, 3 minutes via the train
- To concourse B: 6 minutes to walk, 3 minutes via the train
- To concourse C: 12 minutes to walk, 6 minutes via the train
- To concourse D: 18 minutes to walk, 9 minutes via the train
- To concourse E: 24 minutes to walk, 12 minutes via the train
- To concourse F: 30 minutes to walk, 15 minutes via the train
From the B concourse
- To anywhere within the B concourse: 1-7 minutes
- To concourse T: 12 minutes to walk, 6 minutes via the train
- To concourse A: 6 minutes to walk, 3 minutes via the train
- To concourse C: 6 minutes to walk, 3 minutes via the train
- To concourse D: 12 minutes to walk, 6 minutes via the train
- To concourse E: 18 minutes to walk, 9 minutes via the train
- To concourse F: 24 minutes to walk, 12 minutes via the train
From the C concourse
- To anywhere within the C concourse: 1-7 minutes
- To concourse T: 18 minutes to walk, 9 minutes viathe train
- To concourse A: 12 minutes to walk, 6 minutes via the train
- To concourse B: 6 minutes to walk, 3 minutes via the train
- To concourse D: 6 minutes to walk, 3 minutes via the train
- To concourse E: 12 minutes to walk, 12 minutes via the train
- To concourse F: 18 minutes to walk, 9 minutes via the train
From the D concourse
- To anywhere within the D concourse: 1-7 minutes
- To concourse T: 24 minutes to walk, 12 minutes via the train
- To concourse A: 18 minutes to walk, 9 minutes via the train
- To concourse B: 12 minutes to walk, 6 minutes via the train
- To concourse C: 6 minutes to walk, 3 minutes via the train
- To concourse E: 6 minutes to walk, 3 minutes via the train
- To concourse F: 12 minutes to walk, 6 minutes via the train
From the E concourse
- To anywhere within the E concourse: 2-9 minutes (it’s big)
- To concourse T: 30 minutes to walk, 15 minutes via the train
- To concourse A: 24 minutes to walk, 12 minutes via the train
- To concourse B: 18 minutes to walk, 9 minutes via the train
- To concourse C: 12 minutes to walk, 6 minutes via the train
- To concourse D: 6 minutes to walk, 3 minutes via the train
- To concourse F: 6 minutes to walk, 3 minutes via the train
From the F concourse
- To anywhere within the F concourse: 1-7 minutes
- To concourse T: 36 minutes to walk, 18 minutes via the train
- To concourse A: 30 minutes to walk, 15 minutes via the train
- To concourse B: 24 minutes to walk, 12 minutes via the train
- To concourse C: 18 minutes to walk, 9 minutes via the train
- To concourse D: 12 minutes to walk, 6 minutes via the train
- To concourse E: 6 minutes to walk, 3 minutes via the train
The bottom line is this: it takes approximately 5 to 10 minutes to walk from one terminal to the next (it all depends on where your individual arriving and departing gates are). Note that the train could take just as long if it’s busy. If it’s not, it’ll definitely save you a couple minutes. This is an extremely efficient airport!
What is the ideal amount of layover time in Atlanta?
Everyone’s individual levels of comfort are different, but I’ll just say this: my ideal layover time in Atlanta is 1 hour and 10 minutes for domestic flights, and 2 and a half hours for international flights. This amount of time allows two things:
- First, it allows me to walk at a leisurely pace to my connecting flight. I like walking, and I’ll definitely choose that over taking the train if I have the time. It’s nice to get some exercise between flights!
- Second, there will usually be enough time left over to get something to eat. Anyone who watches my videos knows that I like to eat when I travel. Especially if it involves chicken and rice.
Tips for making really short layovers at ATL
In contrast to what I told you about making a 1 hour layover in Chicago, there isn’t a long list of useful tips for surviving a short layover in Atlanta. That being said, there are several things you can do to move faster and prevent yourself from stressing out:
- If your connecting flight is at an adjacent terminal, it may be faster to walk (using the moving walkways) instead of taking the train. If you opt for the train, you’re going to have to wait in line. Then, you’ll have to wait for the next train. If it’s really busy (and it usually is), it’ll probably faster to hoof it.
- Assuming you’re flying Delta, use the Delta Air Lines mobile app to get flight information (as opposed to depending on flight information displays within the airport). The Delta mobile app is updated in real-time, and will keep you up-to-date on everything you need to know in terms of making your connecting flight.
- Walk at a very brisk pace. You don’t necessarily have to run, but you will have to power-walk in order to make a connection at the far end of the airport. RIP to anyone doing this with kids in tow.
Some final words of encouragement for making short layovers at ATL
The most important thing you need to know is this: if you’re flying Delta and you missed your flight due to a short layover, chances are pretty good that there will be another flight headed to your destination within an hour or two.
Delta will automatically put you on that flight. You don’t have to do anything except show up at the gate and get your new boarding pass. Better yet, if you’re using the Delta mobile app, your new boarding pass will automatically be sent to you. You won’t even need to talk to anybody. Introverts rejoice!
Despite it’s beastly appearances, the Atlanta airport is one of the most efficient and well-run airports in the world. They move tens of millions of passengers through it every year, and they’ve learned a thing or two about optimizing flight schedules for short connection times.
If you just so happen to be booked on a flight with a 30 minute layover, don’t worry. One way or another, you are going to make it.
JP
For me its at least 6 hours XD
Scott (SANspotter)
I totally get it if you’re plane spotting and eating (which can be done in mass quantities at ATL). Otherwise, you have no excuse. 🙂
Caroline Lee
Thank you Scott. Delta changed their flight time on me to shorten our connection with 2 kids (3 and 8) in tow to 43 minutes. Uggh! No other flights out to Nassau that night too, so we are screwed if don’t make it to the transfer. Your page reduced my anxiety and gives me hope that it’s possible?! Do you think this is a realistic transfer with two little kids in tow. Thank you!
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Caroline – You’ll be fine, I’m sure. Being that it is the last flight to Nassau for the day, Delta will likely hold that flight for you. They gate agents will see that you are coming from a connecting flight, so it’s highly unlikely that they will let the Nassau flight go without you (unless you’re REALLY slow getting there). Have a great trip!
Margo Buckingham
Re: you are OK with a 35 minute layover in Atlanta. How about your grandmother who needs to stop at the restroom (where there are almost always long lines), can’t power walk, and is unfamiliar with the airport so doesn’t know exactly which way to go to get the shuttle – can she make it?
Scott (SANspotter)
In that case, a 35-minute layover should be avoided at all costs. 2 hours would be better, but slightly less would be doable since the Atlanta airport is so efficient. However, if you need a long layover and the airline changes the schedule on you, definitely give them a call and explain your situation. Assuming there are additional flights to your destination the day you are traveling, they should be able to reschedule you to a flight with a longer connection time.
Adam
Hi Scott! How do you feel about an hour and five minute layover coming in from a small Midwest airport, connecting to a flight going to San Jose, Costa Rica? It would be two moderately athletic adults, no kids, but relatively new to the Atlanta airport. Would you think the Costa Rica connection would be an international gate and/or more time consuming to get to? Looks like it would be Delta to Delta, at least. But still — anxiety is speaking to me already.
Scott (SANspotter)
Hey Adam – I wouldn’t sweat it. Even if your flight arrives at one end of the airport and your flight to San Jose is leaving from the other end, an hour is plenty of time if you use the underground inter-terminal train. You could probably walk the entire distance at a brisk pace without any issues, but if it were me, I’d use the train. Also, there are no security checkpoints going from one terminal to another, so even though you’ll be departing on an international flight, it’ll seem like just like a normal domestic flight. Have fun!
kathleen springer
Hi Scott. Even if I make my 37 minute connection in ATL, will my luggage make it?
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Kathleen. Yes, as long as you’re on the plane, your luggage will make it – I’ve had many short layovers at ATL with checked bags, and I’ve never once had an issue. The added benefit of having such a short layover with checked bags is that they will be the first to arrive at baggage claim at your destination. Since those bags will be the last ones loaded into the plane, they’ll be the first ones offloaded.
Ada
If I have a 35 minute layover in ATL and am in the lowest possible boarding (and probably last to exit) class, do you think I could make it? First flight from Vermont, second to Albuquerque, on Delta.
Scott (SANspotter)
It will be close. However, Delta is really good about tight connections at ATL so you don’t have to worry. The gate agents for your departing flight will know what flight you are coming from, and will sometimes hold the flight for you. If they can’t hold it, you will automatically be put on the next flight.
Also, If you don’t have it already, I’d recommend using the Delta mobile app. You will be able to see your updated flight information (and new boarding passes) instantly without having to speak with a Delta customer service agent.
Jeremy Winslow
Delta abandoned me coming from Amsterdam. I arrived in Concourse F at 10:15pm and my flight was leaving to RDU in concourse A at 11pm. There was practically no one in the terminals at this time. I arrived at Terminal A at 10:40 and Delta would not allow me on the flight, so I had to sit there and watch my plane for 10 minutes before they taxi’ed away. And then I had to beg for a hotel because the next flight wasn’t for another 14 hours. They gave me a voucher but didn’t tell me which hotel to go to. I went to the Hilton via airport shuttle and handed the desk my voucher and the woman asked me what it was I handed her. She told me it was nothing, it was a receipt. I told her it was a voucher from Delta. She called Delta and couldn’t get through. She allowed me to stay for 1/2 price. I tried to get through to Delta about this the next day and didn’t even get a apology, no money back, nothing. I got laughed at.
Jeremy Winslow
I wanted to say something positive.. I appreciate this information which you shared. I will use this information when I fly again in November. I think maybe next time it will be a more positive experience. My flight will land in ATL at 6:03pm, my flight to Amsterdam will take off at 6:45
Scott (SANspotter)
Thanks Jeremy! Sorry you had such a bad experience – but I will say that those kinds of experiences are rare with Delta, and that it’s likely to be much better next time. 45 minutes will be tight for an international connection, but if you plan ahead, it shouldn’t be much of an issue.
Elisa
How awesome are you??! Thank you for writing this up! Exactly what I wanted:)
Scott (SANspotter)
You’re very welcome Elisa! Glad you found this helpful.
Rebeccah
I can power walk, but my 92 yr old dad that I will be traveling with walks like Tim Conway’s “world’s oldest man.” The transcontinental flight I’m considering in September from SNA (Santa Ana CA) to ROC (Rochester NY) has a 49 minute connection in mid-afternoon at ATL. Is this do-able if we pay to check luggage, request a wheelchair, and take the shuttle train?
Scott (SANspotter)
I do think it’s possible! Chances are pretty good that the gate of your arriving flight won’t be far from the gate of your departing flight (you most certainly won’t have to trek the entire length of the airport since most domestic flights operate out of terminals A B and C). Also, as long as you tell the person with the wheelchair that you’re in a hurry, they’ll make sure you get there.
Sarah
Delta keeps pushing our flight from Milwaukee up, shortening our connection time to our flight to Liberia, CR (also on Delta) to 46 minutes. The flight to CR is the only one for 2 days, so I’m hoping the connecting flight will wait for us. This blog helped calm my anxiety…just a bit. 😉
Celeste Booysen
Wonderful information, thank you
We have a flight from domestic to international, Bahamas. Do they usually put luggage through all the way, or will we need to collect the checked bag between the domestic and international flight?
Scott (SANspotter)
You’re very welcome! Yes, they will automatically transfer your luggage from your domestic flight to your international flight. However, you will need to collect your luggage (and recheck it) coming from an international flight going to a domestic flight. Enjoy your trip!
Dennis Huber
Hey there!
It was very encouraging reading this. And also super helpful thank you.
We will be flying from Berlin to Amsterdam to Atlanta to Cancún.
Our Layover is 1h 25min. We arrive at F and depart at E.
Do you think we can make it? We only have Carry-on bags with us..
The thing is we booked this flight via a third party site called last-minute.de not directly via the Delta site… Are we still treated as a delta “customer” if we cannot make it?
The flight from Berlin to Amsterdam is via KLM and the other two via Delta Airlines.
Thanks for the information 🙂
Scott (SANspotter)
Glad this was helpful Dennis! Terminals F and E are located adjacent to one another, and you’ll have the option to walk or take the inter-terminal train. Either way is relatively fast.
However – you will have to go through passport control and customs upon arrival in Atlanta (the US does not allow secure transit for international passengers). An hour and a half layover is doable, but it might be tight if there’s a long line.
Rest assured that, no matter where you booked the ticket, you’ll still be a Delta customer and you’ll be treated the same as any other if there are any delays or cancellations. If somehow you miss the connecting flight to Cancun, they will automatically put you on the next one.
Merv
About a 2h layover for international during covid time? That probably change things a lot?
San Salvador to Atlanta
Atlanta to Toronto
Toronto to Quebec but this is no stress as it is almost 24h later y
Thanks for everything by the way
And also I’ll have a checked bag, will they take care of it for me all the way?
Also it is Delta Delta WestJet
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Merv – 2 hours will be tight, but totally doable if the customs and immigration lines are moving somewhat quickly. You’ll most likely make your connecting flight, but if you don’t, Delta will automatically put you on the next one.
Note that you will have to retrieve your luggage after arriving from San Salvador (before you go through customs). You will then have to re-check it before your connecting flight to Toronto – but that shouldn’t take long, since there are check-in desks immediately outside of the customs area.
Ariel
Thank you for writing this! Delta keeps moving our flight so that now our layover is only 37 minutes and it’s giving me anxiety. It’s a late flight so I’m sure that it’s the last one of the night. Didn’t realize that Delta could hold the flight. We will certainly be hustling to make this connection!
Scott (SANspotter)
You’re welcome Ariel! 37 minutes is tight, but totally doable if it’s a domestic to domestic connection. If by chance you don’t make it, Delta will put you in a hotel for the night and get you out on the first flight the next morning.
Anna Morales
Help! I’m taking 35 teenagers and 10 adults to Washington, DC from Houston. We’re flying Delta and we have a layover in Atlanta. On the way there the layover is an hour and on the way back it’s 40 minutes. On the way there we’ll be leaving at 1:45 pm and won’t arrive at our hotel until probably around 9 pm and these kids will be HUNGRY. Any tips?? Thank you!
Scott (SANspotter)
I don’t have any advice on how to feed 35 hungry teenagers (good luck lol), but I think with a group of your size, Delta isn’t going to let a plane leave without you. It’d be too much of a hassle (and expense) to have to rebook all of you, so they will do whatever it takes to get you all on your connecting flight.
Isaac
Looking for flights, my best option is a 40 min layover, from a small regional airport, so short deplaning time, going to an international flight to Latin America.
If everything goes perfect I think this should be fine, but if there is a hickup I think I’ll miss it. Am I crazy if I book this flight?
Here is my thoughts.
10 min to deplane.
20 min to hoof it to the gate.
10 min before departure they close gate (40 min layover is really only 30 min to get to gate)
If I ask nicely when I deplane, they may try and hold the gate or help get me there faster. Though I don’t want to count on that. Thanks for the help on understanding this airport. This is a super informative article!
Scott (SANspotter)
It’ll be tight, but it’s totally doable if you get off the plane running. Also, the gate agents for the international flight are likely to know that you’re coming, and will do everything within their power to hold the flight a few minutes.
However, if you can’t make it there in time (for whatever reason), you’ll automatically be put on the next flight. If you have the Delta app on your phone, you’ll instantly be able to see your new/updated itinerary (and you won’t have to stand in the customer service line to get rebooked). Good luck!
Ryan C
Hi Scott. We’re trying to be realistic about an upcoming trip to Belize (only one flight per day from ATL so a lot at stake).
Note: layovers were much more reasonable when first booked but Delta changed the schedules afterwards.
Flight time ATL to BZE: 9:45 am
Group 1 scheduled to arrive from SYR at 9:05
Group 2 scheduled to arrive from JFK at 8:24
Group 2 still seems in good shape … Group 1 though seems to have a real problem.
Note: our experience with Delta in MSP and DTW is that they do NOT hold flights—the rule seems to be that the departing flight is always late while the connecting flight leaves early. Is Atlanta really different?
Scott (SANspotter)
Hey Ryan – yeah, Group 2 will have nothing to worry about. Group 1 won’t have anything to worry about either if the flight arrives on time and they waste no time getting to the departure gate for Belize. I’ve made a mad dash across the entirety of ATL with a connection time less than that without any problems before.
I’d be shocked if they don’t hold the flight (at least a few minutes) if it really is the only daily flight to Belize. I’m not sure how many people are in your group, but it’s been my experience that DL would rather hold a flight for a few minutes rather than having to rebook everyone. Especially if it might involve putting them up in a hotel for the night.
Delta runs a very well-oiled machine at ATL though, so chances are very high that things will go smoothly.
Ryan C
Thanks Scott. Part of it is that we can’t bring ourselves to believe Delta would hold that flight—they decided to rebook us for the next day rather than hold a connecting flight 10 minutes over the holidays. And, the last time we flew to Belize USAir refused to hold the plane 10 minutes so we could make it—they preferred to pay someone $$$$ the next day to give up their seats for us. And there are complicated internal transportation logistics once we arrive in Belize.
Also the third trip in a row that an airline has chipped the connecting time in half after booking. First two times it meant a missed connection. Hopefully our companions in group 2 will have better luck (or even better change their plans to have a better connection time).
Ryan
Shelly
HI Scott
thank you so much for great information. You are very informative. I am relieved to know delta will put us on another flight if we miss our connecting flight.
we are flying to DCA in May.
two connecting flights. 1 Luggage bag.
YVR to Calgary- 1 hour 18 minute layover (Westjet Airlines)
Calgary to Atlanta- 56 minute layover (WestJet airlines)
Atlanta to DCA (final destination) (Delta airlines)
so worried about collecting the luggage and going though customs on time.
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Shelly, yes, 1 hour and 18 minutes to make an international to domestic connection will be tight. But it’s very doable, so just keep moving and stay positive – you most likely won’t have any problems.
If it makes you feel any better, there are a lot of flights between ATL and DCA on any given day. Even if you do end up missing your original connection, you’ll automatically be put on the next flight (and given the frequency of flights to DCA, you won’t have to wait long).
Ryan C
Hi Scott. We decided to recommend that group 1 cancel these tickets. We’re doing so for 2 numerical reasons.
1) unlike most Delta flights, the SYR-ATL flight schedule in May includes an astonishing 0% padding. Not a minute. Scheduled duration is 135 minutes, air time alone is 120 minutes. Normally on a flight this length there’s at least 10-15 minutes of breathing room. In our estimate that knocks the actual connection time down by at least 10 minutes vs what a normal arrival flight would have.
2) For whatever reason, Belize gate agents are very eager to close the gate. DL1983 has an average *gate departure* a full 8-10 minutes before the scheduled departure. Which means one should take an additional 5-10 minutes off the connection time.
Combine 1 and 2 above, and the real connection time is 20-25 minutes. Or to put it another way, once the arrival flight captain puts on the parking brake, they’d most likely have 10-15 minutes to deplane AND make their way from Concourse B to Concourse E-F.
I think there’s a very smart article to be written on the mathematical relationship between schedule padding and MCTs. I’d estimate without schedule padding you’d probably see legal connection times increased by 10-20 minutes across the board, probably closer to the higher number. MCTs are represented as a one-size-fits-all assurance that a passenger will make a connection—but that’s not how they work. Their function is to maximize the airline’s profits across its entire operation.
Patrick
Comming from Panama City (delta)connection Time of 1:14 to my next flight to Maine(delta) I’m alone only my carry on … it’s enough?
Scott (SANspotter)
Yeah, with just a carry-on bag that should be perfectly OK if there are no delays. Have a good trip!
Jenny H
My (return home) flight from LHR to GSO has a layover in ATL. Originally the layover was 4hrs (I HATE being rushed while on vacation) cut down to 2hrs 5mins.. I was unaware that I would have to collect my checked bag and recheck it for the domestic flight. Coming thru immigration/customs, will 2hrs be enough time to collect, recheck, change concourse and not have to hoof it? I’m too old to hoof it…lol
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Jenny – 2 hours is still enough time (even with checked bags). There will be a baggage re-check area immediately after exiting customs, so you will be able to drop it there and go relatively quickly. Some hoofing may be required depending on where your connecting flight will departing from unfortunately!
Make sure to take advantage of the underground train that connects all concourses. That’ll save you a good chunk of time. I’d also recommend wearing your most comfortable walking shoes (haha). You got this!
Hannah
Hi, I was hoping to ask your advice – we are flying from Cape Town to Toronto, via Atlanta. Delta all the way. On the departure, they’ve given us 1 hour 45 minutes between flights. On the return, we’ve been given one hour (but will be flying from YYZ, so probably pre-clearance in YYZ)? We will have a 1 year old with us, and checked luggage. Do you think it is realistic we will make our connections?
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Hannah – both of your connections should be ok. You’ll do the US Preclearance thing in YYZ, so all you’ll need to do upon arrival at ATL is go from one plane to the next. All terminals / gates are connected behind the security checkpoints, so you won’t have to deal with any of that.
Your inbound layover of 1 hour and 45 minutes is highly doable as well – as long as you keep moving! You’ll go through US passport control first, and then you’ll have to retrieve your luggage before proceeding through customs. Immediately after customs, there will be a baggage drop area to re-check your bags.
As long as you keep moving you’ll be ok. Have a good trip!
Hannah
Thanks so much for your advice!
Scott (SANspotter)
You’re very welcome – glad this helped!
Courtney
THANK YOU FOR THIS!! I’m flying from O’Hare to Valdosta tomorrow morning, with a 36 minute layover in Atlanta… I was starting to stress about it, but I feel much better after reading this.
Scott (SANspotter)
You’re very welcome Courtney! 36 minutes is totally doable at ATL if you hustle. Have a good trip!
Jolie
Question would 2hrs and 20 minutes enough layover time to get my bags and go through customs for my flight to SFO . Im coming from Punta Cana and flying Delta
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Jolie – yes, that should be more than enough time (especially if you don’t have any checked luggage). ATL customs and immigration can get busy at times, but it’s usually very efficient. Have a good trip!
Diana
Thank you so much for this post! I’m flying to Japan on January 2023, and Delta keeps changing the flights reducing the layover time. When I first bought my ticket the layover was over 5 hours, now I only have 2 hours and 40 mins and I’m so worried about not making it on time to my connecting flight. A few years ago I flew to japan also with delta, and the immigration line was endless…I was there for more than an hour, but at that time I had the 5-hour layover, and didn’t have to worry about it.
I fly from Santiago de Chile to Atlanta and then to Tokyo, and there’s only one flight every other day…so if I don’t make it I’ll be losing days in Japan.
Do you know if in immigration they can prioritize people with tight connection flights and have them skip the line somehow?
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Diana – yes, I know firsthand how frustrating that can be. Delta keeps changing the connection time for an upcoming flight of mine, and it’s driving me bonkers!
Anyway, 2 hours and 40 minutes will be plenty of time. And even though they don’t have a priority lane for people with tight connections, most people will let you go ahead of them if your connection is REALLY tight.
But really – you’ll have nothing to worry about. Have a great trip!
Laurie Halverson
Hi Scott, We have a group of 9 travelers. We are flying with Delta. We fly out of Mitchell in Milwaukee to Atlanta early in the morning. We have a 45 minute layover . Our connecting flight is going St. Lucia. (originally our layover was 50 minutes which already concerned me.) Our group has 3 children, with 2 being 10 years old and the other 3 years old. I am 65 years old but due to hip and knee issues , I am unable to walk at a fast pace. Do you think it would be a good idea to request a wheelchair to be waiting for me when we arrive in Atlanta? Do we say anything to the gate person to call ahead to our connecting flight to hold the plane? Do you think with only a 45 minute layover that we will get our luggage as well. I am really stressing about this because it can be hard traveling with young children. I would hate to miss our connecting flight because the next one out of ATL s is much later in the day? Do you think we have enough time?
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Laurie! You don’t have anything to worry about IMHO. Yes, 45 minutes will be tight, but ATL is an extremely efficient airport and it’s very easy to move from one terminal to the next. As long as you and your group don’t waste any time, you’ll make your connection with time to spare.
Considering that there’s 9 of you, they might even hold the plane to St Lucia a few minutes if you’re running late. Basically, it’ll be easier for them to delay the flight a few minutes than it would be to try to get all 9 of you on another flight.
In regards to the wheelchair: yes, inform the flight attendant on your flight into ATL that you need wheelchair assistance upon arrival. They can arrange to have that ready for you. A word of caution though: they might make you wait until everyone deplanes before they can assist you – so it might be faster for you to walk to your connecting flight at a slow pace (if you can).
Laurie
Thanks for your reassurance.
Mumtaz
Hi Scott thanks for this blog very reassuring. I have a 1 hr 25 min layover arriving from Miami and then onto an intl flight to London Heathrow. I arrive at South domestic terminal and leave from international. Hope to only have carry on unless Delta are very strict about a cabin case which is 3-4 cm extra width. Will this be enough time? and would you recommend the Skytrain/Plane Train I understand that runs every few mins and takes 5-10 mins? Also any advice on the carry on case would be great. Thanks!
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi, you’re very welcome! An hour and 25 minutes will be no problem. Taking the train will be the fastest way to get to E and F (the international terminals), but you could even walk if you want. You’ll have enough time for it.
Your carryon bag sounds fine. They won’t be measuring everything with a ruler, so you’re not likely to have issues. Worst case scenario is that they’ll check if for you right there at the gate. Have a great trip!
Mumtaz
Thankyou so much Scott!
kane
I was wondering if you could help me. I’m going to have an international to domestic connection through atlanta tomorrow and i’ve only just found this website. it’s my first time ever going through atlanta and i’m super worried.
First leg is edinburgh to concourse E, then a 2 hr 40 min layover until my flight to detroit leaves from concourse a. i know i have to recheck my bag, but I’m a non us citizen and i’m worried i’ll get caught up at border control. do i have to go to the international terminal past concourse f to drop my bags and go through security, and then go alllll the way back over to terminal a? is 2 hr 40 enough time?
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Kane – glad to help! You’re going to go through customs and immigration in Concourse E (it’s the old international terminal).
As soon as you exit customs, you’ll see a baggage recheck area for Delta. Drop your bags there.
After that, simply go through the nearest security checkpoint and walk / take the train back to terminal A.
2 hours and 40 minutes will be plenty of time – you won’t have any issues. Have a great trip!
Ana
Hi Kane, great page, thank for the help you provide! I will be arriving from Bogota to Atlanta and from there connecting to Europe. Last time I had a similar flight connection through the US, in Newark to be exact, we had to not exactly “recheck” our checked bags but kind of take them from one belt to another close by before going to to the line to security. Is this this also a procedure in Atlanta? My connection time is 1:45 minutes so I’m kind of worried it won’t be enough?
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Ana – you’re very welcome! Yes, it’s going to be the exact same process. There will be a baggage recheck area immediately after you exit customs, so you won’t have to take your luggage all the way to the ticket counter.
An hour and 45 minutes is probably going to be a little tight if the lines to get through passport control are long. You shouldn’t have any issues, but be prepared to hit the ground running just in case.
Mary
Hi! Comming from San Diego (delta) connection Time of 1:08 to my next flight to Montreal (delta) I’m alone only my carry on … it’s enough? Thanks!
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Mary! Yes, that will be plenty of time. I’ve made connections as shorts 35 minutes at ATL after arriving from San Diego (which required traversing from one end of the airport to the other), so I think you’ll be fine. ATL is extremely efficient!
Ashley
Hi Scott!
I’m flying from Calgary (via Westjet) with a 1hr37min layover in ATL then flying Delta onto Miami. Will I have enough time between flights? I have a toddler and checked luggage with me.
Scott (SANspotter)
Hey Ashley! An hour and 37 minutes is going to be a piece of cake! Having checked luggage won’t matter at all, since it will transfer automatically. You won’t have to deal with it. The toddler on the other hand… 🙂
You’ve got nothing to worry about. Getting from one end of ATL to the other is extremely easy via the underground train, and you’re not going to have to go through any security checkpoints to reach your connecting gate. Have a great trip!
Kim
4 adults, 2 small kids Richmond to Atlanta(10:59am, arrive 12;53)originally had a 2 hour layover; Delta changed flight 2 times and now our layover is 42 minutes; they said it was ok; we would be able to make it, connection is Atlanta to Orlando, 1;35pm on Sunday Jan 28th. Thoughts or suggestions? Thanks
Scott (SANspotter)
Typical Delta lol. They do that to me all the time as well. The good news is that 42 minute connections are indeed possible (and somewhat easy) at ATL. I’ve done plenty of those over the years, and it’s never been an issue. You’ll be fine – but just be prepared to hustle as soon as you arrive.
Harriet
Hi – we are flying on internal Delta flight from Charleston to Atlanta – then from Atlanta to the UK. We will need to pick our bags up because we won’t be checked through (we used miles so wasn’t possible to link them). We have 2 hours in-between ? this feels short to me as Im worried about collecting the bags and then checking in (although we do have business class flights back to UK). What do you think ? Thanks
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Harriet! Yes, you’re going to have to hustle. Two hours should be doable – especially since you’re flying business class (and you’ll be able to use the business class check in queue at ATL).
Be prepared to hit the ground running!
Marie
Hi! This article is very informative! I am planning to get a flight from Manila to Orlando via Delta. I have some questions though. Flight will be Manila-Incheon-ATL-MCO. Would 4 or 5 hours of layover in Atlanta be enough to get to my flight to MCO? Also, for my return flight it will be MCO-ATL-Incheon-Manila. So from MCO, do I need to recheck my luggage once I reach ATL before flying to ICN? Do I go to immigration also in ATL before flying out to Incheon? Thank you very much!
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Marie – yes, 4 hours would be no problem for an international to domestic connection at ATL. That’s plenty of time!
It’ll be super easy and quick on the way back. Your luggage will transfer automatically, and you won’t have to go through any immigration or security checks. Simply walk from one plane to the next.
Have a great trip!
Marie
Oh, is that why most of the layover times that they offer in the delta website for ATL is so short like 1 hour to 2 hours when flying out of the US from ATL? You know, I’ve been struggling to book a flight because I’m so anxious about the short layovers. Not my first time travelling to the US though it’s my first time going there alone with layovers. Wishing I’ve stumbled upon your article a little earlier. And reading this eased my anxiety. Thank you!!!
Scott (SANspotter)
You’re very welcome Marie! Yes, flying internationally out of the US has always been very easy. You’d have no problem making your connection even if you had less than an hour IMHO.
ATL is a big airport, but it’s super easy to get from one end to the other via the underground train. Not having to go through security when moving between all terminals helps as well.
Nothing to worry about. 🙂
Paty
Hi Scott, I’m planning to fly to Savannah from Monterrey, Mexico, via ATL during the Thanksgiving season, but the connection is 3 hours and 20 minutes. Would that be sufficient for an international connection during the holidays?
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Paty – that should be enough time IMHO. Yes, things will be a little busier during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, but 3.5 hours is still a lot of time for customs and immigration at ATL. You’ll have a lot of wiggle room.
Justine
Hi Scott, We are with Virgin and flying into Altanta from Fort Lauderdale. We then have a 1 hour 10 minute layover before we fly to Manchester. Am I right in assuming that we will not have to collect our bags and not have to clear Security? Do you think we will have enough time before the gate closes?
Thanks Justine
Scott (SANspotter)
Hey Justine – you are correct! Your luggage will transfer automatically, and you will not have to go through any security checkpoints to reach your connecting gate to Manchester.
That flight to Manchester will most likely be going out of terminal E or F. Your flight from Fort Lauderdale will probably arrive at T, A, or B. The fastest way to get to E and F is via the underground train which connects all terminals.
And yes, an hour and 10 minutes is way more than enough time. You won’t have any issues at all. Have a great flight!
Vicki
Hi Scott, thank goodness for your blog…. I read through lots of comments and just want to clarify, since I will be alone with 3 kids under 12 years old – if we are going from MCO-ATL-Toronto at which point do we go through customs? I’m looking at a 2 hour layover from ATL-Toronto and am not sure that will be ample time. Your thoughts are MUCH appreciated and will determine which flight I chose!
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Vicki! You’re not going to have to go through customs and immigration until you reach Toronto. Therefore, 2 hours in Atlanta is way more time than you’ll need since you won’t need to do anything except walk to your connecting gate. You won’t even have to go through any security checkpoints.
Have a great trip!