San Francisco International Airport — Local services in Millbrae

San Francisco International Airport rises from the Bay Area fog like a gleaming monument to both American ambition and contradiction. This aviation hub embodies California's restless spirit: constantly reinventing, expanding, and reaching for sustainable ideals while wrestling with practical realities.

The airport has entered a transformative era with the launch of the $2.6 billion Terminal 3 West Modernization project in August 2024. This ambitious undertaking will renovate the existing 650,000-square-foot western half of Terminal 3, adding 200,000 square feet for expanded concessions, security enhancements, and new passenger amenities. The renovated terminal, expected to open in fall 2027, promises to deliver what Airport Director Ivar C. Satero describes as "an extraordinary airport experience" that leads in sustainability and innovation.

This vision builds upon the substantial progress already made with the completion of the Harvey Milk Terminal 1 in mid-2024, featuring a connector bridge that provides seamless access throughout the secure area. United Airlines, commanding 45.1% of seat capacity, stands as the dominant carrier shaping SFO's operational character.

What distinguishes SFO is its aggressive environmental agenda. The airport's five-year strategic plan aims to become the world's first to achieve zero carbon emissions, zero waste, and zero net energy consumption. Solar panels crown rooftops, waste reduction programs operate behind the scenes, and sustainable aviation fuel initiatives are expanding—though critics might question whether these efforts truly offset aviation's environmental costs.

The airport's transportation infrastructure represents a notable success story. The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system connects directly to the International Terminal, whisking passengers to downtown San Francisco in approximately 30 minutes for $10.55—a compelling alternative to highway congestion. Recent BART schedule adjustments implemented in March 2025 have extended Yellow Line service to just before midnight on weekdays. The AirTrain system provides complementary internal circulation, operating 24 hours daily with trains every four minutes.

For travelers, the contrast between terminals reveals an airport in transition. The gleaming International Terminal, with its earthquake-resistant design, stands as North America's largest international terminal. The recently completed Harvey Milk Terminal 1 similarly exhibits contemporary design sensibilities. Yet portions of the complex await renewal, creating an experience that varies significantly depending on terminal assignment.

What remains constant is the profound sense of place that SFO maintains. The airport's Museum Education Program, extensive art collection, and architectural touches reflect the Bay Area's creative spirit. Even dining options showcase quick-service versions of leading regional restaurants, making the experience distinctively San Franciscan.

For the practical traveler, SFO demands strategic planning. BART provides the most reliable airport connection, avoiding unpredictable highway traffic. Terminal assignments should be verified well in advance, as distances between facilities can be substantial. Security wait times vary dramatically, with PreCheck and CLEAR offering meaningful time savings during peak periods.

As SFO continues evolving, it embodies California's perpetual state of becoming—always under construction, forever promising improvements that will reconcile competing ideals of efficiency, sustainability, and...

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is undoubtedly one of the best airports I have traveled through, offering a seamless and enjoyable experience from start to finish. Here are some reasons why SFO stands out:

Location and Accessibility: SFO is conveniently located just 13 miles south of downtown San Francisco, making it easily accessible by various means of transportation, including BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit), buses, shuttles, and taxis. The connection to public transport is excellent, allowing for quick and easy transfers to and from the airport.

Facilities and Amenities: The airport boasts an impressive range of facilities and amenities. Whether you need to relax before your flight, get some work done, or indulge in some retail therapy, SFO has got you covered. The terminals are spacious and modern, with plenty of seating areas, charging stations, and free Wi-Fi throughout. The airport also features numerous shops, restaurants, and lounges, offering a variety of options to suit all tastes and preferences.

Cleanliness and Maintenance: SFO is impeccably clean and well-maintained. The restrooms are spotless, and the common areas are regularly sanitized, ensuring a hygienic environment for travelers. The airport staff work diligently to keep everything in top condition, which is particularly reassuring during these times.

Customer Service: The customer service at SFO is outstanding. The airport staff are friendly, professional, and always willing to help. From check-in counters to security personnel, everyone is dedicated to providing a smooth and pleasant experience for travelers. Information desks are strategically located throughout the terminals, and the staff there are knowledgeable and eager to assist with any queries.

Security and Efficiency: The security process at SFO is well-organized and efficient. Despite the high volume of passengers, the lines move quickly, thanks to the well-trained TSA staff and advanced screening technologies. This efficiency helps reduce stress and makes for a more enjoyable travel experience.

Art and Cultural Exhibits: One of the unique features of SFO is its art and cultural exhibits. The airport showcases a variety of art installations, exhibitions, and displays throughout the terminals, providing a cultural touch and making the wait more interesting. These exhibits highlight the rich cultural heritage of San Francisco and enhance the overall ambiance of the airport.

Eco-Friendly Initiatives: SFO is committed to sustainability and has implemented numerous eco-friendly initiatives. The airport features energy-efficient buildings, recycling programs, and water conservation measures. There are also green spaces and outdoor areas that promote a healthy and relaxing environment.

In conclusion, San Francisco International Airport is a top-notch facility that offers convenience, comfort, and excellent service. Whether you are arriving, departing, or connecting, SFO ensures a smooth and pleasant journey. Highly recommended for...

Luis, who was working at the Manufactory Food Hall at SFO location on Sunday, 12/1/2024, at 10:00 PM, needs to be fired. Never in my life have I received the most terrible customer service at an airport, which I believe was discriminatory and racially motivated. He came up to me while I was sitting there at this restaurant and asked me to leave before asking if I wanted to order something-- stating that "we can't have people in here that aren't going to order something from the restaurant." I was only sitting there for about 10 minutes. This comes after he tells a white couple that "they can stay as long as they need to." I responded to him and I asked him "Why didn't you just ask me if I wanted to order something-- instead of asking me to leave?" This is when he was really defensive and responded "do you want me to get my manager?" I told him "yes" and literally his manager came and I explained that I had an issue that I was not offered a menu and was asked to leave without equitable customer service. The manager asked me if I wanted to see a menu and I said "yes" and I then asked "what do you all even have?" and he was like " cocktails" and luis chimed in " If she can even afford a cocktail" to this comment I responded-- " you don't even know whats in my pockets" and I proceeded to grab my bags and leave, I told Luis he was being discriminatory towards me and a jerk and it caused a whole unprofessional scene. His unpleasant behavior needs to be addressed. He is not being paid extra to be terrible to random people who are using the terminal. I let him know that I found his behavior offensive and left the restaurant, only to return shortly after to prove I was more than capable of giving them business—despite how I was treated. Luis refused to serve me and made a whole scene about how he wasn't going to serve someone like me and caused these older white men to intervene and literally tell him to calm down.

Ultimately, the manager served me because Luis was behaving so erratically, even threatening to call security. It felt like he was trying to escalate the situation just to make me miss my flight. It wasn't until the manager told him to work at a different station until my experience eating here finally knew peace. I think at an airport, you should hire culturally competent people who can be patient and less hostile to random people who use the airport to travel rather than small minded people who replicate the racism and exclusion to feed their own ego's and privilege despite being in a service position. I think Luis needs professional help. This behavior is embarrassing. He was so obsessed with wanting to call security to make me "miss my flight" and resorted to running around the restaurant like a chicken with his head cut off. This is not normal behavior. His manager ended up serving me due to his...