San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is United Airlines’ West Coast hub and a cornerstone of its global network. With over 300 daily departures, United dominates both the domestic and international gates at SFO. For travelers, that means two things: convenience and complexity. Knowing exactly where to go and what to expect at the United terminals at SFO can make a big difference, especially during tight connections or long layovers.
This guide offers a complete breakdown of United’s presence at SFO, including terminal maps, lounge access, gate information, transit options, and expert boarding strategies. Whether someone is flying short-haul or heading overseas in Polaris class, the tips below are based on airline policy, terminal infrastructure, and insider patterns.
Which Terminal Does United Airlines Use at SFO?
United Airlines operates out of Terminal 3 and International Terminal G at SFO.
- Terminal 3 handles the majority of United’s domestic flights, including those to Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles, and Seattle.
- International Terminal G is used for United’s international flights, such as those to London, Tokyo, and Frankfurt.
Both terminals are physically connected via an airside walkway, allowing passengers to move between them without clearing security again. This connection plays a key role for passengers with tight connections between international and domestic flights.
United does not operate from Terminal 1 or Terminal 2. All United flights, and most of its Star Alliance partner flights, are consolidated between Terminal 3 and International Terminal G.
What Gates Are Assigned to United Airlines at SFO?
United Airlines uses gates in both Terminal 3 and International Terminal G:
- Boarding Area E (Gates E1–E13): Located in Terminal 3, typically used for short-haul domestic flights and regional jets.
- Boarding Area F (Gates F1–F22): Also in Terminal 3, used for major domestic routes and higher-capacity flights.
- Boarding Area G (Gates G1–G14): Located in International Terminal G, used for long-haul United and Star Alliance international flights.
Gate assignments depend on flight type, destination, and aircraft size. For example:
- A United Express flight to Sacramento may depart from E6.
- A widebody Boeing 777 to Frankfurt will likely use G6.
Terminal 3 and Terminal G are equipped with widebody-capable gates, jet bridges, and modern amenities. Signage throughout the terminals is consistent and includes digital updates in real time.
How to Navigate Between Terminals at SFO?
SFO offers multiple options to navigate between terminals, especially between Terminal 3 and G where United operates.
Walking Connector (Post-Security)
- A secure, indoor walkway connects Terminal 3 (Concourse F) with International Terminal G.
- It takes about 10–15 minutes to walk between gates F11 and G6.
- This route allows passengers to avoid exiting and re-clearing security.
AirTrain
- SFO’s AirTrain Red Line connects all terminals, garages, and BART station.
- Use AirTrain if you need to access baggage claim or are arriving landside.
- Travel time from Terminal 3 to International G via AirTrain: 7 minutes.
Security Considerations
- The post-security walkway is ideal for connecting passengers.
- If using AirTrain, you’ll exit security and need to re-screen.
For international transfers, especially arriving into SFO, passengers must clear U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in International Terminal G, claim bags if required, and re-check them if continuing on a domestic United flight.
Where Are United Lounges Located at SFO?
United operates multiple lounges at SFO, each tailored to different passenger needs and status tiers.
United Club Locations
- Terminal 3, near Gate F11
- Main United Club lounge for domestic travelers.
- Open from 5:00 AM to 12:30 AM daily.
- Capacity: 300 guests.
- International Terminal G, near Gate G6
- Serves international travelers and Star Alliance elite members.
- Open from 7:00 AM to 11:30 PM.
United Polaris Lounge
- Located in International Terminal G, near Gate G1.
- Open only to long-haul United Polaris business class passengers and select Star Alliance premium guests.
- Hours: 6:30 AM to 1:00 AM.
- Access requires same-day international business class ticket on United or a qualifying Star Alliance partner.
The lounges are well-marked and accessible via escalators and elevators. Lounge capacity fluctuates during peak hours (6–9 AM and 4–7 PM).
What Amenities Are Offered in United Lounges?
| Lounge Type | Key Features |
| United Club | Complimentary snacks, full-service bar, Wi-Fi, flight assistance, seating |
| Polaris Lounge | Restaurant-style dining, luxury bar, showers, nap rooms, private seating |
United Club Amenities
- Fresh fruit, bagels, yogurt in the morning; salads and packaged snacks later in the day
- House wines and beers complimentary; premium spirits available for purchase
- Fast Wi-Fi and USB/AC power at most seats
- Business center and customer service agents
Polaris Lounge Amenities
- Plated meals with table service (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Cocktail bar with premium liquor selections
- Private shower suites with Cowshed toiletries
- Quiet suites with chaise lounges and dimmed lighting
Access to Polaris Lounge is tightly controlled, and not available to domestic business class passengers or United Club members.
What Are the Best Boarding Tips for United Flights at SFO?
Understanding how United boards flights can save time and reduce stress.
United Boarding Groups
- Group 1: Premier 1K, Global Services, Polaris Business
- Group 2: Premier Platinum and Gold, Star Alliance Gold
- Group 3: Premier Silver, United credit card holders
- Group 4: Economy Plus and other select seats
- Group 5: General Economy
Time-Saving Tips
- Arrive at the gate at least 45 minutes before departure.
- SFO has CLEAR lanes in Terminal 3, ideal for fast security.
- TSA PreCheck is available in all United terminals and saves significant time during morning rush hours (6–9 AM).
Expert flyers often check in online, use mobile boarding passes, and monitor gates via the United app to adapt to last-minute changes.
What Dining Options Are Near United Gates at SFO?
Terminal 3 Dining Highlights
- Napa Farms Market (near Gate F2): Local organic snacks, salads, and sandwiches.
- Boudin Bakery (near Gate F10): Famous for clam chowder in sourdough bowls.
- Dogpatch Bakehouse: Pastries and coffee, good for early departures.
International Terminal G Options
- Yankee Pier: Seafood with sit-down service
- The Plant Café: Organic bowls and juices
- Peet’s Coffee: Multiple kiosks throughout the terminal
Mobile Food Ordering
- Available via the SFO Mobile App and AtYourGate.
- Travelers can pre-order meals and have them delivered to their gate or lounge.
How Early Should You Arrive for a United Flight at SFO?
| Flight Type | Suggested Arrival Time |
| Domestic Flights | 2 hours before departure |
| International Flights | 3 hours before departure |
| With TSA PreCheck | Arrive 30–45 minutes later than general passengers |
Additional Time Factors
- Early morning flights (5–7 AM) see heavier security wait times.
- Baggage check cut-off is 45 minutes for domestic and 1 hour for international flights.
- CLEAR members often pass through security in under 10 minutes.
Where to Find Help or Customer Service at the United Terminal?
United offers customer service desks at:
- Terminal 3 near Gate F2
- International Terminal G near Gate G6
- Baggage claim levels of both terminals
Gate agents and roaming service agents are available near departure gates. United also has multiple self-service kiosks for bag tags, boarding passes, and rebookings.
For travelers needing accessibility support, wheelchairs and language assistance are available via advance request or at check-in.
Is There Wi-Fi and Charging at United Terminals?
SFO provides free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout all terminals, including Terminal 3 and International G. No login or time limits are required.
Charging Stations
- Nearly every gate area has power outlets and USB charging ports integrated into seating.
- Lounges offer additional high-speed charging areas and wireless charging pads.
- Terminal 3 has designated workbenches with AC outlets near Gates F9 and F15.
How to Transfer Between United Domestic and International Flights at SFO?
For passengers connecting between a domestic United flight and an international departure (or vice versa):
Domestic to International
- Use the airside connector from Terminal 3 – G Gates.
- No need to exit security.
- Walk time: 10–15 minutes.
International to Domestic
- Clear Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at International Terminal G.
- Re-check bags at the United transfer counter.
- Proceed through TSA screening again if continuing domestically.
United provides clear signage for transfer flows. The minimum international-to-domestic connection time at SFO is 75 minutes, but 90–120 minutes is safer during peak times.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which terminal does United Airlines use at SFO?
United Airlines uses Terminal 3 for domestic flights and International Terminal G for international flights at SFO. Both terminals are connected airside.
Can you walk between Terminal 3 and International Terminal G at SFO?
Yes, Terminal 3 and Terminal G are connected by a secure airside corridor. Walking between the gates takes about 10 to 15 minutes without leaving the secure area.
Where is the United Polaris Lounge at SFO?
The United Polaris Lounge is located in International Terminal G, near Gate G1. It is exclusively for international United Polaris business class passengers and Star Alliance international business class travelers.
What time does the United Club open at SFO?
The United Club in Terminal 3 (Gate F11) opens at 5:00 AM and closes at 12:30 AM. The United Club in International Terminal G operates from 7:00 AM to 11:30 PM.
Does United Airlines have CLEAR or TSA PreCheck at SFO?
Yes. CLEAR lanes and TSA PreCheck are available at Terminal 3, with expedited security screening for eligible passengers.
Does United Airlines operate in Terminal 1 or 2 at SFO?
No. United Airlines does not use Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 at SFO. All operations are in Terminal 3 and International Terminal G.
Is there free Wi-Fi at the United terminals in SFO?
Yes, free high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout Terminal 3 and International Terminal G, with no time limits or login required.