What Terminal Is Southwest Airlines at Atlanta Airport? Complete Guide

Flying into or out of Atlanta? If you're booked with Southwest Airlines, knowing exactly where to go can save you time, hassle, and confusion—especially at one of the busiest airports in the world. In this complete traveler’s guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Southwest Airlines Atlanta Airport Terminal including its location, amenities, check-in procedures, security tips, boarding advice, and more.

Whether you're a frequent flyer or heading to Atlanta for the first time, this comprehensive guide will make navigating the terminal smooth and stress-free.

Overview of Southwest Airlines Operations at Atlanta Airport

Understanding Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is one of the busiest and most efficient airports globally, known for its impressive infrastructure, multiple concourses, and vast passenger traffic. As the primary hub for Delta Air Lines, ATL also services several other major carriers including Southwest Airlines, which operates a considerable number of daily flights in and out of the airport.

Where Does Southwest Airlines Operate Within ATL?

The key question for travelers is: What terminal is Southwest Airlines at Atlanta Airport? The answer is straightforward—Southwest Airlines primarily operates out of Concourse C at ATL. This concourse is part of the Domestic Terminal, located on the west side of the airport.

Understanding the layout of the airport and where Southwest fits into it can help you better plan your journey, from check-in to boarding.

Southwest Airlines Atlanta Airport Terminal: Location and Directions

Terminal Location for Southwest Airlines at ATL

When flying Southwest from ATL, you'll be departing from the Domestic Terminal, specifically Concourse C. The domestic terminal is divided into two sides—North and South. Although check-in for Southwest is on the North side, once you’re past security, you’ll follow signs to Concourse C.

Concourse C is one of several concourses connected by ATL’s underground Plane Train system, making it easy to navigate even if you’re unfamiliar with the layout.

How to Get to the Southwest Terminal at Atlanta Airport

If you're arriving at ATL by car, rideshare, or public transit, follow signs to the Domestic Terminal North. Parking is available in the North Economy Lot and the North Parking Deck, both of which provide easy access to Southwest’s check-in counters.

For MARTA users (Atlanta’s public transit system), exit at the Airport Station, which connects directly to the Domestic Terminal. From there, follow signage to the North side for Southwest check-in and proceed to Concourse C.

Check-In and Baggage at the Southwest Airlines Terminal

Southwest Airlines Check-In Procedures at ATL

Southwest passengers can check in:

Online via the Southwest app or website (up to 24 hours before departure)

At self-service kiosks in the terminal

At the staffed check-in counters on the North side of the Domestic Terminal

To speed up the process, travelers are encouraged to check in online and use mobile boarding passes if possible.

Baggage Drop and Luggage Policies

Once you’ve checked in, you can proceed to the baggage drop area. Southwest is known for its generous baggage policy, allowing:

Two free checked bags per passenger

One carry-on bag and one personal item

After dropping your luggage, head toward the security checkpoint that leads to the concourses. From there, you’ll ride the Plane Train or walk to Concourse C for your flight.

Security Screening at the Southwest Airlines Terminal ATL

TSA Security Lines for Southwest Passengers

The TSA security checkpoints are centrally located in the Domestic Terminal. Even though Southwest is on the North side, all passengers pass through the centralized security before accessing the concourses.

Here are a few tips to help you breeze through security:

Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic departures

Use TSA PreCheck if available to skip long lines

Have your boarding pass and ID ready

Remove laptops and large electronics from your bag

Wear shoes and clothing that are easy to remove if needed

Once you’ve cleared security, follow airport signage to Concourse C.

Boarding Process at Southwest Airlines Atlanta Airport Terminal

How Boarding Works on Southwest Airlines

Southwest does things a little differently than other airlines. They don’t assign seat numbers—instead, they use an open seating policy. Your boarding group (A, B, or C) and position (1–60) determine when you board.

Here’s a quick breakdown of how it works:

Check in early (exactly 24 hours before your flight) to get a better boarding position.

Business Select and EarlyBird Check-In customers usually get Group A positions.

Once your group is called, simply board and choose any open seat.

Concourse C at ATL has multiple gates for Southwest flights, all clearly marked with flight info screens and boarding announcements to keep passengers updated.

Amenities and Services at Southwest Airlines Atlanta Airport Terminal

Dining and Shopping Options in Concourse C

One of the perks of flying from ATL is the wide range of dining and retail options, and Concourse C is no exception. Here are a few highlights:

Chick-fil-A – A Southern favorite offering quick-service chicken meals

Grindhouse Killer Burgers – A local Atlanta burger joint with a cult following

Starbucks – For coffee and snacks on the go

Peach Tree Market – A convenience store offering snacks, drinks, and travel essentials

You’ll also find various newsstands, bookstores, and retail shops for electronics, clothing, and gifts.

Lounges and Seating Areas

While Southwest Airlines does not operate its own lounge at ATL, there are comfortable seating areas throughout Concourse C. Wi-Fi is free and available airport-wide. Travelers can also plug into charging stations at most gates to stay powered up before boarding.

Accessibility and Family Travel Tips at Southwest Airlines Terminal ATL

Accessibility for Passengers with Disabilities

ATL is well-equipped to assist travelers with disabilities. Features include:

Wheelchair assistance (request through Southwest or at the terminal)

Accessible restrooms

Elevators and escalators

Visual paging systems

Passengers needing assistance should arrive early and notify the airline in advance to ensure proper support.

Traveling with Kids on Southwest Airlines

Families flying with Southwest will find ATL to be quite family-friendly. Stroller check-in is free, and children under 2 can fly as lap infants.

Here are a few tips for families at the Southwest Airlines Atlanta Airport Terminal:

Use the family lanes at security

Bring snacks and activities for kids

Arrive early to find family-friendly seating near the gate

Ask gate agents if family boarding is available (typically after Group A)

Connecting Flights on Southwest Airlines at ATL

Navigating Between Concourses

If you’re connecting at ATL on Southwest Airlines, there’s a good chance both of your flights will depart from Concourse C, since Southwest mainly operates there. However, in some cases, Southwest may use Concourse D or Concourse B as overflow.

To move between concourses quickly, use ATL’s Plane Train, an automated people mover that runs every 2 minutes and stops at all concourses. Walking is also an option via underground pedestrian tunnels, which are well-marked and feature engaging exhibits.

Travel Tips for Southwest Airlines Passengers at ATL

Best Time to Arrive at the Airport

For most domestic flights, plan to arrive at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure. During peak travel periods—weekends, holidays, and early mornings—you may want to budget extra time for parking, check-in, and security.

Travel Essentials to Pack

Whether you're flying for business or pleasure, here’s a quick checklist for travelers departing from the Southwest Airlines Atlanta Airport Terminal:

Valid ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.)

Boarding pass (digital or printed)

Travel documents (if flying internationally from ATL via Southwest connections)

Chargers and electronics

Headphones and reading material

Snacks and a refillable water bottle

Southwest Airlines Atlanta Airport Terminal Tips for First-Time Flyers

Flying out of ATL for the first time can be overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. Stick to these first-timer tips for a smooth experience:

Follow airport signage carefully—it’s extensive and clear

Use the Plane Train to avoid long walks between concourses

Don’t be afraid to ask airport staff for help—they're knowledgeable and friendly

Download the Southwest Airlines app for mobile check-in, gate changes, and flight status

Keep your boarding group number handy and listen for announcements at the gate

Conclusion

If you're wondering what terminal is Southwest Airlines at Atlanta Airport, the answer is simple: Southwest operates from the Domestic Terminal, North side, primarily using Concourse C.

With modern amenities, efficient security, easy navigation, and plenty of food and shopping options, flying Southwest from ATL can be a smooth and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re arriving, departing, or connecting, knowing your terminal in advance will save time and make your journey much easier.

Keep this guide handy the next time you fly with Southwest Airlines through ATL—you’ll thank yourself for being prepared.