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San Antonio International Airport (SAT), located 8 miles north of downtown San Antonio, Texas, is a key hub serving over 10 million passengers annually. Operated by the City of San Antonio Aviation Department, SAT features two terminals—Terminal A and Terminal B—with 24 jet bridge gates. Situated at the intersection of Interstate 410 and U.S. 281, it’s currently undergoing a $1.2 billion expansion, including a new Terminal C (17 gates, opening by 2028), as part of the SAT Forward plan. Known for its Tex-Mex flair and traveler-friendly design, SAT connects to 45 nonstop destinations via 14 airlines.
SAT’s terminal complex is a multi-level structure with Terminals A and B adjacent within the same building, linked pre-security by walkways and post-security by a short concourse connector (5-10 minutes end-to-end). Level 1 handles arrivals, baggage claim (five carousels), and ground transportation, including a 1.8 million square-foot Consolidated Rental Car Center (CONRAC) accessible via a skybridge from Terminal B’s mezzanine. Level 2 manages departures, ticketing, and two TSA checkpoints (one per terminal), while mezzanine areas offer additional seating and amenities. Terminal A, the larger concourse, hosts international flights with U.S. Customs, while Terminal B serves primarily domestic routes.
Where to Eat: Pre-security, Harry & Izzy’s in the atrium offers steak and shrimp cocktails—upscale Hoosier fare. Post-security, Terminal A’s La Gloria (near A8) serves San Antonio-style tacos, and Terminal B’s Vino Volo (near B5) pairs wine with small plates. Merit Coffee in both terminals brews local roasts.
Where to Rest
The Business Center on Level 2 (Terminal A side) provides quiet seating—great pre-security. Post-security, cushioned chairs with outlets near Gates A12 and B6 offer free calm spots. The United Club near B3 ($59 day pass) adds plush comfort for eligible travelers.
What to Do
Interactive touchscreens near Gates A4, B2, and the atrium explore San Antonio’s Alamo history—test your trivia. The “Flight Path” art installation in Terminal A (near A6) features a suspended aluminum plane—snap a photo. Plane-watch from Gate B8’s runway views.
Unique Features
Free Wi-Fi (“flysanantonio”) blankets the terminal—strongest in the atrium. Pet relief areas are outside Door 3 (Level 1) and post-security near A10. The lactation room near A14 and interfaith meditation space in Terminal B cater to diverse needs.
How to Get There
From downtown, take US-281 North to Airport Blvd (15 minutes). VIA Route 7 ($1.30, 30 minutes) stops at Level 1. Taxis ($25-$30) and rideshares (pickup at CONRAC) take 15-20 minutes. Park in the Short-Term Garage ($18/day) or Economy Green Lot ($10/day) with shuttles.
Concourse A (Terminal A)
with 17 gates (A1-A17), is the primary hub for Aeromexico, Alaska, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, Spirit, Sun Country, and VivaAerobus, plus all international arrivals. Renovated in 2014 for $35.6 million, it boasts terrazzo floors, updated food courts, and clear signage, reflecting SAT’s commitment to passenger experience.
Dining and Refreshments
- Main Options: La Gloria near A8 dishes out street-style tacos and margaritas—try the carnitas. Boss Bagel by A14 offers fresh-baked bagels with schmear—perfect for breakfast.
- Alternatives: Starbucks near A4 brews lattes and pastries—a quick boost. Hudson News by A12 stocks trail mix and energy bars for lighter bites.
Rest Areas and Comfort
- Relaxation Spots: Near A12, cushioned seats with outlets overlook the tarmac—a quieter retreat. The lactation room near A14 (post-security) doubles as a private break space—unlock via signage instructions.
- Additional Comfort: The concourse’s open layout and natural light from large windows near A10 create a welcoming vibe. Pre-security, the atrium’s seating is a short walk back.
Entertainment and Activities
- Interactive Fun: Touchscreens near A4 dive into San Antonio’s Tex-Mex roots—learn about the city’s culinary fusion.
- Shopping and Exploration: Smoke Shack near A8 sells BBQ sauces and local tees—grab a souvenir. Plane-spot from A17’s window with views of international jets.
Notable Features and Tips
- Unique Aspects: The CBP facility near A1 processes arrivals (10 AM-8 PM)—allow 30-60 minutes for customs. A pet relief area near A10 has faux grass—clean up with provided bags.
- Travel Tips: Southwest’s heavy presence means A8-A12 can get packed—check in online 24 hours early. The Global Entry center near baggage claim speeds re-entry for enrolled travelers.
Concourse B (Terminal B)
with 8 gates (B1-B8), opened in 2010 and serves Allegiant, American, and United, plus some Southwest flights. Smaller and more intimate, it’s designed for efficiency, with a food court and lounge enhancing its offerings.
Dining and Refreshments
- Main Options: Vino Volo near B5 pairs local wines with charcuterie—a refined stop. Black Bear Diner by B2 serves diner classics like pancakes and meatloaf—comfort food fast.
- Alternatives: Dunkin’ near B4 offers donuts and coffee—a familiar grab. CNBC News by B6 has snacks like jerky and fruit for quick grabs.
Rest Areas and Comfort
- Relaxation Spots: Near B6, cushioned seats with outlets face the runway—a serene hideaway. The United Club between B3 and B5 offers showers and Wi-Fi—day passes available.
- Additional Comfort: The interfaith meditation room near B1 provides a tranquil escape—open 24/7. Fewer gates keep crowds lighter near B8.
Entertainment and Activities
- Interactive Fun: Touchscreens near B2 cover the River Walk’s history—explore San Antonio’s iconic waterway.
- Shopping and Exploration: The gift shop near B4 sells Spurs gear and local honey—great keepsakes. Plane-watch from B8’s glass wall with takeoff action.
Notable Features and Tips
- Unique Aspects: The CONRAC skybridge from B’s mezzanine streamlines car rentals—5-minute walk. Gate B8’s runway proximity offers prime aviation views.
- Travel Tips: American’s Charlotte flights peak at B5—board early for overhead space. The concourse’s 400-foot length ensures quick gate access.
SAT’s terminal map is a traveler’s delight—compact, modern, and infused with San Antonio’s vibrant spirit. Whether you’re dining, resting, or exploring, it’s a seamless kickoff to your South Texas adventure.
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Brian Mitchell