The official website of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Category: Uncategorized

  • It’s time for a summer getaway: Tips to tackle the busy travel season at ATL

    It’s time for a summer getaway: Tips to tackle the busy travel season at ATL

    Officials estimate over 10 million travelers move through Hartsfield-Jackson during the summer season.

    By Jessica Green

    Public Affairs Intern

    With the summer solstice and Fourth of July in the rearview, the warm weather season is officially upon us. About 10.7 million passengers are expected to go through security checkpoints this summer at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, so to say the season is a popular time for travel would be an understatement.

    Passengers are traveling through ATL to destinations all over the world.

    The top 10 domestic travel destinations are:

    1. New York
    2. Orlando
    3. Chicago
    4. Fort Lauderdale / Miami
    5. Tampa
    6. Baltimore
    7. Dallas
    8. Washington D.C.
    9. Philadelphia
    10. Los Angeles

    Concourses E and F are also quite busy this time of year. Here are the top 10 international destinations:

    1. Toronto, Canada
    2. Cancun, Mexico
    3. Mexico City, Mexico
    4. Montreal, Canada
    5. Nassau, Bahamas
    6. Amsterdam, Netherlands
    7. Paris, France
    8. London, England
    9. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
    10. Montego Bay, Jamaica

    And if you’re long overdue for a vacation, here are a few tips for your next getaway.

    With increased traffic and ATLNext, the multibillion-dollar capital improvement program underway, ATL passengers are advised to arrive at the Airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure for domestic flights and three hours in advance for international flights. This allows for plenty of time to check luggage and get through security checkpoints.

    Hartsfield-Jackson has several projects in development continuing through the summer. Workers are finishing up construction of the South Terminal canopy. The entire exterior of the Domestic Terminal is getting a face lift. Pedestrian bridges will create a bypass above the roadways and connect the Domestic Terminal to the parking decks, improving better traffic flow. Renovations to create space for additional gates on Concourse Tare taking place. And the ATL West Parking Deck, located near the Georgia International Convention Center (GICC), is currently under development.

    With all the improvements being made to ATL, be mindful of temporary closures and cautious in construction zones. Visit next.atl.com for updates.

    Whether it’s a weekend retreat or a month abroad, this summer is the perfect time to venture. Dust off your passport, grab your boarding pass, and enjoy traveling.

  • Airport region prepares for major renewal with aerotropolis

    Airport region prepares for major renewal with aerotropolis

    Aerotropolis Atlanta Director of Marketing and Communications Charlie Vaughn and CEO Shannon James © 2019 Decisive Moment Events

    By Anika Robertson

    Senior Editor / Assistant Public Relations Manager

    It’s no secret that as the economic jewel of the Southeast, Hartsfield-Jackson drives billions of dollars in business activity. A few miles away sits a lesser-known asset, a small but robust organization strategically grinding to catapult development surrounding ATL’s 4,700 acres.

    Incorporated in 2014, the Aerotropolis Atlanta Alliance, consisting of a 39-member board that includes municipalities, nonprofits and corporate powerhouses such as Porsche, Georgia Power, SunTrust Bank and Delta Air Lines, seeks to drive economic investment, job growth and quality of life in the area.

    While many areas north of 1-20 have experienced development and revitalization, areas south of the line remained stagnant. That is until Porsche broke ground on its $100 million North America headquarters in Hapeville in 2012.

    “Porsche’s arrival solidified the aerotropolis concept,” Aerotropolis Atlanta Alliance President and CEO Shannon James explained, adding that multijurisdictional collaboration and cooperation were vital.

    The organization was kick-started by a partnership with the Atlanta Regional Commission to publish a detailed blueprint outlining the vision, select stakeholders and identify transportation needs. Porsche Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary Joe Folz joined the burgeoning initiative and currently serves as chairman emeritus.

    James, appointed as CEO in May 2018, spends his days and nights furthering the mission of Aerotropolis Atlanta Alliance to strengthen the region through economic development, education and workforce development.

    The collaborative approach is working.

    “We bring tons of benefit with public-private partnerships, all these cities surrounding the Airport and we’re in constant communication with them. So how do we make sure, if there are opportunities or challenges, how can we be a conduit?”

    The entire Aerotropolis Atlanta area encompasses a 20-mile area surrounding the Airport. In addition to the Alliance, Community Improvement Districts (CIDs) also collaborate for further planning and development, such as a greenway network of trails, a transit study, and cargo mobility plans.

    The Aerotropolis Atlanta CIDs and Alliance spearheaded a first for the area, the $12 million Diverging Diamond Interchange at I-285 and Camp Creek Parkway that promises to improve traffic flow and promote future growth. The project is expected to be completed in late 2019.

    “CIDs are more horizontal in economic development – beautification, infrastructure and wayfinding,” James explained.

    “We’re trying to bring vertical growth. When you have horizontal growth happening, it influences the vertical, so we are constantly working together.”

    With ATL as a partner and advocate for Aerotropolis Atlanta Alliance, Airport General Manager John Selden said the alliance is a no-brainer.

    “Ensuring the success of Aerotropolis Atlanta is a win-win for everyone,” Selden said.

    “It just makes logical sense to be located in a thriving, vibrant region that is a world-class transportation hub.”

    One major project set to break ground early next year is Airport City College Park, a 320-acre mixed-use development adjacent to the Georgia International Convention Center off Camp Creek Parkway.

    “Now we’re bringing a couple of billion dollars to the area, which has never happened before, south of I-20,” James said.

    “This project really speaks to the aerotropolis concept. You’re bringing real destination development to an airport area.”

    So how can ATL best support Aerotropolis Atlanta? The former bank executive wants to make sure that visions and planning align while continuing to put Hartsfield-Jackson on a platform it deserves.

    “[With ATLNext], I would love for us to coordinate more as we’re planning through growth and what that looks like,” James said. “This will lead to smart growth for decades to come while positively promoting the area.”

    The organization recently won the 2018 Development of Excellence Great Place Award by the Atlanta Regional Commission.

    Plans for the next big win are in Clayton County with Mountainview, a 700-acre mixed-use development opportunity west of Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal.

    “We have a regional focus and want to strip the idea of competition amongst ourselves,” James said.

    “What’s good for the area is good for everyone.”

  • Beans: The Humble and Delicious Global Unifier

    Beans: The Humble and Delicious Global Unifier

    By Shannon Evans

    As I’ve been traveling lately, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about the foods that unify us. That has always been the power of food to me. One of those key ingredients that I see used no matter where I am in the world is beans. The history of beans can be traced back over 20,000 years. It’s a staple item in just about every culture and as I look back at my travels over the past few months, I realize that it popped up everywhere. In Jamaica, my first meal upon arrival was a cup of red pea (kidney beans) soup on the side of a mountain. In Turkey, I had a mezze platter with hummus and pita bread and a lot of other goodies. In Portugal, I had arroz de feijão (lightly stewed white rice with pink beans).
    No matter what corner of the world you look, you can find beans. Fortunately, this includes Hartsfield Jackson airport. Here are a few great places to stop when you’re at the airport:

    Papi’s Cuban and Caribbean Grill

    Beans have always been (no pun intended) a part of my diet, but I think the first time that I realized that I was a bean enthusiast was when I discovered Cuban style black beans. In Atlanta, one of my favorite places for Cuban food is Papi’s and the airport outpost doesn’t disappoint. There isn’t a better way to taste black beans than in their “Papi’s Bowl”. It has rice, black beans, plantains, pico de gallo, salsa verde and you can add ropa vieja or slow roasted pork if you’d like more protein. Bonus: In addition to the spacious dining area, they have a take out area that makes it easy to grab and catch your flight.
    Concourse T7

    Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh

    While beans can be relatively easy to find, sometimes it’s hard to find it in a light meal. I love rice and beans, but when searching for something healthier, I turn to hummus. Hummus -popular in the Mediterranean and Middle East-is a dip primarily made with mashed chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice and salt. At Garbanzo’s, it’s just one of the fresh choices you have when building a wrap, salad or plate. If you want to take a break from the norm, ask about their seasonal hummus. This is a great way to see the many things you can do with hummus.
    Concourse D Food Court

    The Mustard Seed

    “Beans and cornbread had a fight…beans knocked cornbread out of sight…Cornbread said, ‘Now that’s alright.’ “  I have no idea what that Louis Jordan song is about, but as I sat down at The Mustard Seed and looked at the menu, I couldn’t get it out of my head.  So, I found myself ordering a side of baked beans and some cornbread to crumble on top of it…this is a thing right? Well, if it isn’t it should be. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and salty.  It is also went great with their Banisher dark red blend wine.
    Concourse D23

  • National Beer Day

    National Beer Day

    Spring has arrived, and National Beer Day is quickly approaching on April 7th. As you know we do it right in the Peach State, so it only makes sense to chill with us and sip a refreshing brew. Whether you’re new to the beer game or looking for a new fave we’ve always got a pint for you. Here are a few of our standout spots.
    You can get a taste of Georgia’s home-grown ale on Concourse D, at Terrapin Tap House, which has stellar craft-beer. Choose from at least eight Southern drafts or get a flight with a few local favorites and raise a glass to Terrapin’s 17th anniversary.
    Samuel Adams Atlanta Brew House on Concourse B is known for its Boston Lager, but there are several beers on tap, including some spring flavors. Look out for the Cold Snap, White Water IPA, Cherry Wheat and Maple Pecan Porter. Order some bar bites and sit by the windows and watch the planes roll in.
    If you have a taste for authentic German beer, head over to Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant on Concourse A for a smooth Golden Export lager. The brews and freshly made dishes are created to go together, try the Bratwurst Sliders, the Legendary Garlic Fries or the Blue Crab & Artichoke Dip with your chosen brew.
    For a look at some of these bar bites and brews check out our video. And remember, here at ATL we always have a cold Georgia brew for you.
    Happy #NationalBeerDay!

  • Piece for Me, Piece for You

    Piece for Me, Piece for You

    By: Shannon Evans
    Maybe it was the weeks of nonstop travel. Maybe it was the flu bug that’s been going around.
    Either way, I’ve been sick for what feels like forever and tragically, I haven’t felt like eating. Legend has it that the idea of tapas – small plates that are typically shared – was started by King Alfonso X of Spain. He contracted a severe illness that only allowed him to take in small amounts of food with wine. Upon recovery, he declared that all inns and bars would need to serve snacks along with the libation (this type of genius behavior gives me hope that I too can have some culinary breakthrough in my current state).
    Ill or not, here are a few great places to share a bite with travel mates at Hartsfield-Jackson – wine optional.

    Ecco

    As a restaurant specializing in European fare, it isn’t surprising that Ecco has a tapas/sharing portion on their menu. At Ecco, I had the Fried Goat Cheese with honey and black pepper. They say these balls are for sharing, but don’t do it. I promise you that you won’t want to share. However many people are in your group, get that many orders. Ecco is a seasonal restaurant, but the goat cheese is a mainstay for a reason. The Spicy Heirloom Green Beans with Calabrian chiles and Marcona almonds are also delicious. Honestly, it’s hard to go wrong with anything on Ecco’s menu.
    Location: Concourse F

    Atlanta Chophouse and Brewery

    I’m always surprised how easy it is to forget that you’re in an airport while in ChopHouse. Maybe it’s because there are so many people taking advantage of the expansive bar to prop open their laptops to get some work done. Or maybe it’s the convivial nature of interactions as people use the fact that it’s before security to hang with friends before bidding farewell. The menu is filled with many choices, but the Firecracker Shrimp with Thai chili sauce is perfect for sharing and soaking up one of their brews. As a bonus, it’s served with coleslaw which has a pleasant hint of ginger.
    Location: Atrium

    Piece of Cake

    Once upon a time, I used to own an event venue in Atlanta. One of my favorite things about this was getting to try all of the different cakes and cupcakes from Piece of Cake. The Airport outpost isn’t quite the same, but it’s still an excellent spot to stop for a sweet treat. With flavors including strawberry, white chocolate, red velvet and caramel, the cupcakes are definitely large enough to share.
    Location: A Centerpoint

  • Wine Down Wednesday

    Wine Down Wednesday

    By: Shannon Evans

    Although my next adventure is taking me to Jamaica, I still had Portugal and great wines on my mind when I showed up to Hartsfield-Jackson for my latest flight. Porto taught me that there is no bad time for a glass of vino (who am I kidding … I already knew this). However, Porto did remind me that I should enjoy it everywhere.
    Atlanta’s airport has no shortage of great places to have a glass of wine. Here are just a few, especially if you’re close to the International Terminal:

    The Market by Food & Wine: How did I not know before now that this even existed? I loved the warm feel of this concept. They have a great selection of food to pair with their wine. There also is a seating area off to the side that makes for great people watching while sipping your libations.
    Location: D Centerpoint

    The Club at ATL: This is one of my favorite airport haunts. It’s a great place to get a little work done before a flight or, of course, grab a glass of wine. The Club cleverly curated their wine offerings by pairing each selection with a nonprofit organization. For example, you can have a glass of Joel Gott Merlot and benefit children’s hospitals at the same time. How’s that for drinking with a purpose? I continued my preflight ritual by having a glass of bubbly in honor of fighting childhood hunger.
    Location: F Mezzanine

    40/40 Club: “Got matchin’ VCRs, a huge Magnavox 10-inch, green like spinach, pop wines that’s vintage. It’s a lot of big money in my sentence.”
    ~ Jay Z
    Jay Z has been rapping about wine since … well, since he’s been rapping. So it should come as no surprise that his 40/40 Club is a great place to enjoy a glass. The reds primarily originate from California, with whites from California, New Zealand and Italy. And you can splurge on a bottle of Champagne Armand de Brignac, also known as “Ace of Spades,” since Jay Z also owns the brand.
    Location: D Centerpoint

  • Holiday Recovery: Treat Yourself After the Holidays

    Holiday Recovery: Treat Yourself After the Holidays

    By: Shannon Evans

    I recently took a flight from Atlanta to Istanbul. It was really a 24-hour stopover that allowed me to check out this exotic wonderland before my connecting flight. With only a limited time to see the city, I decided it would be well spent at a Turkish hammam. That’s a hot steam bath for the uninitiated. Some relaxation was most needed, and the overall impetus for this trip after a hectic holiday season. I landed, dropped my bags at the hotel and trekked through Istanbul’s streets in search of my serenity.
    After an hourlong hammam (which left me wondering if I’d actually ever bathed before), it was time for my massage. As I lay in the still dark room, I was reminded (between quick snoozes) that I needed more moments like this in 2019. I committed to finding them wherever I am, rather than waiting until I’m halfway around the world.
    If we look, we realize that these peaceful interludes are all around us, even in Hartsfield-Jackson. Here are a few places that offer respite as you wait for your departure:

    1. Lather: As soon as you step inside, you’ll notice the calming hues and rich aromatherapy. Everything is so peaceful. As I browsed, I smelled the soaps and checked out the travel kits. Then I learned that they have a custom blending bar, where you pick the oils of your choice and pair it with and unscented body wash or moisturizer. Voila! Your signature scent.
    Location: T5

    2. XpresSpa: I’m a new convert to the legion of airport travelers with neck pillows. I always thought they looked bulky, but with a 10-hour flight ahead of me, I decided to give one from XpresSpa a try. In addition to comfy travel accessories, they also offer pampering services such as massages, pedicures and facials. And with XpresSpa’s new partnership with Calm, users of the app receive 10 percent off services.
    Location: C34

    3. The Beauty Bar: I was chatting with Abbey Glass, a rising Atlanta-based women’s wear designer, when she mentioned that her favorite airport ritual was getting there early to smell new perfumes and try on makeup because she normally doesn’t have the time in her busy schedule. I’d never really thought about that before. However, in perusing the store to find a travel-sized perfume for my excursion, I quickly saw the appeal.
    Location: Concourse B

    4. The Shoe Shine: I normally don’t get my shoes shined. When I’m in the airport, I’m usually in sneakers or some equivalent. However, I’m adding this indulgence for others who might be traveling for business or those who get their sneakers shined (Is that a thing? Don’t do this.) What I like about it most are the old-school shoe shine chairs. It immediately transports you into a different era. I’m almost tempted to wear a pair of dull leather shoes so that I can slip away into the comfortable chairs. There’s nothing more timeless than looking your best.
    Location: A20

  • National Southern Food Day

    National Southern Food Day


    By: Ebonne Holyfield

    Concessions Marketing Coordinator

    Here at ATL Airport, we know a thing or two about the South. So when we heard it was National Southern Food Day, we were beyond excited to give you the scoop on not one, not two, but ten of our popular Southern dishes. In true Georgia fashion, we believe in Southern hospitality and enjoy providing you with home-cooked meals while you’re away from home. Prepare to indulge as we roll out the red carpet and take you on a short Plane Train ride to two of our star-studded restaurants.

     

    First up is LowCountry New Southern Cuisine, co-owned by celebrity chef G. Garvin. Located at A Centerpoint, this eatery is one of our many Airport gems in high demand. Serving each guest buffet style, LowCountry boasts that their incredible meals bring to mind “images of suppertime, Sunday dinner and cherished moments with family and friends.” You can grab a seat in the food court to savor the flavor or conveniently take your meal to go. Either way, you can’t lose with their perfectly seasoned Shrimp and Grits, creamy Mac n’ Cheese, and savory G. Garvin’s Baby Back Ribs.

     

    As if your mouth isn’t watering enough, next up is Chicken + Beer, co-owned by Grammy award-winning artist Ludacris. With nostalgic Atlanta hip-hop playing in the background and Southern comfort food at your fingertips, Chicken + Beer is quickly becoming a go-to oasis on Concourse D. Not to mention, when seating you, the staff inquires about your time restraints so that your meal doesn’t delay your travels. Excellent Southern hospitality, right?

     

    And just in case you weren’t convinced Chicken + Beer truly captures the spirit of the South, expect a variety of Southern staples ranging from Luda’s Chicken + Waffles, Southern Fried Chicken, Salmon Croquette Sliders, Sweet Potato Yams and the most delicious Collard Green Cowl you’ve ever tried. The next time you’re traveling through ATL, do yourself a favor and treat yourself to a taste of the South because we’re definitely bringing the flavor.

    Enjoy and Happy National Southern Food Day! 

    Click the video to start a celebratory journey through ATL.

  • We remember former Airport Commissioner Max Walker

    We remember former Airport Commissioner Max Walker

    Max Walker, center, looks at former Aviation Commissioner George Berry in this undated photo. Courtesy of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

    By Doug Strachan
    Innovation and Strategic Business Development Manager

    Maxwell “Max” Walker, a giant in Atlanta’s aviation history and the City of Atlanta Department of Aviation’s sixth leader, passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 8, after a brief illness. Max was 89 at the time.

    Max worked at ATL from 1967 until his retirement in May 1993, enjoying an extraordinary career of about 26 years. In 1982, he became a deputy commissioner of aviation. In those days, a commissioner, rather than an Airport general manager led the Department of Aviation.

    Among his many accomplishments was earning a reputation for completing ATL construction projects “on time and under budget.” In a 1993 interview with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Max recalled that in 1969, the DOA was able to rebuild a runway in just 40 days. “It usually takes a year or so, but we couldn’t stand for the runway to be out of service for that long,” he told the newspaper.

    ATL’s early intervention in efforts to mitigate community frustration with aircraft noise was another area in which Max succeeded. He told the AJC, “One of the big things we tried to do was plan for the airport and surrounding communities so we could co-exist.” He went on to say, “I think today the communications and the ability to talk among local governments and the airport is much, much better than it was before.”

    Known for his graciousness, Max was the epitome of fairness, until his frugal nature was stirred. Katie Stanciel, long-time head of ATL’s Parking operation, recounts the time she approached Max with trepidation one evening to broach the subject of hiring extra staff to help her manage the growing demands of her job.

    Stanciel recalls, “I had been taking folders full of spreadsheets home each night, and I was getting tired!” Cautiously entering Max’s office, she explained her position and then asked for the extra help.

    “Max slowly looked up from his desk, smiled at me, and then said, softly, ‘You can do it, Katie.’”

    She was ultimately left to get the work done efficiently by herself.

    A host of anecdotes point to the extent to which Max held the bottom line. One recounts the submission of a proposed $80 million budget plan. After reviewing the proposal, the story goes, Max looked up at those in the room and said, “I believe you can do it for $60 million.”

    The basis for the design of today’s ATL has its roots in concepts created or approved by Max Walker. In many ways, it’s clear that Max Walker’s planning, building and operational philosophies permeate the thinking of modern Planning and Development leadership; like Max, they too take pride in the engineering and execution of projects designed to ensure that ATL can fulfill its purpose and mission for years to come.

  • National Champagne Day

    National Champagne Day

    By: Ebonne Holyfield
    Concessions Marketing Coordinator

    National Champagne Day is right on our heels, and we’re ready to toast it up for the holidays! Here at ATL, we have exceptional bars, restaurants and stores guaranteed to meet any occasion. So why wait until vacation to make your spirits bright? Live it up and create memories even before hitting the runway.

    First, a look at holiday cheer pre-security. Gone are the days of limited options as you wait for friends and family to arrive. Atlanta Chophouse and Brewery in the Domestic atrium is the perfect place to unwind and indulge in a signature cocktail.

    Heading to the International Terminal next? You don’t have to travel outside of the Airport to enjoy Ecco. On Concourse F’s mezzanine, you can indulge in one-of-a-kind champagne cocktails, plus you can take in some delicious small bites.

    And if you thought we’d leave your loved ones out, think again! At Duty Free Americas on Concourses E and F, you can purchase a bottle of bubbly on the go as a perfect last-minute gift.

    Cheers to the New Year and have a happy National Champagne Day!

    Click the video to start a celebratory journey through ATL.