
The SFO Frontier Airlines Terminal. the terminal is new and state-of-the-art and provides a hassle-free, modern experience with enhanced amenities, ample waiting areas, and plenty of shopping and dining alternatives. Travelers taking Frontier need to arrive early at check-in and security checks since the terminal might be congested at times of high demand. Terminal 1 also offers convenient access to ground transportation, such as BART and car rental services, making it a convenient entrance for Frontier customers.
Flying with Frontier Airlines from SFO: What You Need to Know About the Terminal
San Francisco International Airport is one of the busiest and most well-connected airports on the West Coast. Whether you're a local flying out for business or a visitor heading home from your Bay Area adventure, serves as a key hub for domestic and international travel. Among the many carriers operating from this expansive airport is Frontier Airlines, a popular ultra-low-cost carrier known for its budget-friendly fares and no-frills service.If you're flying Frontier out of Airlines, it’s important to know which terminal you’ll be departing from and what to expect during your time at the airport. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Frontier Airlines terminal at Airlines, including check-in, security, amenities, transportation, and insider tips to make your experience as smooth as possible.
Which Terminal is Frontier Airlines at SFO?
As of 2025, Frontier Airlines operates out of Terminal 1 at San Francisco International Airport. Specifically, Frontier flights typically depart from Boarding Area B, which is located within Terminal 1.Terminal 1 is one of the newer, more recently renovated parts of the airport, offering a sleek design and upgraded amenities that aim to enhance the passenger experience. It’s modern, spacious, and relatively easy to navigate—perfect for travelers looking for a hassle-free departure.
Getting to Terminal 1
Public Transportation
One of the easiest ways to get to Airlines is via BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit). The BART station at Airlines is connected directly to the International Terminal, and from there, you can hop on the AirTrain, the airport’s free automated people mover, which will take you to Terminal 1 in just a few minutes.If you're arriving via Caltrain or Muni, you can also transfer to BART for quick access to the airport.
Driving & Parking
If you're driving to the airport, short-term and long-term parking is available in the Domestic Garage, which is a short walk or AirTrain ride away from Terminal 1. Frontier Airlines passengers are encouraged to allow extra time for parking and check-in, especially during peak travel periods.
Check-In and Baggage at Frontier Airlines SFO
Being an ultra-low-cost carrier, Frontier encourages passengers to check in online via the airline’s website or mobile app to save time (and sometimes money). However, if you need to check bags or print a boarding pass, you’ll find Frontier’s ticket counters located in the Terminal 1 departures level.
Frontier’s Baggage Policy
Frontier is known for its à la carte pricing structure. Here's what that means for your baggage:
Personal item: Included with your ticket (must fit under the seat in front of you)
Carry-on bag: Available for a fee
Checked bags: Also available for a fee, with variable pricing depending on when you purchase
It's generally cheapest to add baggage at the time of booking. If you wait until check-in or get to the airport without prepaying for bags, you’ll likely pay more.
Baggage Drop-Off
After check-in, head to the designated bag drop area at Frontier’s counter. Frontier recommends arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before domestic flights, and 3 hours before international flights, to allow ample time for check-in, security, and boarding.
TSA Security at Terminal 1
Security checkpoints at Terminal 1 can get busy, particularly during early morning and evening rush hours. That said, Terminal 1 is equipped with modernized security lanes, designed to move passengers through efficiently.
You can speed things up with:
TSA PreCheck: Available at Terminal 1
CLEAR: A biometric security service that helps you skip the ID check line
After clearing security, you’ll enter Boarding Area B, where most Frontier flights depart.
What to Expect in Boarding Area B (Post-Security)
Once you’re past security, Terminal 1 offers a variety of dining, shopping, and relaxing options. Though not as expansive as the International Terminal, it still offers a solid experience.
Dining Options
Boarding Area B has a mix of grab-and-go spots and sit-down restaurants. Here are a few traveler favorites:
Amy’s Drive Thru – Organic fast food with vegetarian and vegan-friendly options
Klein’s Deli – Perfect for quick sandwiches and snacks
Ladle & Leaf – Great for soups, salads, and hearty, healthy meals
Dogpatch Bakehouse & Caffè – Coffee, pastries, and light bites
Shopping
Need some last-minute travel gear or a souvenir? Terminal 1 features stores like:
SF MOMA Museum Store – For art lovers
Bay Area Made – Showcasing locally crafted goods
InMotion – For electronics and travel accessories
Wi-Fi, Charging Stations, and Lounges
Airlines offers free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the airport, including Terminal 1. Charging stations are available near most gates, and there are seating areas with power outlets and USB ports.While Frontier does not operate its own lounge, Terminal 1 does include access to some shared-use lounges (though these are generally not included with Frontier tickets). Priority Pass members may find accessible options in other terminals via the AirTrain.
Traveling with Kids or Special Needs?
SFO is one of the most accessible airports in the U.S. Terminal 1 is equipped with:
Family restrooms
Nursing rooms
Children’s play areas
Accessible elevators and pathways
If you need assistance getting through the airport, you can arrange for wheelchair service through Frontier in advance or at check-in.
Flight Information and Delays
Flight delays and gate changes can happen, especially with budget airlines like Frontier. Make sure to:
Download the Frontier Airlines app to get live updates on your flight status
Keep an eye on the airport monitors for any last-minute changes
Arrive at the gate early Frontier is strict about boarding times and does not usually wait for late passengers
Final Boarding Tips for Frontier at SFO
Arrive Early: Airlines can be busy, and Frontier has a strict cutoff for check-in and boarding.
Pack Light: Maximize your savings by sticking to a personal item if possible.
Use the App: Mobile check-in, boarding passes, and real-time updates can save you stress.
Be Self-Sufficient: Frontier keeps things bare-bones. Bring snacks, entertainment, and your own water bottle (refill post-security).
Stay Informed: Frontier sometimes changes gates or schedules with little notice, so stay alert to updates.
In Summary
Flying Frontier Terminal SFO offers a cost-effective option for travelers willing to trade frills for low fares. Terminal 1 at Airlines is modern, clean, and offers plenty of conveniences, making it a comfortable starting point for your trip. With the right preparation especially regarding baggage and timing your Frontier experience at Airlines can be simple and stress-free.
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