Traveling through an atlanta airport smoking area can be stressful for smokers who need their regular nicotine fix.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is the world’s busiest airport by passenger traffic, handling over 75 million travelers annually.
If you’re a smoker with an upcoming trip through ATL, you might be wondering where you can legally enjoy a cigarette without breaking rules or missing your flight.
In recent years, the smoking policies at Atlanta Airport have undergone significant changes. Since January 2, 2020, the Atlanta City Council has enforced a complete ban on smoking inside the airport terminals.
This marked a major shift from previous years, when several indoor smoking lounges were available throughout the concourses. Today, smoking is only permitted in specific designated areas located outside the terminal buildings.
Atlanta Airport Smoking Area
This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the Atlanta Airport smoking situation with ease.
We’ll cover all the designated smoking locations, explain the current policies, provide useful tips for smokers in transit, and answer the most common questions about smoking at ATL.
Whether you’re a local traveler, a tourist, or someone with a connecting flight, this information will help you plan your smoke breaks without disrupting your journey or risking penalties.
Atlanta Hartsfield Airport Smoking Areas
The Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Airport promotes a smoke-free environment within its terminals and concourses.
Unlike some international airports that still offer indoor smoking rooms, ATL has eliminated all indoor smoking options for general passengers since 2020.
Instead, the airport provides several outdoor designated smoking areas located at least 20 feet away from terminal entrances.
These areas are marked and are the only places where smoking is legally permitted on airport property.
The main designated smoking areas are located outside both the Domestic and International Terminals at the following locations:
- LN1 – North Terminal, Lower Level Door 1
- LN2 – North Terminal, Lower Level Door 2
- N3 – North Terminal, Main Level Door 3
- N4 – North Terminal, Main Level Door 4
- S4 – South Terminal, Main Level Door 4
- S5 – South Terminal, Main Level Door 5
- S6 – South Terminal, Main Level Door 6
- S7 – South Terminal, Main Level Door 7
In this naming system, “N” refers to the North Terminal smoking zones, while “S” refers to the South Terminal zones.
The numbers indicate specific exit door locations. These smoking areas are positioned approximately 25 feet away from the terminal doors to comply with Georgia’s smoke-free air regulations.
For your convenience, here’s a detailed table of other smoking areas at the airport with their hours of operation:
| Location | Terminal | Nearest Gate | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outdoor Smoking Area | Int. Terminal (T Gate) | T11 | 24/7 |
| Outdoor Smoking Area | Domestic Terminal North | Ground Transportation | 24/7 |
| Outdoor Smoking Area | Domestic Terminal South | Ground Transportation | 24/7 |
| Smoking Lounge | Concourse T | T3 | 6 AM-11 PM |
| Smoking Lounge | Concourse A | A3 | 6 AM-11 PM |
| Smoking Lounge | Concourse B | B23 | 6 AM-11 PM |
Important note: If you’re already past security and want to smoke, you’ll need to exit the secure area, use one of the outdoor smoking areas, and then go through security screening again.
This is a critical consideration when planning your smoke breaks, especially if you have limited time between flights.
Is there a Smoking Area in Concourse B?
Yes, there is a designated smoking area accessible from Concourse B at Atlanta Airport. The Atlanta Airport smoking area near Concourse B is located close to gate B23. This is one of the few smoking lounges that remain available for travelers, but with specific restrictions.
The smoking lounge near gate B23 operates from 6 AM to 11 PM daily, so it’s not available for overnight travelers. The lounge is specially designed with advanced ventilation systems to contain smoke and minimize its impact on non-smoking areas of the concourse.
For travelers with connecting flights departing from Concourse B, this smoking area offers a relatively convenient option without requiring you to exit security and re-enter. However, be aware that:
- You must respect the operating hours (6 AM to 11 PM)
- The lounge may become crowded during peak travel times
- You should allow sufficient time to walk to and from your gate
- Proper etiquette includes disposing of cigarette butts in designated receptacles
Concourse B houses many Delta Air Lines flights, so this smoking area is particularly useful for Delta passengers with layovers at what the airline considers its primary hub.
If your flight departs from or arrives at a different concourse, you’ll need to factor in the additional time required to travel between concourses via the Plane Train (the airport’s automated people mover system) before and after your smoke break.
Atlanta Airport Map Smoking Area
Having access to an accurate Atlanta Airport smoking area map can significantly improve your travel experience as a smoker. The airport is massive and sprawling, so knowing exactly where to find the nearest smoking area from your location is essential for efficient time management.
The official Atlanta Airport website provides downloadable terminal maps that indicate the locations of all designated smoking areas. These maps are regularly updated to reflect any changes in smoking policies or designated areas. You can also find physical maps and directories throughout the airport terminals.
When using the Atlanta Airport smoking area map, pay attention to these key features:
- Terminal indicators (T, A, B, C, D, E, F) to identify your current location
- Gate numbers to help orient yourself
- Directional signs pointing toward smoking areas
- Distance indicators showing approximate walking times
For Delta passengers, the Atlanta Airport smoking area map for Delta facilities is particularly useful, as Delta operates the majority of flights at this airport. The map clearly shows which smoking areas are closest to Delta’s check-in counters, gates, and lounges.
In addition to general smoking areas, the map also indicates the location of two exclusive Delta Sky Club lounges:
- Delta Sky Club – 6000 S Terminal Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30337
- Delta Sky Club (B18) – Located in Concourse B
These lounges are only accessible to certain premium passengers or club members, as we’ll discuss in more detail later.
Smoking Policies at Atlanta Hartsfield Airport
Understanding the smoking policies at Atlanta Hartsfield Airport is crucial for avoiding penalties and ensuring a smooth travel experience. These policies are derived from both federal regulations and airport-specific rules.
Federal Regulations
According to federal regulations in the United States, smoking is prohibited in most public places, including transportation facilities. These federal rules apply to:
- All enclosed areas within airports
- Aircraft cabins
- Transportation waiting areas
- Security screening zones
The federal definition of “smoking” includes:
- Traditional cigarettes
- Cigars
- Pipes
- E-cigarettes and vaping devices
- Any other tobacco or nicotine products that produce smoke or vapor
Violations of federal smoking regulations can result in civil penalties and possible removal from the airport.
Airport-Specific Policies
Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Airport has implemented its own set of smoking policies that align with and sometimes exceed federal requirements:
- Complete indoor smoking ban since January 2, 2020
- Minimum 20-foot distance requirement from any terminal entrance
- Designated outdoor areas as the only legal smoking locations
- Penalties ranging from $100 to $200 for violations
The Atlanta Airport smoking areas in 2024 will remain strictly limited to the designated outdoor locations. Airport authorities actively enforce these policies through:
- Regular security patrols
- Surveillance cameras
- Clear signage throughout the terminals
- Public address announcements
It’s worth noting that these policies apply to all forms of smoking and vaping, without exception. Even medical marijuana users must comply with these restrictions, regardless of state laws regarding medical use.
Is there Any Smoking Area on Terminal E?
For travelers passing through Terminal E at Atlanta Airport, the answer to the question about smoking areas is no. There is no designated smoking area directly within Terminal E, as it is located inside the secure area of the airport.
Terminal E primarily serves international flights and some domestic connections. If you’re at Terminal E and need to smoke, you would need to:
- Take the Plane Train to the main domestic or international terminal
- Exit the secure area
- Find one of the outdoor designated smoking areas
- Re-enter through security screening
- Return to Terminal E
This process can be extremely time-consuming, especially during peak travel periods when security lines are long. For international travelers with connecting flights, this presents a particular challenge due to the additional customs and immigration procedures that may be involved.
Given these constraints, if you have a relatively short layover (less than 2 hours) at Terminal E, it may not be practical to attempt a smoking break without risking missing your connecting flight. In such cases, nicotine alternatives like patches, gum, or lozenges might be your best option.
For travelers with longer layovers, plan to allow at least 60-90 minutes for the entire process of exiting security, smoking, and returning through security screening before your boarding time.
Who can Smoke Inside the Atlanta Hartsfield Airport?
While the general policy prohibits smoking inside Atlanta Hartsfield Airport, there are a few exceptions for certain categories of travelers. These exceptions are quite limited and apply only to specific areas within the airport.
The only people who can smoke inside the Atlanta Hartsfield Airport are:
- International travelers who have purchased a day pass for certain premium lounges
- Passengers with access to the Delta Sky Club lounge in Concourse F
- Delta Sky Club members with appropriate credentials
These exclusive lounges offer separate, ventilated smoking rooms for their qualifying members. The smoking areas within these lounges are completely isolated from the main lounge space to ensure that non-smoking members aren’t affected by secondhand smoke.
The Delta Sky Club lounge in Concourse F is particularly notable as it’s one of the few remaining indoor spaces at ATL where smoking is permitted. However, access is strictly limited to:
- Delta One® and Delta Premium Select passengers on international flights
- SkyTeam Elite Plus members
- Delta Sky Club members
- Passengers who purchase a one-day pass (approximately $59)
Even within these exclusive lounges, smoking is only permitted in the designated smoking rooms, not throughout the entire lounge. These rooms feature specialized ventilation systems designed to contain smoke and prevent it from spreading to other areas.
For the vast majority of travelers who don’t qualify for these exceptions, smoking is only permitted in the outdoor designated areas previously described.
Is there Any Smoking Area on Terminal A?
Yes, there is a designated smoking area accessible from Terminal A at Atlanta Airport. The Atlanta airport smoking area near Terminal A is located close to gate A3. This smoking lounge operates from 6 AM to 11 PM daily, making it unavailable for overnight travelers.
Terminal A is one of the busiest concourses at Atlanta Airport, serving primarily domestic flights. The smoking area near gate A3 provides a convenient option for smokers who are departing from or arriving at gates in this terminal.
Key points about the Terminal A smoking area include:
- Operating hours: 6 AM to 11 PM daily
- Location: Near gate A3
- Accessibility: Requires exiting security if you’re coming from another concourse
- Facilities: Includes proper ventilation and cigarette disposal receptacles
For passengers with connecting flights through Terminal A who need a smoke break, this area can be relatively convenient if your layover is long enough. However, remember that if you’re arriving from another concourse or terminal, you’ll need to:
- Take the Plane Train to Terminal A
- Locate the smoking area near gate A3
- Allow sufficient time to return to your departure gate
During busy travel periods, Terminal A can become extremely crowded, so allocate extra time for navigating through the concourse to reach the smoking area and return to your gate.
Where to Buy Cigarettes at Atlanta Airport?
If you need to purchase cigarettes at Atlanta Airport, several retail options are available throughout the terminals. Cigarettes can be bought from:
- Convenience stores in both domestic and international terminals
- Newsstand shops are located throughout the concourses
- Duty-free stores (for international travelers)
The availability of specific cigarette brands may vary by location, but most shops carry popular domestic and international brands. Prices at airport retailers are typically higher than what you’d pay outside the airport due to the convenience factor and airport concession fees.
For international travelers, the duty-free shops offer the best value as cigarettes are exempt from certain taxes and duties. These shops are located in the international terminal and are only accessible to passengers with international boarding passes.
It’s important to note that you cannot buy cigarettes at or near the designated smoking areas themselves. You’ll need to make your purchase from one of the retail locations before heading to a smoking area.
Also, be aware that there are restrictions on how many cigarettes you can bring into or take out of certain countries without paying additional duties. If you’re an international traveler, check the customs regulations for both your departure and arrival countries before purchasing.
What to Do if I Mistakenly Smoke Inside the Airport?
If you accidentally smoke inside Atlanta Airport, you should be prepared for potential consequences. The smoking ban is strictly enforced, and claims of ignorance or accidents are not typically accepted as valid excuses.
If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, here’s what to do:
- Immediately stop smoking and properly extinguish your cigarette
- Dispose of it appropriately in a waste container
- Apologize sincerely if approached by airport staff or security
- Cooperate fully with any airport personnel who address the situation
- Be prepared to pay a fine ranging from $100 to $200
Arguing or becoming confrontational with airport staff will only make the situation worse and could potentially lead to more serious consequences, including being escorted from the airport or even missing your flight.
Airport security cameras monitor most areas, so even if no one immediately notices your smoking violation, you might still be identified and approached later. The best approach is to be honest, apologetic, and cooperative if you’ve made this mistake.
Tips for Smokers Traveling Through Atlanta Hartsfield Airport
Navigating Atlanta Airport as a smoker requires some planning. Here are some practical tips to help make your journey smoother:
Plan Your Route in Advance
- Study the airport map before your trip to locate smoking areas relative to your gates
- Note which smoking areas are closest to your arrival and departure points
- Calculate walking distances between your gates and the nearest smoking areas
- Download the airport map to your phone for easy reference
Manage Your Time Efficiently
- Arrive at the airport earlier than usual to accommodate smoke breaks
- Allow at least 45-60 minutes for a smoke break that requires exiting and re-entering security
- Set time limits for your smoke breaks to avoid losing track of time
- Check flight status frequently to be aware of any gate changes or delays
Consider Nicotine Alternatives
- Pack nicotine patches for long flights when smoking isn’t possible
- Bring nicotine gum or lozenges as a backup option
- Try nicotine pouches which are discreet and don’t produce smoke or vapor
- Practice relaxation techniques to manage cravings during no-smoking periods
Be Prepared for Security
- Have your boarding pass and ID ready when returning through security
- Be aware of security wait times, which can vary significantly throughout the day
- Remove prohibited items from your pockets before going through screening
- Consider TSA PreCheck if you’re a frequent traveler to reduce security wait times
Stay Comfortable During Layovers
- Dress appropriately for outdoor smoking areas in all weather conditions
- Bring a jacket or sweater, even in summer, as airport air conditioning can be cold
- Stay hydrated, as both flying and smoking can cause dehydration
- Pack breath mints or gum for after smoking
FAQs
- Does ATL airport have a smoking area?
Yes, Atlanta Airport has designated smoking areas, but they are all located outside the airport terminals at least 20 feet from any entrance. There are no general indoor smoking areas available to regular passengers.
- Can you smoke after going through airport security?
If you want to smoke after passing through security at Atlanta Airport, you will need to exit the secure area and then go through security screening again afterward. Plan for at least 45-60 minutes for this process during busy times.
- When did Atlanta Airport stop smoking indoors?
The Atlanta City Council implemented a complete ban on smoking inside the airport effective January 2, 2020. Before this date, there were several smoking lounges throughout the airport concourses.
- Can you smoke or vape in Atlanta Airport?
No, vaping is treated the same as smoking at Atlanta Airport. You cannot use vaping devices or e-cigarettes inside the airport terminals. Vaping is only permitted in the designated outdoor smoking areas, and the same penalties apply for violations.
- How much is the fine for smoking inside Atlanta Airport?
If you’re caught smoking inside Atlanta Airport, you can face a penalty ranging from $100 to $200. This fine applies to all forms of smoking, including traditional cigarettes, cigars, e-cigarettes, and vaping devices.
- Are there any indoor smoking areas at Atlanta Airport?
For regular passengers, there are no indoor smoking areas at Atlanta Airport. The only exceptions are for certain international travelers or Delta Sky Club members who have access to the separate smoking areas within specific premium lounges.
- How long should I allow for a smoke break at Atlanta Airport?
You should allow at least 45-60 minutes for a smoke break at Atlanta Airport if you’ve already gone through security. This time accounts for exiting the secure area, finding the smoking area, smoking, and going through security screening again.
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Conclusion:
Navigating the Atlanta airport smoking areas requires some preparation and knowledge of the airport’s policies, but it doesn’t have to be stressful.
As one of America’s busiest airports, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has established clear rules about where smoking is permitted, and understanding these regulations will help make your journey smoother.
Remember that since January 2020, smoking is no longer allowed inside any of the airport terminals or concourses.
All designated smoking areas are located outside, at least 20 feet away from terminal entrances. The only exceptions are for certain international travelers or Delta Sky Club members who have access to exclusive smoking areas within premium lounges.
If you’re a smoker traveling through Atlanta Airport, the key to a hassle-free experience is planning ahead.
Study the airport map before your trip, allow extra time for smoke breaks (especially if you need to exit and re-enter security), and consider bringing nicotine alternatives for times when smoking isn’t possible.
Be aware that smoking in non-designated areas can result in a fine of up to $200, so always respect the posted signs and regulations.
When in doubt, ask airport staff for directions to the nearest smoking area rather than risking a penalty.
For smokers with connecting flights, carefully consider whether your layover provides enough time for a smoke break.
Remember that exiting security, smoking, and going through security screening again can take up to an hour during busy travel periods.
By following the guidelines and tips provided in this article, you can enjoy your smoke breaks at Atlanta Airport while ensuring a smooth travel experience. Safe travels, and remember to smoke only in designated areas!