Sacramento International Airport
Northern California’s fastest-growing airport, connecting the Sacramento region to major domestic and select international destinations.
Overview of the Airport
Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is located approximately 10 miles northwest of downtown Sacramento. It serves as the primary airport for the Sacramento metropolitan area, offering nonstop flights to over 50 destinations and acting as a key regional gateway.
38.6951, -121.5908
Growth Trend
Passenger traffic has increased by 5.1% year-over-year, with 20 consecutive months of growth.
Employment
6,000
Employees include airline staff, ground services, concessions, security, and airport operations personnel.
Global Ranking
Market Share of Major Airlines
Capacity Expansion
Ongoing terminal and parking expansions are increasing SMF’s capacity to accommodate rising passenger and flight volumes.
Technological Advancements
Deployment of advanced security screening and digital wayfinding enhances operational efficiency and passenger experience.
Sustainability Initiatives
SMF is implementing solar power, water conservation, and green building practices to reduce its environmental footprint.
General Stats
Comprehensive passenger capacity profiles and geographical insights.
View General Stats→Latest News & Updates
Recent developments and updates for Sacramento International Airport.
SFO, Bay Area airports just lost 400,000 fliers to this California airport
Southwest Airlines planes at Sacramento International Airport, Sacramento, Calif., on Jan. 1, 2026....
50+ Sacramento flights delayed due to a system outage, airport officials say
Dozens of Sacramento flights were delayed Thursday due to a problem with an outage in a system that...
6-story parking garage approved for Sacramento airport. When will the $229M project be built?
Sacramento International Airport’s expansive renovation plan hit another milestone Tuesday with the ...
Operations Logistics & Timelines
Step-by-step process transit times for passengers and cargo.
For Clients
Passenger process times from arrival to gate.
- Arrival & Baggage Claim5-15 mins
- Check-in/Drop-off10-20 mins
- TSA Security Screening15-45 mins
- Gate Check-in/Boarding5-10 mins
- Boarding5-10 mins
- Flight DepartureN/A
For Employees
Cargo handling deadlines and operational procedures.
- General Cargo Cut-off60 mins pre-departure
- Arrival Notification45 mins pre-departure
- Manifest Submission30 mins pre-departure
- Security Screening20 mins pre-departure
- Baggage Drop-off15 mins pre-departure
- Weight & Measurement Verification10 mins pre-departure
- Loading onto AircraftVariable – Dependent on aircraft schedule
Passengers' Tips & Tricks
- 1
Arrive Early
Due to increased holiday travel volume, it's crucial to arrive at Sacramento International Airport (SMF) at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure time, especially during peak periods.
- 2
Pack Light
To expedite your security screening process and minimize hassle, pack only essential items and adhere to airline baggage size restrictions. Consider utilizing carry-on luggage for a smoother experience.
- 3
Utilize Mobile Check-in
Take advantage of SMF’s mobile check-in options offered by many airlines to save time and avoid long lines at the ticket counter.
- 4
Familiarize Yourself with Terminal Layout
The Sacramento International Airport has multiple terminals. Before your flight, review the terminal map available on the iFLYSacramento website to efficiently locate your gate and amenities.
- 5
Check for Tarmac Delay Plan
Be aware of the Tarmac Delay Plan offered by SMF, which provides assistance and resources if your flight is delayed on the tarmac.
Cargo Tips & Tricks
- 1
Book in Advance
Air freight capacity at SMF fluctuates, so booking your shipments well in advance ensures availability and often secures better rates. Consider peak seasons like holidays and major events to plan ahead.
- 2
Utilize Mather Airport (MHR)
For large cargo loads, leverage Mather Airport (MHR), a former Air Force base offering facilities capable of handling substantial payloads and providing access to the Northern California market.
- 3
Partner with Established Forwarders
Collaborate with experienced freight forwarders like United Cargo or STAT Logistics operating at SMF for optimized logistics solutions and expertise in customs clearance and documentation.
- 4
Understand Weight Restrictions
Be mindful of aircraft weight restrictions – TWY RMK #2 allows a maximum gross aircraft load of 70,000 lbs for single gear, 170,000 lbs for dual gear, and 250,000 lbs for dual tandem gear aircraft.
- 5
Leverage Southwest Airlines Cargo
Utilize Southwest Airlines Cargo’s services for same-day cargo and freight transport through SMF, particularly beneficial for time-sensitive shipments within the Sacramento area.
Tools & Resources
Essential tools, portals, and resources for clients and partners.
Data & Reports
Official statistics, research reports, and data tracking for Sacramento International Airport.
Sacramento International Airport - Wikipedia
Provides basic information about Sacramento International Airport, including its location, IATA code (SMF), and ICAO code (KSMF).
KSMF NOTAMs
A link to a real-time NOTAM viewer for Sacramento International Airport (KSMF), providing aviation notices and airspace restrictions.
DL4186 Flight Status DeltaAirLines
Shows a flight status example from Sacramento International Airport (SMF) to Portland International Airport (PDX) using flight data.
SacramentoAirportToday | TikTok
A TikTok page showcasing the airport and reporting on its operations.
Rio Vista to Sacramento Airport - Veterans Airporter
Details transportation services from Rio Vista to Sacramento International Airport (SMF).
Location & Maps
Find Sacramento International Airport on popular mapping services.
Interactive Map
Map Legend
Loading Google Maps...
Recommendations
Policy Alignment
Continue collaboration with federal and state agencies to secure infrastructure funding and support workforce diversity initiatives.
Infrastructure Investment
Accelerate modernization of terminals, parking, and airfield facilities to support future growth and resilience.
Sustainability Focus
Expand renewable energy use and sustainable operations to meet California’s environmental standards and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common inquiries about operations and logistics at Sacramento International Airport.
What terminal does Allegiant Air operate from at Sacramento International Airport?
Allegiant Air operates from Terminal B at Sacramento International Airport (SMF).
Sacramento International Airport was formerly which military base?
Sacramento International Airport was formerly the site of McClellan Air Force Base.
What airspace designation does the FAA classify Sacramento International Airport as?
Sacramento International Airport operates as an uncontrolled airfield in what the FAA designates as Class 'E' Airspace.
Are there currently any long lines at Sacramento International Airport?
According to recent social media reports (TikTok), Sacramento Airport SMF is flowing well with no long lines.
For More Info
Third-party resources, government portals, ratings, and more.
