by Traveling through the Atlanta airport smoking area can be challenging if you’re a smoker needing to satisfy your nicotine cravings.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) serves as a major global transit hub, handling more than 75 million passengers annually.
For smokers navigating this vast airport complex, knowing exactly where and when you can smoke is essential to avoid penalties and ensure your journey remains stress-free.
In recent years, Atlanta Airport has significantly tightened its smoking policies. Since January 2020, smoking inside the main terminal buildings has been completely prohibited following legislation passed by the Atlanta City Council.
This marked a substantial change from previous years, when several indoor smoking lounges were available throughout the concourses.
Atlanta Airport Smoking Area
This comprehensive guide provides up-to-date information about all designated smoking locations at Atlanta Airport, explains the current regulations, offers practical advice for smokers with connecting flights, and addresses frequently asked questions.
Whether you’re departing from, arriving at, or connecting through ATL, this guide will help you plan your smoke breaks efficiently without disrupting your travel schedule or violating airport rules.
Current Smoking Policy at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport
The current smoking policy at Atlanta Airport is straightforward but strict: smoking is prohibited inside all terminal buildings. This ban applies to all forms of smoking, including:
- Traditional cigarettes
- Cigars and pipes
- Electronic cigarettes
- Vaping devices
- Any other tobacco products that produce smoke or vapor
This policy is enforced throughout all indoor areas of the airport, including:
- Check-in areas
- Security checkpoints
- Boarding gates
- Concourses and terminals
- Restaurants and shops
- Restrooms
- Baggage claim areas
Instead, smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor areas that are positioned at least 20 feet away from terminal entrances. These designated areas are equipped with proper ashtrays and are clearly marked with signage.
The penalty for violating Atlanta Airport’s smoking policy is a fine ranging from $100 to $200. Airport authorities actively enforce these regulations through security patrols, surveillance cameras, and staff monitoring. Claims of ignorance regarding the policy are not accepted as valid excuses for violations.
Outdoor Smoking Areas at Atlanta Airport
The primary designated smoking locations at Atlanta Airport are the outdoor smoking areas positioned near terminal entrances. These areas are located outside the security perimeter, which means they’re accessible to all airport visitors but require passengers who have already cleared security to exit and go through screening again after their smoke break.
The main outdoor smoking areas can be found at the following locations:
Domestic Terminal (North and South)
- LN1 – Lower North Terminal, Door 1
- LN2 – Lower North Terminal, 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 North Terminal locations, while “S” refers to South Terminal locations. The numbers correspond to specific exit door numbers.
International Terminal
There is a dedicated outdoor smoking area located near the International Terminal (also known as Concourse F or the Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal). This smoking area is positioned near the Ground Transportation area, approximately 25 feet from the terminal entrance.
All these outdoor smoking areas operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, making them accessible to travelers at any time. Each area is equipped with:
- Proper signage identifying it as a designated smoking area
- Ashtrays and cigarette disposal receptacles
- Basic weather protection (though this varies by location)
- Appropriate distance markers to ensure compliance with the 20-foot rule
For travelers who haven’t yet gone through security or those who have just arrived at the airport, these outdoor smoking areas provide the most convenient option for a quick smoke break.
Smoking Areas Within Airport Concourses
While most smoking options at Atlanta Airport are located outside the security checkpoints, there are a limited number of smoking areas available within certain concourses. These areas have specific operating hours and accessibility requirements.
Concourse T Smoking Area
Located near gate T3, this smoking lounge operates from 6 AM to 11 PM daily. The area is designed with specialized ventilation systems to prevent smoke from spreading to other parts of the concourse. This smoking area is particularly convenient for travelers with flights departing from gates in Concourse T, which primarily serves Delta Air Lines domestic flights.
Concourse A Smoking Area
Situated near gate A3, this smoking lounge also operates from 6 AM to 11 PM daily. Like the Concourse T location, it features ventilation systems to contain smoke. Concourse A handles predominantly domestic flights and serves as a major hub for Delta operations, making this smoking area useful for many Delta passengers.
Concourse B Smoking Area
Located near gate B23, this smoking lounge follows the same operating hours as 6 AM to 11 PM. Concourse B hosts a mix of domestic and some international flights, primarily operated by Delta Air Lines. The B23 smoking area provides a convenient option for travelers connecting between these flights.
Important notes about these concourse smoking areas:
- They are closed overnight from 11 PM to 6 AM
- During closing hours, you must use the outdoor smoking areas instead
- The lounges can become crowded during peak travel times
- Proper etiquette includes limiting your time if others are waiting
- These areas are designed for smoking only, not for extended lounging
If you’re traveling between concourses and need to smoke, using the Plane Train (the airport’s automated people mover) can help you reach these designated areas more quickly. The Plane Train runs approximately every 2 minutes, with travel time between adjacent concourses taking about 2-3 minutes.
Premium Lounge Smoking Options
In addition to the general smoking areas described above, Atlanta Airport offers some exclusive smoking options for certain premium passengers. These options are limited to specific premium lounges and are only accessible to eligible travelers.
Delta Sky Club Smoking Areas
Select Delta Sky Club locations at Atlanta Airport offer dedicated smoking rooms for eligible members. The most notable of these is in Concourse F (International Terminal), which features a separate ventilated smoking room within the club.
Access to these premium smoking areas is restricted to:
- Delta Sky Club members with valid credentials
- Delta One® and Delta Premium Select passengers on international flights
- SkyTeam Elite Plus members on international itineraries
- Passengers who have purchased a day pass to the Delta Sky Club (approximately $59, subject to change)
These exclusive smoking rooms provide several advantages:
- Indoor comfort regardless of weather conditions
- Advanced ventilation systems to control smoke
- Comfortable seating and amenities
- Protection from crowding due to limited access
Even within these premium lounges, smoking is only permitted in the designated smoking rooms, not throughout the entire club. These rooms are completely separated from the main lounge area to protect non-smoking members from secondhand smoke.
For frequent travelers who regularly connect through Atlanta, investing in a Delta Sky Club membership might be worth considering if smoking access is important to your travel experience. However, these premium options represent a small minority of smoking facilities at the airport and are not accessible to most passengers.
Finding Smoking Areas on Atlanta Airport Maps
Locating smoking areas in an airport as vast as Atlanta can be challenging without proper guidance. Fortunately, the airport provides several resources to help travelers find designated smoking locations.
Official Airport Maps
The official Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport website offers downloadable terminal maps that mark all designated smoking areas. These maps are updated regularly to reflect any changes in smoking policies or locations.
Key features to look for on these maps:
- Smoking area symbols (typically a cigarette icon)
- Terminal and concourse identifiers (T, A, B, C, D, E, F)
- Gate numbers to help you determine your location
- Distance indicators or estimated walking times
In-Terminal Navigation
Once you’re at the airport, you can locate smoking areas using:
- Information kiosks with interactive maps
- Digital directory screens are throughout the terminals
- Overhead directional signs with smoking area indicators
- Airport staff who can provide directions
For Delta passengers, who make up a significant portion of Atlanta Airport travelers, specialized Delta information desks can provide guidance specific to the gates and concourses where Delta operates.
Mobile Applications
Several mobile applications can help you navigate to smoking areas at Atlanta Airport:
- The official ATL Airport App includes terminal maps with smoking area locations
- LoungeBuddy provides information about premium lounges with smoking facilities
- GateGuru offers terminal maps and amenity information
These digital resources can be particularly helpful when navigating unfamiliar parts of the airport or when trying to determine the most efficient route to a smoking area from your current location.
Tips for Smokers with Connecting Flights
Connecting through Atlanta Airport as a smoker requires careful planning, especially if your layover time is limited. Here are some practical tips to help you manage smoke breaks during connections:
Assess Your Layover Time
Before planning a smoke break, realistically evaluate whether you have enough time:
- Minimum recommended time: 60-90 minutes
- During peak travel periods: Add 15-30 additional minutes
- International connections: Allow at least 2 hours
If your layover is shorter than these recommended times, attempting a smoke break might put you at risk of missing your connecting flight.
Determine the Best Smoking Option
Based on your arrival and departure gates, identify the most efficient smoking option:
- Same concourse connection: Use the smoking area in your current concourse (if available)
- Different concourse connection: Decide whether to use the Plane Train to reach a concourse smoking area or exit security entirely
- International arrivals: You’ll need to clear customs and immigration before accessing any smoking areas
Plan Your Route Efficiently
Once you’ve identified your smoking location:
- Check current security wait times via information displays or the ATL airport app
- Note the walking time between your gates and the smoking area
- Consider using moving walkways where available to save time
- Know the Plane Train schedule if traveling between concourses
- Set a clear time limit for your smoke break to ensure you return to your gate on time
Set Time Boundaries
When taking a smoke break during a connection:
- Set an alarm on your phone for when you need to head back
- Allow at least 30 minutes to return through security (more during busy periods)
- Check the status of your connecting flight before leaving the secure area
- Consider missing a smoke break if your connection becomes delayed or your time window narrows
Alternative Options for Short Layovers
If your connection time is too short for a full smoke break:
- Use nicotine replacement products like gum, lozenges, or patches
- Consider nicotine pouches, which don’t produce smoke or vapor
- Practice deep breathing or distraction techniques to manage cravings
- Stay hydrated as this can help reduce the intensity of nicotine cravings
By carefully planning your smoke breaks and having backup options available, you can manage your smoking needs without jeopardizing your connecting flight.
Where to Buy Cigarettes at Atlanta Airport?
If you need to purchase cigarettes or other tobacco products during your time at Atlanta Airport, several retail options are available throughout the terminal buildings.
Retail Locations
Cigarettes can be purchased from these types of retailers:
- Convenience stores are located in both domestic and international terminals
- Newsstand shops throughout all concourses
- Duty-free shops in the International Terminal (for international travelers only)
Specific retailers that typically sell cigarettes include:
- Hudson News: Multiple locations in all concourses
- CNBC News: Various locations throughout the terminals
- Simply Books: Selected locations sell tobacco products
- Duty Free Americas: Located in the International Terminal
Pricing Considerations
Be aware that cigarette prices at airport retailers are typically 15-30% higher than outside the airport due to:
- Airport concession fees
- Convenience pricing
- Limited competition
For international travelers, duty-free shops often offer better value as cigarettes are exempt from certain taxes and duties. However, these shops are only accessible to passengers with international boarding passes.
Purchasing Regulations
When buying cigarettes at Atlanta Airport, remember:
- You must be at least 21 years old to purchase tobacco products
- Valid photo identification is required for age verification
- There are no cigarette vending machines in the airport
- You cannot purchase cigarettes at or near the designated smoking areas themselves
International Travel Considerations
If you’re purchasing cigarettes for international travel:
- Be aware of customs limits for tobacco products at your destination
- Some countries have strict regulations about importing cigarettes
- Declare all tobacco products when required by customs authorities
- Keep receipts for duty-free purchases as proof of purchase
It’s recommended to purchase cigarettes before your smoke break, as you’ll need to visit a retail location first and then proceed to a designated smoking area.
What to Do if You Accidentally Smoke in a Prohibited Area?
Despite clear signage and regulations, travelers occasionally make the mistake of smoking in prohibited areas at Atlanta Airport. If you find yourself in this situation, here’s how to handle it:
Immediate Actions
If you realize you’re smoking in a non-designated area:
- Immediately stop smoking and fully extinguish your cigarette
- Properly dispose of the cigarette in an appropriate waste container
- Move to a designated smoking area if you wish to continue smoking
- Apologize if airport staff or fellow travelers point out your mistake
If Approached by Airport Personnel
If airport staff or security approach you about smoking in a prohibited area:
- Remain calm and respectful
- Apologize for the mistake
- Provide identification if requested
- Cooperate fully with their instructions
- Accept the citation if one is issued
Handling Penalties
If you receive a citation for smoking in a prohibited area:
- The fine typically ranges from $100 to $200
- You’ll receive instructions on how to pay the penalty
- Payment can usually be made online or by mail
- Failure to pay the fine could result in additional penalties
Prevention for Future Travel
To avoid similar mistakes in the future:
- Familiarize yourself with airport smoking policies before your trip
- Look for no-smoking signs throughout the airport
- Ask airport staff if you’re unsure where smoking is permitted
- Plan your smoke breaks in advance
Remember that arguing with airport personnel or claiming ignorance of the rules is unlikely to resolve the situation favorably. The most effective approach is to acknowledge the mistake, comply with instructions, and be more careful in the future.
Practical Tips for Smokers Traveling Through Atlanta Airport
Successfully navigating Atlanta Airport as a smoker requires a combination of planning, time management, and flexibility. Here are comprehensive tips to help make your journey smoother:
Before Your Trip
- Research the airport layout using online maps to locate smoking areas relative to your gates
- Check your flight details to understand your available time for smoke breaks
- Pack alternative nicotine products for times when smoking isn’t possible
- Consider TSA PreCheck to reduce security wait times if you’ll need to exit and re-enter
- Bring a small travel ashtray in case disposal facilities are limited
At the Airport Before Security
- Arrive at least 30 minutes earlier than normally recommended to allow time for a pre-flight smoke
- Have a final cigarette at an outdoor designated area before entering security
- Purchase cigarettes from airport retailers if needed, as prices may be higher past security
- Check current security wait times to plan your time effectively
- Use restroom facilities before your smoke break to maximize your time
After Clearing Security
- Locate your departure gate first before considering a smoke break
- Check your boarding time and current flight status
- Determine if you have enough time to reach a smoking area and return (minimum 60 minutes recommended)
- Listen for boarding announcements and be aware of any schedule changes
- Set a phone alarm for when you need to return to your gate
During Long Layovers
- Split your layover time between smoking breaks and other activities
- Use smoking breaks strategically – perhaps one after arrival and one before departure
- Take advantage of airport amenities between smoke breaks (dining, shopping, etc.)
- Consider purchasing a day pass to a premium lounge if you qualify and value indoor smoking options
- Stay informed about your gate location, as it may change during long layovers
Managing Nicotine Cravings
- Nicotine replacement options:
- Patches (long-lasting, steady release)
- Gum (quick relief, discreet)
- Lozenges (easy to use anywhere)
- Pouches (no spitting required)
- Inhalers (mimics the hand-to-mouth action of smoking)
- Non-nicotine coping strategies:
- Stay hydrated with water
- Practice deep breathing exercises
- Use distraction techniques (games, reading, etc.)
- Chew regular gum or snack on healthy foods
- Take a brisk walk around the terminal
By implementing these practical tips, you can manage your smoking needs while ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey through Atlanta Airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there any smoking areas inside Atlanta Airport terminals?
No, there are no general indoor smoking areas within the main terminal buildings at Atlanta Airport. The only indoor smoking options are in specific concourse lounges (T3, A3, B23) that operate from 6 AM to 11 PM, and in certain premium lounges for eligible members only.
- How long has smoking been banned inside Atlanta Airport?
Smoking has been completely banned inside Atlanta Airport terminals since January 2, 2020, when legislation passed by the Atlanta City Council took effect. Before this date, there were several smoking lounges throughout the concourses.
- Can I vape or use e-cigarettes inside Atlanta Airport?
No, electronic cigarettes and vaping devices are subject to the same restrictions as traditional smoking. They can only be used in designated smoking areas.
- What’s the penalty for smoking in a non-designated area at Atlanta Airport?
The penalty for violating Atlanta Airport’s smoking policy is a fine ranging from $100 to $200. Repeated violations could result in additional penalties.
- Can I smoke in the parking garages at Atlanta Airport?
Smoking is generally not permitted in Atlanta Airport parking garages as they are considered part of the airport facility. However, specific policies may vary by garage level and location.
- How much time should I allow for a smoke break if I need to exit security?
You should allow at least 60-90 minutes for a smoke break that requires exiting and re-entering security, especially during peak travel times when security lines may be longer.
- Are there smoking areas near baggage claim?
There are no designated smoking areas directly inside the baggage claim areas. The nearest smoking locations would be the outdoor designated areas outside the terminal buildings.
- Can I bring cigarettes in my carry-on luggage?
Yes, cigarettes are permitted in carry-on luggage. However, tobacco products must comply with TSA liquid restrictions if they contain liquid (such as some e-cigarettes).
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Conclusion:
Navigating the Atlanta airport smoking areas requires understanding the current policies, knowing the exact locations of designated smoking spots, and planning your time efficiently.
Since January 2020, smoking has been prohibited inside all terminal buildings except for a few specific lounges with limited access and operating hours.
For most travelers, smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor areas located at least 20 feet from terminal entrances. These areas are marked and include proper disposal facilities for cigarette butts.
If you’re already past security and need to smoke, you’ll either need to use one of the concourse smoking lounges (if available and open) or exit the secure area and go through security screening again afterward.
The key to a stress-free experience as a smoker at Atlanta Airport is preparation.
Research the airport layout before your trip to identify smoking areas relative to your gates, allow plenty of extra time for smoke breaks (especially those requiring security re-screening), and consider nicotine alternatives for situations when smoking isn’t practical or possible.
Remember that violating the airport’s smoking policies can result in fines of up to $200, so always respect the designated smoking areas and never attempt to smoke in prohibited locations. When in doubt, ask airport staff for directions to the nearest smoking area.
For connecting passengers, realistically assess whether your layover provides enough time for a smoke break. As a general rule, you should have at least 60-90 minutes between flights if you plan to exit security for smoking, and even longer during busy travel periods.
By following the guidelines and tips provided in this comprehensive guide, you can manage your smoking needs while ensuring a smooth journey through one of the world’s busiest airports. Safe travels!
