Navigate Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport with medical devices. Terminal-by-terminal accessibility, TSA screening, airline check-in, charging stations, and emergency medical support at ATL.

Atlanta Airport (ATL) Medical Device Services: Complete 2025 Guide

Airport Information Disclaimer: This guide reflects Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) facilities and services as of January 2025. Airport services, terminal configurations, and airline locations may change. Always verify current information with ATL or your airline before travel. Last verified: January 2025.

Why ATL Accessibility Matters for Medical Device Travelers

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport isn't just busy—it's the world's busiest airport by passenger traffic, serving over 100 million travelers annually. For those traveling with portable oxygen concentrators (POCs), CPAPs, wheelchairs, or other medical devices, ATL's sheer size and complexity can be overwhelming.

You're connecting through Atlanta. Your POC battery is running low. You have 90 minutes until your next flight. Where are the charging stations? Which terminal are you in? How far is your next gate? Is there accessible transportation between concourses? Will TSA screening for your medical device take longer here?

This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to navigate ATL successfully with medical devices, from understanding ATL's terminal layout to locating charging stations, accessing wheelchair services, managing TSA screening efficiently, and knowing where to get emergency medical support if needed.

What You'll Learn:

ATL terminal and concourse layout (navigating the Plane Train system)
TSA screening locations and medical device procedures at ATL
Airline-specific check-in procedures for all major carriers at ATL (Delta hub)
Medical device charging station locations across all concourses
Wheelchair and mobility assistance services
Emergency medical resources and device replacement options
Connection and layover strategies for medical device users
Real traveler tips for managing medical equipment at ATL

Understanding ATL's Terminal Layout

Airport Overview: One Terminal, Seven Concourses

ATL operates a linear terminal design with:

Main Terminal: Check-in, baggage claim, ground transportation (north and south sides)
Seven Concourses: T (gates T1-T15), A-F connected by underground Plane Train
Domestic Concourses: T, A, B, C, D (most domestic flights)
International Concourse: E, F (international flights and customs)

Key Distance Reality:

Walking distance main terminal to furthest gate (F gates): 1+ mile
Walking time between furthest gates: 30-45 minutes
With Plane Train: 15-20 minutes gate-to-gate

For Medical Device Users:

Plane Train is essential (underground automated train connecting all concourses)
Walking entire airport with POC or wheelchair is exhausting and time-consuming
Budget minimum 90 minutes for connections if you need assistance or charging
All concourses have elevators and accessible facilities

The Plane Train: Your Best Friend at ATL

What It Is: Automated people mover (APM) running underground connecting all concourses and the main terminal.

Service:

Trains arrive every 2-3 minutes during peak hours
4-minute journey end-to-end (terminal to Concourse F)
Fully accessible (wheelchair lifts, priority seating, audio/visual announcements)
Operates 24/7 (except brief overnight maintenance windows)

Order of Stops: Main Terminal (baggage claim) → T → A → B → C → D → E → F (international)

Medical Device Considerations:

POC users: No restrictions, use during train ride
Wheelchairs: Accessible at all stations, staff assistance available
Large equipment: Elevators accommodate wheelchairs and medical baggage
Charging stations: Located at most concourses after exiting Plane Train

TSA Screening at ATL

Main Security Checkpoints

ATL has TWO main TSA security checkpoints in the main terminal:

North Security Checkpoint:

Serves Concourses T, A, B (primarily Delta)
Located on north side of terminal (departures level)
Typically less crowded than South checkpoint

South Security Checkpoint:

Serves Concourses C, D, E, F (mixed airlines, international)
Located on south side of terminal (departures level)
Generally busier, especially morning departures

Medical Device Screening Considerations:

Both checkpoints have dedicated medical/accessibility screening lanes
TSA PreCheck available at both (expedited screening for enrolled passengers)
Staffing levels higher during peak hours (5 AM-10 AM, 3 PM-7 PM)

TSA PreCheck for Medical Device Users

Benefits at ATL:

Dedicated PreCheck lanes at both North and South checkpoints
Average wait time: 5-10 minutes (vs. 20-40 minutes in standard lanes)
Medical devices still require additional screening even with PreCheck
Shoes, belts stay on (less hassle when managing POC or wheelchair)

Enrollment:

Apply online at tsa.gov/precheck
In-person appointment at ATL enrollment center (outside security, main terminal)
Cost: $78 for 5 years
Processing time: 3-5 days typically (expedited options available)

Medical Device Screening Procedures at ATL

For Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs):

Notify TSA officer at beginning of screening that you have POC
Remove POC from bag and place in separate bin
X-ray screening: POC goes through X-ray (does not harm device)
Swab testing: TSA may swab POC for explosive residue detection
Visual inspection: Officer may visually inspect battery compartment
You may be asked to demonstrate POC operation (turn on/show it works)

Average Time: 5-10 minutes additional screening beyond standard process

For CPAPs:

Similar to POC: Remove from bag, X-ray screening, possible swab test
Distilled water for CPAP: 3.4 oz limit unless you have medical documentation
CPAP does NOT count toward carry-on limit

For Wheelchairs:

Power wheelchairs screened separately (not through X-ray)
May require transfer to airport-provided wheelchair for screening
TSA will inspect wheelchair components, battery compartment
Average time: 10-20 minutes for thorough wheelchair screening

For Insulin Pumps/CGMs:

Notify TSA officer (should NOT go through X-ray per most manufacturer guidelines)
Request pat-down screening instead of body scanner
TSA may swab hands for residue detection
Carry manufacturer documentation if possible

Expediting TSA Screening at ATL

Best Practices:

Arrive Early: 2 hours domestic, 3 hours international (ATL is massive)
Use TSA PreCheck lane if enrolled (worth it for frequent travelers)
Notify officer immediately: Don't wait to be asked
Have documentation ready: Physician letters, battery specs, device manuals
Choose off-peak times: Mid-morning (10 AM-12 PM) or late evening (after 8 PM) if possible
Pre-pack efficiently: POC/CPAP easily accessible, not buried in luggage
Consider TSA Cares: Free program providing passenger support (call 72 hours in advance: 855-787-2227)

Airline Check-In and Medical Device Notification

Delta Air Lines (ATL's Primary Hub)

Delta operates ~75% of ATL flights and has dedicated facilities:

Check-In Locations:

Main Terminal North: Counters 1-26 (most domestic Delta flights)
Main Terminal South: Counters 27-52 (additional domestic, international Delta)
Concourse F: International check-in for certain Delta routes

Medical Device Check-In Process:

Use "Special Assistance" kiosks (marked with blue wheelchair symbol)
OR proceed to Delta Accessibility Counter (located at check-in area)
Notify agent you're traveling with POC/CPAP/wheelchair (should already be on reservation if you pre-notified)
Provide required documentation (physician letter, battery specs)
Receive gate check tag for wheelchair (if applicable)
Agent will notify gate staff of medical device

Delta Accessibility Desk Contact at ATL:

Located in main terminal near check-in
Phone: Ask any Delta agent to connect you
Hours: 5 AM - 11 PM daily

Other Major Airlines at ATL

Southwest Airlines:

Concourse C gates
Check-in: Main Terminal South, Counters 20-35
Medical device notification: At check-in or call 1-800-435-9792

American Airlines:

Concourse T gates
Check-in: Main Terminal North, Counters 1-15
Medical device notification: Special Services desk at check-in

United Airlines:

Concourse T gates
Check-in: Main Terminal North
Medical device notification: Customer service counter

Spirit, Frontier, JetBlue:

Concourses C, D gates
Check-in: Main Terminal South
More limited medical device assistance (notify in advance essential)

Wheelchair Check and Gate Check Procedures

Power Wheelchair Handling at ATL:

At Check-In:

Verify wheelchair notation on reservation
Complete wheelchair tag (agent will attach)
Provide battery information (Wh rating, lithium vs. sealed lead-acid)
If battery disconnection required, discuss who will disconnect (you or staff)
Receive gate check claim ticket

At Gate:

Wheelchair remains with you until boarding
Gate agent calls for wheelchair handling crew
Crew will transport wheelchair to cargo hold
If battery disconnection needed, typically done at gate

On Arrival:

Wheelchair should be returned to jet bridge upon arrival (gate check service)
If not available at jet bridge, will be at baggage claim
Inspect wheelchair immediately before leaving airport (if damaged, file claim at baggage service)

Medical Device Charging Stations at ATL

Charging Station Locations by Concourse

Concourse T (Gates T1-T15):

Main charging area: Near gates T6-T8 (charging station with outlets and USB ports)
Individual outlets: Most gate seating areas have power outlets
Accessibility: Designated wheelchair-accessible power stations

Concourse A (Gates A1-A34):

Charging hub: Near gate A12 (dedicated charging station)
Additional outlets: Throughout concourse at seating areas
Workstation areas: Near A18-A20 with desk-height power access

Concourse B (Gates B1-B35):

Main charging station: Central area near B15-B20
Gate-level outlets: Most gates have accessible power
Quiet area charging: Near B3-B5 (less crowded)

Concourse C (Gates C1-C52):

Large charging hub: Near C30 (high-traffic area but many outlets)
Southwest gates: Most Southwest gate areas (C20-C52) have extensive power access
Workstations: Near C40 with desk space for POC/CPAP setup

Concourse D (Gates D1-D40):

Central charging area: Near D15-D25
Individual gate outlets: Available at most seating areas
Quiet zones: D1-D5 area less crowded for charging

Concourse E (International - Gates E1-E14):

Main charging hub: Central area near E7-E10
International amenities: Larger seating areas with power near E12-E14
Post-security charging: Multiple locations after customs

Concourse F (International - Gates F1-F12):

Primary charging area: Near F5-F8
Delta Sky Club area: Power outlets throughout (access with membership or day pass)
International terminal amenities: Enhanced power access for long-haul passengers

Charging Tips for Medical Device Users

Best Charging Strategies:

Charge during layovers 90+ minutes: Full POC battery charge typically takes 3-4 hours
Top off charge: Even 30-60 minutes provides partial charge (helpful for connections)
Use Plane Train travel time: Identify charging location, ride train, return when charged
Concourse A, B, D: Generally less crowded than C (Southwest hub)
Bring extension cord: Can reach outlets that are occupied or awkwardly positioned
Power strip: Charge multiple devices simultaneously (POC + phone + battery packs)

What to Bring:

Multi-device charging cable
Travel power strip (with surge protection)
Extension cord (6-10 feet helpful at airports)
Backup portable battery pack (for low-power devices like insulin pumps)

Wheelchair and Mobility Assistance Services

Requesting Wheelchair Assistance at ATL

When to Request:

At booking: Add to reservation
24-48 hours before: Call airline or ATL accessibility services
At check-in: Request at airline counter (may not be immediately available)
At arrival: Request from gate agent or baggage claim staff

Types of Assistance Available:

Curb to Gate: From vehicle drop-off to departure gate
Gate to Gate: Between gates for connections (most common for medical device users)
Gate to Baggage: From arrival gate to baggage claim and ground transportation
Complete Assistance: Entire journey through airport

ATL Wheelchair Service Providers:

Delta (Concourses T, A, B): Delta Red Coat service (part of Delta operations)
Other Airlines (Concourses C, D, E, F): Contract wheelchair service providers
Wheelchairs provided by airport/airlines (if you need one temporarily)

How It Works:

Request wheelchair at check-in or gate
Agent calls for wheelchair attendant
Attendant transports you through airport, navigates security, takes you to gate
For connections, attendant meets you at arrival gate, transports to departure gate
Tips customary but not required ($5-$10 typical)

Personal Wheelchair Services

Electric Wheelchair Charging:

No dedicated wheelchair charging stations at ATL (bring sufficient battery power)
Limited outlets accessible for wheelchair battery charging
Hotel shuttles outside airport if you need overnight charging

Wheelchair Repair Services:

Limited on-site repair for emergency issues
Medical equipment rental companies near ATL (for major damage):
- SCOOTAROUND: Rents wheelchairs and scooters (delivery to ATL area)
- United Access: Wheelchair rental and repair (Atlanta metro)

Airline Lounges and Medical Device Friendly Amenities

Delta Sky Club Locations (ATL's Primary Lounges)

Concourse A:

Sky Club A (near gate A15)
Power outlets throughout
Quieter environment for device charging
Access: Delta premium passengers, SkyMiles members (fee), day passes ($39+)

Concourse B:

Sky Club B (gates B18 area)
Extensive seating and power access
Good for long layovers with POC/CPAP

Concourse E:

Sky Club E (near E11) - International focus
Large space with multiple power stations
Priority for international Delta passengers

Concourse F:

Sky Club F (gates F2-F7 area)
Premium international lounge
Excellent amenities for extended layovers

Medical Device Considerations:

Sky Clubs provide quiet, comfortable charging environment
Less crowded than gate areas
Accessible restrooms
Worth day pass cost if you have 3+ hour layover and need extensive device charging

Other Airline Lounges

American Airlines Admirals Club:

Concourse T (limited ATL presence)

United Club:

Concourse T

Third-Party Lounges:

The Club at ATL (Concourse F) - accessible with Priority Pass or day pass

Emergency Medical Resources at ATL

Airport Medical Services

ATL Medical Clinic:

Location: Main Terminal, near baggage claim (pre-security)
Hours: 24/7 emergency medical services
Services: First aid, medical emergency response, basic medical care
Contact: Dial 911 from any airport phone for emergencies, or ask any airport staff

In-Flight Medical Emergencies:

All aircraft have emergency medical kits
Flight attendants trained in first aid
Ground medical teams can meet aircraft on arrival at ATL if needed

Medical Device Replacement and Repair

If POC or CPAP Malfunctions or Is Damaged:

Option 1: Manufacturer Support

Inogen: 1-800-695-799 (24/7 customer support)
Philips Respironics: 1-800-345-6443
ResMed: 1-800-424-0737
Manufacturers may expedite replacement shipment to ATL area

Option 2: Medical Equipment Rental (Atlanta Metro)

CPAP Supply USA: Medical device rental and sales (delivers to ATL area)
- Phone: 770-674-0294
- Location: Near ATL (can deliver to airport hotels)
APRIA Healthcare: Oxygen and respiratory equipment
- Phone: 404-329-5200
- Locations throughout Atlanta metro
Rotech Healthcare: POC and CPAP rental
- Phone: 800-227-2224

Option 3: Emergency Airline Coordination

If device is lost/damaged by airline, file claim at baggage service immediately
Airline must help expedite replacement or provide assistance
Request supervisor if front-line staff not responsive

Urgent Pharmaceutical Needs

24-Hour Pharmacies Near ATL:

CVS Pharmacy (5 miles from ATL, 3510 Camp Creek Parkway)
- 24-hour location
- Can fill urgent prescriptions
Walgreens (Multiple metro Atlanta locations, some 24-hour)

Airport Pharmacy:

ATL does not have a full-service pharmacy inside security
Some convenience stores carry basic OTC medications
For prescriptions, must exit airport to nearby pharmacy

Connection and Layover Strategies

Minimum Connection Times for Medical Device Users

Standard MCT at ATL:

Domestic to domestic: 35 minutes (tight, not recommended)
Domestic to international: 60 minutes (minimum)
International to domestic: 90 minutes (includes customs)
International to international: 90 minutes

Recommended MCT for Medical Device Users:

Domestic to domestic: 90 minutes minimum (allows for device charging, screening delays)
Domestic to international: 2 hours (extra time for documentation verification)
International to domestic: 2.5+ hours (customs + device screening + connection)
If wheelchair assistance needed: Add 30-60 minutes to standard times

Why More Time?

POC battery charging during layover (at least 60-90 minutes useful)
Potential TSA screening delays for medical devices
ATL's massive size (gate-to-gate travel time)
Wheelchair assistance coordination
Device malfunction troubleshooting time buffer

Best Practices for ATL Layovers

For Layovers Under 2 Hours:

Don't charge devices (not enough time) - bring sufficient charged batteries
Use Plane Train between concourses (don't walk)
Request wheelchair assistance if mobility is challenging
Know your next gate before arriving at ATL

For Layovers 2-4 Hours:

Charge POC/CPAP during layover (partial charge useful)
Identify charging station location on arrival concourse
Allow 30 minutes before departure to return to gate
Consider airline lounge if available (better charging environment)

For Layovers 4+ Hours:

Full device charging possible (full POC battery charge: 3-4 hours)
Explore different concourse amenities via Plane Train
Extended break from device use (rely on charged batteries while charging)
Consider exiting security to visit airport hotel for more comfortable rest (if very long layover)

What If You Miss Your Connection?

Medical Device Complications Causing Missed Connection:

Airline responsibility: If delay was due to airline (late incoming flight, wheelchair assistance delay), airline must rebook at no cost
TSA screening delay: Not airline's responsibility, but ask for goodwill rebooking
Your device malfunction: Not airline's responsibility, but explain situation

Rebooking Process:

Go to airline customer service desk (main terminal or concourse)
Explain medical device situation and need for assistance
Request rebooking on next available flight
Ask for meal vouchers if significant delay (airline discretion)
Verify wheelchair/medical device notation on new reservation

Real Traveler Tips for ATL Medical Device Navigation

From Frequent ATL Travelers

"Download the ATL Airport App"

"The ATL app is essential. Real-time security wait times, interactive terminal maps showing shortest walking routes, and flight status updates. I use it to find the nearest charging station to my gate and track how much time I have before boarding." — Michael R., COPD patient traveling through ATL monthly

"Delta Hub Advantage"

"ATL is Delta's main hub, so if you're flying Delta, they have excellent support here. The Delta Accessibility team knows their stuff, and there are Red Coat agents throughout the terminal who can help if you have issues. Fly Delta through ATL if you have a choice." — Lisa T., power wheelchair user

"Bring Backup Power for Everything"

"ATL is huge. Even with the Plane Train, connections can be tight. My rule: fully charged POC batteries before arriving at ATL, plus one spare. The charging stations are great, but if your connection is under 90 minutes, you won't have time to charge." — Robert K., Inogen G5 user

"TSA Cares Made a Huge Difference"

"I called TSA Cares 72 hours before my ATL flight, told them about my wheelchair and medical device needs. A TSA representative met me at security, guided me through screening, and it took 15 minutes instead of the 45 minutes I experienced previously. Game changer." — Patricia M., wheelchair user with CPAP

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Pitfall 1: Underestimating Walking Distances

Mistake: Booking tight connections assuming quick gate-to-gate travel
Solution: Always use Plane Train, budget 20+ minutes for connections, request wheelchair assistance if needed

Pitfall 2: Not Knowing Your Concourse

Mistake: Entering wrong security checkpoint for your concourse
Solution: Check flight confirmation for gate, verify which checkpoint serves that concourse

Pitfall 3: Assuming All Gates Have Charging

Mistake: Arriving at gate with low battery expecting outlets
Solution: Check charging station locations in advance, charge earlier in concourse if gate doesn't have power

Pitfall 4: Not Pre-Notifying Airline About Wheelchair

Mistake: Showing up with power wheelchair without advance notification
Solution: Always notify airline 48-72 hours before travel, reconfirm at check-in

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: I'm connecting through ATL with a 75-minute layover. Is that enough time with my POC?

A: 75 minutes is tight but possible for domestic-to-domestic connections at ATL if:

You have fully charged POC batteries before arrival (don't rely on charging during connection)
You use the Plane Train between concourses
You don't need extended wheelchair assistance
Your incoming flight arrives on time

Recommendation: Book 90-120 minute connections if possible for comfort and flexibility.

Q2: Where can I charge my CPAP during a 3-hour layover at ATL?

A: Best options:

Concourse charging hubs (see locations by concourse section above)
Delta Sky Club if accessible (quieter, more comfortable than gate areas)
Gate seating areas with individual power outlets

For 3-hour layover, you can achieve partial charge (helpful for next flight). Full CPAP battery charge typically takes 4-6 hours.

Q3: My wheelchair was damaged by Delta at ATL. What do I do?

Do NOT leave airport - inspect wheelchair before exiting
Go to Delta Baggage Service (located in baggage claim area)
File damage claim immediately with detailed photos
Request temporary wheelchair if yours is unusable
Get claim reference number for follow-up
Contact Delta Accessibility (1-404-209-3434) for expedited resolution

Delta is liable for wheelchair damage without the typical baggage liability caps.

Q4: Can I exit security at ATL and re-enter if I have a long layover?

A: Yes, but consider:

Must go through TSA screening again (20-40 minutes + medical device screening time)
Requires additional time (recommend only for layovers 5+ hours)
Useful if you need to access airport hotel, pharmacy, or restaurant outside security
Keep boarding pass and ID accessible for re-entry

Q5: Is TSA PreCheck worth it for ATL if I travel with medical devices?

A: Yes, especially if you travel through ATL more than 2-3 times per year:

Shorter security lines (5-10 minutes vs. 20-40 minutes)
Less hassle (shoes/belts stay on while managing POC)
Medical devices still require screening, but overall process faster
Cost: $78 for 5 years ($15.60/year)
Enrollment center at ATL for easy application

Q6: Does ATL have a place to store my CPAP if I have a very long layover (8+ hours) and want to explore the city?

A: No, ATL does not have secure long-term luggage storage inside security (post-9/11 elimination). Options:

Keep CPAP with you (safest option)
Check with airline if they'll allow temporary baggage storage (very limited, airline discretion)
Use airport hotel near ATL (store luggage at front desk while exploring)

Not recommended: Leaving medical devices unattended, even in lockers (security risk and device could be stolen).

Q7: I'm arriving internationally at Concourse F and connecting to domestic. How long do I need with medical devices?

A: Minimum 2.5 hours, preferably 3+ hours:

Disembark (10-20 min)
Walk/train to customs (10-15 min)
Immigration/customs (30-60 min - includes medical device declaration if asked)
Collect bags if required (10-20 min)
Re-check bags (10-15 min)
TSA screening with medical devices (20-30 min)
Plane Train to domestic concourse (10-15 min)
Time buffer for unexpected delays (30+ min)

Total: 2.5-3 hours minimum, 4 hours ideal if you need device charging.

Q8: Can I bring my POC on the Plane Train?

A: Yes, absolutely. POCs are allowed and encouraged on the Plane Train:

No restrictions on POC use during train ride
Trains have wheelchair/accessibility priority seating
Safe place for your device (no risk of falling or bumping)
Keep POC secured (strap, case, or on lap)

Key Takeaways: ATL Medical Device Navigation Checklist

✅ Understand ATL Layout:

One main terminal, seven concourses (T, A-F)
Plane Train connects all concourses (use it, don't walk)
Walking entire airport: 1+ mile (30-45 minutes without Plane Train)
Budget extra time for ATL's size

✅ TSA Screening Preparation:

Two main checkpoints (North serves T/A/B, South serves C/D/E/F)
Arrive 2+ hours early for domestic, 3+ hours for international
Use TSA PreCheck if enrolled (worth it for ATL)
Notify TSA officer about medical devices immediately
Consider TSA Cares (call 72 hours in advance: 855-787-2227)

✅ Airline Check-In:

Delta hub (75% of flights) - best medical device support at ATL
Check in at correct terminal side (North for T/A/B, South for C/D/E/F)
Verify medical device notation on reservation
Complete wheelchair/battery documentation if needed
Receive gate check tag for power wheelchairs

✅ Device Charging:

All concourses have charging stations (see locations above)
Bring extension cord and power strip for flexibility
Allow 60-90 minutes minimum for meaningful POC battery charge
Concourses A, B, D generally less crowded than C
Delta Sky Club good option if accessible (quieter, more outlets)

✅ Connection Planning:

Book 90+ minute connections minimum for domestic-domestic
Book 2+ hours for domestic-international or with wheelchair assistance
Arrive with fully charged batteries (don't rely on layover charging for short connections)
Use Plane Train between concourses (essential)
Know your next gate before arriving at ATL

✅ Emergency Resources:

Airport medical clinic (main terminal, 24/7)
Medical device manufacturers' support numbers saved in phone
Medical equipment rental companies (CPAP Supply USA, Rotech, Apria) for emergency replacement
Baggage service for wheelchair damage claims (don't leave airport before inspection)

Airport Information Disclaimer: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport facilities and services are subject to change. This guide reflects information as of January 2025. Always verify current terminal configurations, airline locations, and services with ATL (atlanta-airport.com) or your airline before travel. For real-time updates, download the ATL airport app or call airport information at 800-897-1910.

This ATL accessibility guide is part of MedFly Safe's commitment to helping medical device users navigate major airports confidently. For additional airport guides, see LAX Airport Medical Device Services and JFK Airport Medical Device Services. For TSA screening preparation, see our Complete TSA Medical Device Screening Guide.