San Francisco Airport (SFO) Medical Device Services: Complete Guide 2025

San Francisco International Airport (SFO), serving over 57 million passengers annually, is one of the most accessible and medical device-friendly airports in the United States. This comprehensive guide provides everything medical travelers need to navigate SFO smoothly with POCs, CPAPs, wheelchairs, and other essential medical equipment.

SFO Airport Overview for Medical Device Travelers

Airport Layout:

• 4 Passenger Terminals: Terminals 1, 2, 3, International (Terminal G)
• 7 Concourses: Boarding Areas A, B, C, E, F, G
• 115 Gates total
• AirTrain: Automated people mover connecting all terminals

Average Security Wait Times:

• Peak Hours (5-9 AM, 3-7 PM): 15-30 minutes
• Off-Peak: 10-15 minutes
• TSA PreCheck: 5-10 minutes (all terminals)

Medical Device Traveler Recommendations:

• Arrive 2.5-3 hours early for domestic flights
• Arrive 4 hours early for international flights
• Extra time for medical device screening and potential terminal transfers

Terminal-by-Terminal Medical Services Guide

Terminal 1 (Southwest Airlines)

Gates: Boarding Area B (Gates B1-B27), Boarding Area C (Gates C1-C10) Major Airline: Southwest Airlines

TSA Screening:

• Main Checkpoint: Near baggage claim
• TSA PreCheck: Available
• Medical Device Lane: Often less crowded than other terminals

Medical Device Charging Stations:

• Boarding Area B: Charging stations at B5, B15, B25
• Boarding Area C: Limited charging (C3, C8)
• Power Outlets: Standard 110V at most gate seating

Wheelchair Accessibility:

• Elevators: Near security and at boarding area connections
• Accessible Restrooms: Every 5-7 gates
• Moving Walkways: Between boarding areas

Medical Services:

• First Aid Station: Boarding Area B, Gate B18
• AED Locations: Every gate cluster
• Southwest Wheelchair Services: Gate B12

Distance Between Gates:

• B to C: 5-8 minute walk
• Longest walk (B1 to C10): 15 minutes

Terminal 2 (American Airlines, Virgin America)

Gates: Boarding Area D (Gates D1-D18) Major Airlines: American Airlines, Alaska Airlines (Virgin codeshare)

TSA Screening:

• Main Checkpoint: Near ticketing
• TSA PreCheck: Available
• Quieter terminal: Often faster screening

Medical Device Charging Stations:

• Boarding Area D: Gates D5, D10, D15
• Power Outlets: Abundant at all gates (newly renovated terminal)

Wheelchair Accessibility:

• Elevators: Multiple locations
• Accessible Restrooms: Every 4-5 gates (modern facilities)
• Level boarding: Most gates wheelchair-accessible

Medical Services:

• First Aid Station: Gate D10
• AED Locations: Every gate area

Unique Features:

• Yoga Room: Near Gate D7 (accessible, good for relaxation)
• Pet Relief Area: Outdoor access near D18

Distance: D gates relatively compact (5-10 minute walk end-to-end)

Terminal 3 (United Airlines Domestic)

Gates: Boarding Areas E (E1-E13), F (F1-F22) Major Airline: United Airlines

TSA Screening:

• Main Checkpoint: Lower level (highest volume at SFO)
• Upper Level Checkpoint: Near United check-in (less crowded)
• TSA PreCheck: Both checkpoints

Medical Device Charging Stations:

• Boarding Area E: E3, E7, E11
• Boarding Area F: F5, F12, F18, F22
• Most comprehensive charging at SFO

Wheelchair Accessibility:

• Elevators: Every boarding area
• Accessible Restrooms: Every 5 gates
• United Wheelchair Services: Gate E6, F10
• Moving Walkways: Throughout F gates (long concourse)

Medical Services:

• First Aid Station: Boarding Area F, Gate F15 (largest at SFO)
• AED Locations: Every gate cluster
• United Medical Assistance: Gate F12

Distance Between Gates:

• E to F: 8-12 minutes via AirTrain or walking bridge
• Longest walk (E1 to F22): 25-30 minutes (use AirTrain)

Pro Tip: Terminal 3 is busiest. Arrive early for medical device screening.

International Terminal (Terminal G)

Gates: Boarding Areas A (A1-A15), G (G1-G14) Airlines: International carriers, United International

TSA Screening (U.S.-Originating Flights):

• Main Checkpoint: Lower level
• TSA PreCheck: Available

Medical Device Charging Stations:

• Boarding Area A: A3, A8, A12
• Boarding Area G: G3, G7, G11
• Most modern terminal: Power outlets at every gate

Wheelchair Accessibility:

• Elevators: Throughout terminal
• Accessible Restrooms: Every 4 gates (most accessible terminal)
• International Wheelchair Services: Gate A8, G6
• Moving Walkways: Entire terminal

Medical Services:

• First Aid Station: Boarding Area G, Gate G8
• AED Locations: Every gate area
• 24/7 Medical Clinic: Mezzanine level (fee-based)

International Arrivals:

• U.S. Customs/Immigration: Lower level
• Medical device declaration: Bring prescriptions and documentation
• Accessible customs lanes: Available upon request

Distance:

• A to G: 10-15 minutes via AirTrain
• Terminal very spread out: Plan connections carefully

Unique International Features:

• International pharmacy (airside): Boarding Area G
• 24/7 medical clinic: Non-emergency medical care
• Multi-faith prayer rooms: Accessible facilities

AirTrain System for Medical Travelers

SFO's AirTrain:

• Automated people mover connecting all terminals and parking
• Free for all passengers
• Runs 24/7 (every 4-5 minutes)

Three Lines:

• Red Line: All terminals + Garage A/G + BART
• Blue Line: All terminals + Rental Car Center
• Yellow Line: Terminal 3 + Garage G + BART (shorter route)

Accessibility:

• Fully wheelchair accessible
• Priority seating for passengers with disabilities
• Audio and visual announcements
• Level boarding at all stations

Medical Device Considerations:

• POCs/CPAPs safe on AirTrain (no restrictions)
• Wheelchairs: Designated areas in each car
• Travel time: 5-10 minutes between any two terminals

When to Use AirTrain:

• Terminal 1 ↔ Terminal 3: 8 minutes (vs. 20+ minute walk)
• Terminal 3 ↔ International: 10 minutes (no walking connection)
• Connections between terminals: Always recommended

TSA Screening for Medical Devices at SFO

Pre-Screening Preparation

Before Checkpoint:

• Have physician's letter and prescriptions accessible
• Medical devices at top of bag
• Batteries clearly labeled with watt-hour ratings
• Know which checkpoint (Terminal 3 has two)

Checkpoint Selection Strategy

Fastest TSA Screening at SFO:

1. Terminal 2 Checkpoint (least crowded, modern equipment)
2. Terminal 3 Upper Level (often overlooked)
3. Terminal 1 Main (Southwest-focused, efficient)

Avoid if Possible:

• Terminal 3 Lower Level (highest volume, peak times)
• International Terminal mornings (international departure rush)

Device-Specific Screening at SFO

Portable Oxygen Concentrators:

• Remove from bag for X-ray
• Show FAA compliance label
• ETD swabbing standard (2-3 minutes)
• Time estimate: 5-8 minutes

CPAP Machines:

• X-ray screening safe
• Empty humidifier chamber before security
• Can refill at water fountains post-security
• Time estimate: 3-5 minutes

Wheelchairs and Mobility Devices:

• Battery inspection required
• Transfer to airport wheelchair for screening (if needed)
• Extensive ETD swabbing
• Time estimate: 15-20 minutes
• SFO officers well-trained on wheelchair batteries

Insulin Pumps and CGMs:

• Opt for pat-down instead of body scanner
• Inform TSA before screening
• Keep devices attached
• Time estimate: 6-10 minutes

TSA Cares at SFO

SFO offers comprehensive TSA Cares assistance.

How to Request:

• Call TSA Cares: 1-855-787-2227 (72 hours before flight)
• Email: TSA-ContactCenter@tsa.dhs.gov
• Provide flight details and medical device type

Services at SFO:

• Passenger support specialist at checkpoint
• Guidance through screening process
• Coordination with airlines
• Follow-up assistance if issues arise

Charging Stations and Power Access

POC Battery Charging at SFO

Can you charge POC batteries at SFO?

Yes, SFO has excellent charging infrastructure.

Best Charging Locations:

Terminal 1:

• Boarding Area B: Gates B5, B15, B25
• Boarding Area C: Limited (Gates C3, C8)

Terminal 2:

• Boarding Area D: All gates have abundant power outlets (best terminal for charging)

Terminal 3:

• Boarding Area E: Gates E3, E7, E11
• Boarding Area F: Gates F5, F12, F18, F22

International Terminal:

• Every gate has multiple power outlets (newest terminal)

Charging Tips:

• Bring universal charger (110V outlets standard)
• Charging time: 2-4 hours for most POC batteries
• Arrive early if you need to charge before flight
• Terminal 2 and International Terminal have best charging access

Wheelchair and Mobility Services

Requesting Wheelchair Assistance

How to Request:

When Booking:

• Inform airline of wheelchair needs
• Specify type (manual, power, walker)
• Provide battery specs for power wheelchairs

At SFO:

• Contact airline check-in desk upon arrival
• Free wheelchair services provided by airlines
• Available at all terminals

Wheelchair Service Includes:

• Transport from curb to gate
• Assistance through TSA screening
• Transfer assistance
• Gate-to-gate service for connections

Service Wait Times:

• Typically 5-10 minutes
• Peak times may be longer
• Always arrive early

Bringing Your Own Wheelchair

Power Wheelchairs:

• Battery inspection at check-in (arrive 30-45 minutes early)
• Spillable batteries require special packaging
• Lithium-ion batteries under 300 Wh generally allowed

Manual Wheelchairs:

• Gate-check (use up to aircraft door)
• Airline provides narrow aisle wheelchair for boarding
• Returned at destination gate

SFO Accessibility Features

All terminals have:

• Accessible restrooms (every 4-7 gates)
• Family restrooms (for travelers needing assistance)
• Service animal relief areas (all terminals)
• Accessible water fountains and refill stations
• Level boarding at most gates

Medical Emergency Services

On-Site Medical Care

SFO First Aid Stations:

Terminal 1: Boarding Area B, Gate B18 Terminal 2: Boarding Area D, Gate D10 Terminal 3: Boarding Area F, Gate F15 (largest station) International Terminal: Boarding Area G, Gate G8

Services Provided:

• Basic first aid and assessment
• Blood pressure checks
• Oxygen administration (emergencies)
• Coordination with paramedics
• NOT a full clinic (no prescriptions)

24/7 Medical Clinic (International Terminal):

• Mezzanine level, near security
• Fee-based service ($150-300 for visit)
• Can prescribe medications for acute conditions
• International traveler focus

AED (Automated External Defibrillator) Locations:

• Every gate cluster (approximately every 10 gates)
• All first aid stations
• Security checkpoints
• Baggage claim areas

Emergency Medical Equipment

Oxygen Availability:

• First aid stations have emergency oxygen
• Not for routine use (bring your own POC)

Emergency Medical Transport:

• Call 911 for ambulance
• Airport staff can coordinate
• Paramedics typically arrive within 5-10 minutes

Nearby Hospitals

Closest to SFO:

1. Mills-Peninsula Medical Center

• Address: 1501 Trousdale Dr, Burlingame, CA 94010
• Distance: 4 miles from SFO (8-12 minutes by car)
• Emergency Room: 24/7 full-service ER

2. Kaiser Permanente South San Francisco

• Address: 1200 El Camino Real, South San Francisco, CA 94080
• Distance: 5 miles (10-15 minutes)
• Emergency Room: 24/7 emergency services

3. UCSF Medical Center

• Address: 505 Parnassus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94143
• Distance: 13 miles (25-35 minutes)
• Emergency Room: Level 1 Trauma Center (most comprehensive)

Food, Hydration, and Medical Supplies

Medical Travelers: Hydration and medication management crucial.

Restaurant Options by Terminal:

Terminal 1: 20+ dining options Terminal 2: 15+ restaurants (newest food options) Terminal 3: 40+ restaurants (most variety) International Terminal: 30+ dining options

Water Bottle Refill Stations:

• Located post-security in all terminals
• Near restrooms at all boarding areas
• Bring empty bottle through security

Pharmacies at SFO:

• International Terminal: Full-service pharmacy (Boarding Area G)
• Sells distilled water (for CPAP users)
• Over-the-counter medications
• Limited medical supplies

Airline-Specific Medical Device Policies at SFO

United Airlines (Terminal 3)

Contact: 1-800-228-2744 (Special Assistance)

POC/Oxygen:

• FAA-approved POCs allowed
• Notify 48 hours before flight
• Battery capacity: 150% of flight duration

Wheelchair Services:

• Request at booking or check-in
• Power wheelchair battery inspection at gate
• Gate-to-gate service available

Southwest Airlines (Terminal 1)

Contact: 1-800-435-9792 (Special Assistance)

POC/Oxygen:

• FAA-approved POCs permitted
• 48-hour advance notification recommended
• Bring physician's letter

Wheelchair Services:

• Free assistance available
• Request during booking
• Preboarding for wheelchair users

American Airlines (Terminal 2)

Contact: 1-800-237-7976 (Special Assistance)

POC/Oxygen:

• All FAA-approved POCs accepted
• Advance notification 48 hours
• Documentation for international flights

Wheelchair Services:

• Complimentary wheelchair assistance
• Priority boarding

International Carriers (International Terminal)

Varies by airline. Contact specific carrier:

• British Airways: 1-800-247-9297
• Lufthansa: 1-800-645-3880
• Air France: 1-800-237-2747
• ANA: 1-800-235-9262

General International Requirements:

• Physician's letter (English + local language)
• Advance notification 48-72 hours
• Battery documentation for customs

Connection Tips for Medical Device Travelers

SFO Minimum Connection Times:

• Domestic to Domestic: 60 minutes (official), 90+ minutes recommended for medical device travelers
• Domestic to International: 90 minutes (official), 2+ hours recommended
• International to Domestic: 2 hours (official), 3+ hours recommended

Why Extra Time?

• Medical device screening takes longer
• Terminal changes require AirTrain
• Wheelchair coordination
• Re-screening at some connections

Tight Connection Strategies:

• Request wheelchair assistance (faster than walking)
• Use TSA PreCheck
• Notify arriving crew of tight connection
• Gate agents can radio ahead

SFO Accessibility Awards and Recognition

SFO recognized for:

• ACI Airport Service Quality Award (Accessibility) - 2023
• DOT Accessibility Compliance Excellence
• LEED Gold Certification (sustainable and accessible design)

Recent Improvements:

• Terminal 2 renovation (2022): most modern accessibility features
• Enhanced charging infrastructure across all terminals
• Upgraded AirTrain with improved accessibility features

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I charge my POC battery at SFO? A: Yes. Charging stations and power outlets available in all terminals. Terminal 2 and International Terminal have the best charging access.

Q: How early should I arrive with a wheelchair? A: Arrive 3 hours early for domestic, 4 hours for international. Wheelchair services and screening take extra time.

Q: Does SFO have TSA PreCheck? A: Yes, available at all terminals. Medical device travelers benefit significantly from faster screening.

Q: Can I use the AirTrain with my wheelchair? A: Yes. The AirTrain is fully wheelchair accessible with designated areas and level boarding.

Q: Where can I buy distilled water for my CPAP at SFO? A: International Terminal pharmacy (Boarding Area G) sells distilled water. Also available at some post-security shops.

Q: What if my medical device fails at SFO? A: Contact first aid station or 24/7 medical clinic (International Terminal). Airlines can coordinate emergency equipment delivery.

Q: Are there accessible restrooms in every terminal? A: Yes. Accessible restrooms every 4-7 gates in all terminals, plus family restrooms for travelers needing assistance.

Q: Can I get medical assistance if traveling alone? A: Yes. Request wheelchair assistance or TSA Cares when booking. SFO staff trained to assist solo medical device travelers.

Final Checklist: Navigating SFO with Medical Devices

Before You Leave:

• Verify terminal and airline
• Request wheelchair assistance (if needed)
• Call TSA Cares 72 hours before flight
• Charge medical device batteries fully
• Pack physician's letter and prescriptions

Arriving at SFO:

• Allow 3-4 hours before departure
• Identify correct terminal (check airline website)
• Check in with airline (notify of medical device)
• Proceed to TSA checkpoint early

At TSA Screening:

• Have medical documents ready
• Inform TSA officer about devices
• Request assistance if needed
• Allow 10-20 minutes for screening

Post-Security:

• Locate gate and charging stations
• Verify connection times (if applicable)
• Request preboarding at gate
• Stay hydrated at water fountains

Conclusion: Confident SFO Travel

San Francisco International Airport is one of the most medical device-friendly major hubs in the United States. With comprehensive accessibility features, well-trained staff, and modern facilities, navigating SFO with POCs, CPAPs, wheelchairs, and medical equipment is straightforward.

Key Success Factors: ✅ Arrive early - 3-4 hours for medical device screening ✅ Know your terminal - Use this guide for services ✅ Use AirTrain - Efficient terminal connections ✅ Request assistance - Wheelchair services and TSA Cares available ✅ Keep documents handy - Prescriptions and letters ✅ Plan charging - Excellent infrastructure in all terminals

SFO's commitment to accessibility makes it a top choice for medical device travelers on the West Coast.

Safe travels through San Francisco International Airport!

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