The airport is located 16 mi/26 km south of downtown San Francisco, usually around half an hour by car during light traffic. Always allow for longer travel time during rush hour.
The airport's four runways were built directly into the bay. They provide capacity for 103 movements per hour, as long as the weather is good. But when visibility is poor, the picture changes the capacity of the runway system drops to around 60 movements per hour. So delays can be expected if the fog moves in, California State Law prohibits smoking inside all public buildings, and within 20 feet of any main exit, entrance, or operable window of a public building. Smoking is permitted outdoors in designated smoking areas only.
San Francisco International Airport houses large modern car rental facilities in a purpose built Car Rental Center that brings together the entire major rental firms in one location. Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Thrifty all can be reached from San Francisco International Airport.
Ground Transportation options include frequent and reliable public transit, door-to-door vans, taxis and limousines.