SFO International Terminal question
 

Hi all. I'm curious whether the baggage claim at San Francisco airport's International Terminal is in the security area or not. We are meeting someone there who doesn't speak a lot of English and want to be able to help her get her bags, but aren't sure if we will be able to access the baggage claim area - been awhile since I was last in San Fran. Can someone let us know? Much appreciated.

Usually on a return from an international flight, one claims one's baggage, then go through immigration and customs before meeting up with one's family/friends who have to stay in a waiting area outside.

The best thing for your friend to do is to ask the flight crew/airline personnel for help. She just has to ask them which carousel number her luggage will be on. Usually the carousel will have the flight number posted above it, so all she has to do is to find the carousel that has her flight number.

Can she read English? Will she be able to read "Customs" or "Immigration"?

The best thing you can do is to inform the airline that they have a "special needs" passenger. The airlines are pretty good at taking care of young children traveling alone, people who need wheelchairs, etc. So just explain what this person needs, give the airline her name, and have it help her.

>>Usually on a return from an international flight, one claims one's baggage, then go through immigration and customs<<

Slight correction:

First immigration/passport control, then you pick up the luggage, then you pass through customs, and then you exit the secured area.

Stu Dudley

Not to worry really -- what language does she speak? Unless it is some really REALLY obscure tongue, there will be someone to direct her. And where is she flying from -- the aircraft crew can probably help her too.

Half the people landing at SFO internationally have limited to no English skills.

You won't be able to meet her though

Stu's correct - I usually travel with only carryon, so it's show passport, breeze through customs and I'm outta there!

Ok, thanks for the help folks! She speaks a little English but is worried - I'll reassure her that at SFO this is normal!

what language <i>does</i> she speak??

SFO International is always my gateway to getaways. International Terminal has two separate exits (at G-Gates and A-Gates) to the town. It depends what airline she is going to take: Normally United and Star Alliance carriers use G gates. The exit is closer to BART station.

Major airlines provide Japanese and Chinese interpreters for passengers who cannot respond to immigration officers. Don’t know other languages.

there's a designated meeting point in the Intl Terminal. If your friend can read English - it's a very large sign.

International Terminal: International passengers may be met at the US Customs and Immigration exit, Arrivals Level Lobby, International Terminal. There is a signed Meeting Point in the lobby area.