Yes, smoking is available at San Antonio International Airport (SAT) in designated outdoor zones on the curbside outside both Terminal A and Terminal B. These areas are marked with signage and ashtrays, positioned away from the main entrance doors. The terminals are smoke-free indoors, so there are no smoking rooms, cabins, or areas anywhere inside either building. The airport asks that smokers use only these designated spots and dispose of cigarette butts properly.
How San Antonio Airport Is Laid Out
SAT has two terminals: Terminal A and Terminal B. They are connected on the landside by a short walkway, making it easy to move between them before security. Each terminal has its own TSA security checkpoint and its own set of gates.
Terminal A is the larger of the two and handles most of the domestic carriers. Terminal B is smaller and serves a handful of airlines. Both terminals have two levels, with departures and ticketing on the upper level and baggage claim on the lower level.
Terminal A
Smoking areas: None inside. Exit the terminal to the outdoor curbside areas. After security: No smoking areas past the TSA checkpoint.
Terminal A is the primary terminal at SAT, serving Southwest, American, Delta, and several other carriers. It has the majority of the gates and tends to be busier, especially during peak travel periods. The outdoor smoking areas are accessible from both the upper departures level and the lower arrivals level. The lower level near baggage claim is generally less congested.
Terminal B
Smoking areas: None inside. Exit the terminal for outdoor designated zones. After security: No smoking areas.
Terminal B is smaller and handles fewer airlines. The walk from the Terminal B gates back to the terminal exit is shorter than in Terminal A, making it a quicker trip if you need a smoke break. Outdoor smoking areas are available on the curbside outside Terminal B as well.
Outside the Terminal
Outdoor smoking areas at SAT are positioned on the curbside areas outside each terminal building. You will find them at both the upper departures level and the lower arrivals level. The marked areas have standing ashtrays and are set back from the entrance doors.
San Antonio’s climate is warm to hot for most of the year, with mild winters and very hot summers where temperatures regularly exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The outdoor smoking areas are not covered, so summer smokers will want to keep their break short and stay hydrated. Winter and spring are very comfortable for stepping outside.
E-Cigarettes and Vaping
Vaping and e-cigarettes are treated identically to traditional smoking at the airport. You cannot use them indoors in any area of the terminal, including restrooms, gate areas, and restaurants. All vaping must happen in the outdoor designated zones. TSA allows e-cigarettes in carry-on bags but not in checked luggage.
Summary
| Area | Smoking Allowed | Location Details |
|---|---|---|
| Inside Terminal A | No | Entire building smoke-free |
| Inside Terminal B | No | Entire building smoke-free |
| Terminal A curbside | Yes | Designated outdoor zones on both levels |
| Terminal B curbside | Yes | Designated outdoor zones on both levels |
| Gate areas | No | No smoking past TSA in either terminal |
| Restaurants and lounges | No | All indoor dining is smoke-free |
For USA airport smoking rules, state vape rules, lighter rules at TSA, and other federal/state info, see our USA smoking guide.