San Jose Airport offers a public-area shuttle between Terminals A and B and a post-security connection between their gate areas. The shuttle also serves the rental-car center, so boarding point and bus destination matter.
Where to start
First decide whether you need to leave security. SJC says travelers already past screening can reach both terminals’ concessions and gate areas through a connected post-security layout. For a curbside transfer, the airport’s shuttle page sends Terminal A passengers downstairs from ticketing to Stop 6. At Terminal B, cross to the center island for Stop 3 or 4. Follow the actual destination sign on the arriving bus.
How the movement works
The airport describes inter-terminal/rental-car shuttles as operating 24 hours with published arrivals every seven to ten minutes. This is a wait interval, not a total flight connection time. Its shuttle instructions also distinguish the Economy Lot 1 bus; Terminal A uses Stop 5 for that lot, rather than Stop 6 for the inter-terminal and rental-car route. The FAQ says all airport shuttle buses are wheelchair accessible, while airline wheelchair help must be arranged with the carrier.
| Decision | What the source describes |
|---|---|
| T A → T B curbside | Inter-terminal shuttle from Terminal A Stop 6 |
| From Terminal B | Center-island Stop 3 or 4 |
| Already past security | Connected gate areas; follow the live gate sign |
Before you rely on this route
SJC notes that ticket counters and gate locations can differ: its FAQ gives ZIPAIR as an example with a Terminal B ticket counter and Terminal A departure gates. Don't infer the boarding gate from a check-in building. A passenger with checked bags or a new ticket may have to use the public curbside movement and another security check even though the gate areas connect after screening. Confirm the airline’s current assignment and baggage instructions.
Check your operating flight and the airport’s current notice before you go. A short ride or a frequent bus won’t tell you whether you have enough time for the whole connection.
Common questions
Is the parking-lot shuttle the same as the terminal shuttle?
No. The airport lists Terminal A Stop 5 for Economy Lot 1 and Stop 6 for inter-terminal/rental-car movement.
Does the shuttle interval include my connection time?
No. Seven to ten minutes is the described arrival interval; walking, screening and airline deadlines remain separate.
Official sources and date
Source material was reviewed on 2026-11-01. Airport operations and individual flights can change after that date.