45 minutes is enough time if your flight is on time. I've done that connection many times through Atlanta, but it doesn't leave much margin of error. We've decided not to take any chances and go with the 2 hour layover.
Is 40 min layover enough in Atlanta for an international?
I'd allow at least 2 hours – perhaps more to make the connection. With 40 minutes, you're pretty much out of luck if you're plane is a hair late. According to Deltas website, for non US flights you should be at the gate and ready to board 45 mins prior to scheduled departure time.
Is 40 minutes enough for connecting flight?
Travel advisers say there's a lot to take into account when booking connecting flights, but a general rule of thumb is 60-90 minutes between domestic flights and at least two to three hours for international itineraries.
