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Los Angeles Airport LAX

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Los Angeles Airport (LAX) Guide

Welcome to LAX, the gateway to Los Angeles and the only airport to have a direct connection to the city's subway system. As a major hub, it connects millions to destinations globally. This concise guide offers everything you need for a smooth journey through LAX. From flight details to the best dining spots, we've streamlined the essentials for you.

Need a detailed LAX walkthrough? Our Comprehensive Airport Guide has it all - flight tracking, terminal info, parking tips, and more, ensuring your travel is hassle-free.

LAX, or Los Angeles International Airport, has nine terminals, each serving different airlines and destinations. The terminals are named Bradley International, Terminal 1, Terminal 2, Terminal 3, Terminal 4, Terminal 5, Terminal 6, Terminal 7, and Terminal 8. Bradley International is the newest terminal and serves international flights, while the other terminals serve domestic flights.

Terminal 1 is used by Southwest Airlines, Terminal 2 by Delta Air Lines, Terminal 3 by Delta Air Lines and some other airlines, Terminal 4 by American Airlines, Terminal 5 by Delta Air Lines and some other airlines, Terminal 6 by Alaska Airlines and some other airlines, Terminal 7 by United Airlines, and Terminal 8 by United Airlines and some other airlines. Each terminal has multiple gates, with Terminal 1 having 13 gates and Terminal 4 having 16 gates, for example.

To navigate the terminals, follow the signs and maps located throughout the airport. There are also shuttle buses and walkways that connect the terminals. If you need assistance, there are information booths and customer service representatives available to help you.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

Los Angeles LAX Airport has nine terminals, which can be accessed via a free shuttle bus service called the "Airline Connections." The shuttle runs 24/7 and stops at each terminal every 10-15 minutes, making it easy to transfer between terminals. The average shuttle ride between terminals takes around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. If you prefer to walk between terminals, there are pedestrian walkways that connect all terminals except for Terminal 6, which can be accessed via a shuttle bus. Walking times vary depending on the distance between terminals, but it generally takes around 10-15 minutes to walk between adjacent terminals. For passengers with connecting flights, it's important to note that some terminals have a security checkpoint at each gate, so you may need to go through security again if you're transferring to a different terminal. Be sure to allow enough time for this process, especially during peak travel times.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

LAX Airport provides several options for picking up and dropping off passengers. If you are picking up a passenger, you can use the curbside parking area outside the terminal. However, please note that curbside parking is only allowed for active loading and unloading of passengers and luggage. You cannot leave your vehicle unattended, and you must move your vehicle as soon as your passenger is ready to leave.

If you need to wait for your passenger, LAX offers cell-phone waiting areas where you can park for free until your passenger arrives. These waiting areas are located away from the terminal, and you can wait in your vehicle until your passenger calls you to let you know they are ready to be picked up. Once your passenger is ready, you can drive to the terminal to pick them up.

Parking Facilities & Options

The airport offers a variety of parking options to meet the needs of all travelers. There are several parking structures and lots located throughout the airport, including the Central Terminal Area, Economy Parking Lot, and the off-site Lot C.

The Central Terminal Area has parking garages located adjacent to each terminal, making it easy for travelers to park and walk to their gate. Economy Parking Lot is a more affordable option for those looking to save money on parking. Shuttle buses run every 15 minutes to transport travelers to and from the terminals.

For those waiting to pick up arriving passengers, there are cell phone waiting areas located near each terminal. These areas provide a convenient spot for drivers to wait until their passengers are ready to be picked up.

Handicapped parking is available in all parking structures and lots. Designated spaces are located near elevators and shuttle stops to make it easier for those with disabilities to access the terminals.

Off-airport parking is also available for those looking for a more economical option. These parking lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport and can be reserved in advance.

Get details about LAX parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

Los Angeles Airport, also known as LAX, offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers.

Car rental facilities are available at LAX, with major providers such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz. The rental car facilities are located off-site and can be accessed by a free shuttle service from the airport.

Taxi services are also available at LAX, with designated drop-off areas located outside of baggage claim areas in each terminal. Fares vary depending on the destination and time of day.

Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also available at LAX. Pickup areas are located at designated locations on the arrivals level of each terminal. Note that there are restrictions on where shared ride services can drop off passengers.

Airport shuttles are available for transportation to nearby hotels and parking lots. Pickup areas are located on the arrivals level of each terminal, and fares vary depending on the destination.

Public transportation options include the Metro Bus and Rail system, with stops located at LAX. The FlyAway bus service also provides transportation to and from LAX to various locations in the Los Angeles area.

Airport Hotels

Whether you're in town for business, pleasure, or simply passing through, finding a comfortable place to rest near the airport can greatly enhance your travel experience. From luxury hotels like the Hyatt Regency and the H Hotel Los Angeles, to budget-friendly options like the Courtyard by Marriott, there's something for every type of traveler. Many of these hotels offer complimentary shuttle services to and from the airport, ensuring a seamless travel experience. Discover the best hotel options near the airport, each offering a unique blend of convenience, comfort, and style. Ready to book now? View all LAX Hotels here.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

If you're traveling through Los Angeles LAX Airport, you won't have to go far to find a great meal or some shopping. LAX offers a wide variety of restaurants and stores, including California Pizza Kitchen, Shake Shack, MAC Cosmetics, and Sunglass Hut. For a more detailed look at some of the most popular options, including proximity to gates and links to amenity maps, check out our Los Angeles LAX Airport Food & Shopping Guide.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Los Angeles LAX Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and newsstands, check out our Los Angeles LAX Airport Food & Shopping Guide.

Passenger Services

Los Angeles LAX Airport, also known as LAX, is one of the busiest airports in the United States. The airport offers a wide range of services to ensure a comfortable and stress-free travel experience for passengers.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. If you have lost an item during your travels, the lost and found office is located in the Tom Bradley International Terminal. For families traveling with children, there are several children's play areas located throughout the airport, including the LAX Beach, a fun and interactive play area located in Terminal 6.

Special-needs services are also available at LAX, including wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and TTY phones for the hearing-impaired. If you need banking services, there are several ATMs and currency exchange offices located throughout the airport. In case of a medical emergency, there is a medical clinic located in the Tom Bradley International Terminal to assist passengers.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it's important to stay updated on the status of your flight, especially if there are any delays, cancelations, or gate changes. Fortunately, there are several ways to get flight status information at LAX.

One of the most convenient ways to check flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminals. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply find your flight on the display and take note of any changes or updates.

Another way to stay informed is by downloading the mobile app of your airline. Many airlines offer mobile apps that provide push notifications for flight status updates, gate changes, and other important information. You can also sign up for text or email alerts through the app or airline website.

Lastly, passengers can check the status of their flight departure at LAX Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Helpful Tips

When to Arrive

It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight. The busiest times to avoid are during the morning and evening rush hours on weekdays, as well as holiday weekends. It is also important to check with your airline for any specific recommendations or requirements.

Getting to the Airport

There are several ways to get to LAX, including driving, taking a taxi or rideshare service, or using public transportation such as buses or trains. If driving, make sure to check traffic conditions and allow enough time for parking and shuttle transport to the terminal. Many hotels in the area also offer shuttle services to the airport.

Getting Oriented

When arriving at LAX, it can be helpful to use iFly.com's interactive airport maps to get oriented and navigate through the airport. The maps show the locations of terminals, gates, restaurants, shops, and other amenities. Additionally, there are information booths and airport ambassadors available to assist with any questions or concerns.

Avoiding Delays

To avoid delays at LAX, it is important to arrive on time and be prepared for security screening. Make sure to review TSA guidelines for prohibited items and liquids, and have your ID and boarding pass ready. It is also recommended to check the status of your flight before heading to the airport, and sign up for alerts from your airline to stay informed of any changes or delays.

Security Wait Times

When traveling through Los Angeles Airport, it's important to budget enough time for TSA Security wait times. The wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the day of the week. During peak travel times, such as holidays and weekends, the wait times can be longer. To avoid missing your flight, it's recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time. You can check TSA Wait Times now, so you can budget how much time you need to get to the airport.

Airport Facts & Stats

The airport is one of the busiest airports in the United States, serving millions of passengers every year. The airport has nine terminals, including the recently renovated Bradley International Terminal.

On average, LAX handles over 200,000 passengers daily, with an average of 1,700 daily flights. The airport serves over 100 domestic and international destinations, making it a popular hub for travelers from all over the world.

The top five destinations served by LAX are New York City, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Chicago, and Seattle. The airport is also a hub for several major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines.

Airport History

Los Angeles International Airport, commonly known as LAX, is the primary international airport serving Los Angeles, California. It is one of the busiest airports in the world and has a rich history dating back to the 1920s.

Significant events in the airport's history include:

  • 1928: The Los Angeles City Council selected a 640-acre site in Westchester for the new airport.
  • 1930: The airport officially opened as Mines Field, named after the real estate agent who sold the land to the city.
  • 1942: The airport was renamed Los Angeles Airport and became a hub for military transport during World War II.
  • 1953: The iconic Theme Building was constructed, featuring a futuristic design and observation deck.
  • 1961: The airport was renamed Los Angeles International Airport to reflect its growing international traffic.
  • 1984: The Summer Olympics were held in Los Angeles, and LAX served as the primary airport for athletes and spectators.
  • 2000: The airport began a massive renovation and modernization project, including the construction of new terminals and parking structures.
  • 2013: The Tom Bradley International Terminal was renovated and expanded, featuring new dining and shopping options and state-of-the-art technology.

Today, LAX continues to be a major hub for international travel and a gateway to the rest of the world.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: LAX
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +1 855-463-5252
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Los Angeles International Airport, 1 World Way, Los Angeles, CA 90045, United States

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

Last updated:

Los Angeles Airport Q&A

LAX has nine terminals connected by shuttle buses and walkways. Use the free shuttle bus service called "Airline Connections" or the pedestrian walkways for terminal transfers. For a detailed map, visit the interactive airport map.
LAX offers a wide variety of dining and shopping options. For a detailed guide, including proximity to gates, visit the Los Angeles LAX Airport Food & Shopping Guide.
LAX provides multiple parking options including the Central Terminal Area, Economy Parking Lot, and off-site Lot C. For more details and rates, click here.
LAX offers car rentals, taxis, shared ride services, airport shuttles, and public transportation. For more information, visit the respective links for car rental, taxi services, and public transportation.
Yes, there are several hotels near LAX offering complimentary shuttle services. For a list of hotels and to book now, visit LAX Hotels.
To check the status of your flight, you can use the in-airport flight displays, download your airline's mobile app for updates, or visit the flight departures page on ifly.com for real-time information.
For lost items, visit the lost and found page. Special-needs services, including wheelchair assistance and accessible restrooms, are available throughout the airport. For more details, check the Wi-Fi and banking services pages.