Los Angeles International Airport, better known by its code LAX, is one of the busiest travel hubs in the world and a primary gateway to the United States. Serving millions of passengers each year, it connects Los Angeles to hundreds of destinations across the globe.
For many travelers, LAX can feel overwhelming due to its size, traffic, and nine busy terminals. Whether you are flying in, out, or connecting, understanding how the airport works can save both time and stress.
This guide covers everything you need, from terminals and transportation to parking, lounges, dining, and insider tips for a smoother journey.
Overview of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Los Angeles International Airport, with the IATA code LAX, is situated in the Westchester area of Los Angeles, approximately 18 miles southwest of the city center. The airport has nine terminals, including the Tom Bradley International Terminal, which handles both domestic and international services.
In 2024, LAX served around 76.59 million passengers, reflecting steady growth year over year. This high traffic volume cements its status among the busiest airports in the United States.
LAX is operated by Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA), a division of the City of Los Angeles that oversees all aviation facilities in the area.
Recent years have seen an extensive modernization push across many terminals. The updates include revamped ticketing halls, upgraded baggage handling systems, and refreshed concourse finishes. The Tom Bradley International Terminal has also seen a thorough facelift, improving arrival lounges, gate zones, and amenities.
Moreover, LAWA is actively executing a comprehensive modernization program for the airfield and roads. This includes safety upgrades, expanded capacity, and groundwork for the upcoming Automated People Mover (APM) project, expected to become operational in the near future.
Los Angeles International Airport Through Time
Los Angeles International Airport began life as Mines Field, a 640-acre plot of farmland offered in 1927. The city designated it as its municipal airport in 1928, and the first hangar was built in 1929.
Over the decades, the airport expanded steadily. In the 1940s and 1950s air service grew, new terminals and runways were added, and by the 1960s the airport adapted for the Jet Age. The city rerouted roads underneath parts of the airport so runways could be extended overhead.
A defining symbol is the Theme Building, completed in 1961. With parabolic legs and a spaceship-inspired central structure, it reflects the futuristic spirit of its era. It later earned historic status within Los Angeles.
In recent years, LAX has entered a modern phase. The Tom Bradley International Terminal was overhauled, terminals received upgrades, and major infrastructure works began. One of the boldest projects is the Automated People Mover (APM), targeting connection between terminals, parking, transit, and rental car facilities.
From a humble airstrip to a global travel hub, LAX’s journey reflects Southern California’s development. Its architectural ambitions, continual investment, and expansion underscore its vital place in U.S. and international aviation.
Reaching Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
By Road (Taxi, Rideshare & Private Vehicles)
You can always reach LAX by car, taxi, or rideshare. Drop-off for departing passengers happens at the terminal curbs on the upper (departures) level. However, for rideshare pick-ups (Uber, Lyft, etc.), LAX moved the pickup point to the dedicated LAX-it lot. You’ll either walk or catch a free shuttle from baggage claim level (lower level) to that lot, where your ride awaits. LAX-it operates 24/7 and shuttles run roughly every 7 minutes.
Premium services such as Uber Black, Uber Black SUV, Lyft Lux, and limousines can still be picked up directly at the terminal curbs.
Public Transit & Shuttle Connections
LAX is connected to the broader Los Angeles transit network. The Metro Connector Shuttle offers free rides between terminals and the LAX/Metro Transit Center, which links you to Metro’s C and K rail lines and several bus routes.
City buses (e.g. Culver City Bus, Big Blue Bus, Torrance Transit) also serve LAX via stops at the LAX/Metro Transit Center.
FlyAway Bus Service
For a direct, reliable link between LAX and key hubs, the FlyAway® bus is a top choice. It runs seven days a week between LAX and locations like Union Station (Downtown LA) and Van Nuys. Buses depart from the arrivals (lower) level in front of each terminal at blue FlyAway columns.
The one-way fare is $12.75. You cannot pay with cash on board; instead, tickets must be purchased via the FlyAway app, online, or using contactless card payment. Buses run frequently—every 20–30 minutes depending on the route.
If you’re using Metrolink rail to reach Union Station, you can include the FlyAway fare when buying your train ticket. Monthly Metrolink pass holders with a same-day flight ticket may ride the FlyAway at no extra cost (for the Union Station route).
Automated People Mover (APM)
LAX is building a new Automated People Mover (APM) system, scheduled to open in early 2026. The APM will run roughly 2.25 miles and include six stations. It will link the central terminal area with the LAX/Metro Transit Center, parking lots, and the new consolidated rental car facility (ConRAC).
Once operational, the APM is expected to operate 24/7, with trains arriving every few minutes during peak times. It will significantly simplify transfers between terminals and connections to public transit, bypassing road congestion inside the central terminal loop.
Terminals and Layout at LAX
LAX has nine passenger terminals (Terminals 1–8 plus Tom Bradley International Terminal, also called Terminal B). They form a large U-shaped loop, with departures on the upper level and arrivals on the lower level. Each terminal serves specific airlines, with some handling international flights and others mainly domestic. Most terminals are now linked post-security, so travelers can walk between them without exiting and re-screening.
Terminal | Airlines / Main Use | Connections | Special Notes |
Terminal 1 | Southwest Airlines | Linked to Terminals 2 & 3 by airside walkway | Recently modernized; satellite gates served by shuttle |
Terminal 2 | Delta (select), WestJet, Aer Lingus, Breeze, Lynx | Connected to Terminals 1 & 3 | Hosts both domestic and international flights |
Terminal 3 | Delta Air Lines (main hub) | Connected to Terminals 1, 2, and Tom Bradley via skybridge | Major Delta hub with modern concourses |
Terminal B (Tom Bradley International) | Most international airlines (ANA, British Airways, Lufthansa, Korean Air, etc.) | Linked to Terminals 3 & 4 by bridges; tunnel to West Gates | U.S. Customs & Immigration; international departures/arrivals |
Terminal 4 | American Airlines | Connected to Terminal B (bridge), Terminals 5 & 6 (tunnel) | American hub with widebody operations |
Terminal 5 | American Airlines, JetBlue, Spirit | Tunnel links to Terminals 4 & 6 | Mix of domestic and international flights |
Terminal 6 | Alaska Airlines, Air Canada, JetBlue (some), LATAM, Southern Airways | Linked to Terminals 4 & 5 (tunnel), Terminals 7 & 8 (walkway) | Shared between Alaska and partner airlines |
Terminal 7 | United Airlines | Linked to Terminal 8 (walkway) | United hub for domestic and some international |
Terminal 8 | United Airlines | Connected to Terminal 7 | No separate ticketing or security; depends on Terminal 7 |
Tips for Navigating Gates, Transfers & Signage
Always check your boarding pass for the terminal and gate before arriving at the airport.
When moving between terminals, try to stay within the airside (post-security) paths to avoid re-screening.
Use shuttle buses only when walking or direct connections are inefficient or unavailable.
Watch for overhead signs showing terminal numbers, gates, directions to interconnections, and color-coded wayfinding.
For long transfers, leave cushion time, especially if a shuttle is needed or there is walking involved across terminals.
Airlines Serving Los Angeles International Airport
LAX is a major aviation hub with more than 70 airlines operating scheduled passenger services. These include both U.S. domestic carriers and international airlines connecting Los Angeles to every corner of the globe. Below is a long, but not exhaustive, list of airlines that currently (or recently) serve LAX.
Aer Lingus
Aeromexico
Air Canada
Air China
Air France
Air India
Air New Zealand
Air Tahiti Nui
Alaska Airlines
American Airlines
Asiana Airlines
British Airways
Cathay Pacific
China Airlines
China Eastern
China Southern
Copa Airlines
Delta Air Lines
Emirates
EVA Air
Finnair
Hawaiian Airlines
Horizon Air
Iberia
Japan Airlines (JAL)
JetBlue
KLM
Korean Air
LOT Polish Airlines
Lufthansa
Malaysia Airlines
Norse Airlines
Philippine Airlines
Qantas
Qatar Airways
Saudia
Scandinavian Airlines (SAS)
Singapore Airlines
Southern Airways Express
Southwest Airlines
Spirit Airlines
StarLux
Sun Country
Swiss International Air Lines
TAP Air Portugal
Thai Airways
Turkish Airline
United Airlines
Virgin Atlantic
VivaAerobus
Volaris
Destinations from LAX
LAX is a major hub with nonstop service to nearly 200 destinations worldwide. You’ll find flights across North & South America, Europe, Asia, Oceania, and more. Below is a grouped table of its key markets and representative city routes (though routes change over time).
Region | Sample Destinations | Airlines Operating |
United States & North America | New York (JFK, LGA), San Francisco, Las Vegas, Chicago, Atlanta, Seattle, Dallas, Denver, Honolulu | American, Delta, United, Alaska, Southwest, Hawaiian |
Canada | Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal | Air Canada, WestJet |
Mexico & Central America | Mexico City, Guadalajara, Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, San José (Costa Rica) | Aeroméxico, Volaris, VivaAerobus, Alaska, American |
South America & Caribbean | São Paulo, Bogotá, Lima, Rio de Janeiro, San Juan | LATAM, Avianca, American |
Europe | London, Paris, Frankfurt, Madrid, Amsterdam | British Airways, Air France, Lufthansa, Iberia, KLM |
Asia & Pacific | Tokyo, Seoul, Beijing, Shanghai, Taipei, Singapore, Sydney | All Nippon Airways, Japan Airlines, Korean Air, Air China, EVA Air, Singapore Airlines |
Middle East & Africa | Doha, Istanbul, Tel Aviv | Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines |
Oceania | Sydney, Auckland | Qantas, Air New Zealand |
Parking & Ground Transportation at LAX
Navigating parking and ground transport at LAX can be complex because there are many options—some close to terminals, others farther away but cheaper. Below is a detailed breakdown of real options, costs, and features you should include in your article.
Terminal Parking (Short-Term / Hourly)
LAX’s Central Terminal Area (CTA) garages (P1, P2A/B, P3, P4, P5, P6, P7) serve immediate terminal access.
The first 15 minutes are free in many of these garages.
After that, typical rates are about $7 for the first hour, and $6 for each additional 30 minutes.
The 24-hour cap (drive-up rate) in terminal garages can reach $50 per day.
Premium parking (e.g. in P1 with better proximity) can go up to $60/day or more.
Economy / Remote Parking Options
LAX Economy Parking is the primary long-stay option. It sits about ½ mile from terminals and is served by free shuttles.
Rates: first hour $8, then additional blocks of $7 per half hour, with a maximum daily rate of $35.
Pre-booking (“book ahead”) can sometimes reduce rates (starting from about $15 per day) compared to drive-up.
EV charging is available in the Economy garage (level 1): $2 service fee + $0.45 per kWh.
The Economy lot runs 24/7 free shuttles every ~10 minutes.
Valet / Premium Parking
Valet (premium) service is offered in select terminal garages (P1, P3, P4) for closer access and convenience.
Valet daily rates can reach $75/day for drive-up.
With pre-booking, some premium lots offer lower rates (from ~$32/day) depending on availability.
EV charging availability is included in some valet garages at the same EV rates (service + per kWh).
EV Charging Availability
EV charging stations are active in the CTA garages and the Economy garage (level 1).
Pricing: $2 service fee plus $0.45 per kWh consumed.
In valet garages (P1, P3, P4), EV charging is also offered.
Consolidated Rent-A-Car Facility (ConRAC)
ConRAC brings all major rental car operations to one centralized site, reducing reliance on multiple individual shuttle buses.
The facility spans ~6.3 million square feet, handling over 18,000 rental vehicles, with storage, ready/return lots, and a Quick Turn Around (QTA) area for light servicing.
It connects to the Automated People Mover (APM), enabling passengers to ride directly between the rental car center and terminals without shuttle buses.
Because of ConRAC, much of the old shuttle traffic to multiple rental sites is being phased out.
Car Rental Shuttles & Instructions
For smaller or off-site rental companies not yet fully integrated into ConRAC, shuttle buses or field kiosks are still used to bring customers to the terminals.
Your rental confirmation should clearly state where you pick up (curbside, shuttle lot, or ConRAC).
Off-Airport Parking & Shuttle Options
Many private lots and garages near LAX offer shuttle service. Some notable ones:
Airport Center Parking: less than 1 mile from LAX with 24/7 free shuttle and EV charging
Joe’s Airport Parking: covered facility with regular shuttles and EV charging
WallyPark LAX: offers valet, self-park, EV charging, and terminal shuttle
These off-airport options often require advance reservation and may limit in/out privileges.
Lounges & Relaxation Facilities at Los Angeles International Airport
When you travel via LAX, you’ll find a wide range of lounges and relaxation spots offered by airlines, alliances, and third-party operators. These spaces let you escape terminal crowds, freshen up, eat, work, or just rest. Below is a full look at what’s available, how you can get in, and what amenities to expect.
Terminal / Location | Lounge(s) | Notes / Highlights |
Tom Bradley International (Terminal B / TBIT) | Emirates Lounge, Los Angeles International Lounge, Air France Lounge, Centurion Lounge, Oneworld Business Lounge, Star Alliance Lounge, Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse | Many international carriers use these. Shower suites, bar, dining, quiet zones. |
Terminal 2 | Delta Sky Club | Serves Delta operations from T2 |
Terminal 3 | Delta One Lounge, Delta Sky Club | Includes both premium and regular Delta lounges |
Terminal 4 | American Airlines Admirals Club, American Flagship Lounge | For American & partner flights departing from T4 |
Terminal 5 | American Admirals Club | Domestic and connecting traffic |
Terminal 6 | Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge, Alaska Lounge | For Canadian & West Coast / domestic partners |
Terminal 7 | United Club, United Polaris Lounge | United’s hub in the south side |
Terminal 8 | United Club | Shared with Terminal 7 (no separate ticketing / security) |
Outside / Terminal-independent | USO Lounge | For U.S. military personnel and dependents |
Access Rules
By ticket class: First class or Business class passengers on eligible flights are typically granted lounge access automatically.
By membership / status: Many lounges allow entry for lounge members (e.g. Admirals Club, Delta Sky Club) or loyalty tier holders (SkyTeam Elite, Star Alliance Gold, Oneworld Emerald/Sapphire).
Credit card benefits / pay-at-door: Some lounges (e.g. Centurion Lounge, Los Angeles International Lounge) allow entry via premium credit cards or paying a day-pass when space permits.
Restrictions and conditions
Some lounges restrict use to flights operated by the airline or partner airlines.
During peak hours, lounges may limit access even for eligible members due to crowding.
Access must often be validated on the day of travel (show your boarding pass + membership / card).
Amenities You’ll Find
In most lounges at LAX, expect a combination of:
Showers & restrooms: Private or semi-private shower suites, towel service
Food & drinks: Hot and cold buffet, snacks, alcoholic/non-alcoholic beverages, coffee bars
Workspaces & connectivity: WiFi, power outlets, quiet or business corners, desks
Relaxation zones: Sofas, lounge seating, terraces or views (in some lounges)
Extra touches: Spa or wellness services, private suites, special lounges with elevated design (e.g. Emirates, Centurion)
Premium Options & Extras
Some lounges go beyond standard amenities to offer private suites, spa treatments, or wellness areas (massage, compression boots, etc.). For example, the Emirates Lounge emphasizes marble finishes, spa-like showers, gourmet dining, and full bar service.
The Centurion Lounge at TBIT is known for curated food, premium bar, comfortable seating, and high-end service for cardholders.
The United Polaris Lounge provides an elevated experience for international premium cabin travelers, including private shower suites and restful spaces.
USO & Military Lounge
The USO Lounge at LAX operates Sunday through Friday (07:00 - 21:00) and welcomes active duty military, guards, reserves, military retirees, and their families (with valid military ID). It offers a calm respite in the airport for service members.
Hotels Near Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
LAX is surrounded by a wide selection of hotels, many of them located along Century Boulevard and Airport Boulevard, just minutes from the terminals. Almost all offer 24-hour shuttle service, making them convenient choices for overnight layovers, early morning flights, or extended stays. Here are some of the best options with features, facilities, and price ranges.
Hyatt Regency LAX
Overview: Closest full-service hotel to the airport with modern interiors and spacious rooms.
Features: Outdoor pool, fitness center, several dining outlets, park-and-fly packages.
Shuttle: 24/7 complimentary airport shuttle.
Price Range: Around $169+ per night, with rates varying between $139–$459 depending on season and demand.
Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles Hotel
Overview: Large property with lively atmosphere, popular for both business and leisure.
Features: Outdoor pool, fitness center, multiple restaurants, M Club for elite guests.
Shuttle: Runs continuously, 24/7.
Price Range: From $169+ per night, with rates fluctuating by season.
H Hotel Los Angeles, Curio Collection by Hilton
Overview: Stylish, boutique-style hotel with a rooftop deck offering runway views.
Features: Rooftop terrace, outdoor pool, modern rooms, 24-hour market. Connected to Homewood Suites for extended stays.
Shuttle: Complimentary 24-hour shuttle, less than 5 minutes to LAX.
Price Range: Mid-to-upper tier, usually higher than standard options but varies widely.
Hilton Los Angeles Airport
Overview: One of the largest hotels near LAX, popular for conferences and groups.
Features: Multiple dining options, outdoor pool, fitness center, park-and-fly packages.
Shuttle: 24/7 complimentary shuttle every 20–25 minutes.
Price Range: Typically $140–$170 per night, with higher rates on peak days.
Renaissance Los Angeles Airport Hotel
Overview: Upscale Marriott property with contemporary interiors and good event facilities.
Features: Fitness center, on-site dining, runway-view rooms available.
Shuttle: Complimentary airport shuttle service.
Price Range: Variable; check live rates for current pricing.
The Westin Los Angeles Airport
Overview: Focus on wellness and comfort, known for Westin Heavenly Beds.
Features: Large fitness center, Daily Grill restaurant, grab-and-go market.
Shuttle: Complimentary airport shuttle.
Price Range: Moderately priced, with rates shifting based on demand.
Embassy Suites by Hilton LAX – North
Overview: Family-friendly, all-suite hotel with extra space.
Features: Separate living rooms, free made-to-order breakfast, evening reception, indoor pool.
Shuttle: Complimentary 24-hour shuttle, about half a mile from terminals.
Price Range: From $140–$155+ per night depending on dates.
Shopping At Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
LAX isn’t just about flights; it’s also home to a wide variety of shopping options. From luxury brands to travel essentials, you’ll find plenty of retail outlets across the nine terminals. While most terminals feature convenience stores and newsstands, the Tom Bradley International Terminal (Terminal B) stands out with its broad duty-free and luxury collection.
Terminal 1
Brookstone
Kiehl’s
M·A·C
New Stand
TUMI
I Love L.A.
Etc.
Terminal 2
InMotion
CNBC Smartshop
New Stand / travel essentials
Larchmont (luxury / cosmetics)
DFS Duty Free (when applicable)
Terminal 3
InMotion (electronics)
Hudson / Hudson Nonstop
EVOLVE by Hudson
Gameway
Terminal 4
Hudson Booksellers
News & Gift shops
Terminal 5
I Love L.A.
FAO Schwarz
Magic Johnson Sports
Rip Curl
DFS Duty Free
LA Original
Terminal 6
Belkin
M·A·C
Market 8600
M. Fredric
Los Angeles Magazine News
See’s Candies
Terminal 7
Bartel’s Harley Davidson
Hugo Boss
DFS Duty Free
Book Soup
News / gift shops
Terminal 8
Shared with Terminal 7: Book Soup, Hudson News, DFS Duty Free
Tom Bradley International / TBIT + West Gates
AllSaints
America!
Burberry Boutique (DFS)
Bvlgari
Cartier
Gucci
Hermès
Hugo Boss
InMotion
iStore
LEGO
LA Confidential
New Beauty
TUMI
Book Soup
Hudson
PGA Fan Shop
Jocale
Pier Provisions
POP SOX
Best Restaurants Near LAX for Every Traveler
When you step outside Los Angeles International Airport, you’ll find a wide mix of dining choices within just a few minutes of the terminals. From iconic burger joints to upscale hotel dining, the area around LAX has something for every budget and taste. Here’s a carefully organized list with average pricing so you can plan your stop with confidence.
In-N-Out Burger (Sepulveda Blvd) Famous for burgers, fries, and shakes, plus a view of jets taking off. Average meal: $8–$12
The Proud Bird Food Bazaar (Aviation Blvd) Food hall with multiple cuisines and aviation displays. Plates from $12–$20
JW Steakhouse (Los Angeles Airport Marriott) Classic steakhouse dining with a respected wine list. Steaks and mains: $40–$70
Social Market & Eatery (Marriott) California-inspired meals served all day. Entrees $18–$35
Hangar 18 Bar + Kitchen (Marriott) Lively bar with craft drinks and casual plates. Appetizers $10–$20, mains $20–$30
Andiamo (Hilton Los Angeles Airport) Italian dining with pasta and seafood. Mains $25–$45
Daily Grill (The Westin LAX) American comfort food in a polished setting. Entrees $18–$35
Waypoint Kitchen & Bar (H Hotel) Modern American dining, rooftop deck for spotting planes. Entrees $20–$40
Unity LA (Hyatt Regency LAX) Hotel restaurant with California-style cuisine. Plates $20–$35
Costero California Bistro & Bar (Sheraton Gateway) Bistro dishes and cocktails in a stylish space. Mains $18–$35
Randy’s Donuts (Manchester Blvd, Inglewood) Iconic giant-donut shop with dozens of flavors. Donuts $2–$4 each
This lineup flows from fast-food favorites to higher-end hotel restaurants, giving travelers clear choices based on time, style, and budget.
Safety, Security & Travel Tips at LAX
Traveling through LAX can feel overwhelming due to its size and passenger volume. Knowing the security process, health and accessibility services, and general safety guidelines will make your journey smoother and less stressful.
TSA Security & Arrival Timing
LAX has TSA security checkpoints at all terminals, with peak wait times ranging from 20 to 60 minutes depending on time of day.
For domestic flights, it’s recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before departure.
For international flights, plan to arrive 3 hours prior to account for check-in, security, and potential immigration checks.
TSA PreCheck and CLEAR lanes are available in most terminals, which can shorten screening significantly.
Screening Process & Rules
Be prepared to show a valid government-issued photo ID and boarding pass.
Liquids must follow the 3-1-1 rule (containers 3.4 oz/100 ml or smaller, all inside one quart-sized clear bag).
Electronics larger than a cell phone may need to be placed in separate bins unless you have TSA PreCheck.
Prohibited items include sharp objects, flammables, certain sporting goods, and firearms unless properly declared and packed.
Transfers & Connections
All nine terminals are now connected post-security, so you can walk airside between them without re-screening.
If you are connecting from an international flight, you must clear immigration, claim checked bags, go through customs, and re-clear security before boarding your next flight.
Allow at least 2–3 hours for international-to-domestic connections.
Accessibility Services
LAX provides wheelchair assistance, elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms in every terminal.
Airlines arrange wheelchair escorts, request this service in advance.
The airport also offers visual paging, TTY phones, and service animal relief areas.
For personalized help, LAX has an ADA/Accessibility Office that travelers can contact before flying.
Health & Emergency Services
Each terminal has first-aid stations and trained staff who can respond to medical emergencies.
An urgent care clinic is located near the airport for non-emergency health needs.
Defibrillators (AEDs) are available throughout terminals.
Lost & Found is managed by the airport police (located in the Security and Badging Office). Items left at TSA checkpoints are held separately by TSA Lost & Found.
Health Protocols & COVID-19 Notes
As of 2025, most COVID-19 restrictions at LAX have been lifted, though mask use is optional in terminals and aircraft unless specified by an airline or destination country.
Hand sanitizer stations are placed throughout terminals.
For international travelers, check the entry requirements of your destination country, as some still require proof of vaccination or testing.
Future Developments & What’s Coming at LAX
LAX is in the middle of a major transformation that will improve the way travelers move through the airport. The most significant project is the Automated People Mover, an elevated electric train that will connect all terminals with parking, rental cars, and the Metro system. The system is scheduled to open in 2026 and will reduce traffic around the central terminal area, making it faster and easier for passengers to get from one point to another.
Another major development is the Consolidated Rent-A-Car facility, known as ConRAC, which will bring more than twenty rental companies under one roof. This center is linked directly to the upcoming People Mover, eliminating the need for multiple shuttles and cutting down on congestion. Travelers will find it easier to pick up and return cars in one central location.
The airport is also focusing on modernizing its terminals and expanding key areas. Projects include new gates, improved baggage systems, and larger passenger spaces. Alongside these upgrades, LAX is working on green initiatives such as energy-efficient buildings, solar power, and better water management. These efforts will create a more comfortable, sustainable, and traveler-friendly airport that meets the growing demands of the future.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is the best way to get from LAX to downtown?
The most convenient options are the FlyAway bus to Union Station, app-based rideshare services from the LAX-it lot, or taxis. Once the Metro People Mover opens in 2026, direct rail access will also be available.
How much time should I allow for connections?
For domestic connections, plan at least 90 minutes. For international to domestic transfers, allow 2 to 3 hours to clear immigration, customs, and security.
Which terminal is for international flights?
Most international departures and arrivals are handled in the Tom Bradley International Terminal (Terminal B), though some airlines also use Terminals 2, 3, 4, and 6.
Can I leave the airport during a layover?
Yes, if you have a layover of more than 6 hours. Just remember to allow enough time for security screening when you return.
Is there baggage storage or lockers at LAX?
LAX does not have traditional lockers inside terminals, but there are off-site companies near the airport that provide luggage storage with pick-up and delivery options.
When do parking lots open and close?
All on-site LAX parking lots operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including terminal parking and economy lots.