CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Los Angeles International Airport

Hollywood’s Busy Travel Nexus

Airport in United States

Los Angeles (20 km)

173 destinations

Add to list Destinations Open connection map

Los Angeles International Airport serves as a major gateway to Southern California. With multiple terminals and extensive flight options, LAX connects travelers worldwide to beaches, entertainment hubs and natural attractions nearby. The airport features dining choices, shops and lounges for those waiting or passing through. Public transit links the terminal complex to downtown Los Angeles in under thirty minutes by train. As a key transportation hub, LAX supports regional tourism while maintaining operational efficiency amid high passenger volumes throughout the year.

Last update: 12 Oct 2026

* We earn a commission from some links on this page.

Los Angeles Airport Summary

Los Angeles International Airport is an airport near Los Angeles in United States. It currently offers regular passenger service to 173 destinations operated by 67 airlines.

Top airlines

Delta Air Lines (DL)

1040 flights per week

United Airlines (UA)

990 flights per week

American Airlines (AA)

936 flights per week

Top destinations

SFO San Francisco

JFK New York City

ORD Chicago

Cheapest destinations

LAS Las Vegas

SFO San Francisco

DEN Denver

Best destinations

NRT Tokyo

HND Tokyo

SIN Singapore

United States – Quick facts

Guide Etiquette Holidays Other

Power Grid:	120 V, 60 Hz Plug: Type A , Type B Type A: Type B: Read about power adapters
Currency:	US Dollar (USD) £1 ≈ US$1.33
Cashless info:	Rating 5/5 The U.S. is highly cashless, with credit and debit cards accepted almost everywhere. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely used. Save with a travel credit card
eSIM providers:	Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison

Tipping:	Tipping is customary and expected in the U.S. In restaurants, 15-20% is standard. Taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides also expect tips, usually around 10-20% depending on the service.
Public drinking:	Public drinking laws vary by state, but it is generally prohibited in public spaces without a permit.
Public smoking:	Smoking is restricted in most indoor public spaces and some outdoor areas. Local laws vary.
Etiquette:	Greet with a firm handshake, maintain eye contact, respect personal space, and avoid discussing politics or income unless invited to share opinions. Politeness and friendliness are appreciated.

Thanksgiving (November)	A major holiday with closures and domestic travel surges.
Independence Day (July)	Expect parades, fireworks, and celebrations nationwide.
Christmas (December)	Markets, festive events, and crowded tourist spots.

Emergency contact:	Emergency Number: 911 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)
Taxi apps:	Uber, Lyft, Bolt
Helpful links:	Wikipedia Visa regulations Customs & border control Travel with medicine
Other:	The U.S. is known for its diverse landscapes, cultural experiences, and regional cuisines. Public transport is efficient in cities but less so in rural areas. Renting a car is recommended for exploring national parks.

Los Angeles International Airport is among the world’s busiest and most iconic airports, sprawling over 14 square kilometers just west of downtown LA. Known for its distinctive theme building and proximity to Hollywood and beaches, it handles nearly 88 million passengers annually. The airport features nine terminals, large-scale shopping, dining and entertainment options that aim to capture the essence of LA culture.

While the airport impresses with its range of amenities, it can also be a source of frustration due to congestion, security wait times and busy parking areas. Terminal connections can be complex and traffic around the airport is often heavy, so allocating extra time for transfers and departures is wise. The ongoing renovations and expansions aim to enhance the traveler experience.

Despite these challenges, LAX offers notable perks like art installations reflecting LA’s creative spirit and aviation exhibits. The airport gardens provide a peaceful oasis amid the hustle and lounges like the Primeclass and Alaska Lounges offer premium comfort and service. Food options range from casual Californian fare to upscale dining, making it easy to find a satisfying meal.

Travelers new to LAX should plan carefully, avoid peak traffic hours when possible and use app-based ride services or the FlyAway Bus for convenient and economical city access. It’s an airport with big-city charm and challenges, offering a dynamic introduction or conclusion to any California trip.

Helpful tips for Los Angeles International Airport

Arrive at least two hours early for security and TSA pre-check.
Use the free airport Wi‑Fi to download maps, flight updates and local transit schedules before you exit.
Check the LAX app for real‑time gate changes; consider a lounge if you have a long layover or premium ticket.
Explore the Aviation Museum at Terminal B for a quick cultural detour, but note it closes early on weekends.

Available airport lounges

Qantas First Lounge

Available in Terminal 2, reserved for Qantas first-class and business passengers, with fine dining, private spaces, and spa services.

The Centurion Lounge

Located in the Tom Bradley International Terminal, exclusive to American Express Platinum and Centurion cardholders, with gourmet food, cocktail bars, and premium amenities.

Star Alliance Lounge

Located in Terminal B (Tom Bradley International Terminal), providing premium dining, showers, workspaces, and lounges for Star Alliance passengers.

Alaska Lounge

Located in Terminal 6 and 7, offering comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and drinks, workstations, and shower facilities. Access is for Alaska Airlines passengers and eligible credit card holders.

Primeclass Lounge

Located in Terminal 4, open to many travellers via paid entry or memberships, featuring buffet meals, beverages, Wi-Fi, and relaxing ambiance with panoramic runway views.

Where to stay near Los Angeles International Airport

Hotels near LAX are varied, from luxury and business hotels to budget-friendly options. Most offer shuttle services and while the airport vicinity caters well to short stays, many visitors choose to stay in downtown Los Angeles or beach communities for a fuller experience of the region.

Hotel recommendations

*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.

Hilton Los Angeles Airport

8.2

Sonesta Los Angeles Airport LAX

8.1

Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles Hotel

8.3

Hyatt Regency Los Angeles International Airport

8.5

Holiday Inn Los Angeles - LAX Airport By IHG

8.0

The Westin Los Angeles Airport

8.2

Cambria Hotel LAX

8.4

Travelodge by Wyndham LAX

7.9

Sonesta Select Los Angeles LAX El Segundo

8.2

DoubleTree by Hilton LAX - El Segundo

7.7

Explore more accommodations

How to get from Los Angeles Airport to popular destinations

To Downtown Los Angeles:
The FlyAway Bus is the most affordable and convenient transit option from LAX to downtown LA, with buses departing every 30 minutes and a journey time of about 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxis and ride-share services offer faster trips, especially outside peak hours but can be costly due to congestion. Public transport options include buses combining with metro services but are slower and less direct.

To Santa Monica:
Santa Monica is reachable by shuttle, ride-share, or taxi in about 30-45 minutes traffic permitting. Public buses are available but require transfers, making them less convenient for travellers with luggage. Planning around peak hours improves travel comfort.

To Long Beach:
Travel to Long Beach from LAX involves taxi or ride-share services for 30-50 minutes depending on traffic. Public transport is available but complex, involving multiple buses and transfers and usually not recommended for travellers with heavy luggage.