Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving as a major gateway between the United States and international destinations. Located 15 miles (24 km) from Downtown Los Angeles, LAX offers nine passenger terminals, over 20 airport lounges, and extensive shopping, dining, and transportation options.
Since 2009, the airport has been undergoing a $15 billion modernization program to improve facilities, expand capacity, and prepare for the 2028 Olympic Games. Key upgrades include a new automated people mover, a consolidated car rental center, and modernized roadways to ease traffic congestion. The people mover, now scheduled to open in January 2025, will connect all terminals with Los Angeles Metro Rail.
Key Facts About Los Angeles International Airport LAX
- Airport Name: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
- Location: 1 World Way, Los Angeles, CA 90045
- Distance from Downtown Los Angeles: 15 miles (24 km)
- Terminals: 9 (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and Tom Bradley International Terminal)
- Destinations Served: 113 domestic, 91 international
- Official Website: flylax.com
- Customer Service Phone: 855-463-5252
Los Angeles International Airport Terminals and Airlines
LAX operates in a U-shaped terminal layout, with Terminals 1–3 on the north side and Terminals 4–8 on the south side. The Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) is located in the west center, serving most long-haul and foreign carriers.
Read More: Austin-Bergstrom International Airport [AUS] — Ultimate Terminal Guide
Here’s an overview of which airlines operate from each terminal:
Terminal 1
- Southwest Airlines
- Frontier Airlines
- Allegiant Air*
- Viva Aerobus*
- Breeze Airways*
- Sun Country Airlines*
(*Some flights check in here but depart from Tom Bradley via shuttle.)
Terminal 2
- Virgin Atlantic
- WestJet
- Norse Atlantic Airways*
- Condor Airlines*
(*Check-in at T2; flights depart from Tom Bradley West Gates.)
Terminal 3
- Delta Air Lines
- Aeromexico
- Connected to Tom Bradley via secure walkway.
Terminal 4
- American Airlines (domestic and some international)
- Admirals Club & Flagship Lounge available.
Terminal 5
- American Airlines
- JetBlue Airways
- Spirit Airlines
Terminal 6
- Alaska Airlines
- Air Canada
- Hawaiian Airlines
Terminals 7 & 8
- United Airlines & United Express
- Polaris Lounge and United Club located in Terminal 7.
Tom Bradley International Terminal (B)
Primary hub for most international airlines, including Emirates, British Airways, Singapore Airlines, Qantas, ANA, and more.
Connecting Between Terminals at Los Angeles International Airport LAX
Inside Security:
All terminals are connected airside via walkways or shuttles, allowing passengers to transfer without re-clearing security.
Outside Security:
The free LAX-it shuttle loops around all terminals, stopping at designated pickup zones.
Security and Customs
- TSA PreCheck lanes available in every terminal except Terminal 8 (shares with Terminal 7).
- CLEAR lanes in Terminals 1–7.
- Global Entry kiosks for expedited international processing.
- Mobile Passport Control supported with dedicated Wi-Fi access.
Los Angeles International Airport LAX Airport Lounges
LAX has over 20 lounges, ranging from airline-exclusive facilities to day-pass-accessible spaces.
Popular Lounges:
- American Admirals Club (Terminals 4, 5, Regional Terminal)
- United Polaris Lounge (Terminal 7)
- Delta Sky Club & Delta One Lounge (Terminal 3)
- Centurion Lounge (Tom Bradley)
- Qantas First Class Lounge (Tom Bradley)
- Star Alliance Lounge (Tom Bradley)
Many lounges allow Priority Pass or paid day pass entry, while others are exclusive to premium cabin travelers.
Dining and Shopping at Los Angeles International Airport LAX
With over 100 restaurants, cafes, and bars, LAX offers diverse dining options from grab-and-go snacks to full-service restaurants. Duty-free shopping is available in most international terminals, offering luxury brands, electronics, and travel essentials.
Wi-Fi and Charging Stations
- Free Wi-Fi available in all terminals (45-minute sessions).
- High-speed upgrade available via Boingo subscription.
- Charging stations located near most gates across all terminals.
Transportation to and from Los Angeles International Airport LAX
Ground Transportation Options:
- Metro Rail: Free shuttle to Aviation/LAX Station.
- FlyAway Bus: Direct service to Union Station, Van Nuys, and more.
- Car Rentals: Consolidated rental facility (opening 2025).
- Rideshare Services: Uber and Lyft pick-up at designated zones.
- Taxis: Flat fare of $50.50 to Downtown LA.
Special Services and Amenities
- Children’s Play Area: Terminal B, Level 4.
- Pet Relief Areas: Available in every terminal.
- Nursing Rooms: 11 across the airport.
- ATMs and Currency Exchange: Available in most terminals.
- Lost & Found: Contact airline or LAX Police Lost & Found at 424-646-5678.
- PUP Program: Therapy dogs help calm nervous travelers.
Future Developments at Los Angeles International Airport LAX
The modernization project will introduce:
- Automated People Mover (January 2025)
- New consolidated rental car facility
- Expanded Metro Rail access
- Roadway improvements to reduce congestion
Final Thoughts
Los Angeles International Airport is more than just a transit hub—it’s a modern, connected, and passenger-focused gateway to destinations around the globe. Whether you’re flying domestic or international, LAX offers extensive services, lounges, dining, and efficient transfer options. With its ongoing upgrades, passengers can expect an even smoother experience in the years ahead.
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