A 2025 Guide to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

by Nick Hagan / April 8, 2025

Estimated reading time: 20 minutes

As one of the largest airport hubs in the United States, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) serves tens of millions of travelers each year. In 2023, LAX handled more than 75 million passengers, making it one of the busiest airports in the world.

LAX is located about 18 miles (29 kilometers) southwest of downtown Los Angeles, and is within easy reach of popular destinations like Beverly Hills (14 miles), Santa Monica (8 miles), and Hollywood (17 miles). With nine terminals spread across a vast layout, navigating the airport can be a challenge, especially for first-time visitors. Our handy guide, along with the airport map, will help you make sense of the layout and enjoy a smoother experience from terminal to curb.

Los Angeles International Airport history

In parallel with Los Angeles’s own burgeoning development, LAX took decades to evolve into the west coast powerhouse we know today.

As early as 1910, areas of the growing city played host to air meets and other aviation displays, with rudimentary but pioneering aircraft (including zeppelins) giving demonstrations to eager crowds throughout the 1920s.

It wasn’t until 1946 that LAX became the region’s principal airport, officially welcoming commercial airline service and four major airlines into its operations. In the early ‘60s the airport’s Theme Building opened, heralding a contemporary Space Age design style which remains part of the facility to this day.

LAX has benefitted from several major expansions during its lifetime—one ahead of LA’s 1984 Summer Olympics, which cemented the facility’s global ambitions with the new Tom Bradley International Terminal.

The most extensive has been underway since 2008, and is currently focused on a $30 billion modernization program, which includes a complete renovation of America’s fourth busiest airport. 

Where is Los Angeles International Airport?

• Address: 1 World Way, Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA

• Phone: +1 855-463-5252

How to get to Los Angeles international airport

A free shuttle bus service runs between LAX’s terminals and two ongoing transport hubs: The LAX City Bus Center and Metro C Line at Aviation Station. 

LA Metro: The LA Metro provides an economical option for traveling from Downtown Los Angeles to LAX. A one-way fare is $1.75, which includes two hours of free transfers when using a TAP card. To reach LAX, take the Metro C Line (Green Line) to Aviation/LAX Station, then board the free shuttle to the airport terminals. The total journey typically takes around an hour, though wait times of up to 20 minutes for trains are common.

Bus: The FlyAway Bus offers direct service from Union Station to LAX every 30 minutes. The trip duration is approximately 35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, and the one-way fare is $9.75. Tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver.​

Book a Blacklane chauffeured ride: For a hassle-free experience, Blacklane is the ideal choice to get to or from LAX. Skip the stress of negotiating taxi fares or dealing with traffic uncertainties and enjoy a comfortable, reliable chauffeured ride that ensures you arrive on time and relaxed.  

LAX Airport parking

The car truly is king in LA - and aptly, the city’s airport has parking options fit for royalty.

Terminal Parking

Location: Structures P1 to P7, close to your terminal.

Price: $9 for the first hour, then $7 extra every 30 minutes. The max daily rate is $60 - or you can pre-book from just $24 per day.

Features:

• Standard terminal parking option

• Just three to five minutes’ walk from your terminal

Premium Terminal

Location: Available in Parking Structures P1, P3, and P7.​

Price: $11 for the first hour, then $9 extra every 30 minutes. The max daily rate is $70 - or you can pre-book from $26 per day.

Features:

• Premium location

• EV charging available

• Just two to three minutes’ walk from your terminal

Valet Terminal Parking

Location: Structures P1, P3, P4 and P7, close to your terminal.

Price: $75 per day. Pre-booking rates start from $32 per day.

Features:

• No need to search for a space - highly convenient

• Just one to two minutes’ walk from your terminal

EV Terminal

Location: Arrivals and at lower level.

Price: $2 service fee and $0.45 per kWh. 

Features:

• Convenient EV charging option

• Just three to five minutes’ walk from your terminal

Economy Parking

Location: 15 minutes from LAX terminals by free regular shuttle bus.

Price: $8 for the first hour, then $7 extra every 30 minutes. The max daily rate is $35 - or you can pre-book from just $14 per day.

Features:

• Lowest LAX parking rates

• Best option for long-term parking

• EV charging available

Van Nuys FlyAway

Location: 60 minutes plus from LAX terminals by FlyAway Bus.

Price: $2 per hour; maximum daily rate of $6. The FlyAway Bus service to LAX costs $9.75 one way.​

Features:

• Cheap parking rate outside LAX

• Serves the San Fernando Valley area

• Shuttle cost not included in the pre-booking price

Pro tip: Skip the parking puzzle and go for a chauffeured ride instead. You'll get dropped off right at your terminal, no circling, no shuttles, no stress.

Los Angeles International Airport terminal overview

LAX boasts a total of nine passenger terminals, all connected by a U-shaped road split over two levels. The most recent to open was Terminal 1.5, which became fully operational in 2022 and links Terminals 1 through 3 with an airside walkway.

In fact, Los Angeles International Airport has invested heavily in its inter-terminal access in recent years as part of a broader modernization program. Visitors can now walk from Terminal 1 all the way to Terminal 8 without leaving the secure area, covering around two miles and passing a wide variety of eateries, shops, lounges, and amenities along the way. For international flights, Tom Bradley International Terminal is officially referred to as Terminal B and sits between Terminals 3 and 4.

Airlines flying out of LAX

Most international airlines operate out of the Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) at LAX, though many international flights leave or arrive at the numbered terminals (1 through 8). Take a look at this helpful list to know where to head at LAX to find your airline.

Terminal 1

• Allegiant Air

• Breeze Airways

• Cayman Airways

• Frontier Airlines

• Norse

• Southwest Airlines

• Sun Country 

• VivaAerobus

Terminal 2

• Virgin Atlantic

• WestJet

Terminal 3

• Aeromexico

• Delta Airlines

Terminal 4

• American Airlines

Terminal 5

• JetBlue

• Spirit Airlines

Terminal 6

• Air Canada

• Alaska Airlines

• Horizon Air

• Southern Airways

Terminals 7 and 8

• United Airlines

Tom Bradley International terminal

• Air China

• Air France

• Aer Lingus

• Air New Zealand

• Air Premia

• Air Tahiti Nui

• All Nippon Airways - ANA

• Asiana Airlines

• Austrian Airlines

• Avianca Airlines

• British Airways

• Cathay Pacific Airlines

• China Airlines

• China Eastern 

• China Southern Airlines

• Condor

• Copa Airlines 

• El Al Israel Airlines

• Emirates

• Eva Air

• Fiji Airways

• Finnair

• Flair Airlines

• French Bee

• Hawaiian Airlines

• Iberia Airlines

• ITA Airways

• Japan Airlines

• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

• Korean Airlines

• LATAM Airlines

• Level Airlines

• Lufthansa

• Philippine Airlines

• Qantas

• Qatar Airways

• Saudia Airlines

• Scandinavian Airlines

• Sichuan Airlines

• Singapore Airlines

• STARLUX Airlines

• Swiss International Air Lines

• Turkish Airlines

• Volaris

• Volaris Costa Rica

• Xiamen Airlines

• Zipair 

Lounges at Los Angeles International Airport 

LAX has virtually dozens of airport lounges to help you relax before you fly. Here’s what you can expect.a

Terminal 2 lounges

Delta Sky Club T2

This lounge offers a range of bites at its cold buffet, self-serve coffee and a bar with a range of complimentary drinks. Power outlets are available all over the lounge, including at workstations. Shower suites are also available if you want to freshen up. The lounge also features runway views and comfortable seating areas for both working and relaxing.

Access and pricing: Access is available to Delta One and SkyTeam premium cabin passengers, Sky Club members, and select American Express cardholders (Platinum and Centurion) flying with Delta. A one-time pass is not available for purchase at this lounge.

Terminal 3 lounges

Delta Sky Club T3

This Delta Sky Club is bigger and newer than the Terminal 2 club, complete with outdoor terrace and other premium features like a chef’s counter which sometimes serves as a taco bar. You'll find a wide range of food options available at two different buffet stations, as well as a full bar. The lounge also includes panoramic views of the airfield, comfortable workspaces, and shower facilities.

Access and pricing: Access is available to Delta One and SkyTeam premium cabin passengers, Sky Club members, and eligible American Express Platinum and Centurion cardholders flying with Delta. Single-visit passes are not available.

Delta One Lounge

Delta’s luxurious One Lounge opened its doors in October 2024, and has since wowed visitors with its boutique feel and exceptional level of service. A super stylish modern decor accompanies features like a la carte dining, hot towels, massage chairs and caviar-topped ice cream. There’s also a private TSA screening area and direct boarding access for select Delta One passengers.

Access and pricing: Exclusive to Delta One passengers on international or long-haul transcontinental flights. No walk-in access or membership entry is allowed.

Gameway T3

Don’t kill time while waiting for your flight— instead, play it away. Gameway caters to pixel junkies with a wide range of gaming stations, complete with high speed internet, luggage storage and food and drinks. The space includes both console and PC setups, and is geared toward travelers of all ages.

Access and pricing: Access is open to all passengers. Entry starts at around $15 per hour, with package options for longer stays. Reservations can be made online or on-site.

Terminal 4 lounges

American Airlines Admirals Club T4

This Admirals Club includes a dedicated TV viewing room and quiet zone, plus great views of the runways outside.

All items are free at the buffet, or you can up your game by paying for the a la carte menu, which features a variety of larger plates from around the globe. The lounge also offers shower facilities, workstations, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Access and pricing: Access is available to Admirals Club members, qualifying elite status holders, and premium cabin passengers on American Airlines and oneworld partners. One-day passes can be purchased for $79 or 7,900 AAdvantage miles.

American Airlines Flagship Lounge

This lounge, located within the Admirals Club, welcomes first-class and business-class travelers on qualifying American Airlines flights. Its striking, modern design includes a small but capable business center with computers and a printer. Shower suites let you freshen up, and a quiet room in the lounge features daybeds and Qi charging. The main buffet includes a wide range of self-serve dishes, while one unique feature is the grilled cheese sandwich bar. Choose your tipple from the self-serve cocktail bar, complete with mixing instructions, or something less experimental from the liquor shelf or premium wine table. First-class passengers also have access to Flagship First Dining, a private restaurant serving an innovative, high-end menu.

Access and pricing: Access is available to American Airlines and oneworld international business- and first-class passengers on qualifying routes. It is not open to one-day pass holders or standard Admirals Club members unless they meet fare or status requirements.

Terminal 5 lounges

American Airlines Admirals Club T5

Because a walkway connects Terminals 4 and 5, you can choose either Admirals Club if you're flying on American. Amenities are similar, with plenty of fresh food available on the hot and cold buffet and several shower suites. The lounge also offers a quiet zone, workspaces, and panoramic airfield views.

Access and pricing: Access is available to Admirals Club members, eligible first- and business-class passengers on American Airlines and oneworld partners, and qualifying elite status holders. One-day passes can be purchased for $79 or 7,900 AAdvantage miles.

Terminal 6 lounges

Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge

This lounge, which is open to Star Alliance flyers as well as Air Canada premium passengers, features a buffet, great views of the tarmac, and a small business center. The space also includes complimentary Wi-Fi, Canadian and international newspapers, and a self-serve beverage station.

Access and pricing: Access is granted to Star Alliance Gold members, Air Canada Business Class passengers, and Maple Leaf Lounge members. One-time access may also be available to purchase for eligible travelers, subject to space.

Alaska Airlines Lounge

A children's play area and a dedicated business center make this lounge a practical spot to wait for your flight. Great views of the apron, friendly service and barista-crafted coffee all make this lounge stand out. The lounge also includes local snacks, complimentary beer and wine, and fast Wi-Fi.

Access and pricing: Access is available to First Class passengers on Alaska (with same-day tickets), Lounge+ members, and Priority Pass members (subject to capacity). Day passes may be available for $60 at the door or $50 online in advance.

Gameway T6

Just like the facility in Terminal 3, Gameway offers a great range of videogames to enjoy before your flight. It’s equipped with console and PC setups, high-speed internet, and food and beverage options.

Access and pricing: Open to all passengers. Entry typically starts at $15 per hour, with longer session packages available. Booking is available online or at the door.

Terminal 7 lounges

United Club

Recently refurbished, this lounge includes a gorgeous outdoor terrace, all-round view of the airport, and loads of amazing food and drink features, plus comfortable seating and attentive staff. United Club members or one-time passholders can access and enjoy this space. The lounge also offers high-speed Wi-Fi, a business center, and plenty of charging stations.

Access and pricing: Access is available to United Club members, eligible Star Alliance premium passengers, and United Club one-time passholders (passes cost $59 when purchased online or via the United app). Entry is subject to capacity.

United Polaris Lounge

This upscale lounge features shower suites with rainfall showers and private daybed suites with upscale bedding. Diners can enjoy a private table-service dining room with a menu that highlights the diversity of L.A.'s food scene, including elevated Mexican and Korean options, as well as a signature cocktail menu. This lounge is open to first-class and some business-class travelers on same-day long-haul United flights. Additional amenities include valet luggage storage, quiet zones, and a full-service bar.

Access and pricing: Access is exclusive to United Polaris business-class passengers on long-haul international flights, and eligible Star Alliance international first-class passengers. Entry is not available with memberships or day passes.

Tom Bradley International Terminal lounges

Air France Lounge

Sleek, chic and modern, LAX’s Air France Lounge boasts a bar, hot and cold self-service buffet, complimentary beverages, a relaxation area, showers and a range of local and international newspapers.

Access and pricing: Available to Air France and SkyTeam business-class passengers, Flying Blue Elite Plus members, and Priority Pass holders (subject to availability and time restrictions).

Centurion Lounge

Amex’s Centurion Lounges always push the boundaries of customer experience, and LA’s branch is no different. Sample a locally-inspired menu, workspaces to aid productivity, comfortable seating and showers to unwind. This lounge also features Sunrise and Moonrise rooms – specialised spaces which help travelers to adapt to different time zones and take the edge off jetlag via optimized light exposure.

Access and pricing: Exclusively for American Express Platinum, Centurion, and Delta SkyMiles Reserve cardholders. Access is free with an eligible card and same-day boarding pass on any airline.

Chase Sapphire Lounge

Details remain scarce at the time of writing, but LAX visitors will be pleased to hear that Chase Sapphire is due to open a new branch of its esteemed lounge in the near future, curated by The Club. Expect gourmet food options, refreshing beverages and a range of premium amenities to help you chill or work before you fly.

Access and pricing: Expected to be available to Priority Pass members and Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders. Check Chase’s official lounge site for up-to-date opening details.

Oneworld Los Angeles Business Lounge

This massive lounge, which services business-class passengers on Qantas, British Airways, and Cathay Pacific, features a hot and cold buffet with a wide variety of dining choices. Shower suites are available for those changing planes after long-haul flights.

Access and pricing: Open to business-class passengers flying with oneworld airlines, oneworld Sapphire and Emerald members, and other eligible travelers on partner carriers.

Etihad Airways Lounge

This small, elegant lounge features several semi-private seating areas that can be enclosed as VIP suites. A cold buffet is augmented by a luxurious à la carte menu and an elaborate signature cocktail and wine list. Shower suites and a prayer room are also available.

Access and pricing: Open to Etihad First and Business Class passengers and Etihad Guest Gold and Platinum members. Paid entry may be available for Economy Class passengers, subject to capacity.

Los Angeles International Lounge

This lounge features a wide variety of seating, including a balcony that allows you to look over the terminal itself. The dining room doubles as the TV room, and the cold buffet consists mainly of pre-packaged snack and sandwich options. This lounge is open to premium flyers on several international airlines.

Access and pricing: Primarily for business- and first-class passengers of participating international carriers such as China Airlines and Philippine Airlines. Priority Pass may be accepted depending on airline agreements.

Star Alliance Lounge

The Star Alliance lounge is divided into business-class and first-class sections. The large business-class lounge features an outdoor terrace that lets you view the tarmac, breathe some fresh air, and relax around a fire pit. In addition, a balcony with a full-service bar overlooks the terminal. The hot and cold buffet is well-stocked with a wide variety of fresh food, with a cheese bar and a self-service noodle station as well.

In the first-class lounge, you can choose between a small buffet and an à la carte menu, with your meal served in a small, white-tablecloth dining area. Showers are also available.

Access and pricing:

• Business-class section: Available to Star Alliance business-class passengers and Star Alliance Gold members.

• First-class section: Reserved for Star Alliance first-class passengers only. No day passes are available.

Korean Air SkyTeam Lounge

This large, modern lounge channels a calming ambience that’s reminiscent of a designer hotel or spa. Both the business-class and first-class sections have terraces that overlook the terminal, with hot and cold food options aplenty. The business lounge offers shower suites, while two private VIP rooms are also available.

Access and pricing: Access granted to Korean Air and SkyTeam premium cabin passengers, SkyTeam Elite Plus members, and select partner airline flyers. Not open to Priority Pass holders.

Emirates Lounge

A wide variety of excellent hot and cold dishes await you at the buffet in this luxurious lounge, as well as top-shelf liquor at the self-serve bar. A couple of shower rooms let you freshen up, and a business center features several computers and a fair amount of work-space.

Access and pricing: Open to Emirates First and Business Class passengers, and Emirates Skywards Platinum and Gold members. Paid entry is available for Economy Class passengers at around $130, subject to availability.

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse

One of LAX’s most recent additions, the Clubhouse is reserved for Virgin Atlantic passengers with Upper Class tickets. With its striking decor reminiscent of a glamorous old cinema, this lounge channels the flair and pizazz of Tinseltown. Get some work done in the secluded pods on offer, or reset your energy in the Clubhouse’s wellness room, the Zen Den. The menu is extensive, with a focus on healthy California-inspired plates, shakes and cocktails.

Access and pricing: Exclusively for Virgin Atlantic Upper Class passengers, Flying Club Gold members, and eligible Delta One passengers. Not available for Priority Pass or day-pass entry.

Where to eat at LAX

Recent terminal renovations have brought some of L.A.'s trendiest chefs to the airport, with excellent dining choices available no matter which airline you're flying.

Restaurants and eateries offering local favorites abound in LAX - from Cassell’s Hamburgers and Ace Tacos in Terminal 1 to Cole’s - originators of the legendary French Dip sandwich - in Terminal 4. Engine Co No 28 in Terminal 8 serves up classic American dishes with a southern twist, plus a full service bar to whet your whistle. 

There’s also a chance to celebrate Los Angeles’ outstanding food scene at local black-owned restaurant and beer bar Crowns in Terminal 4, where an ice cold IPA is waiting to be paired with tasty salads, sides or sandwiches.

On a health kick? LAX also offers an array of refreshing, hearty fare. Grab a salad bowl, wrap and juice at Cava in Terminal 3 or Lemonade in Terminal 5, while Earthbar in Terminal 6 places the focus on an energizing and protein rich menu.

The Tom Bradley International Terminal also boasts a fantastic range of eateries, covering pizzas, burgers, Mexican, Japanese fusion and even caviar and Champagne. If you need a sweet treat to crown it all, stop by Vanilla Bake Shop to soak up some friendly neighborhood ambience - not to mention their range of mouth-watering cakes and pastries.

Los Angeles Airport Shops

The Tom Bradley International Terminal steals the show for top choices in fashion and luxury goods at LAX. However, you'll find travel essentials and some intriguing choices at LAX's other terminals as well.

Travel tech and gadgets are well catered for by Brookstone in Terminal 1, InMotion Entertainment in Terminal 2 and Belkin in Terminal 6. 

Meanwhile, as you’d hope from LA’s very own air hub, you’ll find plenty of fun and trendy boutiques offering surf and beachwear. Sol Surf in Terminal 1 and Rip Curl in Terminal 5 are both ready to kit you out - while M. Fredric in Terminal 6 offers some of the city’s favorite casual threads.

Over in Tom Bradley, don't miss the duty-free designer boutiques scattered throughout the terminal's Great Hall, where your high-end choices include Burberry, Gucci, Hermes, Porsche Design, Bvlgari, Hugo Boss, and Michael Kors.

You’ll also find DFS Duty Free Shops at various terminals - ideal for tax-free shopping in luxury categories including fragrances, cosmetics, liquor, tobacco, and electronics.

LAX Airport hotels

Hyatt Regency Los Angeles International Airport

Location: 6225 W Century Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045 Free airport shuttle: Yes

Located directly adjacent to LAX, the Hyatt Regency offers sleek, soundproofed rooms designed for both rest and productivity. Guests enjoy access to a 24-hour fitness center, outdoor pool, and on-site dining featuring locally inspired cuisine. With over 50,000 square feet of meeting space and advanced AV capabilities, it's a favorite for corporate travelers needing to host or attend events near the airport.

H Hotel Los Angeles, Curio Collection by Hilton

Location: 6151 W Century Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045 Free airport shuttle: Yes

Stylish and boutique in feel, the H Hotel blends modern luxury with convenience. Rooms are tech-forward with smart features, and guests can unwind at the rooftop deck offering panoramic views of LAX runways. The hotel shares amenities with the adjacent Homewood Suites, including a 24-hour fitness center, making it ideal for longer stays or work trips.

Los Angeles Airport Marriott

Location: 5855 W Century Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045 Free airport shuttle: Yes

The Los Angeles Airport Marriott combines comfort with functionality, offering spacious rooms, a large resort-style pool, and several on-site dining options including a steakhouse and casual pub. The hotel is well-equipped for business travelers, featuring flexible meeting spaces and high-speed internet throughout. Its lively atmosphere makes it a great pick for both business and leisure.

Amenities at LAX

LAX is fully loaded with useful public amenities and conveniences to support you during your visit.

• ATMs and Currency Exchange: Bank of America ATMs can be found in the departure areas of all LAX terminals. ICE Currency Exchange booths are available after security in Terminals 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and Tom Bradley International Terminal. Additional booths are located on the arrivals and ticketing levels of Tom Bradley.

• Free Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available across all terminals at LAX.

• Medical Emergencies and First Aid: A First Aid Station is located in Tom Bradley on the Upper/Departures Level near the Clock Tower. Please note it is not staffed, so use the adjacent white courtesy phone to reach a medical professional. Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) can be found near security checkpoints in each terminal.

• Nursing Rooms: Private nursing rooms are available in every terminal, equipped with comfortable seating and outlets.

• Animal Relief Areas: Pet relief areas are located both inside and outside the terminals. Indoor areas can be found post-security in Terminals 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, and Tom Bradley. Outdoor areas are near ticketing or baggage claim at most terminals.

• Smoking Areas: LAX is completely smoke-free indoors. Outdoor smoking areas are available post-security in Terminal 2, Terminal 7, and Tom Bradley International Terminal.

• Wheelchair Support: For wheelchair support, contact your airline at least 72 hours before departure. Airlines do not provide assistance from parking areas, support begins at the ticket counter and continues through to the aircraft.

• Water Bottle Filling Stations: Filtered water bottle refill stations are available in all terminals. You’ll find them near most restrooms, including at gate areas in Terminals 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and Tom Bradley.

Reliable airport transfers for LAX travelers

Los Angeles traffic, long shuttle lines, and the sprawl of LAX can easily add stress to your travel day. Booking a chauffeured ride offers a calm, reliable alternative. With a professional chauffeur, spacious vehicle, and timely pickup or drop-off, you can skip the usual airport chaos and get where you're going in comfort and on time.

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