Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

Los Angeles, United States

Overview

LAX is the world's sixth busiest airport, handling 85+ million passengers annually. Major hub for international travel to Asia and the Pacific. Nine terminals connected by a free shuttle system. Major expansion underway for the 2028 Olympics.

Terminals

Terminals 1–8 and the international Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT). United, Delta, and American each occupy multiple terminals. International arrivals process through TBIT.

Transport to city center

Flyaway Bus to Union Station (45–75 min, $9.75). Metro C Line from Aviation/LAX station to downtown (50 min, $1.75). Uber/Lyft pickup from dedicated LAX-it lot (5 min shuttle from terminals). Taxis: $60–80 to downtown. No direct rail to the terminal — the Automated People Mover (APM) connection is under construction.

Lounges

Multiple Delta Sky Clubs, United Club, American Admirals Club, and Qantas Business Lounge in TBIT. Several Priority Pass lounges including Star Alliance Business Class Lounge.

Travel tips

Allow 2.5+ hours for international departures — immigration and security can be slow. The Tom Bradley terminal has the best food options. Book LAX-it rideshare in the app before landing to reduce wait. Traffic to/from LAX is notoriously bad — avoid peak hours (7–9am, 4–7pm).

Related guides