Los Angeles International Airport
Los Angeles · United States
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the primary international airport serving Los Angeles and its metropolitan area in California, United States. It is the busiest airport on the U.S. West Coast and a major global gateway, handling over 75 million passengers annually.[2][1]
Operated by Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA), LAX spans 3,500 acres with nine passenger terminals in a U-shaped layout and four parallel runways. It serves as a key hub for international travel to Asia, Latin America, and beyond, while being the world's busiest origin-destination airport. In 2024, it recorded 76.6 million passengers, ranking among the top global airports. The facility originated as Mines Field in 1928 and evolved into a major passenger hub post-World War II.[2][1][3]
Interesting facts
- LAX holds the record as the world's busiest origin and destination airport, with more travelers starting or ending trips there than using it solely for connections.[2]
- The airport features 161 gates across nine terminals arranged in a horseshoe shape, connected by shuttles and airside pedestrian corridors.[2][5]
- LAX served as a military airfield during World War II and began commercial service in 1946, with major expansions for the 1984 Olympics.[1][5]
- It is the only U.S. airport ranking in the top five for both passenger and cargo traffic, processing over 2.7 million tonnes of cargo annually.[2][10]
- The iconic Theme Building, a landmark since 1961, symbolizes LAX's mid-century modern architecture.[1]
Tips for travelers
- Use LAX Shuttle route A buses or airside pedestrian walkways to transfer between terminals without reclearing security.[2][5]
- Arrive 3 hours early for international flights due to high traffic and security volumes.[2]
- Download the LAWA app for real-time flight updates, parking, and navigation within the sprawling campus.[1]
- Book lounges in advance, especially in Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) for long-haul connections.[5]
- Opt for FlyAway buses to avoid traffic when heading downtown or to Hollywood.[2]
- Prepare for customs in TBIT by using Mobile Passport Control app to expedite entry.[2]