Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is a primary international gateway to the United States and the principal airport serving the Greater Los Angeles Area. As one of the busiest airports in the world, it functions as a major hub for passengers and cargo, connecting North America with destinations across Asia, Latin America, Europe, and Oceania.

The airport's history began in 1928 as Mines Field, a private airfield. It was purchased by the city of Los Angeles in 1937 and opened for commercial airline service in 1946. A significant expansion in the late 1950s and early 1960s established its modern U-shaped terminal layout and saw the construction of its iconic Theme Building, a landmark of mid-century modern architecture. Today, it stands as a critical piece of national and international transportation infrastructure.

Located in the Westchester neighborhood, approximately 18 miles southwest of Downtown Los Angeles, the airport is bordered by major freeways, including the I-405 (San Diego Freeway) and I-105 (Century Freeway). Travelers typically access LAX via car, shuttle bus, or public transit. The LAX FlyAway bus offers nonstop service to several key locations in the city. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft operate from a dedicated pickup lot, LAX-it, which is accessible via a free shuttle from the terminal curbs.

LAX handles a high volume of both domestic and international flights, serving as a hub or focus city for major carriers including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Alaska Airlines. It consistently ranks among the top airports globally for passenger traffic. The facility consists of nine passenger terminals arranged in a large U-shape: Terminals 1 through 8 and the Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT), which serves as the primary gateway for most international flights. These terminals offer a wide array of amenities, including diverse dining and retail options, airline lounges, and public art installations. While some terminals are connected post-security via walkways or tunnels, others require passengers to use an airport shuttle bus.

For a smoother experience, travelers are advised to arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours for international departures to account for traffic congestion and security screening. When connecting between flights, passengers should check if their terminals are connected airside. If not, they will need to exit security, travel to the next terminal, and undergo security screening again, so it is essential to allow ample time for the transfer.