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Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is currently undergoing a major 15-year modernization project, with a primary focus on improving accessibility between terminals and public transport links.
The renovation should ease congestion on the loop road that serves all terminals since passengers can utilize more efficient methods of transport — such as an automated people mover that will stop at each terminal and connect the airport to the Metro station. Updates are being worked on in phased projects, with full completion expected in 2027.
Improvements have already been made to some of the terminals to upgrade security checkpoints, baggage screening, technical systems, and baggage re-check facilities for flight connections — all functional aspects that should speed up the overall passenger experience.
If you’re headed to LAX soon, here’s what you’ll need to know to get around.
LAX has a U-shaped layout — parking lots and ground transportation are inside the U, and 8 terminals are on the outside. Terminals 1 and 3 on are the north side, Terminals 4 through 8 are on the south, and Terminal B (Tom Bradley International) is on the west side.
All areas inside the U are landside access (pre-security), so passengers and non-passengers are permitted here. However, besides small coffee shops, there aren’t many restaurants or cafes landside in the terminals. If you arrive early and can’t check-in for your flight, head to International Terminal B for a bigger selection of landside restaurants.
Each terminal has its own security checkpoint (except Terminals 7 and 8 which share 1), and any passenger with a valid boarding pass for that day can go through security at any terminal.
Once you’re airside (past security), each terminal has its own shops, bars, and restaurants, and some have airline lounges.
Landside transportation is centered around the double-level looped road that runs inside the U-shaped layout. The upper level is for departures, and the lower level is for arrivals, which corresponds with the terminal’s check-in and baggage claim levels.
If you need to travel between terminals at LAX, hop on the terminal shuttle that runs in a counter-clockwise loop stopping at each terminal.
You can pick up the shuttle from outside each terminal on the lower level under the blue signs “LAX Shuttle & Airline Connections” with a picture of a bus. Buses depart every 10 minutes, and it takes a couple of minutes to travel between terminals (depending on traffic).
If you don’t want to take the bus or traffic is heavy, then you can also walk the same route on the public sidewalks on either level.
To walk from the northern terminals to the southern terminals, you can cut through the parking garages located in the center. Each garage is connected to a terminal via a bridge from departures level 3. You can check when the next shuttle is due to arrive with the live shuttle tracker.
Walking
Terminals B, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 are linked with airside walkways, allowing quicker and easier flight connections. Terminals 4, 5, and 6 use underground tunnels, and 6, 7, and 8 are connected via above-ground tunnels.
International Terminal B is linked to Terminal 4 with an above-ground connector tunnel that has moving walkways. It takes around 5 to 8 minutes to walk between each terminal.
If you need to travel between Terminals 1 and 3, you have the option to take an airside bus, you’ll find the bus gate on the departures level.
Airline Connector Shuttle Bus
For flight connections, passengers can hop on the airside shuttle bus that runs between Terminals 1, 3, and TBIT. Buses operate every 10 minutes, 24/7. Buses operate from:
Terminal 1 is connected to Terminal 3 with a landside connection only, so if you’re walking between these terminals, you’ll need to re-clear security on the other end. Passengers can ride an airside shuttle bus for flight connections between these terminals.
Several airlines are based in Terminal 1, including Southwest, Viva Aerobus, and Cayman Airways.
Level 1 – Baggage Claim
Terminal 1 baggage claim is on level 1, with a pet relief area also available next to the main restrooms. Ground transportation services are located outside and there are ground-level walkways to the P1 parking garage.
Level 2 – Check-in
The check-in desks for several airlines, including Southwest and Sun Country, are located on level 2. Once checked in, passengers can make their way to the security checkpoint at the east end of the terminal.
Level 3 – Departures
Terminal 1 has 12 gates numbered 9, 11A, 11B, 12B, 13 to 16, 17A, 17B, 18A, and 18B. Shops, restaurants, and cafes are located on the same level as the departure gates, and there’s a pet relief area near gate 13.
Terminal 1 has a second security checkpoint located on level 3 that provides quick access to the terminal bus gate. Passengers can ride the bus and remain inside the secure area for connections to Terminal 3 or the west gates at International Terminal B,
When connecting outside the secure area from Terminal 1, exit the terminal on the lower level from baggage claim through doors L1-06 or L1-07, cross over the road to the shuttle pick-up lane, and ride the terminal shuttle bus.
Terminal 2 gates have been consolidated into the newly renovated and extended Terminal 3. You’ll now find 23 gates split across 2 concourses in Terminal 3 with Delta Air Lines occupying most of the space.
Level 1 – Baggage Claim
Baggage claim is located on level 1 with ground transportation located outside and walkways to the P2 parking garages.
Level 2 – Check-in
Aeromexico and WestJet also operate flights from Terminal 3, with WestJet passengers able to check in at the old Terminal 2 check-in area (on the east side). Delta passengers and Aeromexico passengers must check in on the west side of the terminal.
Level 3 – Departures
After checking in, passengers must take the escalator/elevator up to level 3 where the security checkpoint is located. After clearing the security checkpoint, passengers may continue into the departure concourses or up to level 4 to visit the Delta Sky Club.
Level 3 – Gates 30 to 38
After clearing security, gates 30 to 38 are to the left. There are 14 gates in this concourse, numbered 30A-B, 31A-B, 32A-B, 33, 34A-B, 35, 36, 37A-B, and 38, and a small selection of shops and restaurants. A pet relief area is opposite gate 30B.
Level 3 – Gates 21 to 28
Gates 21 to 28 are located to the right after you have cleared security. Walk down the long corridor (past the pet relief area) and you’ll come to the entrance of the concourse. Gates 21 and 21A are at the bottom end of the concourse, and gates 22, 23A, 23B, 24, 25B, 26B, 27, and 28 are at the furthest end.
There’s a good selection of shops and restaurants in the concourse and passengers can walk between all gate areas of Terminal 3 to utilize the facilities.
Passengers that are not required to collect luggage between connections can ride the airside shuttle bus from near gate 21A to Terminal 1 or International Terminal B.
Terminal 4 is connected to Terminal 5 by an underground airside walkway, and each subsequent terminal connects to the next in the same manner (so you won’t need to re-clear security).
In addition, Terminal 4 is connected to International Terminal B via an airside connector bridge with moving sidewalks on level 5, which has its own security checkpoint for passengers entering Terminal 4 from International Terminal B. If you’re entering International Terminal B from Terminal 4, you won’t need to re-clear security again.
Level 1 – Baggage Claim
Baggage claim is located on level 1, with ground transportation located outside the terminal and the P4 parking garage. Passengers coming through the security checkpoint from International Terminal B will arrive on this level.
Level 2 – Check-in
Passengers can only check in for American flights in Terminal 4 with the check-in desks located on level 2.
Level 3 – Departures
After checking in, passengers must take the escalator/elevator up to level 3 to clear the security checkpoint. Terminal 4 has 11 gates numbered 41, 42A, 42B, 43, 42B, 43, 45, 46A, 47A, and 47B.
Shops and restaurants are located on level 3, and an Admirals Club and Flagship Lounge are available on level 4.
Hot Tip: With airside access to Terminals B, 5, 6, 7, and 8, Terminal 4 is the best-connected terminal at LAX. You can only check in at Terminal 4 if you’re flying American, though other airlines operate flights from the gates.
Terminal 5 is connected to Terminals 4 and 6 via underground airside walkways. Both of these terminals are also connected onward to another terminal with airside walkways, so you won’t need to go through security again unless you’re connecting to Terminals 1 through 3.
Level 1 – Baggage Claim
Baggage claim is on level 1, along with ground transportation and walkways to the P5 and P6 parking garages.
Level 2 – Check-in
Passengers may check in on level 2 for flights with American, JetBlue, or Spirit.
Level 3 – Departures
In Terminal 5, you’ll find 15 gates numbered 50, 51A, 51B, 53A, 53B, 54A, 54B, 55A, 56A-D, 57, 58, and 59. Shops, bars, and restaurants are on level 3 with departures, as well as access to the Admirals Club Lounge that extends over 2 floors onto level 4.
Hot Tip: If you’re flying with American Eagle, you’ll need to catch the Terminal 5 airside shuttle bus to the regional terminal. Buses operate from near gate 54A. An Admirals Club is located inside the regional terminal.
Terminal 6 connects with Terminal 7 via an above-ground airside walkway and Terminal 5 via an underground airside walkway. From these terminals, you can continue airside to Terminals 8, 5, 4, and B without having to re-clear security.
Level 1 – Baggage Claim
Baggage claim is located on level 1. A COVID-19 testing facility is outside the terminal across the second roadway and passengers can walk to the P6 parking garage from this level.
Level 2 – Check-in
Check-in for several airlines, including Air Canada and Southwest is available on level 2.
Level 3 – Departures
There are 11 gates in Terminal 6 numbered 60, 60B, 61, 63, 65A-C, 67, 68B, 69A, and 69B. Shops, bars, and restaurants are on level 3 departures along with an Alaska Lounge.
If you’re connecting from Terminal 6, you can use the airside walkways to any of the south terminals. For Terminals 1 or 3, exit after the baggage claim through door L1-05, where the shuttle bus stop is located just across the road.
Though Terminals 7 and 8 share the same security checkpoint, they’re considered separate terminals, with gate numbers in the 70s for Terminal 7 and 80s for Terminal 8.
There’s an above-ground airside walkway connecting Terminal 7 with Terminal 8 and Terminal 6, and you have access to reach gates 5, 4, and International Terminal B without having to re-clear security.
Level 1 – Arrivals
Baggage claim is shared between Terminals 7 and 8 and is located on level 1. Transportation such as taxis and shuttles are available outside the terminal, and ground level walkways lead to the P7 parking garage.
Level 2 – Check-in
Terminals 7 and 8 also share a check-in area on level 2 and a security checkpoint beyond that. Once you clear security, you need to take the escalators/elevators up 1 floor to departures.
Level 3 – Departures
Terminal 7 has 13 gates numbered 70A, 70B, 71A, 71B, 72A, 72B, 73, 74A, 75A, 75B, 76A, 76B, and 77. The concourse is directly ahead of you as you come up the escalators from security. There are United Club and United Polaris lounges on level 3 departures, along with an array of shops, bars, and restaurants.
Terminal 8 has 8 gates numbered 80 to 85 and 86A/B. There are a few shops, bars, cafes, and restaurants on level 3 departures.
Hot Tip:Check-in at Terminal 7 or 8 is only possible for United, even though other airlines depart and arrive from these terminal gates.
International Terminal B is located on the western side of the airport and receives the majority of international flight arrivals, although flights do depart from other terminals.
It’s the largest terminal at LAX and is connected to Terminal 4 via a bridge. Within this connector bridge is a dedicated security checkpoint for passengers arriving on international flights who are connecting to Terminals 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8.
Level 1 – Baggage Claim
Passengers can collect their luggage from baggage claim on level 1 before clearing Customs on the same level. The arrivals hall has a café, visitor information, and access to ground transportation, including the P3 and P4 parking garages.
Level 3 – Check-in
The ticketing desks are on level 3 for many international airlines, including British Airways, Emirates, and Lufthansa. Once checked in, passengers need to take the escalator/elevator to level 4 to pass through security.
Passport control is also located on level 3 (inside the secure area) for international arrivals.
Level 4 – Departures
If you’re arriving from the main security checkpoint, you’ll enter the Great Hall on level 4 where most of the shops, bars, and restaurants are located. From here, the south concourse is to the left with 2 moving walkways, and the north concourse is to the right with 1 moving walkway. There’s also a Centurion Lounge at the south end of the Great Hall.
The south concourse has 9 gates numbered 148, 150 to 157, and 159, and more concessions. The north concourse has 15 gates numbered 130 to 141, 144, and 146, and a small selection of shops and restaurants along the concourse.
Gates 136, 138, 140, 142, 144, and 146 are at the end of the north concourse on the lower level. From here, passengers can also ride the inter-terminal shuttle bus to Terminals 1 and 3 and to International Terminal B’s west gates.
Level 5 – Lounges
The Oneworld, Qantas, and SkyTeam lounges are on level 5. Passengers can take the escalator/elevator to level 5 from the center of the Great Hall.
Level 6 – Lounges
The Emirates, Etihad, LA International, and Star Alliance lounges can be found on level 6.
Hot Tip: For more information on the lounges at LAX, check out our detailed guide.
West Gates
International Terminal B’s west gates sit parallel to the main departure concourse and are accessible through the long walkway from the Great Hall. The concourse has 13 gates numbered 201A, 201B, 202 to 208, 209A, 209B, 210A, 210B, 221, and 225.
Passengers can ride the inter-terminal shuttle bus from the lower level of the west gates to Terminals B, 1, or 3.
In some situations, it may be quicker and easier to walk to your next terminal than catch the shuttle bus. These are estimated walking times between different areas of LAX:
If you’re arriving on an international flight, you will need to clear immigration at your arrival terminal. You will then need to collect your bag and clear customs — if the bag has been tagged with a final destination, you can drop it off at the transfers service desk after customs. You can then make your way to your connecting terminal.
Passengers connecting from a domestic flight won’t need to clear immigration or customs, and any checked baggage will be transported to their onward flight (provided it has been tagged to their final destination).
Hot Tip: If you booked your flights separately instead of as a single ticket with connections, you’ll need to pick up your luggage in the baggage claim area, re-check your bag, and re-clear security.
Those traveling with carry-on luggage only can proceed directly to the terminal of their connecting flight and remain airside (if possible between the 2 terminals).
All terminals at LAX are accessible to passengers with disabilities, mobility concerns, and wheelchair users. When connecting between terminals, the shuttle bus is equipped with a lift for wheelchair users, and there are elevators in every terminal for accessing the underground and above-ground walkways.
Although the current renovations are causing some disruption to normal operations, passengers are already praising the improvements so far — such as the International Terminal B to Terminal 4 connector that enables quicker connections for international flights.
The automated people mover will be a game-changer for accessing LAX from the rest of Los Angeles. However, it won’t eliminate the need to re-clear security at a connecting terminal as it will run between terminals landside.
If you’re connecting to another flight at LAX, be sure to check out the map on the location of your next terminal, since each one will require a different amount of time to transfer. Once you do your research and leave time to re-clear security (if necessary), you’ll have no problems at all!
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134 comments
Lindy
January 17, 2020
Coming into Lax from Melbourne Air New Zealand and need to connect with a flight to Sacramento in Terminal 7. Will I need to clear security and where do I go to check-in with Skywest?
Jarrod West
January 17, 2020
Hi Lindy,
If you’re flying into a Terminal other than Terminal 7, then yes you will need to re-clear security. If online check in is not an option, there should be a Skywest check in desk before you enter the terminal.
Thanks for reading!
Thuy
January 17, 2020
Hi, if I arrive with my 3 year old into Terminal 1, Southwest at 8:50PM with 1 carry on bag only and need to get to International terminal can you confirm if the shuttle is quickest to make it for my 10:25PM flight? Will I have to go through TSA all over again? Thanks
Jarrod West
January 18, 2020
Hi Thuy,
Yes, the shuttle will be the quickest way to get there and, unfortunately, you will need to re-clear security again.
Mary
January 22, 2020
I’m arriving on a domestic flight on terminal 3 and catching a flight from terminal 6, what is the best and quickest way to get to terminal 6. Both of these flights are same day, will I need to reclear security again? Thank you!
Catherine Luther
January 22, 2020
Hi Mary,
These two terminals are not connected, so you would need to ride the terminal shuttle bus and re-clear security at Terminal 6.
You can pick up the shuttle from outside the terminal on the lower level, under the blue sign “LAX Shuttle & Airline Connections” with a picture of a bus. Buses depart every 10 minutes, and it takes a couple of minutes to travel between terminals (depending on traffic).
Mary
January 22, 2020
Hi, Catherine! Would it be easier to come in on from terminal 3 to terminal 4 then terminal 4 to terminal 6? Do I still have to clear security from terminal 4? I read that if I have a boarding pass then I don’t need to clear security again. Thank you!
Catherine Luther
January 25, 2020
Hi Mary,
You could walk across the car parks from Terminal 3 to Terminal 4, clear security at Terminal 4 and walk inside the secure area to Terminal 6 – it just depends how much walking you want to do. I think you would be quicker riding the shuttle bus and avoid having to walk between terminals.
DB
January 22, 2020
Hi. We’re flying from Cancun on United, connecting in LAX, then on to Vancouver, Canada on Air Canada. Hopefully, a 3-hour connection is enough time? I’m assuming we have to go through security, collect our bag and recheck them?
Thanks for your advice.
Jarrod West
January 24, 2020
Hi DB,
You will need to re-check your bag and re-clear security, but 3 hours should be more than enough time.
Thanks for reading!
Katie Seemann
January 24, 2020
Hi DB,
Yes, you are correct, and 3 hours should be plenty of time for your connection. Have a great trip.
Maria
January 25, 2020
Hi! I have a domestic AA flight into LAX, then a separately purchased Qantas flight on to Melbourne, AU. I will have to pick up luggage at baggage claim and then head to Terminal B. Will I be able to avoid going through security again? I know about the connector, but am not sure where it is in regards to baggage claim. Thank you!
Catherine Luther
January 26, 2020
Hi Maria,
If you’re collecting checked baggage, then you will be exiting the secure area and will need to re-clear security at Terminal B. If your flights had been booked together on 1 ticket and therefore your baggage checked through to your final destination, then you wouldn’t have been required to re-clear security on entry into Terminal B.
Music
January 26, 2020
Hi! I have a flight LAX-SJC with American Airlines which located at terminal 4 but is it possible to get through the security at terminal 3 (I would like to try some restaurants that are only in terminal 3) and then walk to terminal 4? Is it against the security rules or something? Thanks:)
Catherine Luther
January 27, 2020
Hi Music,
Terminals 3 and 4 are not connected so unfortunately you would not be able to do this. With a valid boarding card you could enter Terminal 3, have your meal, exit the terminal , travel to Terminal 4 and clear security, but this might be a bit of a hassle for you.
Miles
January 27, 2020
Is this article outdated? Terminal 2, 3 TBIT connected by delta shuttle bus which are located at gates. This article talks about shuttle buses from level 2 ticketing …..
Catherine Luther
January 27, 2020
Hi Miles,
The airside shuttle bus information is within the article under the section “Airline Connector Shuttle Bus”.
Mette
February 05, 2020
I am arriving in terminal TB from Europe, and have a connection (unfortunately not on the same ticket) 3 hours later with United from terminal 7/8.
I know that I have to go through immigration and customs in terminal TB.
But after that, when I get out of the TB terminal, is there a shuttle bus to terminal 7/8?
How much time do I need to get from TB to 7/8?
Catherine Luther
February 06, 2020
Hi Mette,
Yes there is a shuttle bus that operates outside of the secure area that runs in a counter-clockwise loop stopping at each terminal.
You can pick up the shuttle from outside the terminal on the lower level, under the blue signs “LAX Shuttle & Airline Connections” with a picture of a bus. Buses depart every 10 minutes, and it takes a couple of minutes to travel between terminals (depending on traffic).
Pat
May 25, 2020
My wife and I with onboard pet are flying SJD Alaska airlines June 1st. We arrive at 5:49pm LAX, we have a connecting flight also Alaska at 7:45pm to PDX. What should our process be to get to our connection, considering pet, security, customs and checked bags? The site indicates all Alaska flights before 7pm are terminal 6.
Jarrod West
May 26, 2020
Hi Pat,
You will first need to clear through customs when arriving into LAX. From there you’ll need to collect your luggage and re-check it, through there should be an expedited section for you to do so for those who have continuing travel. From there you can exit the terminal and take a shuttle bus to terminal 6 where you will need to re-clear security and proceed to your gate number.
Safe travels!
Susan Coonrod
June 15, 2020
I have a question. I have never flown, so this will be a stupid question. I have a layover in LAX. My info indicates I am arriving in Terminal 2 and I am leaving from Terminal 2 – is that usual? I am hoping I won’t have to try and find another Terminal since one of my layovers in only 1 hour 6 minutes. Is there a place to eat in the terminal?
Jarrod West
June 15, 2020
Hi Susan,
The only stupid question is one that you don’t ask! I’m happy to help!
For starters, no it is not usual for your flight to arrive and depart from the same terminal. Especially if your next flight is domestic and with the same carrier as the previous flight.
As far as food goes, it looks like there are few food options that are still open for the time being. You can view a list of them here: https://www.laxshopdine.com/retailer-category/dine/. Make sure you filter the results to only show food options in terminal 2.
Safe travels!
Mohammed
July 02, 2020
Hi,
Thank you for the post, is there a paid service(taxi) or similar service to transfer from terminal 7 to TBIT? I am traveling with my wife and three kids, we have 10 bags so not sure if using the shuttle is a good idea.
Jarrod West
July 02, 2020
Hi Mohammed,
You can certainly ask a taxi if they are willing to drive you and your luggage to TBIT. Since the trip is quite short you’ll likely need to pay whatever the minimum fare, but you may run into issues finding a single car that can hold all 10 pieces of luggage. There should also be luggage carts available at the baggage claim that you can use.
Brian
October 02, 2020
We are flying American Airlines from Albany, NY to LAX and then LAX to Honolulu on Hawaiian Air with a 1hr 40 min layover. It’s 2 separate bookings. Will we have to go to baggage claim, collect luggage, and go through security again to get our connecting flight? Is that layover enough time?
Thanks
Jarrod West
October 05, 2020
Hi Brian,
Yes, since it is two separate bookings you should need to go collect your luggage and then re-clear security. 1 hour and 40 minutes should be enough time though.
Hiromi
January 20, 2021
Hi! Thanks for the post. How much does it take from Terminal 2 to TBIT? I have 2 heavy luggage (more than 32 kg), plus one cabin bag. I’m not sure that I can take the shuttle bus with all of these. Can I take a luggage cart and go by walking from Terminal 2 to TBIT? Are the luggage carts free?
Thank you.
Catherine Luther
January 22, 2021
Hi Hiromi,
You can walk between Terminal 2 and TBIT and this takes 10-15 minutes. Luggage carts cost $5 per cart and cash, debit, and credit cards are accepted for payment.
David Sokoll
February 27, 2021
I am flying into Tom Bradley with just carry on and then fly out with a separate ticket on American. With just the carry on, I of course still clear customs, but after that do I go through security again? And if so is it best to walk to the next terminal or enter Tom Bradley and walk through the inside? Arrival is stated at 9:50 AM and departure at 11:35 AM. Just trying to be as efficient as possible with a bit of short time between.
Catherine Luther
March 02, 2021
Hi David,
After clearing customs you will need to clear security. You can usually do this at the checkpoint in the connector between TBIT and Terminal 4 or you can walk a few minutes outside the terminal to access the T4 security checkpoint. However, the airport map is currently stating that the security checkpoint in the connector is temporarily closed, so it looks like you’ll have to use the T4 checkpoint.
Martin Bush
March 17, 2021
I have a holiday booked in September going from Heathrow to LAX and then LAX to Hawaii. All flights are with American airlines. What do I do on arrival in LAX? I have a 2-hour gap between flights. I have never had to change planes before.
Jarrod West
March 17, 2021
Hi Martin,
When you arrive at LAX you will first need to clear customs, after you exit the plane you, and the rest of the passengers, will be led directly there. After you clear customs you’ll want to head to terminal where your flight from LAX to Hawaii is departing from, which will likely be terminal 4 – but it will be marked on your ticket. From there you’ll reclear security, and can make your way to your gate number.
Safe travels!
Kalilo
April 09, 2021
On my flight from Honolulu to New York, I have 43 minutes at LAX to change gate to gate in terminal 7. Is that enough time?
Jarrod West
April 12, 2021
Hi Kalilo,
As long as your flight arrives on time then 43 minutes should be plenty of time since you will not need to change terminals or re-clear security.
Jackie
April 30, 2021
Hello – Appreciate any insight:
Traveling from Baltimore (BWI) to LAX on Southwest Airlines. Have a separate itinerary/ticket to fly from LAX to Honolulu on American Airlines on the same day. Arrival into LAX is 6:15 and departure time from LAX to Honolulu is 7:30. If I only have a carry-on, does this leave me enough time to go from the Southwest Airlines terminal to American Airlines to make my Honolulu flight!? Thank you!
Catherine Luther
May 03, 2021
Hi Jackie,
That should be enough time, but you will want to consider road traffic for the terminal shuttle, any delays with your inbound flight, or queues at security.
Brian R. Quander
August 01, 2021
I am arriving at TBIT {Delta, domestic} and need to get to terminal 2 {Westjet Air]. If I walk do I go through security again? If so, is there a way to stay airside?
Thank you for any advice.
Jarrod West
August 02, 2021
Hi Brian,
For flight connections, passengers can hop on the airside shuttle bus that runs between Terminals 2, 3, and TBIT. Buses operate every 10 minutes, 24/7. Safe travels!
Emily
August 02, 2021
I am taking a domestic flight from Buffalo to LAX, arriving at 23:03 (Terminal 5) this Wednesday and then have a layover (2 hours 12 m) and take CX881 dep at 01:15 (from Terminal B). My question is (1) how long does it take to walk from Terminal 5 to Terminal B? (2) Is it enough time to catch the connecting flight to Hong Kong? Many thanks for your help!
Jarrod West
August 02, 2021
Hi Emily,
It takes about 5-8 minutes to walk between each Terminal, and since you are 2 Terminals away it should take between 10-16 minutes. So yes, you should have plenty of time to catch your connecting flight.
Emily
August 03, 2021
Many thanks for your prompt reply!
John
August 23, 2021
Do all United Airline flights at LAX, Domestic and International, arrive and depart out of T7 &T8? Once I arrive back in LAX from CUN, I will have only hand-carry luggage, do I still need to clear customs and immigration? Once cleared, is it possible to go directly to my connecting gate, or do I need to re-clear security? Thank you much!
Jarrod West
August 23, 2021
Hi John,
Not necessarily, all international flights will use the Thomas Bradley International Terminal. If you are flying to LAX from CUN, then yes, you will need to go through customs upon arrival. From there you can proceed to your next Terminal for your next leg and that is where you will clear security. Safe travels!
celine
October 13, 2021
I’ll be arriving from Singapore and leaving to Tahiti with Air France. I have 3hrs in between. Is that enough for to self transfer, considering all checks and controls related to covid?
Jarrod West
October 21, 2021
Hi Celine,
Yes, that should be more than enough time. Safe travels!
Isabella
October 30, 2021
I will be arriving from Sydney at TBIT and will be departing from Terminal 2 to Atlanta. Tickets were bought together.
I will probably have to re-check my baggage. Where do I do that? Do I have to drag it with me all the way to Terminal 2 or can I re-check it at Terminal B? Do I have to book it in at a counter or can I just drop it somewhere if it has been tagged to Atlanta?
If I need to re-check it at Terminal 2, can I use the airside shuttle bus? I really do not want to stand in the long security check queues again.
Jarrod West
November 11, 2021
Hi Isabella,
You should be able to re-check your bag in TBIT after you get through customs. Safe travels!
Renee
November 01, 2021
I am flying into LAX on American Airlines and have 45 min until my connecting flight also American Airlines. Is this enough time to get to my connecting flight?
Jarrod West
November 01, 2021
Hi Renee,
Yes, you should have enough time. Safe travels!
Renee Bradford
November 04, 2021
Thank you very much Jarrod!
Prithvi Sreenivasan
November 05, 2021
Here’s my situation:-
My mom is arriving at Tom Bradley international terminal. She doesn’t know to catch taxis, use uber etc and she might not even have internet. I need to pick her up, but I don’t have a car. I need to uber to the airport and go to the place where she would arrive. Where should I ask the uber driver to drop me? Given that uber drivers can only drop at the departure level, is there a way for me to get dropped at the departure level and make my way to the arrival level? Any suggestions?
Jarrod West
November 05, 2021
Hi Prithvi,
Have the Uber drop you off at the Terminal your mom is arriving at, and then head downstairs in that Terminal to arrivals where you can meet your mom.
Fatima
November 07, 2021
Is 1 hour and 15 minutes enough time to transfer from terminal 6 to terminal b knowing that I will arrive from Newark airport via Alaska airlines and will leave for Sydney on Fiji airways? Would I have to recheck luggage also?
Jarrod West
November 09, 2021
Hi Fatima,
Yes, that should be enough time. Did you book both tickets on one itinerary? If so then you should not have to recheck your luggage. Safe travels!
DANIEL
November 14, 2021
I’m arriving in LAX at 11:50 am from Fiji at Tom Bradley. I have to catch another flight to Turkey (Istanbul) the same day at 6:25 pm with Turkish Airlines at Tom Bradley. Is there enough time to catch that flight?
Jarrod West
November 15, 2021
Hi Daniel,
Yes, 6 hours will be more than enough time to catch your next flight. In fact, you will likely have quite a bit of time to kill. Safe travels!
Shinobu
December 08, 2021
I’m arriving from Vancouver with Air Canada. Apparently, I arrive at terminal 5, then change to Japan Airlines at TBIT. Unfortunately, I had to purchase separate tickets. So I understand that I have to grab my luggage and go through customs first, then check-in at the JAL counter. There are 2:30 hours in between my flights. If the AC arrives on time, do I have enough time to transit?
Jarrod West
December 13, 2021
Hi Shinobu,
Yes, as long as your first flight arrives on time you should have plenty of time to make your next flight.
Bianca
January 18, 2022
Hoping to get some help regarding my upcoming travels. My husband and I have a flight with Spirit airlines from PVR to DFW but have a 12 hour layover in LAX so, (02/17 PVR -LAX 5:25pm-6:26pm & then 02/18 LAX-DFW 6:25am-11:21am). My question is if we can leave the airport during the 12 hours? If so, what would be the process? Do we go through customs on our arrival at LAX? Would it be fine to leave and just arrive at the airport the next day early for our next flight? What happens to our checked bags?
Jarrod West
January 22, 2022
Hi Bianca,
Yes, you can leave the airport since you have a 12-hour layover. You will clear customs in LAX and pick up your checked luggage when you land. Afterward, you are free to leave the airport. Safe travels!
Sarah G
February 20, 2022
Our son is flying from London Heathrow into LA International in May on a Virgin flight due to arrive at 1450 into Terminal B. I think flights to Portland Or go from Terminal 2? He will presumably have to go through immigration and check-in and security. How long would he need to allow to catch a flight to Portland please and how much longer if he took checked luggage? Many thanks.
Jarrod West
February 22, 2022
Hi Sarah,
I’m afraid I wouldn’t be able to give you a specific time as there are too many variables that will be outside of your control. Assuming his flight arrives on time, the time it will take to get through the immigration line, check-in line, and security line can vary quite dramatically depending on the day. So I would aim to allow as much time as possible.
Alka Chauhan
February 21, 2022
I am arriving at Terminal B then need to get to Terminal 6, then get out of terminal 6 and cross the road to get my PCR test done. Then traveling with Delta from Terminal 2/3 for my flight to Honolulu. How do I manage this as I have just about 3hrs?
Jarrod West
February 22, 2022
Hi Alka,
3 hours should be plenty of time. Safe travels!
Loreto
April 18, 2022
Hello! I have a flight to Mexico with a 5-hour layover in Terminal 6. I would like to go to the TBIT during the layover. Will I need to clear security at any point?
Jarrod West
April 19, 2022
Hi Loreta,
Yes, you would need to clear security to switch terminals. Safe travels!
Tracey
May 31, 2022
I will fly from Calgary to LAX via WestJet. My flight Will arrive at terminal 2 then I have connect flight with Japan airlines at terminal B. I only have 2.00 hrs layover between the flights. Just wonder if there is anyway I can go from terminal 2 to B without go through security checking again. If not then do I have enough time to get there and go thru security check again? What is the quick way to get ftom T2 to T B
My ticket is single ticket from Calgary – LAX – Tokyo. Thanks
Jarrod West
June 06, 2022
Hi Tracey,
You will definitely have to re-clear security when you switch terminals, but 2 hours should be more than enough time to do so. Safe travels!
Cynthia
August 04, 2022
Hi, I am flying out of LAX to CUN on Friday via United Airlines. Pretty sure my departure is from Terminal 7 but would really like to checkout the Centurion Lounge at TBIT. Will I have enough time to walk from terminals? I plan to arrive by 7 and my flight is around 10am. Is it easier to walk on airside or on the outside (understand i have to go through security) or should I take shuttle. Thanks!
Jarrod West
August 08, 2022
Hi Cynthia,
You should have plenty of time, and personally, I think it would be easier to walk airside.
Peggy
August 25, 2022
I’m flying American Airlines from Maui to LAX to Indy, with only a 35 minute layover at LAX. I will only have carry on luggage. Is that enough time to make the connecting flight?
Chris Hassan
August 25, 2022
Hey Peggy,
That is very tight. Assuming there is no delay and you are arriving and departing at nearby gates, there is a good chance that you make it. On your Maui flight let the flight crew know about your connection, they might be able to help!
Kirsty
November 09, 2022
I’m flying from Sydney into LAX on Qantas arriving about 6:05am and have a connecting flight to MCO with AA at 8am. I know I have to go through customs & immigration, but my bags will be checked through to MCO and I will have my boarding pass for AA issued in Sydney by Qantas. I did this exact same trip (but with a longer connection time) in July and I know about the bag drop for AA after customs.
My issue is the short connection time with this flight in November. When I came in July, I was forced by a staff member to go outside onto the street to get from International to Terminal 4, which necessitated going through security again. I knew about the tunnel connection, but I was not allowed to use it (if it was open). Will I be able to use it this time? After bag drop, where do I go to find the tunnel so I can get my domestic connection? With the short timeframe, I am very nervous. When I originally made my booking, I had over 3hrs between arriving from Sydney and the connecting flight. Someone (not me) moved the domestic flight to 8am….
Stephen Au
November 19, 2022
Hi Kirsty,
I don’t think you’ll be able to make this connection. Thank you.
Lani
April 26, 2023
Hi Kirsty. I was wondering whether you made the connection flight. I am going to have the same situation as you. I am going to have a 1hr 55min layover in LAX going to EWR from an international flight (SIA). I’m actually wondering whether I’ll have enough time for my connection to terminal 6 with Alaska Airlines. I just realized that we have to go through baggage claim and customs in LAX before the connecting flight. As for the baggage will I have to bring it to terminal 6 to get it checked in or is there a transfer desk to put the bags after customs? I am using one itinerary ticket for my whole flight so I assume that the baggage already has a tag for the final destination? Will I still have to go through security too? If yes, how long will it take to go through the security? I am very nervous and hoping that I can make the connection. Any info will be appreciated. TIA
Vicki Edwards
November 21, 2022
Hi,
I’ve bought a ticket for my sister as well as myself so we could fly together out of LAX (American Airlines). Never having done this before, I’m wondering if I can check her in as well as myself? Or does she need to check herself in? I would like her to have her boarding pass with her as we are arriving at LAX from different locations very early in the AM. Thanks for your help. Vicki
Jarrod West
November 22, 2022
Hi Vicki,
If you booked the tickets at the same time, then yes you should be able to check both of you in simultaneously.
Claire
February 18, 2023
Can a domestic boarding pass get you into TBIT? My son will be flying to New Zealand late at night from TBIT and I will be flying that same night to Salt Lake on Southwest, after his flight has departed. Can I go through security with him at TBIT on my Salt Lake boarding pass and wait with him, then move to my own departure terminal and gate?
Jarrod West
February 20, 2023
Hi Claire,
It is possible that the security agents might be hesitant to let you in without an international boarding pass, but if you inform them that you are escorting your son to his gate they should permit you to go with him.
Basuanand Kandpal
May 29, 2023
I am travelling from El Paso to Los Angeles (LAX) by Southwest Airlines. From LAX I am booked for Singapore Airlines to Mumbai. Please guide me, as I am senior citizen and travelling first time alone. Your guidance shall be highly appreciated.
Keri Stooksbury
May 30, 2023
Hi Basuanand – if you are interested, you might want to reach out to both Southwest and Singapore Airlines to request a wheelchair transfer or cart transfer. This can ensure that your transfer from your arrival into LAX and departure out of LAX goes smoothly. According to LAX, “To Request wheelchair service, it is recommended you contact your airline 72 hours in advance. Wheelchair service is provide free of charge by your airline. Tipping is not required for wheelchair service. Most individuals requesting wheelchair assistance are transported via wheelchair from ticketing to their aircraft. Airlines are required to provide curbside wheelchair service when requested. On your return flight, you should remind a flight attendant near the end of your flight, that you will need a wheelchair upon arrival.” Thanks for reading, and safe travels!
Shelly
June 09, 2023
Hello, arriving back to LAX on an international flight (United-Luftansa) with a connecting domestic United flight on a separate reservation. A United rep added notes for Luftansa when we check-in in Rome, to check our bags through to final destination since United and Luftansa are partners. I am trying to figure out if 90 minutes is enough time to get through immigration and customs drop our bags at the transfer desk in terminal TB before the cut off time and then to the United domestic departure gate. Also, can we get from TB to United terminal airside so we don’t have to go through security check at the United terminal?
Keri Stooksbury
July 04, 2023
Hi Shelly, I suspect your bags will not be checked through from Rome and you’ll have to recheck (as you mention) upon arrival in LAX. 90 minutes is definintely cutting it close as immigration can be unpredictable and your next reservation being seperate isn’t as protected from United should you be delayed (vs. if they were on the same reservation). You can walk or bus airside between terminals. Thanks for reading!
Lana
June 16, 2023
If my 18 year old child has an international departure and I have a domestic departure, can we go through TSA together then I go with her to her gate ?
Katie Seemann
June 19, 2023
Hi Lana,
Yes, as long as you both have boarding passes, you should be able to go through security together and you can go with your daughter to her gate.
Jean
June 19, 2023
Is 1hr 30 minutes enough for walking from terminal 6 to terminal B?
Thanks!
Keri Stooksbury
July 04, 2023
Hi Jean – It takes around 5 to 8 minutes to walk between each terminal, so you may want to consider taking the shuttle bus. Thanks for reading!
Russ Monroe
June 20, 2023
I am leaving on a Lufthansa flight from TBIT. Can I walk to the the United Club in Terminal 8 airside? How long will it take?
Keri Stooksbury
July 04, 2023
Hi Russ – It takes around 5 to 8 minutes to walk between each terminal. Considering that 8 and B are the furthest from each other, you might consider taking the shuttle bus instead. Thanks for reading!
Tony
July 02, 2023
Hello
Can someone please help me understand if it’s possible to walk from Terminal 5 where American Airlines is arriving on a domestic flight to international terminal to meet someone at the Qatar Airways counter?
Keri Stooksbury
July 04, 2023
Hi Tony – Yes, you should be able to walk or take the bus from Terminal 5 to Terminal B. Thanks for reading!
Rolando
July 04, 2023
Hi everyone, im traveling from Fort lauderdale florida to philippines, Jetblue Terminal 5 , how to get from Terminal 5 to Terminal B Eva air ?
thanks
Keri Stooksbury
July 04, 2023
Hi Rolando – You can walk or take a shuttle bus between the terminals. Thanks for reading!
Milly Weiss
July 15, 2023
Can people departing from other terminals and not flying international access the kids play area in Terminal B or do you have to go through a special security that is restricted to international flights?
Jarrod West
July 17, 2023
Hi Milly,
It honestly depends on the security agent, usually they will have no problem with your entering and going to the kids play area, but it is up to their discretion.
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