Terminal layout & organization
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has nine passenger terminals arranged in a distinctive horseshoe (U-shape) with road access in front of each terminal. Domestic check-in is spread across Terminal 1 and Terminals 2–8, while most international departures and many long-haul arrivals run through the Tom Bradley International Terminal (Terminal B). Airline groupings are a helpful shortcut: Terminal 3 is a major home for Delta (with partners like Aeromexico and Virgin Atlantic), Terminal 4 primarily serves American Airlines, and Terminal 7 is the main base for United. You’ll also commonly see Terminal 5 used by JetBlue and Spirit (plus some American flights), and Terminal 6 by Alaska Airlines. Terminal 2 is used for check-in by some carriers (for example, Norse Atlantic and WestJet check-in there), and Terminal 8 supports passenger operations as needed.
Navigation between terminals
You can usually walk between terminals using sidewalks and signed connectors—plan on 10–15 minutes per terminal, and more if you’re traveling with kids or luggage. For tight connections, follow overhead signs for “Terminal Connections” and confirm your departure gate terminal (some airlines check you in at one terminal and depart from another). LAX also uses shuttle/bus transfers in specific cases; for example, some low-cost carriers may have you check in at Terminal 1 and then bus to Terminal B for departure. An Automated People Mover (CTA Center) is under construction, so expect periodic wayfinding changes and allow extra time during peak periods.
Traveler-specific tips
- Families: Terminals like Terminal 1 and Terminal 5 have improving amenities during ongoing upgrades—ask staff for the nearest nursing room or family restroom after security. Strollers are easiest to manage if you aim for elevators near central cores and avoid curbside congestion at the horseshoe.
- Business travelers: The best lounge concentration is in Terminal B’s Great Hall area, with additional airline lounges clustered around major hubs like Terminal 3 (Delta), Terminal 4 (American), and Terminal 7 (United). If you need a quiet call, head away from the food courts toward gate ends where seating is calmer.
- Travelers with disabilities: All terminals provide accessible routes, elevators, and restrooms. If you need wheelchair assistance, request it with your airline before arrival and confirm again at check-in—especially when a bus transfer to Terminal B is involved.
- Budget travelers: Bring an empty bottle—refill stations are common post-security—and charge up early; power can be in high demand at peak times, especially around popular gates in Terminal 3 and Terminal B.
Practical information
Wi-Fi is available throughout LAX terminals; connect as soon as you clear security since cellular signals can fluctuate in crowded gate areas. For power outlets, check under-seat and pillar outlets near gate seating—if none are free, look around concession seating zones. You’ll find information desks/help points in high-traffic areas, especially in Terminal B’s central hall and near major check-in lobbies. Note that Terminal 1 is undergoing a significant expansion and Terminal 5 has recently modernized—construction and renovations can shift checkpoints, walking paths, and pickup locations, so arrive early and rely on airport signage once on-site.