Source: LAX
- Navigate LAX with ease and embark on your Memorial Day weekend journey with our expert tips and updated information for a stress-free travel experience this summer.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is gearing up for another bustling summer travel season, kicking off with Memorial Day weekend. As residents and visitors prepare for he holiday weekend, LAX is anticipating an increase in daily passengers from now until the end of the month.
“Memorial Day weekend always marks the start of the summer travel season at LAX,” said Doug Webster, Interim Chief Operations and Maintenance Officer, Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA). “With school breaks, relaxed workdays, and a strong demand for travel to and from Los Angeles, we expect a busy summer, Our airport staff and airline partners are aware of the projected wave of travelers to the region, and are ready and well-equipped to provide our guests with the best possible experience at LAX.”
With passenger and vehicle traffic set to rise this month and throughout the summer, LAX shares practical travel tips and strategies to reduce stress, enhance the journey and ensure a seamless and enjoyable start to summer adventures:
1. Allow at least two hours before departure time
LAX is one of the busiest origin and destination airports in the world. More passengers start or end their journeys, by plane here than almost any other airport. While two hours may seem excessive, this will allow enough time to arrive, check any bags, proceed through TSA security, and navigate to the boarding gate. If traveling internationally, LAX recommends arriving three hours early.
2. Pre-book your parking
Parking at the airport is in high demand, with parking facilities expected to reach capacity on the busiest travel days. Visit parking.flylax.com for the best rates and to plan your parking ahead of time. Parking options may include discounts from the drive-up rates, depending on availability and demand. Use the promo code SPRING10 for 10% off all parking (excluding Van Nuys Flyaway lot) between now and April 1.
3. Plan ahead before you arrive
Check the status of for your flight before arriving at the airport. If your reservation is eligible to do so, utilize online check-in.
Meeting someone? Check the status and arrival terminal of their flight before heading to the airport. LAX provides real-time traffic and parking information at Parking and traffic updates are available 24/7 via the automated @FlyLAXstats X (formerly Twitter) feed.
Curbside pickup and drop off is permitted on the Upper/Departures and Lower/Arrivals levels. All parking structures are free for the first 15 minutes.
Two cell phone waiting lots are open and provide a space for drivers to wait in their vehicles until passengers are ready to be picked up from the terminal curb. This helps reduce traffic volume around the CTA. The lots are located at 96th Street & Alverstone Avenue, and 96th Street & Vicksburg Avenue. A helpful video on how to access these areas can be found here.
Transit, taxi, rideshare and other ground transportation information can be found here.
4. Navigate TSA checkpoints like a pro
For a more efficient experience, travelers are encouraged to enroll in the Transportation Security Administration’s Pre√® or other trusted-traveler programs, such as U.S. Customs & Border Protection’s Global Entry.
5. Get a head start on vacation
Try a new concession option and take advantage of concession promotions
All LAX terminals are completely connected and can be accessed by ticketed passengers post-security. Guests can now take advantage of all LAX’s concessions, regardless of their assigned terminal.
Skip the line at participating concessions by placing your order through LAXOrderNow. Enjoy 25% off all mobile orders through May 29. Promo Code: MDW2024.
For guests looking for a space to work, LAX is modernizing its terminal facilities to meet the needs of the business-leisure traveler. Most terminals feature areas with workspaces, access to power outlets and free Wi-Fi, allowing guests to confidently complete any business obligations while waiting for their flight.
6. Find relaxation amidst the movement of travel
LAX offers a range of unique amenities to enhance the passenger experience, such as the Gameway arcade in Terminals 3 and 6, providing entertainment with classic and modern games.
LAX’s Art Program showcases the diverse talents of local and regional artists through presentations of over 20 temporary and 10 permanent installations across the airport. These artistic expressions enrich the physical spaces of the terminals while embodying the vibrant cultural tapestry of Los Angeles. As travelers embark on their journeys or return home, they are invited to pause, reflect and engage with the stories and creativity present in each work.
The PUPS Program offers a unique form of comfort and airport information. Therapy dogs and their handlers roam the departure levels in the gate areas of each terminal, visiting passengers awaiting flights. This interaction can provide a soothing, stress-relieving experience, enhancing the airport journey.
Musically-inclined passengers can enjoy playing Kawai pianos available in Terminal B (near gate 201A) and Terminal 7 (beyond the TSA checkpoint), adding a touch of creativity and relaxation to their travel.
7. Pro tools at your fingertips:
LAX Main Site – Flight, parking and terminal maps and information
Parking Reservations and Information
FlyLAX Stats – Realtime Parking and Traffic Information
Dining and Concessions
Lost and Found
AskLAX (Virtual Assistant)
LAX Helpline
Construction Hotline: (310) 649-LAWA (5292)