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List of Airlines Operating at LAX Airport
LAX is a major hub for airlines such as United, American, Southwest and Alaska, with more than 40 carriers offering over 200 domestic destinations and more than 100 international routes for passengers and cargo. Knowing which airline uses which terminal, and how Tom Bradley International Terminal (Terminal B) fits into your itinerary, is essential to avoid stress and missed connections.
Frequently asked questions about airlines and terminals at LAX
How can I find out which terminal my airline uses?
Many airlines use more than one terminal or combine check-in in one terminal with boarding or international arrivals at the Tom Bradley International Terminal (Terminal B). The information on this page is for reference only, so you should always confirm the specific terminal for your flight on the official LAX website or in your airline’s app.
Why do some airlines use Tom Bradley if I check in at another terminal?
Several airlines perform check-in in Terminals 1, 2 or 3, but then bus passengers to the Tom Bradley International Terminal for boarding and use Terminal B for international arrivals. This helps distribute space more efficiently but adds an extra segment to your route inside the airport.
How much extra time do I need for terminal changes?
If your trip involves a bus transfer to Terminal B or a change between distant terminals (for example, between Terminal 1 and Terminals 7/8), it is recommended to add at least 30 extra minutes to the standard times suggested by your airline to avoid tight connections.
What if my flight arrives at Terminal B but my connection departs from another terminal?
In many cases you can connect on foot or via an internal shuttle between Terminal B and the other terminals. It is important to follow airport signage and check with your airline whether your baggage is checked through to your final destination or if you need to collect it and check in again.
Smart traveler’s guide: airlines and terminals
User experience: Many passengers get confused because they check in at one terminal (for example 1, 2 or 3) and are then bussed to the Tom Bradley International Terminal for boarding or arrive there on international flights. This can be stressful if you do not allow enough time or are traveling with a lot of luggage.
Strategy: Always check in your booking and in your airline’s app whether your flight uses Terminal B for departure or arrival, and add at least 30 extra minutes for internal transfers at LAX, especially for international connections.
User experience: The busiest terminals (such as Tom Bradley, 4–5 and 7–8) concentrate a large share of international and domestic traffic, which means long lines at check-in, security and immigration during peak times.
Strategy: If you are flying at very busy times (early morning, evening or weekends), arrive at the airport earlier than the standard recommendation and take advantage of priority access or lounges when they are included in your ticket or frequent flyer status.
⚖️ Airlines and terminals at LAX: pros and cons
Pros: Most travelers appreciate the wide range of airlines and destinations at LAX, with plenty of schedule options, alliances and both domestic and international connections. When things run smoothly, check‑in and boarding feel reasonably organized and it is possible to find lounges, restaurants and services tied to major carriers without leaving your terminal.
Cons: Many reviews point out that terminal changes, bus transfers to Tom Bradley and unclear signage can make the experience confusing, especially with tight connections. Travelers also mention long lines at certain airlines during peak hours, quality differences between terminals and the feeling that each carrier “plays by its own rules”, which makes it essential to always check the latest information in your airline’s app.
Location, contact details and user experience
LAX is a major hub for airlines such as United Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines and Alaska Airlines. With domestic regional services (over 200 destinations), international passenger and cargo services (over 100 destinations) for more than 40 airlines, it is one of the busiest airports in the world.
Photo by Beckett - Unsplash
Terminal 1
Allegiant Air passengers often highlight efficient boarding and check-in at Terminal 1. However, because this airline usually offers fewer frequencies, it is recommended to arrive early to avoid unexpected issues. Some passengers mention the need to transfer to the Tom Bradley International Terminal, which can be confusing if you are not familiar with the airport routes.
Travelers often mention that Breeze Airways offers a good balance between price and quality. The comfort of its aircraft is a plus, although the transfer from Terminal 1 to Tom Bradley can be challenging if you are carrying a lot of luggage.
With few regular flights, users value the friendly and personable service. The connection to Tom Bradley is an extra step that passengers should factor into their time planning at LAX.
Frontier is known for its low fares, but passengers should be prepared for additional charges for services such as seat selection or baggage. Experiences vary: some travelers praise punctuality, while others point out the need for clearer information about transfers to the Tom Bradley International Terminal.
JetBlue is recognized for its comfortable seats and in-flight entertainment. Passengers highlight good organization and friendly service, although some mention that food options could be improved.
This relatively new airline receives positive feedback for comfort on transatlantic flights. Travelers suggest verifying transfer times to Tom Bradley for international connections.
Southwest stands out for its organized boarding process and customer service. However, passengers should pay attention to the transfer process to boarding gates at Tom Bradley, as it can take extra time.
Passengers mention that Sun Country offers a simple and efficient experience. As with other airlines in Terminal 1, the connection to Tom Bradley can be a challenge for first-time visitors.
Viva*
Viva Aerobus is appreciated for its low fares, but some passengers mention that information about connections to Tom Bradley could be clearer. They recommend planning ahead and allowing for possible delays during the transfer.
* Passengers of Allegiant, Breeze, Cayman, Frontier, Norse, Southwest, Sun Country and Viva check in at Terminal 1 and are transported by bus to the Tom Bradley International Terminal for boarding. International arriving flights from Cayman Airways and JetBlue also arrive at Terminal B.
Terminal 2
Spirit is appreciated for its low prices, but passengers should be prepared for additional charges for optional services. The terminal offers a straightforward experience, although it could benefit from more seating areas.
Virgin Atlantic passengers praise the premium experience and attentive service. The terminal offers a good range of services, although the transfer to Tom Bradley can be somewhat tiring for travelers with heavy luggage.
WestJet stands out for competitive fares and friendly staff. Passengers appreciate the food options available in Terminal 2.
* Passengers of Spirit and Virgin Atlantic check in at Terminal 2 and are transported by bus to the Tom Bradley International Terminal for boarding. Arriving flights from Virgin Atlantic arrive at Terminal B.
Terminal 3
Travelers value the efficient check-in and helpful staff. The transfer to Tom Bradley can be confusing if you are not familiar with the airport, so asking staff about the transfer is recommended.
Delta is known for its organization and customer service. Passengers appreciate the variety of food options in Terminal 3 but note that the transfer to Tom Bradley is an important factor when planning their itinerary.
* Passengers of Aeroméxico and Delta check in at Terminal 3. Delta flights depart from Terminal 2. Aeroméxico passengers and Delta international arriving flights arrive at Terminal B. Aeroméxico passengers can walk to Terminal B to connect.
Terminals 4 and 5
American Airlines passengers often praise efficient check-in and the variety of services available in the terminal. Some travelers express frustration with distances between terminals, especially when they need to connect to international flights.
* Check-in for American Airlines takes place in Terminals 4 and 5. International arriving flights arrive at Terminal B.
Terminal 6
Users highlight the quality of service and customer care provided by Air Canada. The terminal is well equipped, although it can be somewhat noisy during peak hours.
Alaska Airlines is valued for punctuality and customer service. Passengers appreciate the food and drink options and how easy it is to find their way around the terminal.
Hawaiian Airlines travelers highlight the warmth of the staff and the Hawaiian-inspired atmosphere from the very beginning of their trip. Although the terminal experience is generally positive, some passengers mention long walks to boarding gates due to the airport layout.
As part of Alaska Airlines, Horizon Air offers a consistent and efficient service. Users recommend checking transfer times in advance when making connections.
Passengers value the simplicity and speed of the boarding process. Terminal 6 offers a suitable experience for short-haul flights.
Terminals 7 and 8
United is recognized for its extensive network and efficient check-in and boarding processes. Passengers highlight the variety of options in Terminal 7, while noting that Terminal 8 can be quieter and more convenient for those seeking less crowding.
Tom Bradley International Terminal
Aer Lingus passengers appreciate the friendly and professional service during the flight. However, some users mention long waits in the terminal due to congestion and lines at checkpoints.
The Air France Lounge at Tom Bradley receives positive feedback for its elegant atmosphere and authentic French dining options, such as quiche lorraine and mini croque monsieur. The terminal offers bright views and a peaceful space for business passengers.
Air New Zealand passengers highlight attentive customer service and easy connections at LAX. Some travelers recommend using airport lounges to make the most of long-haul flights.
Passengers value the relaxing atmosphere that reflects the spirit of French Polynesia. On board, they appreciate entertainment options and personalized service. However, some travelers mention long waits at check-in during peak hours.
Asiana Airlines receives positive feedback for customer service and comfort on long-haul flights. However, some passengers mention limited dining options in the terminal and recommend planning ahead.
Passengers value Austrian Airlines’ efficient service and focus on comfort, especially on long-haul flights. In-flight dining options usually receive good comments, although some users suggest arriving early at the terminal due to long check-in lines during peak times.
The British Airways experience is characterized by efficient customer service and quality onboard. In the terminal, some passengers mention organizational issues at customs, which can cause delays.
Cathay Pacific is praised for its customer service and in-flight entertainment. On the ground, check-in is generally efficient, though travelers recommend arriving with enough time to avoid problems.
Passengers often highlight attention to detail and comfort on long-haul flights with China Airlines. However, some travelers note limited food options inside the terminal and recommend planning ahead.
Users praise seat comfort and onboard service quality. However, some passengers suggest that information in the terminal could be clearer, especially for those who do not speak English.
Condor passengers highlight friendly staff and good service on board.
Copa Airlines is known for quick connections and efficient flights to Central and South America. Passengers praise punctuality, but some mention crowded waiting areas at LAX during peak times.
Emirates stands out for its premium lounge experience and onboard service. Passengers praise efficient boarding and comfortable facilities, including private showers for first-class travelers.
EVA Air is recognized for high-quality service and comfortable seating on long-haul flights. Passengers also appreciate punctuality and friendly staff, although some note that waiting areas in the terminal could be improved.
Fiji Airways offers a warm, welcoming experience that reflects traditional Fijian hospitality. Passengers praise onboard service and menus inspired by local cuisine, though some report confusion in the terminal regarding eligibility for certain lounges.
Travelers appreciate Finnair’s punctuality and Scandinavian design touches. Some comment that dining options in the terminal are limited and recommend using available rest areas during long connections.
Flair Airlines offers low-cost fares, which is attractive for budget travelers. However, some passengers mention that terminal waiting areas could be better signposted to ease passenger flow.
French Bee is valued for its low-cost long-haul services. Passengers praise clear boarding procedures, though some suggest expanding onboard entertainment options.
Passengers appreciate Iberia’s punctuality and comfort on transatlantic flights. However, they note that waiting areas in the terminal can be limited at certain times and recommend arriving early to make use of airport facilities.
Japan Airlines is known for exceptional service and attention to detail. Travelers appreciate punctuality and a calm experience at the airport, though they suggest arriving early to avoid issues when moving around the terminal.
KLM travelers appreciate access to the Air France Lounge at LAX, featuring notable food options such as quiche lorraine and a wide selection of cheeses. The terminal offers comfort and a calm environment, although some say the lounge location can feel a bit far.
Travelers praise clean aircraft and attentive customer service on Korean Air flights. However, the Korean Air Lounge at Tom Bradley receives mixed reviews, with comments about a limited selection of food and drinks.
LATAM offers a reliable experience for international flights to South America. Users appreciate bilingual staff and support during check-in, though some report long security and immigration lines.
Travelers value LEVEL’s competitive long-haul fares. On board, the experience is simple but efficient. Some passengers suggest allowing extra time for security due to heavy crowds in the terminal.
Users highlight LOT Polish Airlines’ punctuality and onboard service quality. However, some travelers mention crowded waiting areas in the terminal, especially for late-night departures.
Lufthansa is known for punctuality and attentive customer service. Travelers appreciate the terminal lounge options, but some point out long check-in lines during peak hours.
Philippine Airlines passengers often highlight comfort on long flights and friendly staff. However, some mention that walking times to boarding gates at LAX can be significant, especially during peak hours.
Users praise the quality of the Qantas Lounge at Tom Bradley, with high-end dining options including birria tacos and excellent customer service. Some travelers, however, mention long waits at the lounge restaurant.
Qatar Airways is known for luxury and comfort. Travelers praise culinary options both on board and in the terminal, but recommend arriving early to avoid congestion-related problems at peak times.
Saudia passengers highlight a unique cultural experience on board, including traditional Saudi cuisine. In the terminal, travelers praise friendly staff at check-in and helpful support for connecting flights.
SAS offers a simple and efficient experience. Passengers value spacious, quiet waiting areas in the terminal, though lounge food options could be more varied.
Sichuan Airlines is appreciated for its focus on Chinese culture, as reflected in onboard service and food. Some passengers recommend allowing extra time for connections due to the airport’s complexity.
Users highlight Singapore Airlines’ attention to detail and focus on comfort on long-haul flights. In the terminal, travelers appreciate clear signage to boarding gates, although congestion remains a common challenge.
Passengers highlight STARLUX Airlines’ luxury feel and personalized service, with exclusive onboard options that reflect a premium approach. VIP areas at LAX are a good complement for travelers seeking a more relaxed experience.
Swiss is praised for attention to detail and focus on passenger comfort. Onboard dining includes traditional Swiss dishes that appeal to international travelers. At LAX, check-in is generally efficient, but some passengers suggest arriving early due to long lines.
Users value Turkish Airlines’ culinary offering both on board and in exclusive airport areas. Boarding at LAX can be confusing for some, especially those unfamiliar with connections within the Tom Bradley Terminal.
Volaris is appreciated for its low fares, but some passengers mention that staff communication in the terminal could be improved. Checking check-in times in advance is recommended to avoid long waits.
XiamenAir offers a consistent and comfortable service to Asia. Passengers value punctuality and a focus on comfort, though some say terminal signage can be confusing for those who do not speak English.
Zipair passengers value competitive fares and a basic, low-cost service model. Although some mention that seats could be more comfortable, they appreciate punctuality and a straightforward boarding process.