Can You Travel Between Terminals at LAX? Your Ultimate Guide

Can You Travel Between Terminals At Lax? Yes, you absolutely can. Navigating Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and transferring between terminals can seem daunting, but TRAVELS.EDU.VN is here to simplify your journey. Whether you’re connecting between flights or exploring the airport’s amenities, understanding your options for inter-terminal travel will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable. This comprehensive guide provides you with all the essential information and expert tips for seamless transfers at LAX.

1. Understanding the LAX Terminal Layout

LAX features a U-shaped layout with eight terminals arranged around a central area containing parking lots and ground transportation. Terminals 1 and 3 are located on the north side, Terminals 4 through 8 are on the south side, and the Tom Bradley International Terminal (Terminal B) sits on the west side. Knowing this layout helps you strategize your transfers effectively.

North Terminals: Terminals 1 and 3
South Terminals: Terminals 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8
International Terminal: Terminal B (Tom Bradley International Terminal)

LAX Terminal Map Showing Layout

Los Angeles International Airport map showing terminal layout. Image Credit: Los Angeles International Airport

2. Landside Transportation Options at LAX (Pre-Security)

Before heading through security, several transportation options are available to help you move between terminals.

2.1. LAX Terminal Shuttle Bus

The most convenient way to travel between terminals landside is the free terminal shuttle bus. This shuttle operates in a counterclockwise loop, stopping at each terminal approximately every 10 minutes. Look for the blue “LAX Shuttle & Airline Connections” signs on the lower level outside each terminal to find the pickup locations.

Frequency: Every 10 minutes
Route: Counterclockwise loop
Location: Lower level outside each terminal

2.2. Walking Between Terminals

Walking is another viable option, especially if traffic is heavy. You can use the public sidewalks on either level of the looped road. To cut through from the northern to southern terminals, utilize the parking garages in the center of the U-shaped layout. Bridges connect each garage to a terminal from level 3 (departures).

Route: Public sidewalks on both levels
Shortcut: Through parking garages on level 3

3. Airside Transportation Options at LAX (Post-Security)

Once past security, moving between terminals becomes even easier with airside connections.

3.1. Airside Walkways

Terminals B, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 are connected via airside walkways, allowing seamless transfers without needing to re-clear security. Terminals 4, 5, and 6 use underground tunnels, while 6, 7, and 8 are connected via above-ground tunnels. The International Terminal B is linked to Terminal 4 with an above-ground connector tunnel equipped with moving walkways.

Connected Terminals: B, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8
Tunnels: Underground (4, 5, 6) and above-ground (6, 7, 8)

3.2. Airline Connector Shuttle Bus

For specific flight connections, an airside shuttle bus operates from Terminal 1 to the International Terminal B. This bus runs every 10 minutes, 24/7.

Terminal 1: Bus gate in the connector between gates 12A and 21A
TBIT West Gates: South end of the concourse on the lower level

LAX Pedestrian Map Showing Airside Connections

Los Angeles International Airport Inter-Terminal Connections. Image courtesy of flylax.com.

4. Detailed Look at Each LAX Terminal

Understanding the layout and key features of each terminal can greatly enhance your transfer experience.

4.1. LAX Terminal 1

Terminal 1 is connected to Terminal 3 both inside and outside the secure area. Key airlines operating here include Southwest, Frontier, and Cayman Airways.

Level 1: Baggage Claim
Level 2: Check-In
Level 3: Departures (Gates 9, 11A, 11B, 12B, 13-16, 17A, 17B, 18A, 18B)

LAX Terminal 1 Baggage Claim Area

Los Angeles International Airport Terminal 1 baggage claim. Image Credit: Los Angeles International Airport

4.2. LAX Terminal 3

Terminal 3 features 26 gates across two concourses and is primarily used by Delta Air Lines. It offers modern amenities and improved connectivity.

Level 1: Baggage Claim
Level 2: Check-In (Delta, Virgin Atlantic, WestJet, Aeromexico)
Level 3: Departures (Gates 30-38, 20-28)

LAX Terminal 3 Check-In Area

Los Angeles International Airport Terminal 3, level 2 ticketing. Image Credit: Los Angeles International Airport

4.3. LAX Terminal 4

Terminal 4 is exclusively used by American Airlines and connects to Terminal B via an airside connector bridge.

Level 1: Baggage Claim
Level 2: Check-In (American Airlines)
Level 4: Departures (Gates 41, 42A, 43, 46B, 46C, 48A, 48B, 48C)

4.4. LAX Terminal 5

Terminal 5 hosts American, JetBlue, and Spirit flights and connects to Terminals 4 and 6 through airside walkways.

Level 1: Baggage Claim
Level 2: Check-In (American, JetBlue, Spirit)
Level 3: Departures (Gates 50, 51A, 51B, 52, 53A, 53B, 54A, 54B, 55A, 56A-D, 57, 58, 59)

LAX Terminal 5 Check-In Area

Los Angeles International Airport Terminal 5 check-in. Image Credit: Los Angeles International Airport

4.5. LAX Terminal 6

Terminal 6 is used by Air Canada, Southwest, and other airlines and connects to Terminals 5 and 7 via airside walkways.

Level 1: Baggage Claim
Level 2: Check-In (Air Canada, Southwest, etc.)
Level 3: Departures (Gates 60-62, 63A, 63B, 64A-C, 65A, 65B, 66, 67, 68A, 68B, 69A, 69B)

4.6. LAX Terminals 7 and 8

Terminals 7 and 8 share a security checkpoint but are separate terminals. Terminal 7 hosts United Airlines, while Terminal 8 is primarily for United Express flights.

Level 1: Baggage Claim (Shared)
Level 2: Check-In (Shared)
Level 3:
- Terminal 7 Departures (Gates 70A, 70B, 71A, 71B, 72A, 72B, 73, 74, 74B, 75A, 75B, 76A, 76B, 77)
- Terminal 8 Departures (Gates 80-85, 86A, 86B)

LAX Terminal 7 Check-In Area

Los Angeles International Airport Terminals 7 and 8 check-in. Image Credit: Los Angeles International Airport

4.7. Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) – Terminal B

Terminal B is the largest terminal at LAX, handling most international arrivals and departures. It connects to Terminals 3 and 4 via connector bridges.

Level 1: Baggage Claim and Customs
Level 3: Check-In
Level 4: Departures (Gates 130-146, 148, 150-157, 159)

TBIT Baggage Claim Area

Tom Bradley International Terminal B baggage claim. Image Credit: Los Angeles International Airport

5. Walking Times Between Terminals at LAX

Knowing the estimated walking times can help you decide whether to walk or take the shuttle.

Route	Estimated Time
Terminal 1 to Terminal 3 to International Terminal B to Terminal 4	5 minutes each
Terminal 4 to Terminal 5 to Terminal 6 to Terminal 7 to Terminal 8	5-8 minutes each
North Terminals (1 & 3) to South Terminals (4 to 6)	5 minutes

6. Making Flight Connections at LAX

Understanding the process for both international and domestic connections is crucial for a smooth transfer.

International Arrivals: Clear immigration, collect baggage, clear customs, and drop off baggage at the transfer service desk if tagged to the final destination.
Domestic Arrivals: No need to clear immigration or customs; baggage will be transported to the onward flight if tagged to the final destination.

7. Accessibility at LAX

LAX ensures accessibility for all passengers, including wheelchair users and those with mobility concerns. The shuttle bus is equipped with a lift, and elevators are available in every terminal for accessing walkways.

8. Future Improvements: The LAX Automated People Mover (APM)

The upcoming LAX Automated People Mover (APM), expected to be completed in 2026, will significantly improve inter-terminal connectivity. This electric train system will connect the terminals to the Metro Rail, a consolidated car rental facility, and parking structures, reducing traffic congestion and improving overall access to the airport.

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10. Essential Tips for Smooth LAX Terminal Transfers

Check Your Flight Information: Verify your connecting flight’s terminal and gate information upon arrival.
Allow Sufficient Transfer Time: LAX can be a busy airport, so ensure you have enough time to transfer, especially for international connections.
Utilize Airport Resources: Take advantage of airport maps, information kiosks, and mobile apps to navigate efficiently.
Consider TSA PreCheck or Global Entry: Expedite the security screening process with TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.
Stay Updated: Monitor flight status and gate changes via airport displays or mobile apps.
Pack Smart: Keep essential items in your carry-on in case of delays.

11. The Impact of Modernization Projects on Inter-Terminal Travel

LAX is currently undergoing a significant modernization project aimed at improving the overall passenger experience. These projects include:

New Concourse Construction: Adding new concourses and gates to increase capacity and reduce congestion.
Terminal Renovations: Upgrading existing terminals with modern amenities and improved layouts.
Enhanced Security Screening: Implementing advanced security technologies to expedite the screening process.

While these improvements are beneficial in the long run, they may cause temporary disruptions during construction. Always check for updates and allow extra time for transfers.

12. Scenarios: Navigating Common Transfer Situations at LAX

To help you better prepare for your travels, here are a few common transfer scenarios at LAX and tips on how to navigate them:

Scenario 1: Domestic to International Transfer

Arrival: Arrive at Terminal 5 on a domestic flight.
Transfer: Transfer to the Tom Bradley International Terminal (Terminal B) for an international flight.
Steps:
1. Follow signs to the airside walkway connecting Terminal 5 to Terminal 4, and then continue to Terminal B.
2. If you have checked baggage, retrieve it from baggage claim on Level 1 of Terminal 5 before proceeding to Terminal B.
3. After arriving at Terminal B, check in at the appropriate airline counter on Level 3.
4. Proceed through security on Level 4 and head to your departure gate.

Scenario 2: International to Domestic Transfer

Arrival: Arrive at the Tom Bradley International Terminal (Terminal B) on an international flight.
Transfer: Transfer to Terminal 3 for a domestic flight.
Steps:
1. Clear immigration and customs on Level 1 of Terminal B.
2. Retrieve your checked baggage from baggage claim.
3. If your baggage is tagged to your final destination, drop it off at the transfer service desk after customs.
4. Take the airside connector bridge to Terminal 4, then continue to Terminal 3.
5. Proceed through security at Terminal 3 and head to your departure gate.

Scenario 3: Connecting Between Domestic Terminals

Arrival: Arrive at Terminal 1 on a domestic flight.
Transfer: Transfer to Terminal 6 for a domestic flight.
Steps:
1. Follow signs to the airside walkway connecting Terminal 1 to Terminal 3.
2. Continue through Terminals 4 and 5 to reach Terminal 6.
3. Proceed through security at Terminal 6 and head to your departure gate.

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15. FAQs About Traveling Between Terminals at LAX

Here are some frequently asked questions to further assist you with your LAX transfers:

Is there a free shuttle between terminals at LAX?
Yes, LAX provides a free terminal shuttle bus that runs in a counterclockwise loop, stopping at each terminal approximately every 10 minutes.
Can I walk between terminals at LAX?
Yes, you can walk between most terminals using sidewalks or airside walkways. Terminals B, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 are connected via airside walkways.
Do I need to go through security again when transferring between terminals at LAX?
If you use the airside walkways to transfer between Terminals B, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8, you do not need to re-clear security. However, if you exit the secure area, you will need to go through security again.
How long does it take to transfer between terminals at LAX?
The transfer time varies depending on the distance between terminals and the mode of transportation. Walking can take 5-8 minutes between adjacent terminals, while the shuttle bus runs every 10 minutes.
What is the best way to transfer from an international to a domestic flight at LAX?
Upon arrival at the international terminal, clear immigration and customs, collect your baggage, and drop it off at the transfer service desk if it’s tagged to your final destination. Then, proceed to your connecting terminal using the airside walkways or shuttle bus.
Are all terminals at LAX accessible to wheelchair users?
Yes, all terminals at LAX are accessible to wheelchair users and passengers with disabilities. The shuttle bus is equipped with a lift, and elevators are available in every terminal.
Will the LAX Automated People Mover (APM) require me to re-clear security?
Yes, the LAX Automated People Mover will run between terminals on the land side, meaning you will need to re-clear security at your connecting terminal.
Where can I find the shuttle bus pickup location at each terminal?
The shuttle bus pickup locations are on the lower level outside each terminal, under the blue “LAX Shuttle & Airline Connections” signs.
Is there a dedicated shuttle for airline connections at LAX?
Yes, there is an airside shuttle bus that operates from Terminal 1 to the International Terminal B every 10 minutes, 24/7.
How can TRAVELS.EDU.VN help with my transfer at LAX?
TRAVELS.EDU.VN can provide personalized itinerary planning, real-time updates, exclusive lounge access, baggage assistance, and expert navigation tips to make your transfer at LAX smooth and stress-free.

Navigating LAX doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By understanding the terminal layout, transportation options, and key tips, you can ensure a smooth and efficient transfer. For an even more personalized and stress-free travel experience, especially when planning a trip to Napa Valley, contact travels.edu.vn. We’re here to make your travel dreams a reality.