Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), located in Los Angeles, California, is one of the world’s busiest airports, serving over 80 million passengers annually. A global hub for American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines, LAX connects travelers to major cities across North America, Asia, and the Pacific Rim.

The airport features nine terminals (1–8 and the Tom Bradley International Terminal), each offering a variety of dining, retail, and lounge options. Travelers can navigate terminals via shuttle buses and pedestrian walkways, while ongoing modernization projects continue to enhance efficiency and passenger comfort. Conveniently located near major highways and beaches, LAX combines global connectivity with a distinctly Southern California travel experience—making it a top gateway for both domestic and international flights.

LAX Airport operates nine terminals, each with its own TSA security checkpoint, designed to manage extremely high passenger volume across domestic and international flights. The Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) houses the largest checkpoint area, serving flights from major global carriers. Terminals 4 through 7, used by American Airlines, Delta, and United, also feature dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes for faster screening.

Security checkpoints generally open by 3:30 a.m. and stay active until midnight. Morning hours (5:00–9:00 a.m.) and late afternoons (3:00–7:00 p.m.) are typically the busiest. Travelers can view real-time TSA wait times on airport monitors and mobile apps to plan their arrival. For the smoothest experience, arrive two hours before domestic flights or three hours before international departures.

How many terminals does Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) have?

Which terminal handles international flights at LAX?

Does LAX Airport have TSA PreCheck and CLEAR lanes?

When are the busiest security times at LAX?