LAX Airport Live Departures
Checking in at Los Angeles Airport
The first step when departing from Los Angeles Airport is to figure out where your airline’s check in desk is located. There are nine interconnected terminals at LAX. The majority of international flights depart from Terminal B. In some cases, you’ll need to check in at one terminal and depart from another terminal. Check the monitors at the entrances to see which desk you need to go to. Alternatively, you can find the latest information on Los Angeles Airport departures today on our live board above.
The check-in procedures will depend on your airline. For example, some airlines allow you to check in online and go straight to security if you only have hand luggage. However, in most cases, you’ll need to go to your airline’s check-in desk to formally check in, collect your boarding pass, and drop off your luggage. There are also self-check-in desks available at LAX.
When to arrive at Los Angeles Airport?
If you’re flying domestically, it’s recommended that you arrive at Los Angeles Airport at least 2 hours before your scheduled flight time. International flyers should arrive at LAX 3 hours before their flight. That said, LAX is a huge airport that can be overwhelming to navigate if you’re not familiar with it. So, we recommend giving yourself plenty of time. There are many eateries, shops and lounges to relax in when you get to departures.
What’s next?
Once you’ve checked in and dropped your bags off at your airline’s check-in desk, you’ll be given a boarding pass. This is essential for getting into the security checkpoint. There are security checkpoints at each of the terminals.
To avoid delays at security screening, check the list of prohibited items indicated on the Los Angeles Airport website. You’ll need to remove items that can trigger the metal detectors, including belts, cellphones, laptops, tablets, coins, keys, watches, and jewelry. In some cases, you may be prompted to remove your shoes, as well. Your items must be placed in the trays provided. You should also remove any outerwear and place it in a tray.
Liquids, gels, aerosols, and creams cannot be in containers larger than 100ml or 3.5 fluid ounces each. Then, place your liquids in a clear resealable bag no larger than 1 liter in volume. This bag should be removed from your hand luggage and placed in a tray before screening.
After passing through the security checkpoint, follow the path to the Los Angeles Airport Departures lounge.
Note: If you qualify for the CLEAR security pre-check system, you can fast-track through security. Travelers with disabilities may be fast-tracked through security as well, at the discretion of the security staff.
What to do in Departures at Los Angeles Airport?
Your experience at Los Angeles Airport departures will depend on which terminal you are departing from. There are nine interconnected terminals, all with departure gates. You’ll find all of the basics, such as restrooms (including accessible restrooms), baby change facilities, ample seating, charging points, ATMs, and free Wi-Fi. There is also a good selection of souvenir stores, Duty-Free stores, cafés, and restaurants, such as Starbucks, Burger King, and California Pizza Kitchen.
There are also several VIP lounges at LAX Airport, which you can find out more about in our full Los Angeles Airport Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hours to be at LAX before a flight?
When flying from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), you should arrive at least 2 hours before a domestic flight or 3 hours before an international flight.
What time to get to LAX for a 6am flight?
Do you have to go through security between terminals at LAX?
How early should I arrive at LAX with Clear?
How early should I arrive before an international flight with LAX?
