LAX Prepares for Increased Travel Over Memorial Day Weekend

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) As Memorial Day weekend approaches, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is prepared to handle an increase in the number of travelers who will be flying out of or arriving into LAX.

"As we prepare to welcome guests throughout Memorial Day weekend, LAX is anticipating increased vehicle and passenger traffic," said Courtney Moore, Deputy Executive Director Strategy, Innovation, and Experience, Los Angeles World Airports. "As always, guests are encouraged to plan ahead by pre-booking parking, checking in online, and monitoring flight status before arriving at the airport. Passengers should also ensure they have all the appropriate documentation required for travel, including Real ID or other accepted forms of identification.

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 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 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.

3. Plan ahead before arriving

Check the status of a flight before arriving at the airport. If the reservation allows, utilize online check-in options.

Meeting someone? Check the status and arrival terminal of the 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 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. New travel documents are required. Do you have yours ready?

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) began enforcing Real ID-compliance at passenger screening checkpoints. you will need a Real ID or other acceptable form of identification for your next flight, or you may expect delays. More information can be found here.

Traveling to or through the United Kingdom? Passport holders from visa-exempt countries, including the United States, may be required to present an electronic travel authorization (ETA) to enter or transit the U.K. More information can be found here.

For a more efficient experience, travelers are encouraged to enroll in the Transportation Security Administration's PreCheck 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 20% off all mobile orders through May 27. Promo Code: MDW25.

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