Sep 7, 2015, 10:35 am
Last edit by: Prospero
Please edit or add information to this wiki as necessary.
NOTE: AA uses Terminals 4 and 5, the remote “Eagle’s Nest” and some gates at TBIT . International Arrivals in particular may use T4, TBIT (100s numbered gates), the remote arrival piers (200s) or the maintenance hangars (300s); in the latter cases, passengers will be bussed to T4 (domestic and some international) or TBIT (some international), as both have USCBP processing facilities.
Link to Los Angeles World Airports' LAX Airport website
NOTE: LAX is always undergoing changes; be aware the information herein may change. See here for LAWA notices affecting passengers.
Link LAWA / LAX FAQ page.
Link to aa.com
Link to 14 Feb 2017 post with AA-AA Minimum Times Times
NOTE: The Admirals Club® lounge and Flagship Lounge in Terminal 4 at Los Angeles International (LAX) have been renovated and include Flagship Dining for those in eligible three class First cabin.
Special notice
AA operate from multiple terminals at LAX. Check in at Terminal 5, east end (Gates 50-59, including Remote American Eagle terminal, gates 52A-J) or Terminal 4 (Gates 40-49, 110-159). (As of 31 Jan 2017)
NOTE: the 100s gates are at the Tom Bradley International Air Terminal (aka Terminal B), accessible to / from Terminal 4 by the airside connector if you are already airside and security cleared. The 200 gates are the remote piers served by bus, and the 300 “gates” are the maintenance hangars served by bus.
Check-in times as of March 2016 Link
In most locations, you must be checked in:
At least 45 minutes before scheduled departure, for flights within the United States
At least 60 minutes before scheduled departure, for flights to or from airports outside of the United States. Some non-US require more.
If you are checking in with baggage to check at T-4, not T-5, and flying American Eagle from the remote "Eagle's Nest" 52A-J gates (31 Jan 2017 and after), you must check in 90 minutes prior to departure.
LAYOUT: LAX is like a letter "U" on its side, open end facing right. The Tom Bradley International Terminal is the bar of the "U" facing left, on the west side. Terminals 1, 2 and 3 on the north and 4 - 8 on the south. Entering the semicircular, counter-clockwise roadway serving the terminals, you will pass terminals 1, 2, 3, TBIT, 4, 5, 6, etc. There is quite a bit of construction going on and the airport roadways can get quite congested.
MCT: Though international to International or Domestic Minimum Connect Times (MCT) are listed as 2:00, arriving at the remote western 200 pads and gates (served by busses from the terminals), connecting between T4, T6, Remote Eagle terminal and TBIT, not to mention lengthy USCBP queues and the need to proceed landslide to connecting terminals and processing security may make 2:00 unrealistic at times. MCT Domestic to Domestic or International is often 0:40, but this may be unrealistic if connecting American Eagle remote terminal 52A-J and a domestic flight at TBIT, for example.
Operating terminals and gates
Terminal 4: AA primarily uses Terminal 4, Gates 40-49 but now also uses Terminal 5 (50-59, 52A-I remote Eagle gates and TBIT (110-159). Flagship Checkin, Admirals Club and Flagship Lounge are all in T-4.
Tom Bradley International Terminal ("100") gates 110-159 for domestic and international flights, with no particular flight assignment - check your gates information.
oneworld Business and Qantas First lounges in TBIT for qualified passengers. See LOUNGE DASHBOARD for further information - link.
Occasionally, the "200 gates" remote pads (bus from T-4) may be used. Terminal 4 and TBIT are connected airside by a new connector. Qualified travelers may use the TBIT oneworld Business or Qantas First lounges. See separate thread.
Terminal 5
AS OF Tue 31 Jan 2017: Legacy US flights operate from Terminal 5, gates 50 - 59. It is best to check in for American Eagle flights at T-5. Airside connection exists, as well as shuttles. Bus port at T-5 is at gate 52. American Eagle checked baggage is delivered to Terminal 5 baggage carousels; Eagle remote gates are now numbered 52A-J.
Terminal 6: Alaska Airlines flights operate from Terminal 6.
Legacy US flights operated from Terminal 6 until 31 Jan 2017; AA no longer operates out of Terminal 6.
American Eagle Remote Terminal "Eagle's Nest": Regional flights operate at a remote terminal served frequently by airside shuttle busses from bus gates 44 and 60. The remote American Eagle terminal gate numeration has changed: "May 16 2016 the remote gates at LAX formerly 44 A-J were renumbered to 60 A-J." There is a "junior" Admirals Club here. Preferred Eagle check in and baggage carousels are in T-5?
While you may check in at T-4 for American Eagle, those with baggage to check must do so no less than 90 minutes prior to departure. The preferred baggage check deadline is in place at T-5 for American Eagle.
Walking Interterminal - Landside
Note: You can walk airside between Terminal 4 and TBIT as of 25 Feb 2016. See LAX Terminal 4 - Tom Bradley Intl Terminal Secure Connector), and on to T-5 via a corridor (ground floor, by bus gate 44).
Terminals on the south side and TBIT are connected airside. A PDF guide is downloadable here.
One can also walk landside between terminals on upper or lower walkway sidewalks just outside the roadway. Lower walkways are protected from the weather, upper walkways are not. Distances can be short (T-4 <-> TBIT) or long (20 minutes or less in all cases, and there are crosswalks and walkways serving north and south terminals. See north - south blue corridors in Ground Transport map, above; walkways parallel them.
For access to the Tom Bradley International Terminal ("TBIT") one may also proceed landslide and walk a short distance, or take the counter clockwise landside courtesy airport shuttle bus.
Link to fullsize map
Airside - Shuttle Bus or Walking
Airside shuttle busses:
NO BUS T-4 <-> T-5 (faster to walk pedestrian tunnel)
T-4 <-> Remote Eagle terminal (most efficient and frequent)
T-5 <-> Remote Eagle terminal (more frequent than from / to T-4)
Terminals 4 and 5: A courtesy shuttle bus operates airside between Terminal 4, ex-gate 44 bus gate, and Terminal 6 gate 60-62 through Mon 30 Jan 2017 - afterwards, Terminal gate 52, every fifteen minutes between 05:00 and 23:00; ongoing boarding pass required. At other times one either take the airside corridor T-5 Tue 31 Jan and after <-> T-4 or exit landslide and walk or take the counter-clockwise landslide courtesy shuttle bus.
American Eagle Remote Terminal: A courtesy shuttle bus serves the American Eagle remote terminal from Terminal 5, gate 52. Note: American Eagle checked baggage is delivered to Terminal 5 baggage carousels. Another shuttle runs from Terminal 4, gate 44 bus gate. A boarding pass to Gate 52A-I is required. This is the sole way of reaching these gates (other than Five Star Service passengers, who are shuttled via the Tarmac in Cadillac SUVs).
Terminal 4 - TBIT: The new pedestrian airside connector opened 25 Feb 2015. Qantas and AA passengers departing the TBIT can check in at Terminal 4, process airside, use Admirals or Flagship lounges T-4 <-> TBIT shuttles apparently ended when the airside connector open 25 Feb 2016[/hl].
Walk Terminals 4 and 5: One can walk airside using the Terminal 4 - 5 - 6 connector.
Walk Terminal 4 - TBIT airside connector: An airside connector leading to TBIT is open effective 25 Feb 2016. See here (FT) for more.
Getting from terminal to terminal, concourse to concourse, landside
Landside courtesy airport shuttle bus
Security at LAX
Link to FlyerGuide information on LAX T-4 Security.
TSA PreCheck: Yes (Terminal 4 upstairs, east; Terminal 5?)
Priority Access line in a Terminal 4 is accessed from the escalator on the left end (looking at the counters) of the terminal (furthest from TBIT, closest to terminal 5), next to the Priority Access check-in area. Often there is an AA worker at the bottom of the escalator making sure only Priority Access passengers go up this escalator. The First, Business and Priority Access lines now have their own screening room far from the economy area. This private room has multiple screening lines and during peak periods additional lines are opened up.
Security for (TBIT) international arrivals proceeding to Terminal 4 is open as of February 2017. When exiting TBIT customs and baggage recheck area, turn right immediately after the exit and proceed down the hallway to the checkpoint. No Pre-Check.
Check-in and ticketing at LAX and check in times Link
Flagship Check-in: YES Marked exclusive T-4 Flagship check-in entrance 4:00 a.m. – 1:00 a.m.
Five Star Service: YES
Priority and Preferred Access: YES
Curbside check-in: Yes. Terminal 4 only, including for international destinations.
To help us get your bag on the same flight with you, present your bag to an airline representative for check-in no later than the cutoff time.
For flights within and between the U.S., Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands:
Ticket counter locations
Terminal 4: upon entry, Qantas to right; First and Priority Access to left; Main Cabin straight ahead.
Self-service check-in kiosks available.
Open Daily: 04:00 - 00:30 (4 am to midnight + 30)
Terminal 5, east side: OPEN Tue 31 Jan 2017
Open Daily: 4:30 AM - 12:30 AM
Terminal 6: CLOSE Tue 31 Jan 2017
Open Daily: 4:30 AM - 12:30 AM
If departing on American Eagle, suggested check-in at T-5 Tue 31 Jan 2017 or after.
Minimum and reasonable connection and check-in times at LAX
See 20 May 2016 ExpertFlyer MCT listings here: Q. What are minimum check-in time requirements at LAX?
AA requires arriving a minimum of 45 minutes prior to domestic departures if departing domestically (including Hawai'i, Puerto Rico and the U. S. Virgin Islands) if one has no baggage to check; 60 minutes if one must check baggage; and two hours prior to international departures.
Additionally, AA requires passengers be checked in at least 45 minutes prior to scheduled departure at LAX and "Arrive at the gate and be ready to board at least 15 minutes prior to domestic departure" and 30 minutes prior to international departure. Gates close to boarding 10 minutes prior to departure.
Q. What is the domestic to domestic or domestic to international Minimum Connection Time (MCT)?
The minimum connect time at LAX, domestic to domestic or international, is 0:40 minutes. International to domestic or international MCT is 2:00, but as mentioned previously, this may be insufficient. Note: MCT is generally not waived for international passengers arriving from USCBP pre-clearance airports.
See AA domestic to international MCT from ExpertFlyer Nov 2016 c/o Serfty here.
Q. If I am making an international to international connection, what is the process?
There is no international transit process in nearly all airports in the USA (DFW and MIA have a baggage exception for international to international). Arriving internationally, unless you have been pre-cleared, you must proceed through U. S. immigration (there are kiosks and a fast channel for Global Entry approved passengers), recover your baggage from the baggage carousel and proceed through U. S. Customs.
Upon exiting Customs at TBIT there is a bag drop facility; drop your checked baggage, exit to the landside arrivals area. Pre-cleared passengers arriving at TBIT will bypass USCBP (but most airlines will enforce international to domestic MCT nonetheless).
ALL arrivals are forced landside (you may pass back through security at the TBIT end of the T-4 - TBIT connector) and Terminal 4 is a short walk to your right, Terminal 6 farther; one can board courtesy airport "A" busses and be dropped off very shortly at T-4 or T-5.
NOTE: Whilst most international Arrivals process immigration and customs at TBIT, some arriving at T-4 may walk a long underground passage and process formalities at TBIT. Others may process at T-4, but if you arrive with bags those will be available at TBIT.
There is no Arrivals Loinge for AA or oneworld customers at LAX.
Q. What is AA policy if I have separate tickets and my incoming flight is delayed?
Protection for oneworld world customers travelling on separate bookings:oneworld Global Support
Your oneworld connection is generally not officially protected, but the airline may help you and put you on the next available flight, and AA does generally protect oneworld connections at this time..
If your flights are on the same PNR:
See:oneworld not requiring protection or interline baggage 1 Jun 2016; AA policy
Q. Can I check my baggage through?
If you're connecting within the oneworld alliance or airlines with an interline agreement and your connection is under eleven hours, all segments on the same PNR, probably. If over that or with separate PNRs (even within oneworld) airlines without an interline agreements with AA or on separate tickets connecting with non-oneworld airlines, no.
See oneworld not requiring protection or interline baggage 1 Jun 2016; AA policy.
Q. Is there baggage storage at LAX?
No. Since 9/11 most USA airports have eliminated baggage storage, but you can use a baggage storage firm that will pick up, store and return your baggage. You do not have to pre-book, and they are open 24/7: http://www.laxluggagestorage.com. There are $5 pickup, $5 return and storage charges.
WiFi at LAX:
"Internet Access at Los Angeles LAX Airport. LAX Airport offers free internet access, with paid upgrades: Free Wi-Fi service for up to 44 minutes is available in most of the public areas of the Airport - provided by Advanced Wireless Group."
=================
Posts from 2015-2017 have been archived to ARCHIVE: 2015-2017 GUIDE: LAX / Los Angeles Int’l. Airport - MCT, Connection, etc.
NOTE: AA uses Terminals 4 and 5, the remote “Eagle’s Nest” and some gates at TBIT . International Arrivals in particular may use T4, TBIT (100s numbered gates), the remote arrival piers (200s) or the maintenance hangars (300s); in the latter cases, passengers will be bussed to T4 (domestic and some international) or TBIT (some international), as both have USCBP processing facilities.
Link to Los Angeles World Airports' LAX Airport website
NOTE: LAX is always undergoing changes; be aware the information herein may change. See here for LAWA notices affecting passengers.
Link LAWA / LAX FAQ page.
Link to aa.com
Link to 14 Feb 2017 post with AA-AA Minimum Times Times
NOTE: The Admirals Club® lounge and Flagship Lounge in Terminal 4 at Los Angeles International (LAX) have been renovated and include Flagship Dining for those in eligible three class First cabin.
Special notice
AA operate from multiple terminals at LAX. Check in at Terminal 5, east end (Gates 50-59, including Remote American Eagle terminal, gates 52A-J) or Terminal 4 (Gates 40-49, 110-159). (As of 31 Jan 2017)
NOTE: the 100s gates are at the Tom Bradley International Air Terminal (aka Terminal B), accessible to / from Terminal 4 by the airside connector if you are already airside and security cleared. The 200 gates are the remote piers served by bus, and the 300 “gates” are the maintenance hangars served by bus.
Check-in times as of March 2016 Link
In most locations, you must be checked in:
At least 45 minutes before scheduled departure, for flights within the United States
At least 60 minutes before scheduled departure, for flights to or from airports outside of the United States. Some non-US require more.
If you are checking in with baggage to check at T-4, not T-5, and flying American Eagle from the remote "Eagle's Nest" 52A-J gates (31 Jan 2017 and after), you must check in 90 minutes prior to departure.
LAYOUT: LAX is like a letter "U" on its side, open end facing right. The Tom Bradley International Terminal is the bar of the "U" facing left, on the west side. Terminals 1, 2 and 3 on the north and 4 - 8 on the south. Entering the semicircular, counter-clockwise roadway serving the terminals, you will pass terminals 1, 2, 3, TBIT, 4, 5, 6, etc. There is quite a bit of construction going on and the airport roadways can get quite congested.
MCT: Though international to International or Domestic Minimum Connect Times (MCT) are listed as 2:00, arriving at the remote western 200 pads and gates (served by busses from the terminals), connecting between T4, T6, Remote Eagle terminal and TBIT, not to mention lengthy USCBP queues and the need to proceed landslide to connecting terminals and processing security may make 2:00 unrealistic at times. MCT Domestic to Domestic or International is often 0:40, but this may be unrealistic if connecting American Eagle remote terminal 52A-J and a domestic flight at TBIT, for example.
Operating terminals and gates
Terminal 4: AA primarily uses Terminal 4, Gates 40-49 but now also uses Terminal 5 (50-59, 52A-I remote Eagle gates and TBIT (110-159). Flagship Checkin, Admirals Club and Flagship Lounge are all in T-4.
oneworld Business and Qantas First lounges in TBIT for qualified passengers. See LOUNGE DASHBOARD for further information - link.
Occasionally, the "200 gates" remote pads (bus from T-4) may be used. Terminal 4 and TBIT are connected airside by a new connector. Qualified travelers may use the TBIT oneworld Business or Qantas First lounges. See separate thread.
Terminal 5
AS OF Tue 31 Jan 2017: Legacy US flights operate from Terminal 5, gates 50 - 59. It is best to check in for American Eagle flights at T-5. Airside connection exists, as well as shuttles. Bus port at T-5 is at gate 52. American Eagle checked baggage is delivered to Terminal 5 baggage carousels; Eagle remote gates are now numbered 52A-J.
Terminal 6: Alaska Airlines flights operate from Terminal 6.
Legacy US flights operated from Terminal 6 until 31 Jan 2017; AA no longer operates out of Terminal 6.
American Eagle Remote Terminal "Eagle's Nest": Regional flights operate at a remote terminal served frequently by airside shuttle busses from bus gates 44 and 60. The remote American Eagle terminal gate numeration has changed: "May 16 2016 the remote gates at LAX formerly 44 A-J were renumbered to 60 A-J." There is a "junior" Admirals Club here. Preferred Eagle check in and baggage carousels are in T-5?
While you may check in at T-4 for American Eagle, those with baggage to check must do so no less than 90 minutes prior to departure. The preferred baggage check deadline is in place at T-5 for American Eagle.
Walking Interterminal - Landside
Note: You can walk airside between Terminal 4 and TBIT as of 25 Feb 2016. See LAX Terminal 4 - Tom Bradley Intl Terminal Secure Connector), and on to T-5 via a corridor (ground floor, by bus gate 44).
Terminals on the south side and TBIT are connected airside. A PDF guide is downloadable here.
One can also walk landside between terminals on upper or lower walkway sidewalks just outside the roadway. Lower walkways are protected from the weather, upper walkways are not. Distances can be short (T-4 <-> TBIT) or long (20 minutes or less in all cases, and there are crosswalks and walkways serving north and south terminals. See north - south blue corridors in Ground Transport map, above; walkways parallel them.
For access to the Tom Bradley International Terminal ("TBIT") one may also proceed landslide and walk a short distance, or take the counter clockwise landside courtesy airport shuttle bus.
Originally Posted by QueenOfCoach
Here is a graphic I made from a Google Earth Streetview screenshot that shows how close T4 is to TBIT. It's a two-minute walk. One minute if you are fast.
Airside - Shuttle Bus or Walking
Airside shuttle busses:
NO BUS T-4 <-> T-5 (faster to walk pedestrian tunnel)
T-4 <-> Remote Eagle terminal (most efficient and frequent)
T-5 <-> Remote Eagle terminal (more frequent than from / to T-4)
Terminals 4 and 5: A courtesy shuttle bus operates airside between Terminal 4, ex-gate 44 bus gate, and Terminal 6 gate 60-62 through Mon 30 Jan 2017 - afterwards, Terminal gate 52, every fifteen minutes between 05:00 and 23:00; ongoing boarding pass required. At other times one either take the airside corridor T-5 Tue 31 Jan and after <-> T-4 or exit landslide and walk or take the counter-clockwise landslide courtesy shuttle bus.
American Eagle Remote Terminal: A courtesy shuttle bus serves the American Eagle remote terminal from Terminal 5, gate 52. Note: American Eagle checked baggage is delivered to Terminal 5 baggage carousels. Another shuttle runs from Terminal 4, gate 44 bus gate. A boarding pass to Gate 52A-I is required. This is the sole way of reaching these gates (other than Five Star Service passengers, who are shuttled via the Tarmac in Cadillac SUVs).
Terminal 4 - TBIT: The new pedestrian airside connector opened 25 Feb 2015. Qantas and AA passengers departing the TBIT can check in at Terminal 4, process airside, use Admirals or Flagship lounges T-4 <-> TBIT shuttles apparently ended when the airside connector open 25 Feb 2016[/hl].
Walk Terminals 4 and 5: One can walk airside using the Terminal 4 - 5 - 6 connector.
Walk Terminal 4 - TBIT airside connector: An airside connector leading to TBIT is open effective 25 Feb 2016. See here (FT) for more.
Getting from terminal to terminal, concourse to concourse, landside
Landside courtesy airport shuttle bus
- "A" line buses: Transports passengers between terminals. "A" route operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and runs every 10 minutes (counter clockwise)
- "C" line buses: Transports passengers to and from Parking Lot C. Travelers can walk to the LAX City Bus Center from Lot C. "C" route operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and runs every 10 to 15 minutes.
- "G" line busses: Transports passengers with a valid TAP card to and from the Metro Green Line Aviation Station. Service is aligned with the rail schedule. To view, please go to www.metro.net . Click here for Green line Boarding Procedures (PDF document). TAP card is not required when taking the G Bus from LAX to the Aviation Metro Station.
- Use this link for a real time map display of shuttle bus locations and movements.
- Rental car company busses: transport passengers between terminals and car rental facilities.
Ground Transportation stops and pickups at LAX
NOTE: Rental, hotel shuttle, Über, etc. stops are in front of each terminal on the arrivals / lower level at the island crossing the first lanes of traffic.Security at LAX
Link to FlyerGuide information on LAX T-4 Security.
TSA PreCheck: Yes (Terminal 4 upstairs, east; Terminal 5?)
Priority Access line in a Terminal 4 is accessed from the escalator on the left end (looking at the counters) of the terminal (furthest from TBIT, closest to terminal 5), next to the Priority Access check-in area. Often there is an AA worker at the bottom of the escalator making sure only Priority Access passengers go up this escalator. The First, Business and Priority Access lines now have their own screening room far from the economy area. This private room has multiple screening lines and during peak periods additional lines are opened up.
Security for (TBIT) international arrivals proceeding to Terminal 4 is open as of February 2017. When exiting TBIT customs and baggage recheck area, turn right immediately after the exit and proceed down the hallway to the checkpoint. No Pre-Check.
Check-in and ticketing at LAX and check in times Link
Flagship Check-in: YES Marked exclusive T-4 Flagship check-in entrance 4:00 a.m. – 1:00 a.m.
Five Star Service: YES
Priority and Preferred Access: YES
Curbside check-in: Yes. Terminal 4 only, including for international destinations.
To help us get your bag on the same flight with you, present your bag to an airline representative for check-in no later than the cutoff time.
For flights within and between the U.S., Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands:
- Check bags at least 45 minutes prior to scheduled departure at LAX
- Check bags at least 60 minutes prior to scheduled departure (90’ if checking for Eagle at T-4 instead of T-5)
Ticket counter locations
Terminal 4: upon entry, Qantas to right; First and Priority Access to left; Main Cabin straight ahead.
Self-service check-in kiosks available.
Open Daily: 04:00 - 00:30 (4 am to midnight + 30)
Terminal 5, east side: OPEN Tue 31 Jan 2017
Open Daily: 4:30 AM - 12:30 AM
Terminal 6: CLOSE Tue 31 Jan 2017
Open Daily: 4:30 AM - 12:30 AM
If departing on American Eagle, suggested check-in at T-5 Tue 31 Jan 2017 or after.
Minimum and reasonable connection and check-in times at LAX
See 20 May 2016 ExpertFlyer MCT listings here: Q. What are minimum check-in time requirements at LAX?
AA requires arriving a minimum of 45 minutes prior to domestic departures if departing domestically (including Hawai'i, Puerto Rico and the U. S. Virgin Islands) if one has no baggage to check; 60 minutes if one must check baggage; and two hours prior to international departures.
Additionally, AA requires passengers be checked in at least 45 minutes prior to scheduled departure at LAX and "Arrive at the gate and be ready to board at least 15 minutes prior to domestic departure" and 30 minutes prior to international departure. Gates close to boarding 10 minutes prior to departure.
Q. What is the domestic to domestic or domestic to international Minimum Connection Time (MCT)?
The minimum connect time at LAX, domestic to domestic or international, is 0:40 minutes. International to domestic or international MCT is 2:00, but as mentioned previously, this may be insufficient. Note: MCT is generally not waived for international passengers arriving from USCBP pre-clearance airports.
See AA domestic to international MCT from ExpertFlyer Nov 2016 c/o Serfty here.
Q. If I am making an international to international connection, what is the process?
There is no international transit process in nearly all airports in the USA (DFW and MIA have a baggage exception for international to international). Arriving internationally, unless you have been pre-cleared, you must proceed through U. S. immigration (there are kiosks and a fast channel for Global Entry approved passengers), recover your baggage from the baggage carousel and proceed through U. S. Customs.
Upon exiting Customs at TBIT there is a bag drop facility; drop your checked baggage, exit to the landside arrivals area. Pre-cleared passengers arriving at TBIT will bypass USCBP (but most airlines will enforce international to domestic MCT nonetheless).
ALL arrivals are forced landside (you may pass back through security at the TBIT end of the T-4 - TBIT connector) and Terminal 4 is a short walk to your right, Terminal 6 farther; one can board courtesy airport "A" busses and be dropped off very shortly at T-4 or T-5.
NOTE: Whilst most international Arrivals process immigration and customs at TBIT, some arriving at T-4 may walk a long underground passage and process formalities at TBIT. Others may process at T-4, but if you arrive with bags those will be available at TBIT.
There is no Arrivals Loinge for AA or oneworld customers at LAX.
Q. What is AA policy if I have separate tickets and my incoming flight is delayed?
Protection for oneworld world customers travelling on separate bookings:oneworld Global Support
Your oneworld connection is generally not officially protected, but the airline may help you and put you on the next available flight, and AA does generally protect oneworld connections at this time..
If your flights are on the same PNR:
Connecting between airlines at unfamiliar airports can be a stressful experience, especially if your flight is delayed. American Airlines recognizes the impact delays and missed connections can have on your plans and on your life. That is why we partnered with the other oneworld member airlines to form teams of connection experts: oneworld Global Support.
At select airports across the oneworld alliance network, teams are proactively monitoring connecting flights and, whenever possible, they will meet and assist you if your connection is in jeopardy. The oneworld Global Support teams will do their best to allow you to use dedicated fast track lanes through immigration or security to help you catch your next flight. Our teams will also do everything possible to transfer your baggage so that it makes it on time to your final destination.
If you miss your connecting flight, the oneworld Global Support team will provide you with updated travel information, a new boarding pass and, where applicable, assistance with overnight accommodations.
oneworld Global Support is currently available at Chicago O'Hare, Dallas/Fort Worth, London Heathrow, Los Angeles, Madrid-Barajas, Miami, New York JFK and Sydney. The service is offered at these airports whenever possible, subject to operational constraints.
At select airports across the oneworld alliance network, teams are proactively monitoring connecting flights and, whenever possible, they will meet and assist you if your connection is in jeopardy. The oneworld Global Support teams will do their best to allow you to use dedicated fast track lanes through immigration or security to help you catch your next flight. Our teams will also do everything possible to transfer your baggage so that it makes it on time to your final destination.
If you miss your connecting flight, the oneworld Global Support team will provide you with updated travel information, a new boarding pass and, where applicable, assistance with overnight accommodations.
oneworld Global Support is currently available at Chicago O'Hare, Dallas/Fort Worth, London Heathrow, Los Angeles, Madrid-Barajas, Miami, New York JFK and Sydney. The service is offered at these airports whenever possible, subject to operational constraints.
Q. Can I check my baggage through?
If you're connecting within the oneworld alliance or airlines with an interline agreement and your connection is under eleven hours, all segments on the same PNR, probably. If over that or with separate PNRs (even within oneworld) airlines without an interline agreements with AA or on separate tickets connecting with non-oneworld airlines, no.
See oneworld not requiring protection or interline baggage 1 Jun 2016; AA policy.
Q. Is there baggage storage at LAX?
No. Since 9/11 most USA airports have eliminated baggage storage, but you can use a baggage storage firm that will pick up, store and return your baggage. You do not have to pre-book, and they are open 24/7: http://www.laxluggagestorage.com. There are $5 pickup, $5 return and storage charges.
WiFi at LAX:
"Internet Access at Los Angeles LAX Airport. LAX Airport offers free internet access, with paid upgrades: Free Wi-Fi service for up to 44 minutes is available in most of the public areas of the Airport - provided by Advanced Wireless Group."
=================
Other resources
- Link to AA FAQ: Will I make my connection?
GUIDE: LAX / Los Angeles International Airport - MCT, Connection, etc.
Jun 7, 2022, 12:39 pm
#526
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: Los Angeles
Programs: AA LT Gold
Posts: 3,645
Yes and No.
If you check your bag and have no carry-on to wait for, you will be first to get out of the plane and first on the line to the bus to T4.
The bus ride can take as little as 10 mins. Walk to to TBIT gate from T4 about 10-15 mins.
So in theory you can be at TBIT in 25 minutes, enough to make your connection.
The problem with checking a bag is that you may make it but your bag might not and then you have to file a claim at FCO and get your bag next day at your hotel possibly in the afternoon.
Most likely your bag will arrive with you at FCO but prepare accordingly just in case (pack essentials in your backpack/personal item)
If you check your bag and have no carry-on to wait for, you will be first to get out of the plane and first on the line to the bus to T4.
The bus ride can take as little as 10 mins. Walk to to TBIT gate from T4 about 10-15 mins.
So in theory you can be at TBIT in 25 minutes, enough to make your connection.
The problem with checking a bag is that you may make it but your bag might not and then you have to file a claim at FCO and get your bag next day at your hotel possibly in the afternoon.
Most likely your bag will arrive with you at FCO but prepare accordingly just in case (pack essentials in your backpack/personal item)
Last edited by carlosdca; Jun 7, 2022 at 12:44 pm
Jun 7, 2022, 12:49 pm
#527
Join Date: Jun 2022
Posts: 12
Thank you again for all the advice on this topic. It's really appreciated.
Jun 7, 2022, 1:50 pm
#528
Join Date: Mar 2010
Location: LAX
Programs: AA Plat, DL, AS, UA, IHG Plat
Posts: 2,406
Would an ideal approach be to bring a duffel bag that will fit in the overhead bin along with a backpack/personal item? That way I can avoid valet check AND checked bag issues? How likely are they to make me valet check a duffel bag that fits into the overhead if I also have a personal item that goes under the seat in front?
Thank you again for all the advice on this topic. It's really appreciated.
Thank you again for all the advice on this topic. It's really appreciated.
Just buy all your clothes and a suitcase in Rome
That being said - since you are flying business, you will be in the front cabin of the E170 from SJC to LAX. It's likely they won't ask you to gate check. A normal roll aboard will fit in the E170 overhead bin. Only the bigger roll aboard suit case may have trouble sliding in.
Jun 7, 2022, 3:15 pm
#529
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: Los Angeles
Programs: AA LT Gold
Posts: 3,645
Would an ideal approach be to bring a duffel bag that will fit in the overhead bin along with a backpack/personal item? That way I can avoid valet check AND checked bag issues? How likely are they to make me valet check a duffel bag that fits into the overhead if I also have a personal item that goes under the seat in front?
Thank you again for all the advice on this topic. It's really appreciated.
Thank you again for all the advice on this topic. It's really appreciated.
A medium sized duffel bag won't get a lot of attention.
Jun 7, 2022, 5:17 pm
#530
Join Date: Aug 2004
Programs: AA (EP), Hilton (Diamond), Marriott Bonvoy (Titanium)
Posts: 8,937
I found a great deal on an I class ticket for a trip this summer starting in SJC and ending in FCO. I noticed a pretty short connection time (40 minutes) in LAX but figured (stupidly) that flying in/out on AA would mean a relatively short walk between gates. I'm now a few days later (too late for a full refund) and realizing that my SJC -> LAX flight 3287 is actually an American Eagle flight and will arrive at the remote terminal. Combine that with the need to make it over to TBIT for flight 134 to LHR, I'm now wondering if there is even ANY chance of making this connection. I don't see how an MCT of 40 minutes between the remote terminal and TBIT is even possible. Really worried about how this is going to play out.
I attempted to "Change Trip" from the "Manage Booking" page of my trip on AA.com but it tells me "Call to change this trip. This trip can't be changed online." A little bit of research shows this is the only direct flight between SJC and LAX. Other options include routing through PHX. Would I even be able to (with paying fees and fare differences) change my first flight to route through PHX to give myself a more realistic connection time? I called the reservations number but it was estimated a 3 hour wait so I'm going to try another day earlier in the day.
Does anyone have any advice for me? Is there any chance at all that I could make a 40 minute connection between the remote terminal and TBIT?
I attempted to "Change Trip" from the "Manage Booking" page of my trip on AA.com but it tells me "Call to change this trip. This trip can't be changed online." A little bit of research shows this is the only direct flight between SJC and LAX. Other options include routing through PHX. Would I even be able to (with paying fees and fare differences) change my first flight to route through PHX to give myself a more realistic connection time? I called the reservations number but it was estimated a 3 hour wait so I'm going to try another day earlier in the day.
Does anyone have any advice for me? Is there any chance at all that I could make a 40 minute connection between the remote terminal and TBIT?
If your trip is still a few months off, there's a good chance there will be schedule changes on one or more of your flights. AA probably will not notify you, so my advice is to get an Expert Flyer subscription if you don't already have one and set Schedule Change alerts on all of your flights. Even if the schedule change doesn't affect your LAX connection, it does make it easier to an agent to adjust your flights.
A 40-minute connection is doable if everything goes well, but there's lots that could add delay. You need to be at your departure gate at least 15 minutes before departure (up from 10), so that's 25 minutes in reality. That's cutting it close. You could try to change your SJC-LAX flight to a connection or change AA 136 to AA 6983 (the AA code on the BA flight three hours later) and adjust your LHR-FCO flight or you could just fly it as booked since if you miss your connection AA will put you on alternate flights.
If you want to try and change flights, I'd suggest either calling or sending a Twitter DM around 8:00 AM CDT. Say that didn't realize when you booked it that the LAX connection required taking a bus from the Eagle's Nest and you are worried about the tight connection. Ask for the specific alternate flights you want (be sure there is the same inventory).
If you decide to fly it as booked and still have the 40-minute LAX connection, use EF to monitor inventory and equipment on later flights out of LAX, such as BA 268 (the BA prime flight that AA 6983 is a codeshare of). As long as there are still seats for sale in any business class inventory, AA can put you on it if you miss AA 134. I'd monitor the equipment as well. If it's 1-2-1 in business class, it's BA's new Club Suite, which is nicer than AA J. if it's 2-4-2, it's BA's dreadful old Club World. I'd try and get a different routing then.
Jun 8, 2022, 11:04 am
#531
Join Date: Jun 2022
Posts: 12
With all the airline disruptions in the UK right now, I'm not feeling great about an LAX -> LHR -> FCO itinerary and am starting to lean towards canceling and taking the credit for use later in the year. Everything that I'm reading is that traveling in Europe this August is going to be a nightmare. Missing my LAX -> LHR and getting rebooked to go through DFW or CLT might end up a blessing in disguise.
The person on the phone when I called AA reservations told me canceling would give me a credit (for the full amount of purchase price) good for 12 months from the ticket purchase date. Does that line up with people's experience canceling flights on AA?
Thanks again for everyone's help and advice figuring out how to proceed. It's very appreciated.
Last edited by giodeez; Jun 8, 2022 at 11:49 am
Jun 8, 2022, 11:14 am
#532
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: Los Angeles
Programs: AA LT Gold
Posts: 3,645
I think the "we waived change fees" is kind of a scam. When I called AA reservations to try to change my 90 minute SJC -> LAX flight they told me that changing to ANY other flight (we found multiple better options from SJC and SFO) would cost me over $6000. I'm don't understand how that's possible because I can book an entire new J class ticket for less than $6000. The person on the phone couldn't offer any explanation as to why it would cost me $6000 to change the shortest flight of 6 flights on a $2400 round trip ticket.
With all the airline disruptions in the UK right now, I'm not feeling great about an LAX -> LHR -> FCO itinerary and am starting to lean towards canceling and taking the credit for use later in the year. Everything that I'm reading is that traveling in Europe this August is going to be a nightmare. Missing my LAX -> LHR and getting rebooked to go through DFW or CLT might end up a blessing in disguise.
The person on the phone when I called AA reservations told me canceling would give me a credit (for the full amount of purchase price) good for 12 months from the ticket purchase date. Does that line up with people's experience canceling flights on AA?
Thanks again for everyone's help and advice figuring out how to proceed. It's very appreciated.
With all the airline disruptions in the UK right now, I'm not feeling great about an LAX -> LHR -> FCO itinerary and am starting to lean towards canceling and taking the credit for use later in the year. Everything that I'm reading is that traveling in Europe this August is going to be a nightmare. Missing my LAX -> LHR and getting rebooked to go through DFW or CLT might end up a blessing in disguise.
The person on the phone when I called AA reservations told me canceling would give me a credit (for the full amount of purchase price) good for 12 months from the ticket purchase date. Does that line up with people's experience canceling flights on AA?
Thanks again for everyone's help and advice figuring out how to proceed. It's very appreciated.
I would just risk it and keep in mind all the advice and suggestions already discussed here in case something goes wrong.
Good luck and let us know how it all ends up.
Jun 8, 2022, 11:49 am
#533
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: RDU <|> MMX
Programs: AA EXP 2MM, SK EBS
Posts: 12,466
I think the "we waived change fees" is kind of a scam. When I called AA reservations to try to change my 90 minute SJC -> LAX flight they told me that changing to ANY other flight (we found multiple better options from SJC and SFO) would cost me over $6000. I'm don't understand how that's possible because I can book an entire new J class ticket for less than $6000. The person on the phone couldn't offer any explanation as to why it would cost me $6000 to change the shortest flight of 6 flights on a $2400 round trip ticket.
With all the airline disruptions in the UK right now, I'm not feeling great about an LAX -> LHR -> FCO itinerary and am starting to lean towards canceling and taking the credit for use later in the year. Everything that I'm reading is that traveling in Europe this August is going to be a nightmare. Missing my LAX -> LHR and getting rebooked to go through DFW or CLT might end up a blessing in disguise.
The person on the phone when I called AA reservations told me canceling would give me a credit (for the full amount of purchase price) good for 12 months from the ticket purchase date. Does that line up with people's experience canceling flights on AA?
With all the airline disruptions in the UK right now, I'm not feeling great about an LAX -> LHR -> FCO itinerary and am starting to lean towards canceling and taking the credit for use later in the year. Everything that I'm reading is that traveling in Europe this August is going to be a nightmare. Missing my LAX -> LHR and getting rebooked to go through DFW or CLT might end up a blessing in disguise.
The person on the phone when I called AA reservations told me canceling would give me a credit (for the full amount of purchase price) good for 12 months from the ticket purchase date. Does that line up with people's experience canceling flights on AA?
If you want to change that now everything will be repriced subject to whatever the current fare is for a SJC-FCO business roundtrip on those specific flights. Doesn't matter that you're only changing the short domestic segment. If you search Google Flights and force those specific connections on your dates I'm guessing a new business class ticket would be ~$8400, hence the $6k AA wanted to change it. That is expensive but not unexpectedly so given the shorter advance purchase and oddball forced connection through PHX.
I really think you're overthinking and over worrying here. I just flew through Europe this week, most of the issues are with departures security (not transit); Departures was bad at AMS and CPH but I absolutely breezed through LHR yesterday morning. I would never cancel an entire awesome business class trip for the sole reason of having to arrive at Rome airport an hour earlier than you otherwise would.
Jun 8, 2022, 12:21 pm
#534
Join Date: Jun 2022
Posts: 12
This part is easy to understand. AA is not trying to scam you. Your original fare of $2400 is fantastic for a business roundtrip departing the US to Europe. I'm guessing you booked it many months ago.
If you want to change that now everything will be repriced subject to whatever the current fare is for a SJC-FCO business roundtrip on those specific flights. Doesn't matter that you're only changing the short domestic segment. If you search Google Flights and force those specific connections on your dates I'm guessing a new business class ticket would be ~$8400, hence the $6k AA wanted to change it. That is expensive but not unexpectedly so given the shorter advance purchase and oddball forced connection through PHX.
I really think you're overthinking and over worrying here. I just flew through Europe this week, most of the issues are with departures security (not transit); Departures was bad at AMS and CPH but I absolutely breezed through LHR yesterday morning. I would never cancel an entire awesome business class trip for the sole reason of having to arrive at Rome airport an hour earlier than you otherwise would.
If you want to change that now everything will be repriced subject to whatever the current fare is for a SJC-FCO business roundtrip on those specific flights. Doesn't matter that you're only changing the short domestic segment. If you search Google Flights and force those specific connections on your dates I'm guessing a new business class ticket would be ~$8400, hence the $6k AA wanted to change it. That is expensive but not unexpectedly so given the shorter advance purchase and oddball forced connection through PHX.
I really think you're overthinking and over worrying here. I just flew through Europe this week, most of the issues are with departures security (not transit); Departures was bad at AMS and CPH but I absolutely breezed through LHR yesterday morning. I would never cancel an entire awesome business class trip for the sole reason of having to arrive at Rome airport an hour earlier than you otherwise would.
What is most peculiar/suspicious about the $6000 cost to change the tickets is that the person on the phone told me that it was that much to change it to any of the 4 different first leg alternatives we were looking at. There are so many better options for less than $8400 which is why i'm considering canceling and rebooking.
Thanks for sharing your personal experience with transit in Europe. Hard to tell what is sensationalized for media and what it's like on the ground. My step mother has been stuck in AMS for a few days and is now looking at flying through Switzerland to get back home in Naples.
Update: I just checked and you can STILL buy my exact itinerary for exactly the $2400 price I paid for it 6 days ago. Why changing a single flight raises the price $6000 remains a mystery.
Last edited by giodeez; Jun 8, 2022 at 12:46 pm
Jun 8, 2022, 1:02 pm
#535
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: RDU <|> MMX
Programs: AA EXP 2MM, SK EBS
Posts: 12,466
I bought this ticket 6 days ago.
What is most peculiar/suspicious about the $6000 cost to change the tickets is that the person on the phone told me that it was that much to change it to any of the 4 different first leg alternatives we were looking at. There are so many better options for less than $8400 which is why i'm considering canceling and rebooking.
Thanks for sharing your personal experience with transit in Europe. Hard to tell what is sensationalized for media and what it's like on the ground. My step mother has been stuck in AMS for a few days and is now looking at flying through Switzerland to get back home in Naples.
Update: I just checked and you can STILL buy my exact itinerary for exactly the $2400 price I paid for it 6 days ago. Why changing a single flight raises the price $6000 remains a mystery.
What is most peculiar/suspicious about the $6000 cost to change the tickets is that the person on the phone told me that it was that much to change it to any of the 4 different first leg alternatives we were looking at. There are so many better options for less than $8400 which is why i'm considering canceling and rebooking.
Thanks for sharing your personal experience with transit in Europe. Hard to tell what is sensationalized for media and what it's like on the ground. My step mother has been stuck in AMS for a few days and is now looking at flying through Switzerland to get back home in Naples.
Update: I just checked and you can STILL buy my exact itinerary for exactly the $2400 price I paid for it 6 days ago. Why changing a single flight raises the price $6000 remains a mystery.
But in any event, yes, if there are better routings still available today for that $2400 then it should be an easy switch. But do the homework beforehand to know exactly what any new routing should cost on your dates rather than relying on the agent.
Jun 8, 2022, 1:11 pm
#536
Join Date: Jun 2022
Posts: 12
Jun 8, 2022, 1:52 pm
#537
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: RDU <|> MMX
Programs: AA EXP 2MM, SK EBS
Posts: 12,466
Aug 11, 2022, 9:25 am
#538
Join Date: May 2019
Programs: BA Gold, Amex UK Plat
Posts: 87
Hi folks
I'm looking for some advice / reassurance (or otherwise) about an upcoming connection I have at at LAX - hopefully the correct thread for this query, apologies if not.
I am arriving on BA283 from LHR at 13:00 and connecting to AA2475 to LAS at 15:06.
This gives me 2:06 to make the connection and I will have checked baggage and will only be travelling on an ESTA (no global entry or anything like that).
I appreciate that the MCT is 2:00 so am I right to be concerned about making this connection?
For a bit of background I was originally booked on a flight departing to LAS at 17:00, which was cancelled - so I did originally allow plenty of time.
The last AA flight to LAS from LAX on that day is now the 15:06 that I am booked on - although there is an Alaska Airlines flight at 19:10. Surprisingly, there are no other AA flights even with a connection which would get us to LAS on the same day.
How likely do you think it is that I will make the connection (even if the BA flight arrives on time)? And if I do misconnect, how likely is it that I will have a night in Los Angeles vs being booked on to the Alaska flight (or an airline outside of Oneworld - if they would even do this)?
Thanks in advance
I'm looking for some advice / reassurance (or otherwise) about an upcoming connection I have at at LAX - hopefully the correct thread for this query, apologies if not.
I am arriving on BA283 from LHR at 13:00 and connecting to AA2475 to LAS at 15:06.
This gives me 2:06 to make the connection and I will have checked baggage and will only be travelling on an ESTA (no global entry or anything like that).
I appreciate that the MCT is 2:00 so am I right to be concerned about making this connection?
For a bit of background I was originally booked on a flight departing to LAS at 17:00, which was cancelled - so I did originally allow plenty of time.
The last AA flight to LAS from LAX on that day is now the 15:06 that I am booked on - although there is an Alaska Airlines flight at 19:10. Surprisingly, there are no other AA flights even with a connection which would get us to LAS on the same day.
How likely do you think it is that I will make the connection (even if the BA flight arrives on time)? And if I do misconnect, how likely is it that I will have a night in Los Angeles vs being booked on to the Alaska flight (or an airline outside of Oneworld - if they would even do this)?
Thanks in advance
Last edited by Papa.Lima.Echo; Aug 11, 2022 at 9:27 am Reason: edit for clarity
Aug 11, 2022, 9:57 am
#539
Moderator: Travel Safety/Security, Travel Tools, California, Los Angeles; FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: LAX
Programs: oneword Emerald
Posts: 20,630
Aug 11, 2022, 10:02 am
#540
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: Los Angeles
Programs: AA LT Gold
Posts: 3,645
Hi folks
I'm looking for some advice / reassurance (or otherwise) about an upcoming connection I have at at LAX - hopefully the correct thread for this query, apologies if not.
I am arriving on BA283 from LHR at 13:00 and connecting to AA2475 to LAS at 15:06.
This gives me 2:06 to make the connection and I will have checked baggage and will only be travelling on an ESTA (no global entry or anything like that).
I appreciate that the MCT is 2:00 so am I right to be concerned about making this connection?
For a bit of background I was originally booked on a flight departing to LAS at 17:00, which was cancelled - so I did originally allow plenty of time.
The last AA flight to LAS from LAX on that day is now the 15:06 that I am booked on - although there is an Alaska Airlines flight at 19:10. Surprisingly, there are no other AA flights even with a connection which would get us to LAS on the same day.
How likely do you think it is that I will make the connection (even if the BA flight arrives on time)? And if I do misconnect, how likely is it that I will have a night in Los Angeles vs being booked on to the Alaska flight (or an airline outside of Oneworld - if they would even do this)?
Thanks in advance
I'm looking for some advice / reassurance (or otherwise) about an upcoming connection I have at at LAX - hopefully the correct thread for this query, apologies if not.
I am arriving on BA283 from LHR at 13:00 and connecting to AA2475 to LAS at 15:06.
This gives me 2:06 to make the connection and I will have checked baggage and will only be travelling on an ESTA (no global entry or anything like that).
I appreciate that the MCT is 2:00 so am I right to be concerned about making this connection?
For a bit of background I was originally booked on a flight departing to LAS at 17:00, which was cancelled - so I did originally allow plenty of time.
The last AA flight to LAS from LAX on that day is now the 15:06 that I am booked on - although there is an Alaska Airlines flight at 19:10. Surprisingly, there are no other AA flights even with a connection which would get us to LAS on the same day.
How likely do you think it is that I will make the connection (even if the BA flight arrives on time)? And if I do misconnect, how likely is it that I will have a night in Los Angeles vs being booked on to the Alaska flight (or an airline outside of Oneworld - if they would even do this)?
Thanks in advance
2hrs is tight but very doable. The bottle neck can be immigration and waiting for your bag. The walk to T4 or T5 is 10-15mins.
You can save a lot of time if you don't check a bag and travel with carry on only.