LAX 720x360I love LAX except for the traffic, which has been getting worse. I know the airport is going to be one of the best anywhere when its $14 billion modernization project is complete, but that’s years away. For now it’s best to know the construction schedule so you can plan your travels or pick-ups better.

The Los Angeles Times just featured a story titled “LAX construction was on hold for the holidays. Now it resumes, with new road closures, shuttle route changes,” which is very helpful. For example, for LAX’s Terminal 1:

“Upgrading the terminal that houses Southwest Airlines means that part of the upper level (departures) road lanes are closed through March, a news release says. Further, the entire lane closes between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. weeknights too.

This may cause a big backup because it’s the first terminal as you enter LAX. The fix: Use the lower level (arrivals) to drop off passengers who can then take an escalator or elevator up to the ticket counters and gates.

The pedestrian bridge connecting Parking Structure 1 with the terminal is closed too; there are signs to direct you how to get to the terminal.”

The article goes on to list info for each LAX terminal, which you can read in full here. The moral of the tip? Be prepared to show up early at LAX or risk missing your flight. I made the mistake recently when picking up my in-laws and even at midnight it took me over 30 minutes to go around the upper level. Next time, I’ll have them take an Uber, Lyft or taxi to our house.

Related:

 

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2 Comments On "Know the LAX Construction Schedule or Risk Being Late"
  1. William Chinn|

    Are you aware of a map of LAX that shows where the escalator(s) from Arrivals to Departures are for ALL terminals. Are there entrances to access TSA that are not standard when leaving the check-in counter? I have used some of the handicap access paths that has saved me lots of hassle.

    1. Johnny Jet|

      Hi William

      I’m not familiar with a map but I do know each terminal has escalators and elevators to/from baggage/gates.

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