LAX Airport Live Cam

The largest and busiest international airport on the U.S. West Coast


Live Webcam LAX Airport, Los Angeles, California - United States

LAX Airport History

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is one of the largest and busiest airports in the United States, serving over 84 million passengers annually. Its history dates back to the 1920s when a group of Los Angeles city officials recognized the need for an airport to serve the growing city.

In 1928, the city purchased a 640-acre site in the coastal community of Westchester, about 16 miles southwest of downtown Los Angeles, and construction of the airport began. Originally named Mines Field after the real estate agent who brokered the deal, the airport was dedicated on December 1, 1930.

During World War II, Mines Field was used as a military base and underwent significant expansion to accommodate military aircraft. After the war, the airport reverted to civilian use and experienced rapid growth during the 1950s and 1960s.

In the 1980s and 1990s, LAX underwent a series of major renovations and upgrades, including the construction of a new international terminal and the modernization of existing terminals. In 2013, the Tom Bradley International Terminal was renovated and expanded, adding more gates, dining and retail options, and other amenities.

Throughout its history, LAX has been the site of several high-profile incidents, including the 2002 shooting at the El Al ticket counter and the 2013 attack on TSA officers at Terminal 3. In recent years, LAX has implemented a number of security measures to ensure the safety of passengers and airport personnel.

Today, LAX is a major hub for several airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines, and offers nonstop flights to destinations all over the world.

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is located in the Westchester neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, about 16 miles (26 km) southwest of downtown Los Angeles. The airport covers an area of approximately 3,500 acres (14.2 sq km) and has four parallel runways, which are designated as 6L/24R, 6R/24L, 7L/25R, and 7R/25L.

The airport has nine passenger terminals, which are arranged in a U-shape. Terminals 1-8 are located on the lower level, while the Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) is located on the upper level. Terminal 9 is a remote terminal that is accessible by bus.

The airport is served by several major highways, including the 405 Freeway, the 105 Freeway, and the Pacific Coast Highway. There are also several public transportation options available, including the LAX FlyAway bus service, which provides non-stop transportation to and from the airport, as well as several bus and rail lines operated by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro).

LAX is situated near several popular tourist destinations, including the beaches of Santa Monica and Venice, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and Universal Studios Hollywood.

Here are some historical facts about Los Angeles International Airport (LAX):

  • The airport was originally named Mines Field after the real estate agent who brokered the land deal in 1928. It was later renamed Los Angeles Municipal Airport in 1937, and then Los Angeles International Airport in 1949.
  • During World War II, LAX was used as a military base and underwent significant expansion to accommodate military aircraft.
  • In 1961, LAX became the first airport in the world to install a fully-automated baggage handling system.
  • The iconic Theme Building, which resembles a flying saucer, was built in 1961 and served as the airport's restaurant and observation deck until it closed in 2013 for renovation. It reopened in 2018 as a lounge and event space.
  • In 1972, LAX became the first airport in the United States to establish a central computer-based ground control system for air traffic control.
  • In 1984, the Summer Olympics were held in Los Angeles, and LAX served as the primary airport for the athletes and spectators.
  • LAX has been the site of several high-profile incidents, including the 2002 shooting at the El Al ticket counter and the 2013 attack on TSA officers at Terminal 3.
  • The Tom Bradley International Terminal, named after the former mayor of Los Angeles, was renovated and expanded in 2013, adding more gates, dining and retail options, and other amenities.
  • In 2020, LAX implemented new measures to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, including enhanced cleaning and sanitization protocols, mandatory face coverings for passengers and employees, and physical distancing measures.

The neighborhood surrounding Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is known as Westchester. Westchester is a residential community located in the southwestern part of the city of Los Angeles, California. It is bordered by the city of El Segundo to the south, Playa del Rey to the west, Marina del Rey and Playa Vista to the north, and Inglewood to the east.

Westchester is a diverse neighborhood that includes both single-family homes and apartment buildings. It is home to Loyola Marymount University, a private university with over 9,000 students, as well as the Otis College of Art and Design, a private art and design college.

Westchester is also known for its parks and recreational areas, including Westchester Park, which features a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a baseball field, and the Westchester Golf Course, which is open to the public.

In recent years, Westchester has undergone significant development, with new retail and commercial spaces, as well as several new residential developments. The area has become a popular destination for tech companies, with several firms locating their offices in nearby Playa Vista.

The Airport is accessible by several modes of transportation, including:

  • Car: LAX is located near several major highways, including the 405 Freeway and the 105 Freeway. There are several parking options available at the airport, including on-site parking at the Central Terminal Area and remote parking at the Economy Lot.
  • Public transportation: LAX is served by several public transportation options, including the LAX FlyAway bus service, which provides non-stop transportation to and from the airport from various locations throughout the Los Angeles area. Additionally, several bus and rail lines operated by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) provide service to the airport.
  • Taxis and rideshare: Taxis and rideshare services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available at LAX. There are designated pick-up and drop-off areas for these services at each terminal.
  • Rental cars: Several rental car companies have locations at LAX, and a free shuttle service is provided to transport passengers to and from the rental car facility.
  • Private transportation: Private transportation companies, such as limousine and town car services, are also available at LAX.

It's worth noting that traffic around LAX can be heavy, especially during peak travel times, so it's recommended to plan ahead and allow plenty of time to get to the airport.

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is one of the busiest airports in the United States and is an important economic and social hub for the Los Angeles metropolitan area and the broader Southern California region. Here are some key points about LAX's economic and social impact:

  • Economic impact: LAX generates significant economic activity and jobs for the region. According to a 2021 study by the Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation, LAX is responsible for over 620,000 jobs and generates nearly $96 billion in economic output each year. The airport is also a major contributor to the region's tourism industry, supporting hotels, restaurants, and other businesses.
  • Cargo hub: LAX is also a major cargo hub, handling over 2 million tons of cargo each year, making it the fourth-busiest airport in the world for cargo traffic. The airport is a critical gateway for imports and exports, especially for goods originating in Asia.
  • Social impact: LAX plays a vital role in connecting people and communities across the globe. In 2019, over 88 million passengers traveled through LAX, making it the second-busiest airport in the United States. The airport is a key gateway for visitors to Southern California, including tourists, business travelers, and international students.
  • Community engagement: LAX is also engaged in community outreach and sustainability efforts. The airport has implemented several sustainability initiatives, such as installing solar panels and promoting energy efficiency, to reduce its environmental impact. Additionally, the airport has established several community programs, such as the LAX Community Noise Roundtable, to engage with local residents and address their concerns.

Overall, LAX's economic and social impact is significant, contributing to the region's economic growth and cultural exchange while providing vital transportation infrastructure for travelers and businesses alike.