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Cheap flights to Los Angeles

Compare every airline flying into Los Angeles, CA, USA and get phone-only deals you won't see on Google Flights.

Los Angeles, CA, USA· Airport: LAX
Los Angeles — Flights | CheapoTrav travel guide

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Key facts

  • Primary airport is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), one of the world's busiest.
  • Consider Hollywood Burbank (BUR) or Long Beach (LGB) airports as alternatives, especially for northern LA or Orange County access.
  • Best times for deals are typically mid-week flights during spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) shoulder seasons.
  • Winter sports enthusiasts can reach mountain resorts like Big Bear within a few hours' drive from LAX.
  • Public transportation from LAX to downtown is available via the FlyAway bus or Metro Rail connections.
  • Los Angeles is a key hub for flights to Hawaii and other Pacific destinations, often offering competitive connecting fares.
  • Driving times across Los Angeles can be extensive; factor in commute estimates when choosing your arrival airport.

Los Angeles is a sprawling metropolis that draws travelers for a multitude of reasons, from its iconic beaches to its entertainment industry. Securing a good deal on flights here often depends on understanding the city's complex air traffic and when to plan your trip. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the primary gateway, handling a high volume of both domestic and international arrivals. While it's a major hub, it's also worth considering nearby alternatives like Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) or Long Beach Airport (LGB) for specific itineraries, as sometimes these smaller airports can offer competitive pricing or more convenient access to certain parts of the city.

Peak travel times to Los Angeles typically align with school holidays, major film festivals, or popular sporting events. If your schedule is flexible, aiming for mid-week flights or traveling during the shoulder seasons—spring (April-May) and fall (September-October)—can often yield better fares. Summer and the December holiday period are generally the most expensive times to fly into LA. Be prepared for Los Angeles traffic regardless of when you arrive; ground transportation planning is crucial.

Booking in advance is usually a sound strategy for Los Angeles, particularly if your travel dates are fixed. For domestic flights, looking 6-10 weeks out often hits a sweet spot, while international travelers might find better rates booking 3-6 months ahead. Last-minute deals are rare and usually not reliable for a popular destination like LA. Being flexible with your exact departure and return dates, even by a day or two, can also unlock significant savings. Remember, sometimes certain fares exist outside public search engines. Our agents often have access to special inventory.

In this guide

  • Average flight prices to Los Angeles
  • Best time to book
  • Direct flights and routing options
  • Tips for cheaper fares

Frequently asked questions

When is the cheapest time of year to fly to Los Angeles?
Generally, the cheapest times to fly to Los Angeles are during the shoulder seasons: late spring (April and May, avoiding Memorial Day) and fall (September through early December, before the holiday rush). January and February can also offer lower fares after the new year buzz. The peak summer months and the holiday season in December are typically the most expensive due to high demand. Flexibility with your travel dates, even by a few days, can often lead to better deals during these less popular times.
Which airport in Los Angeles should I fly into?
Most travelers fly into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), which is the largest and offers the most flight options. However, your best choice depends on your final destination within the LA area. Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) is often more convenient for Hollywood, Pasadena, and the San Fernando Valley. Long Beach Airport (LGB) can be ideal for Long Beach, parts of Orange County, and southern LA and is known for its calmer atmosphere. Ontario International Airport (ONT) serves the Inland Empire and eastern LA areas, acting as a less congested alternative if your plans keep you east of the city. Always compare prices and ground transportation costs from each.
Call 1 (815) 473-8090 for phone-only fares
How far in advance should I book flights to Los Angeles?
For domestic flights to Los Angeles, booking 6 to 10 weeks in advance often yields good fares. If you're traveling internationally, it's advisable to book further out, typically 3 to 6 months ahead, especially if your travel coincides with peak season or major events. While occasional last-minute deals can appear, it's not a reliable strategy for a popular destination like Los Angeles. Setting up fare alerts can also help you track price changes and snag a deal when prices drop.
Are there direct flights to Los Angeles from most major cities?
Yes, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is a major hub, and you can find direct flights to LAX from most major cities across the United States and many international destinations. Airlines like American, Delta, United, and Southwest operate extensive direct routes. Even some smaller airports like Hollywood Burbank (BUR) and Long Beach (LGB) offer direct service from several key U.S. cities, though with fewer options than LAX. If your home airport is smaller, you might need a connecting flight, but LAX's vast network usually makes a one-stop journey feasible.
Call 1 (815) 473-8090 for phone-only fares
What's the best way to get from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to downtown?
The most common and often cost-effective way to get from LAX to Downtown Los Angeles is via the LAX FlyAway bus service. It offers direct, non-stop service to Union Station in Downtown LA, with buses departing regularly. From Union Station, you can then connect to Metro Rail lines or local buses. Ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) are available, typically from a designated pickup lot, and taxis are always an option, though they will be more expensive. Public Metro Rail connections are also available, usually requiring a shuttle from the terminal to the Aviation/LAX station.
Can I save money by flying into a smaller airport near Los Angeles?
Potentially, yes. Flying into smaller airports like Hollywood Burbank (BUR), Long Beach (LGB), or even Ontario (ONT) can sometimes be cheaper than LAX, especially if you find a budget airline operating a route there. Beyond the flight cost, consider the total cost and time of ground transportation to your final destination. Sometimes a cheaper flight into BUR might mean less traffic and a quicker ride to Hollywood than a slightly cheaper flight into LAX. Always weigh the fare savings against potential increases in shuttle, ride-share, or rental car costs and travel time.
Call 1 (815) 473-8090 for phone-only fares

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