Sick Of LAX? 5 Los Angeles Area Airports That Offer An Alternative

LAX ranks among the world’s busiest airports, reflecting its status as a central global travel hub. Its prominence is bolstered by being a key base for airlines like United and Delta. However, Los Angeles offers alternative airports for travelers seeking a more relaxed experience. These options often provide a more comfortable and manageable environment, with less crowding and less stress than LAX.

5 John Wayne Airport

Served by: American, Delta, Southwest, Frontier, WestJet, Alaska

John Wayne Airport, nestled in Orange County, offers a practical and less hectic alternative to LAX for those in Southern Los Angeles. This airport, known for its efficient size, cuts down on the usual travel hassles. Expect quicker security checks and a smoother experience overall. Its compact layout doesn’t skimp on necessities, offering a variety of shops and eateries.

Bronze Statue of John Wayne “the Duke” at John Wayne Airport (SNA). Photo: David Michaud | Shutterstock

Also known as SNA, John Wayne Airport has a rich history dating back to 1923, when the first airstrip on the grounds was constructed. In 1939, it opened as Orange County Airport. In 1979, it was renamed to honor the famed actor and resident John Wayne. About 35 miles southeast of Los Angeles, it’s conveniently situated near Costa Mesa, Irvine, and Newport Beach.

It’s a key hub for Southwest Airlines, mainly catering to domestic flights with limited international service. The airport has amenities and provides various ground transportation options despite its size. While it’s been the subject of expansion talks, these plans are balanced with environmental and community considerations.

Read more: The Failed Proposal To Replace John Wayne Airport By Converting A Nearby Marine Base

4 Hollywood Burbank Airport

Served by: Netjets, Flexjet, Southwest, Mountain Aviation, Avelo, Jet Edge

Mainly used for private aviation flights, the airport was renamed in 2017 to better reflect its geographical location. Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), after changing the name six times, stands as an attractive choice for travelers aiming to bypass the bustle of LAX. Nestled about 12 miles northwest of downtown Los Angeles in Burbank, California, BUR is a practical option, especially for those in the northern Los Angeles County area.

Terminal A of Hollywood Burbank airport. Photo: fritz16 | Shutterstock

This airport, housing Terminal A and Terminal B, prides itself on its operational efficiency. It’s a hub for domestic flights, with a strong presence of Southwest Airlines. Relative newcomer Avelo has established its presence at the airport very well, transporting more than a million passengers since it began service there.

Its streamlined check-in and security procedures have earned it a reputation for convenience and speed, starkly contrasting with larger, more crowded airports. Various options are available for ground transportation, including rental cars, shuttles, taxis, and ride-sharing services. Inside, the airport offers an array of amenities like dining and shopping to enhance passenger comfort.

3 Ontario International Airport

Served by: JetBlue, Southwest, China Airlines, Volaris, United, New Pacific

According to airport statistics, Ontario International Airport (ONT) has recently shown significant growth and development. In 2023, the airport reported a substantial increase in passenger volume, with more than a 26% rise in January compared to last year. Overall, there was an 11.6% increase in passenger volume during the first nine months of 2023, including a 7.6% increase in September​​.

In 2022, about 5.7 million passengers used ONT, returning to pre-pandemic levels. The airport is a significant cargo processor in North America, experiencing a 20% increase in cargo traffic in 2020 and aiming to surpass 1 million tons of cargo annually soon. Currently, ONT offers services to Latin America and Taiwan but lacks a dedicated international terminal. Growth continues in 2023, with the airport projecting 1.8 million passengers would pass through the terminal over the summer, a 13% increase compared to pre-pandemic years.

Plans are underway for a new international terminal, the Dianne Feinstein International Terminal, to expand service, attract more flights, and increase arrivals. This terminal, expected to be located between the existing two terminals, is still several years from opening. This expansion aims to significantly increase international traffic by targeting markets like China and Japan and considering opportunities for European flights​​​.

ONT’s growth strategy is leveraging its cargo strength and nearby population to enhance airline services. With the ambition to eventually handle up to 30 million passengers per year and over 1 million tons of cargo, the airport seeks to establish itself as a convenient alternative to Los Angeles International Airport. This is being further helped by the inclusion of startup airline New Pacific at the airport.

2 Long Beach Airport

Served by: Southwest, JetBlue, American, Delta, Hawaiian, SkyWest

Long Beach Airport (LGB) is renowned for its intimate, relaxed atmosphere, contrasting sharply with the vastness of LAX. Its proximity to the Long Beach waterfront and various attractions adds to its appeal. The airport’s smaller scale translates to quicker processes like check-ins, security screenings, and baggage claims, making it a favored choice for those valuing efficiency and convenience.

Long Beach Airport during a clear December day. Photo: John Murphy | Wikimedia Commons

Strategically located just 3 miles northeast of downtown Long Beach in California, LGB is an important regional hub. It has undergone renovations to serve the growing passenger traffic better. The airport features a single terminal, which includes several concourses and gates.

Airlines like JetBlue have a significant presence here, offering flights to domestic and some international destinations. American Airlines left Long Beach at the end of February, but that opened up an opportunity for Southwest to grab more slots and expand its own operation there.

Long Beach Airport provides various ground transportation options, such as rental cars, shuttles, taxis, and ride-sharing services, enhancing its accessibility. The airport is also equipped with dining, shopping, and lounge facilities, ensuring a comfortable experience for travelers.

1 San Bernardino International Airport

Served by: Breeze Airways

San Bernardino International Airport (SBD) is a distinctive choice for those seeking less conventional travel options. Predominantly focused on cargo and general aviation, SBD is gradually expanding its passenger services. While it currently offers fewer commercial flights than more significant hubs like LAX, it presents a more tranquil, less congested alternative for specific destinations.

Aerial view of San Bernardino International Airport. Photo: Platinummedia | Wikimedia Commons

SBD is located about two miles southeast of downtown San Bernardino in Southern California and is crucial in the Inland Empire region. The airport has grown into a significant hub for air cargo, hosting a variety of carriers and logistics companies, which benefit from its proximity to major highways and distribution centers. Breeze holds the accolade of launching SBD’s first passenger service in 2022.

SBD also houses maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facilities, bolstering its significance in the aviation industry. Ongoing development efforts are to improve its infrastructure, attract businesses, and position San Bernardino International Airport as a critical player in the aviation and logistics sector.

Have you ever flown to these airports? Let us know in the comments below.

Sources: John Wayne Airport, Hollywood Burbank Airport, Ontario International Airport, Long Beach Airport, San Bernardino International Airport