Los Angeles International Airport (KLAX) is the principal commercial gateway to the LA basin, sitting on the coast 16 miles southwest of downtown LA. For private aviation it is dominated by commercial scheduled service, but it does handle a meaningful flow of large-cabin and ultra-long-range business jets — particularly transpacific arrivals from Asia and Australia, and international charters that need full CBP handling on the field. Atlantic, Signature, and Jet Aviation operate the three main private terminals.
The four runways are 12,091 ft, 11,095 ft, 10,285 ft, and 8,925 ft — every current business jet operates here without restriction. KLAX is generally not the LA charter default — KVNY (Van Nuys) and KBUR (Burbank) are closer to most of the city, less congested, and faster turn for the typical bizjet. But for trips that originate or terminate transpacific, KLAX is usually the right call. Field elevation is 125 feet, no density-altitude concerns. The operational realities are slot pressure, taxi delays during peak banks (especially evening departures to Asia), persistent low coastal stratus that can drive holds and diversions in the morning, and the steady volume of commercial aircraft that share the runway environment. Ground time to downtown LA is 25–45 minutes; Beverly Hills is 30 minutes; Santa Monica is 15.
Frequently asked questions about Los Angeles International Airport
What is KLAX airport?+
KLAX is the ICAO code for Los Angeles International Airport (IATA LAX), located in Los Angeles, CA.
What does LAX stand for?+
LAX is the IATA code for Los Angeles International Airport (ICAO KLAX) in Los Angeles, CA.
Where is Los Angeles International Airport?+
Los Angeles International Airport is located in Los Angeles, CA.
Does Los Angeles International Airport have commercial airline service?+
Yes — Los Angeles International Airport is served by scheduled airlines in addition to private aviation traffic.
How long is the runway at Los Angeles International Airport?+
The longest runway at Los Angeles International Airport measures 12,923 ft (3,939 m).
What is the elevation of Los Angeles International Airport?+
Los Angeles International Airport sits at 125 ft above sea level.
What timezone is Los Angeles International Airport in?+
Los Angeles International Airport operates on America/Los_Angeles.
How many private-jet empty legs are available at Los Angeles International Airport?+
SkyAccess currently tracks 16 departing and 13 arriving private-jet empty legs at Los Angeles International Airport over the next six months. Browse and book each leg with a free account.