Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) ranks among the busiest airports in the United States, with over 75 million passengers in 2023 alone. For many of those travelers, United Airlines is a familiar name. Whether flying domestic or international, navigating United’s terminals at LAX can be overwhelming. This guide explains exactly where United operates, what services are available, how to board efficiently, and what travelers can expect from check-in to takeoff.
Which Terminal Does United Airlines Use at LAX?
United Airlines operates from Terminal 7 and Terminal 8 at LAX. Both terminals are adjacent and exclusively serve United and United Express flights.
- Terminal 7 handles the bulk of departures and arrivals, especially for domestic routes.
- Terminal 8 serves overflow gates and select regional flights.
International United flights may arrive at the Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT), although boarding still typically occurs from Terminal 7. Passengers connecting to international flights sometimes shuttle or walk airside to TBIT, depending on security clearance and gate assignment.
Terminal Access and Navigation
The two terminals are internally connected post-security, enabling passengers to move between gates 70A to 88 without re-clearing TSA. This unified layout allows smoother transitions during layovers.
Travelers should note:
- Terminal 7 includes Gates 70A–77
- Terminal 8 includes Gates 80–88
- Walking time from Gate 70A to 88 is approximately 12–15 minutes
What Is the Layout of United’s Terminals at LAX?
United’s LAX terminals have a linear design with centralized amenities and split concourses. Terminal 7 is the larger of the two and contains most of the operational infrastructure, including security lanes and the United Club Lounge.
Terminal Details:
| Feature | Terminal 7 | Terminal 8 |
| Gate Range | 70A–77 | 80–88 |
| Lounge Access | United Club | None |
| Dining & Retail | Extensive | Limited |
| Security | Main checkpoint | No dedicated checkpoint |
Key amenities are concentrated near the central rotunda of Terminal 7, including dining, shops, restrooms, and boarding assistance.
What Check-in and Security Services Are Available?
United Airlines maintains a robust check-in system at LAX, with several options to reduce wait times:
- Full-service check-in counters for international and premium-class passengers
- Self-service kiosks for domestic travelers and baggage tags
- Dedicated Premier Access check-in for MileagePlus elite members and first/business class
- Bag drop counters linked with mobile or kiosk check-in
Security Features
Terminal 7 features three TSA checkpoint lanes:
- Standard TSA lane
- TSA PreCheck lane
- CLEAR Plus lane (enrollment required)
Average security wait times at LAX Terminal 7 range from 10 to 25 minutes, depending on time of day. Early mornings (5 AM–7 AM) and late evenings (6 PM–9 PM) see the highest volumes.
What Lounges Can You Access at United LAX Terminal?
United Club Lounge (Terminal 7)
The United Club Lounge at LAX is located near Gate 71A in Terminal 7. It serves eligible travelers looking for quiet space, refreshments, and business services.
Amenities include:
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Light snacks and premium beverages
- Private seating zones
- Business center with printing stations
- Showers (limited availability)
Access is granted to:
- United Club members
- United Polaris and Premium transcontinental passengers
- Star Alliance Gold status holders on international itineraries
Polaris Lounge (International Business Class Only)
Eligible international business passengers may access the Polaris Lounge, which is considered one of the best premium lounges in the United network.
Polaris Lounge Services:
- Chef-prepared meals
- Full bar
- Quiet suites with daybeds
- High-speed Wi-Fi and meeting areas
Access is highly restricted and exclusive to long-haul international business class flyers.
What Dining and Shopping Options Are Available?
Dining Highlights at Terminal 7:
- B Grill by BOA Steakhouse – upscale American cuisine
- Wolfgang Puck Express – sandwiches, salads, and pizzas
- Starbucks – multiple locations
- Engine Co. No. 28 – classic L.A. comfort food
- The Counter – custom-built burgers
Shopping and Essentials:
- Tech on the Go – electronics and travel gear
- Hudson News – books, magazines, and snacks
- See’s Candies – classic California sweets
- Duty-Free (available at TBIT only)
Dining and shopping hours vary but most locations operate between 5 AM and 10 PM.
How to Navigate Between Terminals at LAX?
Walking and Airside Connection:
Terminals 7 and 8 are connected airside, meaning passengers can walk between them without leaving the secure area. For those needing access to TBIT, a connector bridge links Terminal 7 to Terminal 6, and onward to the International Terminal.
Shuttle Service:
- LAX Terminal Shuttle (Route A) stops every 10 minutes.
- Pickup zones are located outside each terminal under the blue “LAX Shuttle & Airline Connections” signs.
Walking Time Estimates:
| From – To | Time |
| Terminal 7 to Terminal 8 | 5 minutes |
| Terminal 7 to TBIT | 15–20 minutes (via T6 bridge) |
What Are the Boarding Procedures for United Flights at LAX?
United Airlines boards flights by Group Numbers (1 to 5). Boarding priority is assigned based on class of service, elite status, and seat location.
Boarding Group Breakdown:
- Group 1: First Class, Polaris, and Global Services
- Group 2: Premier 1K, Platinum, and Star Alliance Gold
- Group 3: Premier Silver and passengers with MileagePlus credit cards
- Group 4–5: General boarding
Boarding typically begins 40 minutes prior to departure, with gate assignments and status visible via:
- United mobile app
- Gate display monitors
- SMS/email alerts
Gate changes are common, especially during peak hours. Travelers are advised to double-check assignments 45 minutes before departure.
What Ground Transportation Options Exist at United’s LAX Terminals?
United’s terminals connect to various transportation options:
Rideshare and Taxis:
- All app-based pickups occur at LAX-it, a dedicated zone east of Terminal 1.
- Free shuttles run every 3–5 minutes from Terminals 7/8 to LAX-it.
Rental Car and Hotel Shuttles:
- Pick-up zones are located curbside on the lower (arrivals) level, marked by purple signs.
- Most major rental brands like Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis offer courtesy shuttle service.
Public Transit:
- LAX FlyAway Bus offers direct service to Union Station, Hollywood, and Van Nuys.
- Metro C Line (Green) is accessible via the LAX Shuttle to Aviation/LAX Station.
Parking Options:
| Lot | Distance from T7/T8 | Rate (per day) |
| P7 | Adjacent to T7 | $50 |
| Economy Lot E | Shuttle required | $35 |
Tips for a Smooth Experience at United LAX Terminal
- Arrive early: 2 hours for domestic; 3 hours for international
- Check traffic: LAX access roads can back up during peak times (6 AM–9 AM, 4 PM–7 PM)
- Download the United App: For mobile check-in, real-time gate info, and baggage tracking
- Use CLEAR or TSA PreCheck: Average 60% faster screening
- Tag your bags early: Use kiosk check-in to save time
Frequently Asked Questions About United Airlines at LAX
Can you walk between Terminal 7 and 8 at LAX?
Yes, the two terminals are internally connected post-security. No shuttle or re-screening is required.
Does United Airlines operate international flights from LAX?
Yes. International departures may board from Terminal 7, but arrivals often come through TBIT.
How early should you arrive for a United Airlines flight at LAX?
United recommends arriving 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
Where is United baggage claim at LAX?
Baggage claim is located on the lower level of Terminal 7, adjacent to ground transportation zones.