How early should I be at Los Angeles (LAX)?
Arrive 3 to 3.5 hours before an international flight and 2 to 2.5 hours before a domestic flight.
Source: LAWA: Labor Day at LAX: Pro Tips for a Smooth Getaway (2026), checked 5 Nov 2026.
How early to be at LAX
- International flights
- 3 to 3.5 hours before departure
- Domestic flights
- 2 to 2.5 hours before departure
From the airport's own advice. source
Check-in usually closes 40 to 60 minutes before departure. Your airline's own time is on its website and your booking, and it always wins.
An estimate, never a promise. Check your airline before you go. How we work this out