LAX Terminal 1
Terminal 1 at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is one of the airport’s busiest domestic terminals and is primarily associated with Southwest Airlines operations. Completely modernized in recent years, the terminal now offers a much more contemporary passenger experience with upgraded security checkpoints, redesigned gate areas, modern restaurants and improved shopping facilities.
Today, Terminal 1 is considered one of the most efficient terminals at LAX for domestic travel, combining relatively short walking distances with modern passenger amenities.
Terminal 1 Overview
Terminal 1 is usually easier to navigate than many other LAX terminals thanks to its compact layout and modern redesign.
History of Terminal 1
Terminal 1 originally opened in 1984 as part of the infrastructure improvements developed for the Los Angeles Olympic Games. Over the years, increasing passenger demand and the expansion of Southwest Airlines transformed the terminal into one of the busiest domestic facilities at LAX.
A major modernization project completely redesigned Terminal 1, adding upgraded security checkpoints, modern restaurants, expanded gate areas, improved passenger circulation and a more premium overall atmosphere.
The modernization of Terminal 1 significantly improved passenger flow and reduced congestion compared to the older terminal layout.
Terminal 1 Levels
Terminal 1 is organized into multiple passenger levels separating departures, arrivals and gate operations.
Terminal 1 Passenger Flow
Walking Times Inside Terminal 1
Terminal 1 is one of the easiest terminals at LAX for short walking distances and quick gate access.
Shopping at Terminal 1
Terminal 1 offers a modern shopping experience focused on travel essentials, snacks, technology accessories and California-inspired products.
Restaurants & Dining
Terminal 1 features a significantly improved dining experience after its modernization project, with modern cafés, fast food concepts and sit-down dining areas.
Food areas inside Terminal 1 become extremely crowded during early morning Southwest departure waves.
Passenger Services
Security & Passenger Experience
Terminal 1 generally offers one of the smoother domestic passenger experiences at LAX, although congestion can still appear during peak Southwest Airlines departure periods.
Early mornings are by far the busiest period inside Terminal 1 because of concentrated Southwest Airlines departures.
Terminal 1 Highlights
- Modernized and significantly upgraded interior
- Efficient domestic passenger experience
- Relatively short walking distances
- Large Southwest Airlines operation
- Improved restaurants and shopping areas
- Modern seating and charging facilities
- Good passenger flow compared to older LAX terminals
Terminal 1 is often considered one of the most user-friendly terminals at LAX thanks to its modern redesign and relatively efficient layout.