LAX Terminal 3
Terminal 3 at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is one of the airport’s most modern and technologically advanced terminals after undergoing a massive multi-billion-dollar redevelopment led primarily by Delta Air Lines. Today, Terminal 3 offers a premium domestic passenger experience with upgraded architecture, spacious gate areas, modern restaurants, improved circulation and direct airside connections with other Delta terminals and the Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT).
The terminal has become one of the flagship facilities at LAX, combining contemporary California-inspired design with efficient passenger flow and advanced airport technology.
Terminal 3 Overview
Terminal 3 is widely considered one of the best terminals at LAX thanks to its modern design, spacious interiors and improved passenger experience.
History of Terminal 3
Terminal 3 originally opened in 1961 during the Jet Age expansion of LAX. For decades, it served multiple domestic airlines before eventually becoming heavily associated with Delta Air Lines operations.
A massive redevelopment project transformed Terminal 3 into a state-of-the-art terminal with new gates, modern architecture, advanced technology, upgraded security checkpoints and direct post-security connections to the Tom Bradley International Terminal and other Delta facilities.
Today, Terminal 3 forms part of Delta’s long-term strategy to create a more unified and premium hub experience at LAX.
The redevelopment of Terminal 3 dramatically improved passenger circulation and reduced many of the congestion problems seen in the old terminal.
Terminal 3 Levels
Terminal 3 is organized into multiple levels separating departures, arrivals and gate operations.
Terminal 3 Passenger Flow
Walking Times Inside Terminal 3
The direct airside connection between Terminal 3 and TBIT is extremely useful for international Delta connections.
Shopping at Terminal 3
Terminal 3 offers one of the most modern shopping experiences at LAX with premium retail concepts, travel accessories and California-inspired products.
Restaurants & Dining
Terminal 3 features a much more premium dining experience than older LAX terminals, including modern California-inspired restaurants, bars and coffee concepts.
Terminal 3 offers one of the best food selections among domestic terminals at LAX.
Passenger Services
Terminal Connections
Terminal 3 is directly connected post-security with Terminal 2 and the Tom Bradley International Terminal, allowing seamless Delta and SkyTeam connections without leaving the secure area.
Delta passengers connecting internationally can often avoid re-clearing security thanks to the new terminal connector system.
Security & Passenger Experience
Terminal 3 generally provides one of the smoothest premium domestic experiences at LAX, although Delta peak departure waves can still generate congestion.
Morning Delta departures create the heaviest congestion inside Terminal 3 security and gate areas.
Terminal 3 Highlights
- One of the newest and most modern terminals at LAX
- Premium Delta-focused passenger experience
- Direct airside connections with TBIT
- Excellent restaurants and upgraded shopping
- Modern architecture and spacious interiors
- Large premium lounge facilities
- Improved passenger circulation and seating
Terminal 3 is frequently considered one of the best terminals at LAX for comfort, modern facilities and overall passenger experience.