Last Updated on July 25, 2026 by Daniel Globe
Alaska Airlines uses Terminal 6 at Los Angeles International Airport for check-in and most departures. The standard Alaska gate area is Gates 60–69, but passengers should always confirm the terminal and gate in the Alaska Airlines app or on the airport monitors because operational assignments can change.
Quick Answer
Alaska Airlines checks in and normally departs from Terminal 6 at LAX, using Gates 60–69. Domestic arrivals generally use Terminal 6. International-arrival processing may take place at Terminal 6 or Tom Bradley International Terminal, so check your flight status before meeting an arriving passenger.
Key Takeaways
- Main terminal: Alaska Airlines check-in and most departures are in Terminal 6.
- Gate area: Alaska normally uses Gates 60–69, but the gate shown in the app or on your boarding pass is the final authority.
- International arrivals: Customs and baggage processing may occur in Terminal 6 or Terminal B, depending on the flight and arrival time.
- Ride-app pickup: Standard Uber, Lyft, Opoli, and taxi pickups generally use the LAX-it lot near Terminal 1 rather than the Terminal 6 curb.
- Metro: Use the C or K Line to the LAX/Metro Transit Center and follow signs for the free airport-terminal shuttle unless LAX has announced that SkyLink is operating.
- Lounge: The Alaska Lounge is on the Terminal 6 mezzanine near Gate 64, with entry based on current eligibility and capacity rules.
| Traveler detail | Current information |
|---|---|
| Check-in terminal | Terminal 6 |
| Normal gate range | Gates 60–69 |
| Alaska Lounge | Mezzanine near Gate 64 |
| Domestic arrivals | Normally Terminal 6 |
| International arrivals | Terminal 6 or Terminal B, depending on the flight and processing schedule |
| Standard ride-app pickup | LAX-it lot near Terminal 1 |
Warning: Do not rely only on a general terminal guide on the day of travel. Gate assignments, international-arrival processing, construction routes, security-lane availability, and pickup locations can change. Confirm the latest information in the Alaska Airlines app and on official LAX displays.
Where Alaska Airlines Checks In and Departs at LAX
Alaska Airlines’ main location at LAX is Terminal 6. The airline’s current airport guide lists its gate area as Gates 60–69. Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines check-in counters have also been combined at this airport, so passengers may see Alaska Hawaiian signage in the Terminal 6 ticketing lobby.
Terminal 6 is on the south side of the LAX central terminal loop, between Terminals 5 and 7. The building contains ticket counters, baggage services, a TSA checkpoint, departure gates, baggage claim, dining, shops, an Alaska Lounge, and passenger amenities.
Alaska’s current published Terminal 6 ticket-counter hours are:
- Domestic counter: 4:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily
- International counter: 4:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. daily
Counter hours can change with flight schedules. Check the official Alaska Airlines LAX airport guide before an early-morning or late-night trip.
Getting to Alaska Airlines Terminal 6 at LAX
You can reach Terminal 6 by private car, rideshare, taxi, FlyAway bus, Metro, airport shuttle, or an interterminal walkway. Traffic inside the LAX terminal loop can be slow, especially during morning and evening peaks, holidays, major events, and construction.
Driving and passenger drop-off
Drivers may drop departing passengers at Terminal 6 on the Upper/Departures Level. LAX advises drivers approaching the south-side terminals to watch for the signed shortcut toward Terminals 6, 7, and 8, which can reduce the distance traveled around the terminal loop.
Friends or relatives collecting an arriving passenger may use the outer curb on the Lower/Arrivals Level after the passenger has collected baggage and is ready. Drivers who arrive early can wait in the official LAX cell-phone waiting area instead of circling the terminals.
Parking near Terminal 6
Central Terminal Area parking garages provide the closest airport-operated parking to Terminal 6. LAX Economy Parking may be more suitable for a longer trip, with airport shuttle service to the terminals. Rates, availability, entrances, and construction routes change, so review the official LAX parking information before driving.
Uber, Lyft, Opoli, and taxi service
Ride-app vehicles may drop passengers off directly at Terminal 6 on the Upper/Departures Level. Standard ride-app and taxi pickups after an arriving flight generally take place at the LAX-it lot next to Terminal 1.
From Terminal 6, follow the green LAX-it signs on the Lower/Arrivals Level and take the free LAX-it shuttle. Walking is possible, but it is a substantial distance with luggage. Some premium ride categories, limousines, town cars, and private vehicles may qualify for terminal-curb pickup under current LAX rules.
Pro Tip: Do not request a standard rideshare until you are heading toward LAX-it. Requesting too early can lead to cancellation fees or confusion if the driver reaches the pickup zone before you do.
FlyAway bus
The LAX FlyAway bus currently provides nonstop service between the airport terminals and Union Station or Van Nuys. FlyAway buses drop departing passengers on the Upper/Departures Level. Arriving passengers board on the Lower/Arrivals Level at the blue FlyAway columns.
The former Hollywood FlyAway route is not currently operating. Check the official FlyAway schedules and fares before traveling because departure intervals and prices can change.
Metro Rail and the LAX/Metro Transit Center
Metro’s C and K Lines serve the LAX/Metro Transit Center. From the station, follow signs for the free airport shuttle, which serves each terminal from the Lower/Arrivals Level.
Note: Official traveler information continues to describe the direct SkyLink people-mover connection as opening in 2026. Until LAX confirms that it is operating, plan to use the free shuttle between the LAX/Metro Transit Center and Terminal 6.
Use the official Metro LAX travel page to check rail hours, connections, accessibility, and current terminal-transfer instructions.
Check-in and Security at Terminal 6
Passengers can check in using the Alaska Airlines app, the airline’s website, a Terminal 6 kiosk, or the staffed ticket counter. Travelers without checked bags or counter-service needs can often proceed directly to security after obtaining a mobile boarding pass.
Checked baggage is accepted only during ticket-counter hours and generally no more than four hours before departure. A boarding pass must be issued and all checked bags must be accepted before the applicable cutoff time. Travelers with pets, special items, international documents, or accessibility requests should allow additional time.
How early should you arrive?
A practical target is:
- Domestic flight: Arrive at least two hours before departure when checking a bag, traveling during a busy period, or needing counter assistance.
- International flight: Arrive about three hours before departure to allow time for document checks, baggage, security, and possible terminal changes.
- No checked bag: Alaska may publish a shorter suggested arrival window, but traffic and security conditions can make extra time worthwhile at LAX.
TSA PreCheck or CLEAR service may be available to eligible passengers, but operating hours and open lanes are not guaranteed throughout the day. Follow the signs at the Terminal 6 checkpoint and be prepared to use the standard screening line when necessary.
After security, recheck your gate on the Alaska app or a flight-information screen. Terminal 6 commonly uses Gates 60–69, but a flight may be reassigned for operational reasons.
Dining and Shopping in Terminal 6
Terminal 6 offers food, coffee, bars, newsstands, gifts, electronics, travel essentials, and automated retail. Concession hours can vary by day and flight schedule, and a location may close temporarily during construction or renovation.
The official Terminal 6 directory dated January 2026 lists the following examples:
| Category | Terminal 6 examples |
|---|---|
| Meals and quick food | California Pizza Kitchen, The Habit Burger Grill, Wahoo’s Fish Taco, Earthbar, WPizza, and The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck |
| Coffee, drinks, and bars | Peet’s Coffee, Starbucks Evenings, Point the Way Cafe, The Wine Bar, and Club 42 Tequila Bar & Bites |
| News, gifts, and snacks | Sunset News, Los Angeles Magazine News, Market 8600, See’s Candies, and Access Hollywood |
| Retail and electronics | Gameway, Belkin, MAC, M.Fredric, and DFS Duty Free |
Check the official Terminal 6 concession map for locations. Passengers with a valid same-day boarding pass can also explore dining and retail in connected terminals, although walking time should be considered.
Alaska Lounge and Terminal 6 Amenities
The Alaska Lounge is on the Terminal 6 mezzanine near Gate 64. Alaska currently lists normal daily hours of 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., but hours and capacity restrictions may change.
Access is not included with every premium seat or loyalty status. Eligible visitors can include Alaska Lounge members, passengers on certain qualifying First or Business Class itineraries, travelers with qualifying oneworld status and itineraries, eligible partner-club members, and passengers purchasing a space-available single-entry pass. Upgrades and shorter First Class flights may not include complimentary entry.
Review the current Alaska Lounge access policies before relying on lounge entry. Have a same-day qualifying boarding pass and any required membership credentials ready.
Other verified Terminal 6 amenities
- Complimentary LAX Wi-Fi
- Charging access in seating and lounge areas, subject to availability
- Nursing room
- Family and all-gender restrooms
- Service-animal and pet-relief area
- Currency exchange
- ATMs and water dispensers
- Information assistance and flight-information displays
Travelers needing wheelchair assistance, boarding help, or another accommodation should contact Alaska Airlines before arriving and identify themselves to airline staff at Terminal 6.
Boarding and Departing from Terminal 6
Alaska Airlines uses lettered boarding groups shown on each passenger’s boarding pass. Preboarding and priority categories are called before the remaining Main Cabin and Saver groups.
Alaska advises passengers to be at the gate and ready to board at least 50 minutes before departure. Watch the gate screens and app notifications rather than relying only on public-address announcements. A gate can change even after check-in.
Keep identification and the boarding pass available until boarding is complete. Families, passengers requiring extra time, and travelers with special boarding needs should listen for the applicable preboarding announcement or speak with the gate agent in advance.
Onboard food, drinks, Wi-Fi, entertainment, and power availability vary by route, flight length, aircraft, and cabin. Review the flight details in the Alaska app rather than assuming every service will be offered.
Arriving at LAX on Alaska Airlines
Domestic Alaska flights normally arrive at Terminal 6, where passengers follow signs to baggage claim on the Lower/Arrivals Level. Carousel assignments appear on airport monitors and can change.
International arrivals require special attention. Alaska’s current airport guide states that international arrivals during part of the day may be processed at Terminal 6, while arrivals outside that processing window may use Tom Bradley International Terminal, also called Terminal B. LAX’s airline directory also warns that Alaska international arrivals may use Terminal B.
Anyone meeting an international passenger should check the live flight record rather than waiting automatically at Terminal 6. Customs processing, baggage delivery, and the passenger’s exit point may be in another terminal.
Connecting Flights and Walking Between Terminals
Terminal 6 connects to neighboring south-side terminals through post-security passageways and tunnels. Passengers can generally walk between Terminals 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 without leaving the secure area. Longer post-security walks can also connect toward Terminal B and the north-side terminals through the broader LAX terminal system.
Connection time depends on the arrival gate, departure gate, walking speed, crowds, and whether baggage must be collected and rechecked. A transfer involving international customs, separate tickets, or an airline that does not transfer bags may require leaving security and being screened again.
Follow the overhead signs rather than exiting to the street unless instructed. The free terminal-connector shuttle is another option for landside transfers; its stops are marked by pink LAX Shuttle signs on the Lower/Arrivals Level.
Pro Tip: A connection that looks short on a booking screen may involve a long walk at LAX. Check both gate numbers as soon as you land and begin moving toward the next gate before stopping for food or shopping.
Tips for Navigating Alaska Airlines at LAX
- Check the app before leaving home: Confirm the terminal, gate, delay status, boarding time, and baggage information.
- Allow for terminal traffic: Driving the LAX loop can take longer than the distance suggests.
- Use a mobile boarding pass: This can reduce time at a kiosk, although document checks may still be required.
- Know your pickup method: Private vehicles can collect passengers at the terminal curb, while standard rideshare pickups generally use LAX-it.
- Pack for security: Keep identification, travel documents, liquids, and electronics easy to reach.
- Do not promise yourself a short security line: PreCheck, CLEAR, and standard-lane operating conditions change.
- Check international-arrival details: The passenger may exit at Terminal B instead of Terminal 6.
- Ask for assistance early: Contact Alaska before travel when wheelchair service, disability assistance, pet handling, or another accommodation is required.
For the current terminal map, construction notices, interterminal routes, and concession information, consult the official LAX Terminal 6 page.
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Sources
- Alaska Airlines: Los Angeles International Airport guide — terminal, gates, counter hours, arrival guidance, and airport services.
- Los Angeles World Airports: Terminal 6 — airlines, gate range, modernization information, and terminal connections.
- LAX ground transportation — drop-off, pickup, LAX-it, terminal shuttles, public transit, and FlyAway information.
- Los Angeles Metro: Travel to LAX — C and K Line service, LAX/Metro Transit Center, terminal shuttle, and SkyLink status.
- Alaska Lounge locations and hours — Terminal 6 lounge location and current operating hours.
- LAX Terminal 6 concession map — dining, shopping, lounge elevators, amenities, and passenger-service locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What terminal is Alaska Airlines at LAX?
Alaska Airlines checks in and normally departs from Terminal 6 at LAX. Confirm the terminal in your app because individual flight arrangements can change.
What gates does Alaska Airlines use at LAX?
Alaska’s standard gate area is Gates 60–69 in Terminal 6. Use the gate on your boarding pass, Alaska app, or airport monitor because assignments can change.
Where do Alaska international flights arrive at LAX?
International-arrival processing can occur at Terminal 6 or Tom Bradley International Terminal, also called Terminal B. Check the live flight status before meeting an arriving passenger.
How early should I arrive for an Alaska flight at LAX?
Allow about two hours for a domestic departure and three hours for an international departure. Add more time during holidays, construction, heavy traffic, or when checking bags, traveling with pets, or requesting assistance.
Where do I get an Uber or Lyft after arriving at Terminal 6?
Standard ride-app pickups generally use the LAX-it lot next to Terminal 1. From Terminal 6, follow the green signs and take the free LAX-it shuttle from the Lower/Arrivals Level.
Can I walk from Terminal 6 to another LAX terminal?
Yes. Terminal 6 has post-security walking connections to neighboring south-side terminals, and the wider terminal system provides additional connections. Allow enough time because some walks are long.
Is there an Alaska Lounge in Terminal 6?
Yes. The Alaska Lounge is on the Terminal 6 mezzanine near Gate 64. Access depends on the passenger’s membership, fare, route, status, partner privileges, or space-available pass eligibility.
How do I reach Terminal 6 by Metro?
Take Metro’s C or K Line to the LAX/Metro Transit Center. Follow signs for the free airport shuttle to Terminal 6 unless official LAX information confirms that the SkyLink people mover is operating.