Last Updated on July 25, 2026 by Daniel Globe
American Airlines uses Terminal 4 as its main check-in and baggage-services location at Los Angeles International Airport. However, your assigned flight may depart from Terminal 4, Tom Bradley International Terminal, or American Eagle’s Regional Terminal. Because LAX remains under construction, always confirm the terminal and gate in the American Airlines app or on your boarding pass before leaving for the airport.
Quick Answer
American Airlines check-in at LAX is in Terminal 4. Most mainline flights use Terminal 4 gates 40–49 or gates in Terminal B. American Eagle flights may use Regional Terminal gates 52A–52J, reached by an airline shuttle from Terminal 4. Check your boarding pass for the final gate.
Key Takeaways
- Check in at Terminal 4 for American Airlines and American Eagle flights, including American flights departing from Terminal B.
- Terminal 4 uses gates 40–49, while American Eagle’s Regional Terminal uses gates 52A–52J.
- Terminal 5 is closed for reconstruction and is expected to reopen in 2028.
- Terminal 4 and Terminal B are connected after security, but walking time varies by gate.
- Arrive at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international trip.
- Construction may change walking routes, check-in areas, concessions, and ground-transportation stops.
Which LAX Terminal Does American Airlines Use?
American Airlines’ primary LAX facility is Terminal 4. American’s current airport information directs passengers to Terminal 4 for check-in and baggage services, including customers whose flights depart from Tom Bradley International Terminal, also called Terminal B.
| Service | Location | What to Know |
|---|---|---|
| Check-in and bag drop | Terminal 4 | Use Terminal 4 even when an American flight is assigned to Terminal B. |
| Main Terminal 4 flights | Gates 40–49 | Gate assignments can change during construction. |
| Selected mainline and international flights | Terminal B | Terminal B is connected to Terminal 4 after security. |
| American Eagle flights | Regional Terminal, gates 52A–52J | Follow signs in Terminal 4 for the secure airline shuttle and allow extra time. |
| International arrivals | Terminal B | Follow signs for immigration, customs, baggage collection, and connecting flights. |
Warning: Do not rely only on an old itinerary, online article, or a driver’s terminal suggestion. Check the American Airlines app or the airport flight display on your travel day because a flight’s terminal and gate can change.
Is American Airlines Still in Terminal 5?
No. LAX closed Terminal 5 on October 28, 2025, for demolition and reconstruction. American Airlines moved the affected operation to Terminal 4. LAX currently lists an anticipated Terminal 5 reopening in 2028. Until then, passengers should not ask a driver to drop them at Terminal 5 for an American flight.
A Brief History of American Airlines at LAX
Los Angeles Municipal Airport began operation as Mines Field in 1928 and was officially dedicated in 1930. Scheduled commercial airline service did not begin until December 1946. The modern LAX central terminal complex opened in 1961, with American Airlines assigned to Terminal 4.
Terminal 4 has been changed and expanded many times since then. Its original satellite concourse was eventually connected to the ticketing and baggage-claim buildings, and a secure connector to Terminal B opened in 2016. A major modernization program is now rebuilding and improving much of the Terminal 4 complex.
Terminal 4 Layout, Check-In, and Security
Terminal 4 has departures, arrivals, ticketing, security, baggage claim, customer-service areas, and access to gates 40–49. Check-in takes place on Level 2. American’s official LAX page lists separate areas for Main Cabin self-service, priority customers, Flagship First check-in, and mobility-device check-in.
American currently lists its Terminal 4 ticketing and baggage-service location as open from 3 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily, although individual desks and premium services may use different hours. Terminal 4 does not accept cash or checks at American’s check-in location, so travelers should bring an accepted card or digital payment method for airport transactions.
After check-in, follow the airport signs to the active TSA checkpoint. Construction can temporarily alter entrances, escalators, elevators, and walking paths. The terminal remains usable, but it may not match an older map or a previous trip.
Note: Terminal 4 and Terminal B are connected after security. Passengers can normally walk between them without leaving the secure area, but the distance can be significant when the assigned gate is deep inside Terminal B.
Amenities and Services in Terminal 4
Terminal 4 offers the main services most passengers need before departure. Current facilities shown by American Airlines and the official LAX terminal directory include:
- American Airlines ticketing, self-service check-in, and customer service
- Free LAX Wi-Fi
- Charging access in passenger seating areas, although outlet availability varies
- A nursing room
- A service-animal and pet-relief area near gate 41
- Currency exchange
- ATMs and automated retail
- Luggage carts in the arrivals area
- Accessible restrooms, elevators, escalators, and TDD services
- An Admirals Club and Flagship Lounge near gate 41
American also provides a dedicated mobility-device check-in point on Level 2 near entry door L2-06 and the oversize bag-drop area. Passengers requesting wheelchair or mobility assistance should arrange it with American before arriving whenever possible.
The airport’s children’s play area is not in Terminal 4. LAX identifies a play area in the Great Hall of Tom Bradley International Terminal. Families considering a visit should confirm that they have enough time to return to their assigned gate.
Dining Options in Terminal 4
The official Terminal 4 directory dated March 31, 2026, lists a smaller selection than the one described in many older airport guides. Current Terminal 4 food and beverage locations include the following:
| Dining Option | Type | Terminal Area | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starbucks | Coffee and quick snacks | Departures level | Drinks, breakfast items, and grab-and-go food |
| Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza | Pizza and casual meals | Departures level | A more substantial preflight meal |
| Crowns LAX | Food and beverages | South concourse area | Passengers departing from the southern gate area |
Concessions and operating hours can change during construction. Check the current LAX map before depending on a particular restaurant, especially for an early-morning or late-night flight.
Pro Tip: Terminal 4 connects to Terminal B after security, giving passengers access to a larger selection of restaurants. Only walk to another terminal when your boarding time and gate distance leave a comfortable buffer.
Shopping in Terminal 4
Current Terminal 4 retail options shown on the official airport map include Entertainment Weekly Newsstand, Hudson Booksellers, and The Market. These stores mainly serve passengers looking for books, magazines, snacks, drinks, travel accessories, and last-minute essentials.
Travelers seeking a wider selection of fashion, gifts, or international duty-free shopping can explore Terminal B when time allows. Duty-free eligibility depends on the passenger’s international itinerary and applicable customs rules. A duty-free label does not automatically mean every traveler can buy an item without tax or import limits.
Transportation to and From Terminal 4
Passenger Drop-Off
Private vehicles, taxis, and ride-app drivers may drop departing passengers on the Upper/Departures Level outside Terminal 4. Heavy airport traffic and construction can make the final approach slow, so build additional roadway time into your plan.
Passenger Pickup, Taxis, and Ride Apps
American advises arriving passengers using rideshare or taxi services to follow signs for LAX-it. Free shuttles depart from the baggage-claim area and transport passengers to the designated taxi and ride-app pickup area. Airport routing may change as construction progresses, so follow the signs visible after baggage claim rather than relying only on an older map.
Warning: Before entering a ride-app vehicle, match the driver, vehicle, and license plate with the details shown in the app.
FlyAway Bus
The LAX FlyAway bus provides nonstop service between the airport 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 signs.
The former Hollywood route should not be treated as an active option. Check the official FlyAway timetable and fare page before travel because schedules and prices can change.
Metro Rail and Local Buses
Passengers can take Metro’s C Line or K Line to the LAX/Metro Transit Center. Until the airport’s SkyLink automated people mover begins passenger service, a free accessible shuttle connects the transit center with every LAX terminal. Metro states that the shuttle normally runs about every 10 minutes.
Several Metro and municipal bus routes also stop at the LAX/Metro Transit Center. This includes selected Metro, Big Blue Bus, Culver CityBus, Torrance Transit, GTrans, and Beach Cities Transit services.
Note: As of July 2026, official Metro information still directs passengers to use the free shuttle between the LAX/Metro Transit Center and the terminals. Check the current LAX page before assuming SkyLink is open.
Rental Cars
The consolidated LAX Rental Car Center opened on March 11, 2026, at 5251 West 98th Street. Rental companies serving the center use authorized transportation between the facility and airline terminals. Follow the current signs outside baggage claim and the instructions supplied by your rental company.
Moving Between LAX Terminals
LAX operates an Airline Connector shuttle around the Central Terminal Area. Passengers can also walk between neighboring terminals using public sidewalks before security or secure connectors and tunnels where available after security. Walking may be faster than waiting for a shuttle during heavy roadway traffic, but it is not ideal for every passenger or every terminal pair.
Tips for Navigating American Airlines at LAX
- Check in online first. American normally opens online and app check-in 24 hours before departure.
- Verify the gate more than once. Check when you leave home, when you reach the airport, and again after security.
- Arrive early. American recommends at least two hours for travel within the United States and at least three hours for international travel.
- Do not confuse arrival time with the cutoff. American lists a 45-minute LAX checked-bag cutoff, but arriving that late leaves little protection against traffic, lines, or construction.
- Allow extra time for gates 52A–52J. These gates are in the Regional Terminal and require a secure shuttle ride.
- Use the correct check-in terminal. Check in at Terminal 4 even when an American flight departs from Terminal B.
- Keep documents accessible. International passengers may need a passport, visa, health documentation, or proof of onward travel depending on the destination.
- Download the American app. It provides gate changes, boarding updates, baggage information, and connection guidance.
- Check construction alerts. Terminal entrances and roadway conditions can change with little notice.
At LAX, “Terminal 4” identifies American’s primary check-in location, but it does not guarantee that the aircraft will depart from a Terminal 4 gate.
Connecting Flights and International Travel
Terminal 4 to Terminal B
Terminal 4 and Tom Bradley International Terminal are connected after security. Passengers connecting between the two can normally follow the airside signs without leaving the secure area. The walk can still take time, especially when traveling to a distant Terminal B gate.
Connecting to an American Eagle Flight
American Eagle flights may depart from Regional Terminal gates 52A–52J. Follow the signs in Terminal 4 for the American Eagle terminal-transfer shuttle. Because the Regional Terminal is not reached by a normal public walkway, remain in the secure area and use the airline shuttle unless American staff instruct you otherwise.
Arriving From Another Country
American’s international arrivals are processed through Terminal B. Travelers must follow U.S. Customs and Border Protection instructions for immigration and customs. Depending on the itinerary, origin, baggage arrangement, and available processing program, a connecting passenger may need to collect checked bags, complete customs inspection, recheck bags, and pass through security again.
Do not assume that an airside walkway removes the immigration or customs requirement. Follow the connection instructions provided by American Airlines and airport staff after arrival.
Warning: Never leave the secure area during a connection merely because a public hallway appears shorter. Confirm the correct route with airport signs or an American representative, particularly when connecting to the Regional Terminal.
American Airlines Lounges at LAX
American Airlines operates an Admirals Club in Terminal 4 on the concourse level near gate 41. Listed amenities include complimentary food and drinks, a full-service bar, Wi-Fi, showers, and a conference room. American also operates a Flagship Lounge near gate 41 for eligible premium and elite-status passengers.
Lounge access is not automatically included with every first-class ticket. Eligibility depends on factors such as the route, cabin, airline status, club membership, qualifying credit card, or purchase of an eligible single-visit pass. Capacity restrictions may apply.
American currently lists the Terminal 4 Flagship Lounge as open daily, but Flagship First Dining across from gate 40 is listed as temporarily closed. Verify current hours, access rules, guest privileges, and facility availability before travel.
Accessibility, Families, and Traveling With Pets
Passengers who need wheelchair service or other assistance should request it through American Airlines before departure. Accessible routes, elevators, restrooms, and assistance points are available, but construction may alter the most direct path.
American’s mobility-device check-in area is on Level 2 near entry door L2-06 and the oversize bag-drop area. Travelers with questions about the security-screening process can also contact TSA Cares before travel.
A nursing room is available in Terminal 4. The service-animal and pet-relief area is near gate 41. The LAX children’s play area is located in Terminal B’s Great Hall rather than Terminal 4.
Pro Tip: When traveling with a stroller, wheelchair, pet carrier, or several bags, add more connection time than a standard airport map suggests. Elevators and shuttle loading can take longer than an uninterrupted walking route.
Terminal 4 Sustainability and Modernization
Terminal 4 is undergoing a major modernization rather than a simple cosmetic renovation. The project includes a rebuilt terminal entrance, a new south concourse, improved hold rooms, concessions, restrooms, baggage facilities, security screening, utilities, and circulation routes.
The Terminal 4.5 Vertical Core, completed as part of the broader program, received LEED Gold certification. LAWA reported that the project reduced indoor water use, optimized energy performance, and improved access to public transportation. New portions of the Terminal 4 program have also pursued recognized green-building standards.
In May 2026, LAWA announced that the Terminal 4 modernization had reached its structural topping-out milestone. Current LAWA project information anticipates continued work toward 2028. During construction, passengers should expect occasional route changes, temporary walls, relocated services, noise, and longer walking times.
The future SkyLink automated people mover is designed to connect the terminal area with the LAX/Metro Transit Center, economy parking, and the Rental Car Center. Until official passenger service begins, use the currently published shuttle system.
Additional Travel Planning
Passengers who work while traveling may also find this guide to choosing a lightweight laptop for travel useful. Keep electronics accessible during security screening and confirm your airline’s carry-on limits before packing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What terminal is American Airlines at LAX?
American Airlines check-in and baggage services are in Terminal 4. Flights may depart from Terminal 4, Terminal B, or American Eagle’s Regional Terminal, so verify the assigned gate before travel.
Does American Airlines still use Terminal 5 at LAX?
No. Terminal 5 closed on October 28, 2025, for demolition and reconstruction. American moved the affected operation to Terminal 4. LAX anticipates reopening Terminal 5 in 2028.
Can an American Airlines flight leave from Terminal B?
Yes. Some American flights use Terminal B gates. Check in at Terminal 4, clear security, and follow the airside walkway signs to Terminal B.
How do I reach American Eagle gates 52A–52J?
Follow the signs in Terminal 4 for the secure American Eagle terminal-transfer shuttle. The shuttle carries passengers to the Regional Terminal, where gates 52A–52J are located.
How early should I arrive for an American Airlines flight at LAX?
American recommends arriving at least two hours before travel within the United States and at least three hours before an international trip. Add more time during holidays, peak traffic, or heavy construction.
Can I check in online for my American Airlines flight?
Yes. Online and app check-in normally opens 24 hours before departure. Some international travelers may still need to show passports or other documents at an airport counter.
Can I walk from Terminal 4 to Tom Bradley International Terminal?
Yes. Terminal 4 and Terminal B have an airside connector, allowing ticketed passengers to walk between them after security. Leave enough time for the distance to your specific gate.
Where do I get an Uber, Lyft, or taxi after arriving?
Follow the airport signs from baggage claim to the free LAX-it shuttle. The shuttle transports passengers to the designated taxi and ride-app pickup area.
What amenities are available in Terminal 4?
Terminal 4 provides free Wi-Fi, dining, shops, a nursing room, a pet-relief area, accessible facilities, luggage carts, currency exchange, customer service, an Admirals Club, and a Flagship Lounge. The official map does not list a baggage-storage facility.
Sources
- American Airlines: Los Angeles Airport Information — check-in location, gates, Regional Terminal shuttle, mobility-device check-in, and airport services.
- LAX Terminal 4 Information — Terminal 4 gate range, airside connections, maps, and construction information.
- LAX Ground Transportation — terminal shuttles, FlyAway, LAX-it, rental-car transportation, and pickup zones.
- LA Metro: Go Metro to LAX — C and K Line access, the LAX/Metro Transit Center, fares, buses, and terminal-shuttle service.
- American Airlines LAX Club Information — Admirals Club location, hours, and facilities.
- Los Angeles World Airports: Terminals 4 and 5 Modernization — current construction scope, Terminal 4 improvements, sustainability, and project timing.