Does Southwest Fly to Los Angeles? A Complete Guide to Routes, Airports, and Prices

Southwest Airlines flies to Los Angeles, offering nonstop flights to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and other nearby airports, including Burbank (BUR), Long Beach (LGB), and Ontario (ONT).

Flights are available from major cities like San Jose, Reno, Las Vegas, Denver, Phoenix, and Sacramento, with fares starting as low as $41 one-way. Southwest is a popular choice because it includes two free checked bags, no change fees, and flexible booking options.

LAX is one of Southwest’s busiest hubs, with 89 daily flights connecting 27 cities. If you’re flying to Los Angeles, Southwest provides multiple convenient options at competitive prices.

This guide covers everything you need to know, from airport choices to baggage policies and booking tips.

Where Does Southwest Fly in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has multiple airports, and Southwest serves four of them. Depending on your destination, one may be more convenient than the other.

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

LAX is the main airport in Los Angeles and one of Southwest’s busiest hubs. The airline offers direct flights to LAX from cities across the U.S., including:

  • San Jose (SJC) – From $50 one-way

  • Reno (RNO) – From $53 one-way

  • Las Vegas (LAS) – From $54 one-way

  • Denver (DEN) – Five nonstop flights daily, starting at $57

  • Phoenix (PHX), Sacramento (SMF), and Salt Lake City (SLC) – Multiple flights every day

If you're flying from a smaller city, you might need to connect through a Southwest hub before arriving at LAX.

Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR)

If you're heading to Hollywood, Universal Studios, or downtown Los Angeles, Burbank might be a better choice than LAX. It’s a small airport with shorter lines and quicker exits, making it a great option if you want to avoid crowds.

Long Beach Airport (LGB)

For travelers going to Long Beach, Orange County, or Disneyland, Long Beach Airport is a convenient alternative. It’s less crowded than LAX, so you can get through security and baggage claim faster.

Ontario International Airport (ONT)

If you're heading to the Inland Empire, Riverside, or San Bernardino, Ontario is a smart choice. It’s closer to these areas than LAX and usually has less traffic and shorter wait times.

Why Fly Southwest to Los Angeles?

Southwest is known for budget-friendly fares, but there are more reasons to choose it over other airlines.

1. Free Checked Bags

Southwest lets you check two bags for free, which can save you $60 or more compared to other airlines. If you're packing for a long trip, this perk makes a big difference.

2. No Change Fees

Need to switch your flight? No problem. Southwest doesn’t charge change fees, so you can adjust your plans without paying extra. You’ll just cover the fare difference, if any.

3. Lots of Flight Options

LAX is one of Southwest’s biggest hubs, with 89 daily flights connecting 27 cities. That means more choices for departure times and easier rescheduling if needed.

4. Affordable Ticket Prices

Southwest offers low one-way fares, sometimes starting at $41. Prices vary based on demand, but deals are common, especially if you book early.

5. Open Seating Policy

Southwest doesn’t assign seats. Instead, you choose your seat when you board. Check in early if you want an aisle or window seat.

How to Book a Southwest Flight to Los Angeles

You can book Southwest flights directly on their website or mobile app. To get the best price, keep these tips in mind:

  • Book early – Prices go up as your travel date gets closer.

  • Fly on weekdays – Tuesdays and Wednesdays usually have lower fares.

  • Look for sales – Southwest runs deals frequently.

  • Use Rapid Rewards points – If you have Southwest points, you can use them to book flights for free.

What to Expect at LAX When Flying Southwest

If you’re landing at Los Angeles International Airport, here’s what you should know:

Terminal Information

Southwest flies in and out of Terminal 1 at LAX. This terminal has been renovated, so you’ll find newer gates, more seating, and a better security process compared to some of the older terminals.

Baggage Claim

Bags usually arrive within 20 to 30 minutes after landing. Since Southwest offers free checked bags, many passengers take advantage of it, so the baggage claim area can get busy.

Transportation from LAX

Once you arrive, you have several ways to get around:

  • Uber/Lyft – Pickups happen at the LAX-it lot, a short shuttle ride from Terminal 1.

  • Rental Cars – Major rental car companies are available at LAX.

  • Metro & Buses – Public transit is an option, but you may need to transfer.

  • Hotel Shuttles – Some hotels offer free shuttles from the airport.

Is Southwest the Best Airline for Los Angeles Travel?

It depends on what you need. If you want cheap fares, free checked bags, and no change fees, Southwest is a great option.

However, if you prefer assigned seating, first-class upgrades, or international flights, another airline might be better.

Booking Your Southwest Flight to Los Angeles

If you're planning a trip, checking Southwest’s fares and schedules can help you find a good deal.

With multiple daily nonstop flights to LAX, Burbank, Long Beach, and Ontario, Southwest offers plenty of options for getting to Los Angeles quickly and affordably.

Ready to Fly to Los Angeles with Southwest?

Los Angeles is waiting, and Southwest can take you there. Whether you're flying into LAX, Burbank, Long Beach, or Ontario, you’ll find affordable fares, free checked bags, and flexible booking options with Southwest.

Let Travel Savvy handle the details. We’ll find the best Southwest flights for your schedule and budget, so you can focus on enjoying your trip.

Contact us today to start planning your flight to Los Angeles!

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