Flight to Los Angeles (LAX)

Los Angeles International Airport, universally known as LAX, is the main long-haul gateway to Southern California and one of the busiest airports in the world. Almost every trip from Malaysia to Los Angeles lands here, whether you are heading for Hollywood, the beaches of Santa Monica or a theme park holiday with the family. When you search flights to Los Angeles from Kuala Lumpur, LAX is the airport to focus on. To browse every route into the region in one list, you can also search all Los Angeles airports.

About Los Angeles International Airport

Location

LAX sits in the Westchester area on the west side of Los Angeles, close to the Pacific coast and next to El Segundo. Its runways run towards the ocean, so arriving flights often come in over the water or across the city grid. The beach towns of the South Bay and Marina del Rey are close by, while Downtown LA lies further inland to the north-east.

Terminals

The airport's terminals are arranged in a large U-shape around a central loop road. Terminals numbered 1 to 8 surround the Tom Bradley International Terminal, which handles most long-haul flights from Asia, with walkways connecting several of them airside. Allow plenty of time if you need to change terminals, and check your e-ticket for the one you depart from before heading back.

Getting to and from LAX

Ride-hailing and taxis collect passengers from a dedicated pick-up area reached by a free shuttle from the terminals. FlyAway buses link the airport with Union Station in Downtown LA and other hubs, and the nearby LAX/Metro Transit Center connects the airport to the Metro rail network. Car hire companies run shuttles to their nearby lots. Traffic on the freeways around the airport can be heavy, so build in extra time, especially on weekday evenings.

Direct and connecting flights to Los Angeles International Airport

There are no non-stop flights from Kuala Lumpur to LAX at present, so expect a connection, commonly through a hub in North Asia, Southeast Asia or the Middle East. Compare total journey time, layover length and baggage allowances along with the fare. The direct-flight filter is handy if you plan an onward US or regional leg, as many routes into LAX are non-stop. Note that the airport code LSQ, which also carries the Los Angeles name on Traveloka, belongs to Los Ángeles in Chile, so double-check the code before you pay. Check the US entry requirements for your passport before flying.

When to fly to Los Angeles International Airport

Los Angeles enjoys a mild, sunny climate for most of the year. Summers are warm and dry, though the coast is often grey in May and June, a pattern locals call June Gloom. Winter is mild with occasional rain, and autumn is often the warmest and clearest time by the beaches.

Demand at LAX peaks during the American summer, Thanksgiving and the Christmas holidays. From Malaysia, the school holidays and the Chinese New Year period add pressure on the connecting flights through Asian hubs. Use the monthly fare chart on this page and set a Price Alert to spot quieter weeks.

Popular places near LAX and around Los Angeles

Santa Monica Pier

A short drive north of the airport, this classic pier has a small amusement park, arcades and views along the coast to Malibu. It marks the western end of the historic Route 66.

Venice Beach

Famous for its boardwalk, street performers, skate park and Muscle Beach, Venice also hides quiet canals lined with pretty homes a few streets inland.

Getty Center

On a hilltop in the Santa Monica Mountains, this art museum is known for its gardens, modern architecture and sweeping city views. Its gardens and terraces are as much of a draw as the paintings inside.

Manhattan Beach

Just south of LAX, this laid-back beach town is ideal for a first evening walk along the pier or a sunset by the sand after a long flight.

Hollywood

Further inland, the Walk of Fame, the historic theatres and viewpoints of the Hollywood Sign are on almost every first-time itinerary.

Where to stay near LAX and in Los Angeles

For late arrivals or early departures, the airport area in Westchester and El Segundo is the most practical choice. Marina del Rey and Manhattan Beach are close by and offer coastal walks and a relaxed feel. Santa Monica is a popular base for beaches and dining, with easy access back to the airport. Culver City, between the coast and Downtown, has good-value options and a growing food scene. Those focused on sightseeing inland often move on to Hollywood or Downtown for part of the trip.

Food to try around Los Angeles

Fish tacos

Battered or grilled white fish in soft tortillas with cabbage, salsa and lime, a Baja California favourite sold at beachside stands all along the coast.

French dip sandwich

Los Angeles claims this sandwich of sliced roast beef in a French roll, dipped in meat juices.

Korean tacos

A modern LA invention that combines Korean barbecue flavours with Mexican tortillas, often served from food trucks.

Avocado toast

California's avocado harvest has made this brunch dish a staple of cafés across the coast, usually topped with chilli flakes or a poached egg.

Landing at LAX is the start of a big Southern California adventure. Compare flights to Los Angeles International Airport on Traveloka and set a Price Alert on the KUL to LAX route before you commit to dates.