What Terminal is Southwest Airlines at LAX?

Los Angeles International Airport, known as LAX, is one of the busiest airports in the world, sustaining millions of passengers a year. Of the many airlines operating through that large aviation centre, one of the top choices for domestic and international fliers alike would have to be Southwest Airlines. If you are going to be flying from LAX with Southwest, knowing which terminal you need to go to is key for a smooth start to your trip.

Southwest Airlines will only use Terminal 1 at LAX. Most importantly, the passengers must know where they must be for checking in, going through security screening, and proceeding to boarding. The knowledge and understanding of the layout and features of Terminal 1 could extend so much into your effective travel experience that the ease of moving around the airport is increased with the time available, just before departing.

From its history—dating down to its recent renovation—the check-in process, amenities, and ease of accessibility, the article will cover all the pieces of information you need to keep a journey smooth. The article will be helpful for both experienced flyers and first-timers who are to avail the Southwest Airlines LAX Terminal. 

Overview of Terminal 1

Terminal 1 is where Los Angeles International Airport houses all of Southwest Airlines. From its historical background to the major facelifts to cater to air travelers better, Terminal 1 has been through quite a journey to be what it is today. In understanding and appreciating Terminal 1 for what it is today, really very broad historical and recent development context is needed.

Built in 1984 for Pacific Southwest Airlines, now defunct, which was the largest airline in California at one point; Terminal 1 represents the significant capacity PSA once had as a carrier in the intra-California market. It was therefore a terminal that, designed for the PSA volumes, which also had to change to meet the demands of the recalibrated airline industry, just as PSA, by acquisition, came to be owned by USAir, now part of American Airlines, which became the terminal’s current primary user.

Southwest Airlines walked in at the turn of the century. It became Terminal 1’s primary tenant and established LAX as their main hub. Ever since, up to the present time, with increased operation comes a necessity for more liveability and efficiency of Terminal 1.

Feeling the inevitable winds of change, LAX and Southwest Airlines launched a bold, $477.5 million renovation in 2014—one that modernized Terminal 1 and, most importantly, delivered a coherent and dramatically transformed space to better serve the public and further represent Southwest’s commitment to customer service and operational efficiency.

Today, Terminal 1 represents the ongoing changes that are being made to improve the passenger experience at LAX. A modern design, improved amenities, and an efficient layout all make it an ideal host for Southwest Airlines—an airline known throughout the world for being customer-friendly in the air.

Check-in and Boarding Process

Check-in begins at Terminal 1. Uniting all of the Southwest operations into one area makes it easy for travelers to figure out where to go to start things off correctly. Now, let’s break the check-in/boarding process down step by step.

In Terminal 1, the check-in counters for Southwest are also placed on the ground level. They are open between 4 am and 5 am, and close by 11:30 pm – 2:30 am Pacific Time. Southwest offers many different ways of checking in to bring comfort to passengers:

1. Self-Service Kiosks: Located throughout the check-in area, self-service kiosks are primarily designed for those who want their processing to be done quickly and in an automated manner. These easy-to-operate machines allow passengers to carry out checking in by themselves, print boarding passes, and tag their baggage.

2. Full-Service Counters: For passengers who require any kind of special assistance or face-to-face contact, Southwest staff full-service counters for its agents to help with checking in, assigning seats, and handling special requests.

3. Curbside Check-in: To further increase ease for the customers, Southwest usually offers curbside check-in. Passengers can have their bags checked and receive boarding passes without wasting time inside the terminal building.

4. Mobile Check-in: Tech-savvy guests can check in to their flights as early as 24 hours before the departure time through the Southwest mobile app or website. Guests receive mobile boarding passes that can be scanned directly from smartphones.

After checking in, travelers proceed to security. The Terminal 1 remodeling has since been supplemented with an expanded security checkpoint, which was integrated to address the overwhelming number of passengers. In this setup, the terminal has independent TSA PreCheck security lanes that are meant to serve qualified passengers through a smoother and faster screening process.

Once past security, travelers arrive in the main concourse of Terminal 1, where passengers will be able to locate their departure gates. Southwest has nine gates inside the Terminal 1 premises that include 11A, 11B, 12A, 12B, 13-16, 17A, 17B, 18A, and 18B. The terminal features large display screens with all relevant current flight details, including what gate the flight is scheduled for and with notification of gate changes.

One of the more peculiar forms of cost assistance that Southwest Airlines provides is through open seating. Instead of seat assignments, each passenger has a boarding group and a position within that group—A, B, or C. Boarding is allowed to commence roughly 30 minutes before the posted departure time and passengers queue in order according to their posted boarding position.

International flights serviced by Southwest have a slightly different process. Check-in will take place at Terminal 1, although boarding for international flights will take place at the Tom Bradley International Terminal, referred to as Terminal B. For most international flights, the transfer is made after security in Terminal 1, so the Southwest staff will get passengers through this process and to their departure gate with plenty of time to spare.

Note that Southwest recommends customers report at the airport not less than two hours before a scheduled domestic flight and three hours before international departure. This will allow adequate time for checking in, having your security screening, and making your way to the appropriate gate or terminal for international flights.

By streamlining check-in and boarding processes through centralizing operations in Terminal 1, Southwest Airlines has created an efficient process at LAX. More efficient travel experience for passengers is facilitated due to the advanced layout and technology having been implemented at the modern terminal.

Terminal Facilities and Amenities

The Southwest Airlines LAX Terminal offers all kinds of facilities and amenities to make a passenger’s experience more enjoyable. Gates hold everything from dining options to connectivity solutions. In this way, it makes sure a passenger is getting everything they need in the most ideal way while he or she waits before a flight. Below, let’s check out the facilities and amenities in detail.

Gates

As mentioned earlier, Southwest Airlines operates from gates 9, 11A, 11B, 12A, 12B, 13-16, 17A, 17B, 18A, and 18B in Terminal 1. These gates are distributed around the concourse, and there is plenty of signage that guides passengers towards their departure gates. Inside each gate area, comfortable seating has been provided with power outlets and USB charging ports where one can relax and remain connected to the world as they wait for their flights.

The gates are purpose-built for Southwest’s Boeing 737s, and they are equipped with jet bridges for sheltered access to the aircraft. Each gate features flight information screens, displaying current boarding times, delays, and gate changes.

 Dining Options

Putting the full weight on hands, new Terminal 1 inclusions are teeming with several dining areas. Having never underestimated the value of nice food in a better travel experience, LAX and Southwest have worked hard to bring a mix of local favorites and national chains to the terminal. Here’s a rundown of some of the dining establishments you can find post-security in the Southwest Airlines LAX Terminal are as follows: 

1. Urth Caffé: Offering organic coffee, teas, and light meals, the Urth Caffé is an LA institution known for providing good pre-flight pick-me-ups.

2. Cassell’s Hamburgers: The revered LA hamburger institution imports its classic American fare into the airport, featuring top-of-the-line burgers, fries, and milkshakes.

3. Trejo’s Tacos: A one-and-only taquería in the terminal, this is an ode to LA’s famous scene by actor Danny Trejo himself.

4. Chick-fil-A: A sure stop for anyone in the mood for an iconic fast-food sandwich, this nationwide favorite chicken chain resides in Terminal 1.

5. California Pizza Kitchen: Culinary innovator by way of its original pizzas, the CPK is another enter-and-sit-down for passengers joining the three-hour club.

6. Beaming Organic Superfood Cafe: Ideal for the wellness community, this cafe offers smoothies, juice, and plant-based meals.

7. Rock & Brews: Rock ‘n’ roll-themed restaurant and bar this is perfect for those looking to grab a pre-flight drink or to have food in a fun atmosphere.

Most of the restaurants, also get rather convenient for dining by taking part in a partnership LAX has with Grab, one of the mobile ordering platforms. This enables passengers to even order the particular food of their interest and pick it up just in case of tight schedules.

Restrooms/Family Facilities

The Southwest Airlines LAX Terminal has brand-new, clean restrooms located at each end of the concourse. These facilities have large stalls, multiple sinks to help minimize wait times during peak travel periods, and an overall design for comfort.

Family restrooms are also available for people traveling with kids. These are private rooms with a changing table and large enough to accommodate a stroller.

Nursing mothers will appreciate dedicated nursing rooms that are available within the terminal. These are private rooms allowing a quiet, comfortable environment to feed and care for infants.

Connectivity

Staying in touch while traveling has become more often than not a requirement of modern life. The Southwest Airlines Los Angeles International Airport Terminal meets this requirement with several connectivity options:

1. Free Wi-Fi: Across every square inch of LAX’s terminal, passengers can get free Wi-Fi to stay connected, check emails, or stream content on their devices.

2. Power Stations: Numerous power stations within the terminal offer outlets and USB ports for charging devices.

3. Work Stations: If travelers need to squeeze in a bit of work before flying, there are workstations with power outlets and desk space available in Terminal 1.

Shopping

While Terminal 1 does not offer a long list of places for luxury shopping, there are in the premises shops selling travel-related goods and those last-minute gift items one might need on the way out. Among these are:

1. Hudson News: This is a very standard airport newsstand selling magazines, books, snacks, and things for traveling.

2. iStore: Whether you are a techno freak or just left something behind that you badly need, this store has all kinds of electronics and accessories.

3. Southwest Airlines The Store: This store sells Southwest-branded merchandise and travel accessories.

4. Treat Me Sweet: This confectionery store is ideal for grabbing some sweet treats for the flight or as gifts.

Currency Exchange

For foreign visitors, there is also an ICE Currency Exchange booth in Terminal 1, which enables passengers to exchange currency before flights.

Customer Service

Southwest Airlines operates a customer service center located in Terminal 1 and provides passengers with an option to go there for assistance with reservations, changes to flights, or any other general questions about travel.

Facilities and amenities at Terminal 1 are designed to cater to various passenger needs, ranging from dining and shopping to connectivity and comfort. Whether it is just grabbing a bite, catching up on some work, or simply relaxing before your flight, Terminal 1 has several options available to enhance your experience before flying.

Accessibility Features

Los Angeles International Airport and Southwest Airlines are dedicated to making flying easy for all passengers, regardless of the presence or absence of physical challenges. Some of the accessibility options available at the Southwest Airlines Los Angeles International Airport Terminal  ensure that passengers with varying requirements can travel comfortably. These are explored in some detail below.

 Wheelchair Services

The wheelchair service is provided by Southwest Airlines for free. However, this service has to be requested in advance either at the time of making a reservation or while arriving at the terminal. The wheelchair service will be provided from the curb-side drop-off area to check-in and security, and up to the boarding gate. For passengers arriving at LAX, wheelchair services will be provided from the aircraft up to the baggage claim area or ground transportation.

 Accessible Check-In Kiosks

Self-service check-in kiosks in Terminal 1 are specially designed to handle passengers with various disabilities. To this end, these are equipped with touch screens that are also at a lower height for passengers who use wheelchairs or are of short height. This further provides audio instructions for the blind.

Security Screening

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at LAX designed special screening procedures for passengers with disabilities or medical conditions. Dedicated lanes were provided for passengers who needed extra help or more time in processing their way through security screening. TSA Cares is a helpline exclusively for travelers with disabilities and medical conditions and may be called ahead of time for information about what to expect during screening.

Restroom Facilities:

All toilets at the Southwest Airlines Los Angeles Airport International Terminal have wheelchair-accessible stalls. The family toilets described above are extra large and may be useful to passengers who require a carer’s assistance. 

Service Animal Relief Areas

Service Animal Relief Areas are considered one of the most important aspects of terminal accessibility at Terminal 1. These areas are spaces that allow service animals to relieve themselves in a safe and healthfully sanitary environment. Service Animal Relief Areas in Terminal 1 come in two locations:

1. Pre-Security: Exterior to the terminal building, adjacent to the shuttle bus stop.

2. Post-Security: Inside the secure area of the terminal near Gate 13.

These relief areas are equipped with artificial turf, a replica fire hydrant, and disposal facilities for depositing waste. They provide a comfortable area for service animals and their handlers, ensuring that all travelers who travel with service animals can easily care for their companions while they are in the terminal.

Recent Improvements and Future Enhancements

The growth at Terminal 1 of LAX has been huge, reflective of the airport’s commitment to improving passenger experience and Southwest Airlines’ interest in ensuring top-class facilities for its customers. Let us delve into what is new at LAX Terminal 1 and find out what other developments could be in store in the future.

The Renovation Project Worth $477.5 Million

The real linchpin of the recent upgrades to Terminal 1 was an enormous $477.5 million renovation project completed in 2018. Comprehensive from top to bottom, all works in the terminal now promise a space greatly improved for the traveling public. Here are a few of its key elements:

1. Modernised Concourse: The entire concourse was redesigned to increase openness and lightness of feel. The new higher ceilings and enlarged windows allow more natural light into the area, thereby putting the passengers in a better atmosphere.

2. Security checkpoint expansion: It is known that security screening is normally a bottleneck in the passenger journey; hence, renovation worked much on the significant expansion of the TSA checkpoint area. This would provide an overall increased space for more screening lanes and hence reduced wait times for improved passenger flow through the terminal.

3. New dining and retail options: As mentioned earlier, renovation works introduced several new dining and shopping options within Terminal 1. These new establishments not only increase the choices that passengers have but also showcase the flavor of the local culture in Los Angeles.

4. Baggage-Handling Automation System: At the back end, a state-of-the-art, efficient baggage handling system was installed, bringing efficiency to the process of luggage handling and reducing the chances of lost or delayed bags.

5. Improved Wi-Fi/Charging Stations: The renovation has also taken into consideration this modern-day need of travelers by providing an upgraded and robust Wi-Fi network with recharging stations inside the terminal.

6. Green design elements: Renovation entailed many sustainable features, such as energy-efficient lighting and water-conserving fixtures and appliances, in addition to the use of sustainable materials in the construction process.

7. New Signage and Wayfinding: Clear, intuitive signage was installed throughout the terminal to facilitate easier passenger navigation.

8. Improved HVAC Systems: The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems were improved to increase passenger comfort while reducing energy usage.

Getting Between Terminals

Although Southwest Airlines operates most of its flights at Terminal 1 at LAX, there may be occasions when passengers have to move between terminals. This could happen with connecting flights on other airlines, in some service cases, or because Southwest offers international flights, which depart from the Tom Bradley International Terminal. Knowing how to move between terminals might help reduce pressure and hassle significantly on the trip.

Read Also: Does Southwest fly into JFK

 Inter-Terminal Airside Connectors

One of the most convenient features for passengers at LAX is the pedestrian airside connector walkway system. These secure corridors allow passengers to move between terminals without having to exit and re-enter through security. This is extremely useful for connecting passengers or passengers looking for amenities that may be available in another terminal.

Two key connectors exist for passengers in Terminal 1:

1. Terminal 1 to Terminal 2: Both terminals lie adjacent to each other and are interconnected by a corridor, so one can easily walk between the two.

2. Terminal 1 to Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT): Although the terminals are not directly connected, a series of connectors take one to TBIT. The usual walking route goes from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2, then on to Terminal 3, and finally on to TBIT.

These connectors have moving walkways to facilitate passengers who may need to travel far between terminals. Note that, while one can move between terminals using these connectors, passengers must still pay attention to the terminal information on their boarding passes and to airline instructions regarding at which terminal to check in and at which terminal to depart from.

Shuttle Buses

For terminals not connected via airside walkways, LAX offers a free inter-terminal shuttle bus. Buses run frequently and serve all terminals, including the Tom Bradley International Terminal.

For passengers flying Southwest who need to connect to an international flight departing from TBIT, the airline typically operates a dedicated bus service. Service is from a gate inside the secure area of Terminal 1, and passengers are whisked directly to TBIT, without exiting and having to re-enter security.

LAX-it Shuttle

For those leaving the airport to ground transportation, LAX operates a shuttle called the LAX-it (pronounced “LA Exit”). This free service transports passengers from all terminals to the LAX-it lot, where taxis, ride-share services, and some rental car shuttles operate.

Future People Mover

It is worth noting that an Automated People Mover system is under construction at LAX. This elevated train will connect all terminals with a new consolidated rental car facility, public transportation, and new pick-up/drop-off facilities when operational in 2024. This will significantly increase the efficiency of inter-terminal transit and overall access to the airport.

Conclusion

Though tricky to navigate LAX, with the correct information your experience through Southwest Airlines’ Los Angeles International Airport terminal will be smooth. Most of the time, Southwest is based at Terminal 1. The terminal is done with a major upgrade that allows for easy checking-in and security processes, great amenities, and very accessible facilities.

Although this terminal is primarily for domestic flights, all international passengers will check in before transferring to the Tom Bradley International Terminal. Connectors and shuttles are available for those moving between the terminals. Because these facilities are newly renovated, allow for some additional time, and check on the LAX and Southwest websites for any changes. Whether you travel out of Terminal 1 frequently or for the first time, this guide was created to help you navigate confidently across the Southwest Airlines LAX Terminal. 

Frequently Asked Question – Southwest Airlines LAX Terminal