Q&A for How to Switch Flights in LAX

If you're arriving on an international flight, you will always need to go through security. The fastest route is probably to use the security checkpoint in the corridor from TBI to T4. From there, you can take walkways to T5, then T6 without leaving security.

Fortunately this is much easier than it used to be, since there is now a short walkway connecting the two terminals. If you need to recheck your bags, however, you will need to leave T4 and enter TBI through the security line.

Leave the terminal and catch the blue A shuttle. The trip takes about ten minutes.

Yes, all travelers who enter the United States from another country must clear customs, even if they are leaving immediately.

Probably, but if you booked them as part of one trip, the two airlines might have an arrangement. Ask about this in Seattle while you're checking your bags.

If you're flying into the international terminal, there's a corridor directly to terminal 4. This is a short walk, and the security checkpoint in that corridor is usually quite fast. Some international flights arrive in other terminals, however, so check with your airline.

Correct. When switching from terminal 1 to terminal 6, you will need to clear security again. Switching between terminals 1 and 6 can be done by catching the terminal connection bus under the blue sign on the arrivals level.

Delta has its own international area at terminal 5, so you will be able to go through customs and security right where you land. Once that's done, leave terminal 5 and walk through the parking structures to terminal 2 (five or ten minutes). The A shuttle will also get you there, but it's slower than walking in this case.

Exit terminal 1 and cross through Parking 1, then Parking 7. You'll be at terminal 7 in about five minutes, where you'll need to go through security.

It depends. If you have arrived from a domestic flight and the airline is in the same terminal, you don't have to pass through security again unless you are coming from or going to an international flight.

Changing from domestic to domestic should have at least 30 minutes or more if transferring. From domestic to international should have 90 minutes or more if transferring terminals. From an international to domestic would be 2 hours at the minimum to pass through customs, 3 hours if you have an international passport. Give more time if you need to transfer between terminals. You will still need to go through customs from an international flight and leaving for international.

Customs depends on where you're arriving from, not where you're departing. If you arrived on an international flight, you will go through customs and border control.

It only takes about five minutes to walk between those two terminals. You will need to re-enter security, however, so allow another 45 minutes unless you arrive at a quiet time of day.

ESTA is required if you are travelling on a New Zealand passport and staying for less than 3 months. This can be filled out online before leaving your country.