Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is bracing for a surge of holiday travelers, with more than 3.2 million passengers expected to pass through its terminals during the festive season. While this represents an increase from last year, the numbers remain lower than pre-pandemic figures.
Airport officials anticipate peak days of approximately 215,000 passengers, particularly during the weekends and on December 27 and 30. The projected total passenger count for 2023 is expected to reach 78 million, up by 3 million from last year.
However, these figures fall short of the 88 million passengers recorded in 2019 before the pandemic. The airport's long-term projections have also been adjusted downward, with 2028 estimates now at 90 million passengers, considerably lower than the previous forecast of 110.8 million.
The holiday rush has brought familiar challenges for travelers. Some passengers report extended wait times, with customs processing taking up to two hours during peak periods. The airport's terminal areas and ride-sharing pickup zones are experiencing increased congestion.
LAX is currently undergoing a $30 billion renovation project to improve the traveler experience. A key component is the upcoming Automated People Mover train, scheduled to begin operations in January 2026. This elevated train system aims to reduce airport traffic by providing alternative transportation routes for passengers.
Despite LAX's numbers remaining below pre-pandemic levels, overall holiday travel in Southern California has surpassed 2019 figures. The AAA Automobile Club of Southern California reports a 6.8% increase in total travel across all modes of transportation compared to pre-pandemic times. A massive surge of holiday travelers is expected to create unprecedented congestion across the state of California this Thanksgiving season, with a projected 6.6 million residents planning journeys over 50 miles from home.
Doug Webster, chief operations officer at Los Angeles World Airports, stated that while the holidays are consistently busy at LAX, the airport is prepared to handle the increased passenger volume during this travel season.