Understand the Procedures for Connecting Flights at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

When it comes to connecting flights at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), it's important to understand the procedures and potential delays that may occur. Depending on the airline and the time available for your connection, the airport may hold your plane for your arrival. However, it is not a guarantee and comes with certain conditions. In this article, we will break down the details so you can plan your next LAX connection efficiently.

Do Airlines Hold Planes at LAX?

Whether or not airlines will hold planes for connecting flights at LAX depends on several factors, including the airline's policies, the amount of time available between flights, and communication from your first airline. Here are the key points to consider:

For Same-Airline Connections

If you have a same-airline connection, there is a higher chance of the airline holding your plane for you. Airlines typically allow a small buffer, usually 5 to 10 minutes, to give you a fighting chance to make it to the gate. However, this is not an obligation, and the airline may still proceed without you if you are significantly late.

If Time is Tight

In cases where the connection time is extremely tight, airlines might take extra steps to ensure you can make it to your gate. This can include checking for passengers at the TSA line and sometimes even helping them to jump the queue. The airline may also inform you in advance about any potential delays so you can take necessary actions.

For Different-Airline Connections

If you are transferring between different airlines, the situation may be less favorable. In this case, the airline may not hold your plane at all, especially if the connection time is very short. The first airline has the responsibility to contact the second airline to inform them about your connection and whether to hold the gate. However, if there is no communication or the connection time is too tight, the second airline may not be able to hold the plane for you.

Why Do Some Airlines Hold Planes but Not Others?

The decision to hold a plane for a connecting passenger is not always straightforward. There are several reasons why an airline might or might not hold a plane:

Financial Considerations

Airlines have to deal with significant financial penalties if they do not depart their flights on time. Holding a plane can be costly, so airlines have to weigh the benefits against the potential costs. Holding a plane for a few extra minutes may sound reasonable, but if it significantly impacts the departure schedule, the airline may opt not to hold the plane.

Operational Flexibility

Airlines aim to operate as efficiently as possible. If there are many connecting passengers, the airline may choose to hold the plane for a short time, but if there are only a few connecting passengers, they may choose not to hold the plane in order to keep their schedule on track.

Communications:

Effective communication between airlines is crucial for managing connecting passengers. Airlines that have good communication channels are more likely to hold planes for connections, as they can coordinate better and provide the necessary support to keep the passengers on track.

What Passengers Should Do

To increase your chances of making your connecting flight at LAX:

Check for Confirmations

If you have a same-airline connection, check if the airline confirms the connection through your booking. Airlines that do this are more likely to consider holding the plane for you.

Communicate with TSA

Stay in contact with TSA agents if you are running late. They can sometimes help you get through security faster, especially if you are on a tight connection.

Plan Early

If you have a tight connection, plan to arrive at the airport earlier than expected. This can sometimes give you a few precious minutes to make your connection.

Conclusion

Connecting flights at LAX can be challenging, but understanding the procedures and making informed decisions can help you navigate these situations more smoothly. Whether an airline holds your plane or not, staying informed and prepared can make the difference between a stress-free and a stressful journey.