LAX Terminal 6 – Terminal 6 LAX Map, Food, Shops Guide
Landing at Los Angeles International Airport for the first time can feel overwhelming — especially when you step off the plane and suddenly need to figure out where to go. If your flight is arriving at Terminal 6 LAX, you’re actually in luck. After a massive $230 million modernization project, Terminal 6 is now one of the smoothest and most passenger-friendly arrival experiences at LAX. Whether you’re expecting a loved one or arriving yourself, this guide covers everything you need to know about LAX Terminal 6 arrivals, from the moment your plane touches down to the second you step into an Uber outside.
What Airlines Use Terminal 6 at LAX?
Before diving into the arrivals process, it’s important to know which airlines call Terminal 6 home. As of 2025, three major carriers operate from this terminal:
Alaska Airlines is the primary anchor at Terminal 6 and has been operating here since 2012. The airline serves both domestic and international routes, covering 37 U.S. states and 12 countries globally. If you’re flying Alaska, all your terminal 6 lax arrivals — whether domestic or international — will land here.
Hawaiian Airlines made a major move in April 2025, officially shifting all its LAX operations from the Tom Bradley International Terminal (Terminal B) to Terminal 6. This change, effective April 22, 2025, was designed to co-locate Hawaiian with Alaska Airlines under one roof since the two carriers are now closely aligned following Alaska’s acquisition. If you’ve been searching for the Hawaiian terminal LAX, look no further — it’s now Terminal 6. The move has been celebrated by passengers, because the previous walk from check-in to departure gates at Terminal B was famously long — travelers joked they were “walking to Hawaii instead of flying there.”
Air Canada also operates from Terminal 6, alongside smaller regional carriers like Horizon Air, Southern Airways Express, and Porter Airlines.
Terminal 6 LAX Layout: What to Expect on Arrival
Understanding the physical layout of Terminal 6 makes the lax arrivals terminal 6 experience far less stressful.
The terminal has two main levels:
- Level 1 — Lower/Arrivals Level: This is where you’ll go after deplaning. Baggage claim carousels, ground transportation access, information booths, and oversized luggage handling are all located here. For lax terminal 6 arrivals, Level 1 is your destination.
- Level 2 — Check-in & Ticketing Level: This is primarily for departing passengers.
- Level 3 — Departures, Gates, Dining & Lounges: Restaurants, shops, the Alaska Airlines Lounge, and all departure gates (60–69) are situated here.
Once you deplane, follow the clearly marked overhead signage toward the arrivals area. The layout is intuitive, and airport staff are typically stationed throughout the terminal to assist if you get confused.
Baggage Claim at Terminal 6 LAX Arrivals
One of the first questions arriving passengers have is: where do I pick up my bags?
At terminal 6 arrivals LAX, the baggage claim area is on Level 1, right near the arrivals exit. There are three main carousels — numbered 61, 62, and 63 — and an additional Oversized Baggage Claim section near Carousel 62, which handles items like strollers, golf bags, and surfboards.
Here’s how the process works:
- After deplaning, take the escalators or elevators down to Level 1.
- Check the overhead digital monitors — they display your flight number alongside the designated carousel number.
- Head to your assigned carousel and wait for your bags.
- For oversized or special luggage, proceed to the oversized claim area near Carousel 62.
If your bag is delayed or lost, there’s an Alaska Airlines Baggage Service Office located in the baggage claim area. You can also contact Alaska’s baggage line at 1-877-815-8253. For items lost elsewhere in the terminal, the LAX Lost and Found desk is reachable at (855) 463-5252.
Pro tip: International passengers arriving at Terminal 6 will go through U.S. Customs and Border Protection processing at the Federal Inspection Station (FIS) on Level 1 before accessing baggage claim. Have your passport and customs declaration form ready.
Ground Transportation: Getting Out of Terminal 6
After claiming your bags, you’ll walk through the arrivals exit to the Lower/Arrivals Level outdoor curb. This is where all ground transportation options are located for terminal 6 arrivals at LAX:
Rideshare (Uber & Lyft): LAX has designated rideshare pickup zones to manage congestion. From Terminal 6, follow the signs to the LAX-it lot, where Uber and Lyft drivers wait. A free shuttle runs between Terminal 6’s arrivals level and the LAX-it lot every few minutes.
Taxis: Regulated taxis are available at the arrivals curb. A taxi from LAX to downtown Los Angeles typically costs $40–$60 depending on traffic.
LAX FlyAway Bus: This affordable bus service connects LAX directly to Union Station in downtown LA, Van Nuys, and other locations. Buses depart from the Lower/Arrivals Level. It’s one of the best budget options if you’re heading into the city.
LAX Shuttle (Route A): The free LAX Shuttle connects all terminals in a loop. If you need to move between terminals — say, to pick someone up from a different airline — catch the shuttle at the pink “LAX” signposted pickup area on Level 1.
Car Rentals: Major rental companies including Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, and Budget operate at LAX. The Rental Car Center is accessible via free shuttles that depart from Terminal 6’s lower level. It’s recommended to book your rental in advance for the best rates.
Parking: If someone is driving to pick you up at terminal 6 arrivals lax, they can use the cell phone waiting lot for up to 2 hours at no charge. When you’re ready to be picked up, call them and they can reach Terminal 6 via the Lower/Arrivals Level shortcut, which provides direct access from Terminals 5 through 8.
Dining at LAX Terminal 6: From Starbucks to Sit-Down Meals
One of the highlights of Terminal 6’s recent modernization is its dining scene. Whether you’re a passenger waiting for a connection or someone picking someone up who’s running late, the food and beverage options here are genuinely good.
LAX Terminal 6 Starbucks is probably the most searched food spot in the terminal — and for good reason. Coffee after a long flight is practically a survival necessity. The LAX Terminal 6 Starbucks is located on the departures level (Level 3), post-security. For passengers just arriving on Level 1, note that Starbucks is airside; if you’re meeting someone, grab your coffee while they clear baggage claim.
Beyond Starbucks, Terminal 6 offers:
- The Marketplace by Wolfgang Puck — Upscale casual dining with California-inspired dishes.
- California Pizza Kitchen — A LAX staple, great for a sit-down meal.
- See’s Candies — Perfect for picking up a gift on your way home.
- MAC Cosmetics and M. Fredric — For some retail therapy post-flight.
- DFS Duty Free — Available for international passengers.
The full dining and shopping experience is on Level 3 (departures), accessible post-security. Arriving passengers on Level 1 have access to grab-and-go options near the baggage claim area.
Lounges at Terminal 6 LAX
For premium passengers, Terminal 6 punches well above its weight when it comes to lounge access.
Alaska Airlines Lounge is located on Level 4 near Gate 64. It’s accessible to Alaska Airlines First Class passengers, MVP Gold members, and those with qualifying credit card access. The lounge offers complimentary food, premium drinks, and — worth noting — barista-made Starbucks beverages. So if you’re wondering about the famous LAX Terminal 6 Starbucks experience, the Alaska Lounge version is especially premium.
Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge is also located within Terminal 6, offering a quieter retreat for Air Canada business class passengers and Air Canada Altitude members.
Gameway is a gaming lounge available to all passengers, making waits feel significantly shorter.
Since Hawaiian Airlines moved to Terminal 6 in April 2025, eligible Hawaiian First Class passengers on routes like LAX–Honolulu or LAX–Maui now also have access to the Alaska Lounge. This is a major upgrade for the Hawaiian terminal LAX experience, particularly for premium cabin travelers who previously had to navigate Terminal B’s long corridors.
Connecting Flights from Terminal 6
Terminal 6 is well-positioned for connections, thanks to LAX’s airside walkway system. Passengers can move between Terminals 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) without re-clearing security. Walking time between adjacent terminals is typically 5–8 minutes.
For terminal 6 lax arrivals passengers who are connecting to international flights departing from TBIT, the airside walkway is your best bet — it’s faster than taking the outdoor shuttle and avoids the need to re-clear TSA.
If you’re connecting between Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines — which now both operate from the same terminal — your transfer is essentially seamless, as both airlines’ gates fall within the same 60–69 gate block.
Navigating to Terminal 6 LAX by Car
If you’re driving someone to or from the airport, here’s how to reach terminal 6 arrivals lax efficiently:
- Enter LAX from the main World Way entrance.
- Stay in the far left lane and make a left turn across from Terminal 1, following signs toward Terminal 7 (United Airlines).
- The shortcut on the Lower/Arrivals Level leads directly to Terminals 5, 6, 7, and 8.
- Terminal 6 is located on the south side of LAX, between Terminal 5 (currently closed for construction until 2028) and Terminal 7.
Parking Structure 6 (P6) is the most convenient option for those picking up passengers at lax terminal 6 arrivals.
Accessibility at Terminal 6
Terminal 6 is fully equipped for passengers with disabilities. Services include:
- Wheelchair assistance (request at least 48 hours in advance through your airline)
- Accessible restrooms on all levels
- Elevators between all floors
- Priority boarding lanes at the gate
- TSA assistance via TSA Cares at 1-855-787-2227
Passengers requiring special assistance are advised to contact their airline in advance and arrive at least 2 hours before departure to allow adequate time for the assistance process.
Final Tips for a Smooth Arrival Experience at LAX Terminal 6
- Check your flight status before heading to LAX — use flylax.com or your airline’s app for real-time updates.
- Track your bag using Alaska Airlines’ or Hawaiian Airlines’ app for live baggage status updates.
- Download the LAX app for real-time terminal maps, shuttle tracking, and flight information.
- Use the cell phone waiting lot if you’re picking someone up — it’s free for up to 2 hours and prevents circling the terminal.
- Plan for TSA wait times of 15–25 minutes during peak hours if you’re departing.
- Grab coffee at the LAX Terminal 6 Starbucks on Level 3 if you have time before your connection.
Conclusion
LAX Terminal 6 has evolved into one of the most capable and comfortable terminals at Los Angeles International Airport. With Alaska Airlines as its anchor and Hawaiian Airlines now fully moved in as of April 2025, Terminal 6 is the go-to hub for West Coast domestic travel and Hawaii-bound flights. Whether you’re navigating terminal 6 arrivals for the first time or picking someone up at terminal 6 lax arrivals, the process is far more streamlined than it used to be. Clear signage, efficient baggage claim carousels, excellent dining options including the beloved LAX Terminal 6 Starbucks, and convenient ground transportation make this one of the better arrival experiences at a major U.S. airport. Welcome to Los Angeles — you’ve landed in the right place.
