Decoding Long Beach: Which Airlines Connect You to This Coastal Gem?

Long Beach Airport (LGB), a smaller, more manageable alternative to the sprawling LAX, offers a unique and less stressful gateway to Southern California. But which airlines actually grace its runways? Let’s cut to the chase: the primary airlines serving Long Beach Airport are Southwest Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines.

That’s the core answer. However, understanding the nuances of routes, seasonal changes, and potential future airline additions is key to effectively planning your trip. So, buckle up as we delve deeper into the world of LGB and explore the airlines that call it home.

The Long Beach Airline Landscape

While the answer seems straightforward, the airline landscape is ever-evolving. Southwest Airlines currently dominates the scene, offering the most extensive network of domestic flights from LGB. They’re your go-to for connecting to a wide array of cities across the Western United States and beyond.

Hawaiian Airlines provides the vital link to the Hawaiian Islands, offering direct flights to Honolulu (HNL), making Long Beach an excellent option for those seeking a less chaotic departure point for their island getaway.

Beyond these two mainstays, the picture gets a bit more nuanced. Historically, other airlines have operated flights from LGB, but their presence has fluctuated based on market demand and strategic decisions. It’s always best to double-check directly with the airport or through flight comparison websites for the most up-to-date information.

Understanding Airline Route Networks

The destinations served from Long Beach, and therefore the airlines offering those services, are heavily influenced by LGB’s unique noise ordinance. This regulation, designed to minimize disturbance to local residents, limits the number of flights and operating hours. This has a direct impact on which airlines choose to operate at LGB and the routes they offer.

This means you might not find the same breadth of international connections available at LAX. Long Beach generally caters more to domestic travel and the specific Hawaiian route offered by Hawaiian Airlines. When planning your journey, it’s critical to consider whether a connecting flight at another airport will be necessary to reach your final destination.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Flying to Long Beach

Let’s address some common queries to help you navigate the Long Beach Airport experience.

1. Does Delta fly into Long Beach Airport?

Currently, Delta Air Lines does not offer scheduled flights into Long Beach Airport (LGB). While Delta has previously served LGB, they are not a current operator. If you prefer flying with Delta, you might consider flying into nearby Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

2. Does JetBlue fly into Long Beach Airport?

No, JetBlue does not currently fly into Long Beach Airport. JetBlue was a significant player at LGB for many years, establishing a hub there. However, in 2020, they ceased all operations at Long Beach. Passengers seeking JetBlue flights will need to fly into alternative airports like LAX or Burbank (BUR).

3. What destinations can I fly to directly from Long Beach Airport?

Southwest Airlines offers a diverse range of direct flights to destinations primarily within the Western United States, including cities in California, Nevada, Arizona, Colorado, and more. Hawaiian Airlines provides direct flights exclusively to Honolulu (HNL). For a comprehensive list of current destinations, consult the Long Beach Airport’s official website or use a flight search engine.

4. Is Long Beach Airport a good alternative to LAX?

For many travelers, Long Beach Airport offers a significantly less stressful experience than LAX. Its smaller size translates to shorter security lines, easier navigation, and a more relaxed atmosphere overall. However, keep in mind that the limited number of airlines and destinations might require you to connect through another airport, potentially negating some of the convenience. If your destination is directly served from LGB by Southwest or Hawaiian, it’s definitely worth considering.

5. How strict is the noise ordinance at Long Beach Airport?

The noise ordinance at Long Beach Airport is indeed quite strict. It restricts the number of daily flights and imposes curfews on takeoffs and landings, primarily between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM. This regulation plays a major role in the limited number of airlines and flights operating at LGB. Understanding these restrictions is essential for airlines deciding whether to operate there, and for passengers planning early morning or late-night departures.

6. What are the ground transportation options from Long Beach Airport?

Long Beach Airport offers several convenient ground transportation options. These include:

• Ride-sharing services: Uber and Lyft operate at LGB with designated pick-up areas.
• Taxis: Taxi service is readily available outside the terminal.
• Rental cars: Several major rental car companies have on-site locations.
• Public transportation: The Long Beach Transit bus system provides connections to various parts of the city.
• Hotel shuttles: Many hotels offer complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport.

7. Are there any lounges at Long Beach Airport?

Unfortunately, Long Beach Airport does not have any dedicated airline lounges. This is primarily due to the airport’s smaller size and focus on domestic flights with fewer premium passengers.

8. What is the best way to find the cheapest flights to Long Beach?

To find the cheapest flights to Long Beach, consider the following strategies:

• Be flexible with your travel dates: Prices often vary depending on the day of the week and time of year.
• Book in advance: Generally, booking several weeks or months in advance can secure lower fares.
• Use flight comparison websites: Sites like Google Flights, Kayak, and Skyscanner allow you to compare prices from multiple airlines.
• Consider flying mid-week: Flights on Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often cheaper than those on weekends.
• Sign up for airline email alerts: Receive notifications about special deals and promotions.

9. What are the parking options at Long Beach Airport?

Long Beach Airport offers several parking options to suit different needs and budgets. These include:

• Parking Structure A: Covered parking located closest to the terminal.
• Parking Lot B: Surface lot, slightly further from the terminal than Structure A.
• Economy Lot C: The most affordable option, located a short shuttle ride from the terminal.
• Valet parking: Available for a premium, providing the most convenient parking experience.

10. Can I fly internationally from Long Beach Airport?

Long Beach Airport primarily caters to domestic flights. While charter flights might occasionally operate internationally, there are currently no scheduled international passenger flights departing from or arriving at LGB. For international travel, you will generally need to fly from LAX or another major international airport.

11. How early should I arrive at Long Beach Airport before my flight?

Given Long Beach Airport’s smaller size and typically shorter security lines, arriving 1.5 to 2 hours before your domestic flight is generally sufficient. However, during peak travel periods or holidays, it’s always prudent to allow for extra time to navigate potential congestion. If you are checking baggage, arriving closer to 2 hours is advisable.

12. Will more airlines start flying to Long Beach Airport in the future?

The possibility of new airlines serving Long Beach Airport is dependent on several factors, most significantly the availability of flight slots within the constraints of the noise ordinance. The airport and the city of Long Beach are continuously evaluating opportunities to optimize operations and potentially attract new carriers. While there are no guarantees, ongoing discussions and market analyses could pave the way for expanded service in the future. Keep an eye on airport announcements and airline press releases for updates.