Long Beach Airport

Long Beach Airport (LGB) is often called the "hidden gem" of Southern California and the most relaxed aviation hub in the region. Unlike huge international hubs, a true resort atmosphere reigns here: palm trees, open terraces, and a historic terminal create the feeling that your holiday has begun even before departure. It is the ideal place for those who value comfort, speed, and the nostalgic romance of the "Golden Age" of aviation, when walking to the aircraft across the airfield was part of a grand adventure.

Airport Features and Advantages

• Unique Architecture: The main terminal is a true historical monument, built in 1941 in the Streamline Moderne style. The building is recognised as a cultural heritage site and is famous for its exquisite mosaics, which transport guests to the era of classic Hollywood.
• Resort Atmosphere: Waiting for a flight here takes place not in enclosed halls, but in a picturesque open-air garden concourse. Passengers can enjoy the Californian sun, relax by cosy fire pits, and breathe fresh air right before boarding.
• Local Flavour: The airport features establishments loved by the city's residents themselves. Instead of standard chain cafes, here you can try dishes and drinks from renowned local restaurants, making the gastronomic experience part of getting to know Long Beach.
• Speed and Convenience: Thanks to the compact size of the air harbour, the journey from the entrance to the gate takes mere minutes. Security screening and baggage claim procedures are much faster and calmer than at large neighbouring airports.
• "Old School" Boarding: Jet bridges are not used here: passengers walk to the aircraft directly across the airfield, boarding via stairs. This allows for a better view of the aircraft and a sense of the romance of flight (while observing all safety rules).

• Official Website: For the latest information on flights, services, and regulations, visit the official Long Beach Airport website.
• Information Desk Phone: For general enquiries, you can call +1 562 570-2600.
• Airport Address: 4100 Donald Douglas Dr, Long Beach, CA 90808, USA.
• Email: A direct email address for general enquiries is not provided. For communication, it is recommended to use the contact forms available on the official website in the "Contact Us" section.
• Social Media: Follow airport news and updates on official accounts:
  • Facebook: facebook.com/longbeachairport
  • X (formerly Twitter): twitter.com/LBAirport
  • Instagram: instagram.com/lgbairport
• Lost & Found: If you have left items in the terminal building, contact the Lost & Found service at +1 562 570-2648. If items were lost on board the aircraft or during baggage handling, you must contact your airline's representative directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For most questions, including assistance for people with disabilities, it is recommended to contact the main airport phone number or use the forms on the website, where your request will be directed to the appropriate department.

Getting to Long Beach Airport (LGB), located within the city limits of Long Beach, is quite simple thanks to a variety of transport options. Choosing the right method depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and comfort preferences. From the city centre, the trip usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, but it is always worth allowing extra time in case of traffic.

Public Transport is the most economical option. Long Beach Transit (LBT) serves the airport with several bus routes, specifically route 111. This is a convenient way to get to the terminal from various points in the city. You can also use the Metro A Line (Blue Line) to Wardlow station, and from there transfer to an LBT bus that will take you directly to the airport. The cost of travel by public transport is the lowest among all options.

Taxis and Rideshare Services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a fast and comfortable way to get to the airport. This is an ideal option if you are travelling with a large amount of luggage or simply value door-to-door convenience. A trip from central Long Beach will cost more than the bus but will save you time. Designated pick-up and drop-off zones for these services are located right at the terminal.

If you plan to explore Southern California by car, Car Rental can be an excellent solution. Many major rental companies have offices at the airport. You can rent a car in the city and return it upon arrival at the airport. This ensures maximum flexibility and independence when travelling around the USA.

For those arriving by personal vehicle, Long Beach Airport has a convenient parking system. There are several parking structures (Garage A and Garage B) offering both hourly and daily payment rates. Valet parking is also available for maximum convenience. It is recommended to check current rates and availability on the official airport website, especially during peak travel periods.

Long Beach Airport (LGB) in the USA offers passengers a completely unique experience, unlike most modern aviation hubs. Its structure is simple, elegant, and focused on comfort. Instead of huge buildings and confusing corridors, the airport consists of one main historic terminal and two separate passenger halls, connected by a picturesque open-air garden.

The main terminal, built in the Art Deco style, serves as the central hub for all pre- and post-flight procedures. Airline check-in counters and the baggage claim area are located here. After check-in, passengers pass through a central open-air plaza with palm trees and cosy seating areas to the security checkpoint. Beyond it are two satellite halls (concourses): the North Concourse with Gates 1–4 and the South Concourse with Gates 5–11. Navigation is extremely simple, as all signs are clearly visible, and the short distances ensure you won't get lost.

Movement between terminals is done on foot through the central plaza. This does not take much time and, moreover, becomes a pleasant walk. Departure zones in both concourses are modern and comfortable, equipped with shops, cafes, and restaurants, many of which have open terraces. The arrival zone is located in the same area, from where passengers proceed to the main terminal for their luggage. The special atmosphere of the airport, reminiscent more of a resort hotel than a transport hub, makes waiting for a flight truly pleasant.

Thanks to compact dimensions and thoughtful logistics, passing through check-in and security at Long Beach Airport usually takes significantly less time than at large airports. As a rule, for domestic flights, it is sufficient to arrive 90 minutes before departure. Nevertheless, it is always better to check your airline's recommendations and allow extra time during peak hours. The main navigation tip is not to rush and enjoy the moment, as this airport is one of the city's attractions.

The history of Long Beach Airport (LGB) is a fascinating journey through time, reflecting the development of aviation in the USA. Officially founded in 1923 on the site of a former hay field, it is one of the oldest municipal airports in the country. Originally known as Daugherty Field, it quickly became a centre of aviation activity in Southern California.

A key stage in the airport's history was its transformation into a major industrial centre during World War II. It was here that Douglas Aircraft launched mass production of military aircraft, including the famous C-47 Skytrain transport planes and A-20 Havoc bombers. The airport played a strategic role in military efforts, and after the war continued to be an important site for the aircraft manufacturing industry, where DC-8 and DC-10 liners were later produced.

The true jewel of the airport is its main terminal, built in 1941. It is an outstanding example of the architectural style Streamline Moderne, which has been preserved to this day and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its elegant design with mosaic floors depicting maps and maritime motifs makes waiting for a flight feel like a visit to a museum. The terminal has repeatedly become a filming location for Hollywood movies seeking to recreate the atmosphere of the "Golden Age" of aviation.

In the 21st century, the airport underwent significant modernization, which carefully preserved its historical heritage. In 2012, a new passenger complex was opened, harmoniously combining modern comfort with the historic terminal building. Instead of traditional enclosed waiting halls, a unique open plaza with gardens and palm trees was created, reflecting the relaxed Californian style. Today, Long Beach Airport successfully combines the role of an important transport hub and a living monument to aviation history.

Long Beach Airport (LGB) offers passengers a unique experience, combining modern comfort with the relaxed atmosphere of Southern California. Its distinctive feature is the open central courtyard with gardens and palm trees, where you can pleasantly spend time waiting for a flight.

In the terminal, you will find numerous restaurants and cafes offering both Californian cuisine and popular snacks. From fresh salads and sandwiches to refreshing beverages — the choice of establishments allows you to refresh yourself before your flight. Shops are also open where you can purchase souvenirs, books, press, and travel essentials.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the airport. Numerous charging stations for mobile devices are located in waiting lounges and at boarding gates, so you can always recharge your gadget. Although there are no dedicated business centres in the airport, comfortable waiting areas with internet access allow you to handle work matters.

The airport is fully equipped for the comfortable stay of passengers with disabilities: special parking spaces, ramps, lifts, and adapted restrooms are available. Families with children will appreciate the presence of nursing rooms where they can take care of babies in a calm environment. There is a medical station at the airport for first aid.

Financial services are represented by ATMs located in various parts of the terminal. It is worth noting that the airport mainly serves domestic flights, so currency exchange points may be absent or have limited operating hours. Instead of traditional closed VIP lounges, the airport offers general but very comfortable relaxation zones, including those in the fresh air.

If you need to stay overnight, several hotels of various price categories are located in the immediate vicinity of Long Beach Airport, easily accessible by shuttle or taxi.

At Long Beach Airport, you will find several excellent options for a snack or a full meal, reflecting the culinary spirit of Southern California. Most establishments are located in the main area after passing security control, in the North and South Concourses, which are connected by an open garden, making movement between them simple and pleasant.

Main Cafes and Restaurants (Post-Security Zone):

In the North Concourse, at your service are:

• George's Greek Cafe: A popular local establishment offering Mediterranean cuisine. An excellent choice for a full meal. Here you can find good vegetarian options, for example, hummus, salads, and falafel.
• Sweet Jill's Bakery: The ideal place for those looking for a quick snack. They serve fresh pastries, sandwiches, muffins, and excellent coffee.

In the South Concourse, you will find:

• Taco Beach Cantina: A place with a casual atmosphere where you can enjoy tacos, burritos, and other Mexican dishes. A great option to taste California flavours before departure.
• 4th Street Vine: An establishment offering a selection of beverages and light snacks. Perfectly suitable for relaxing while waiting for a flight.
• Polly's Coffee: A local coffee shop for those who need a cup of quality coffee or tea before their flight.

Recommendations and Prices:

For a quick snack, pastries from Sweet Jill's Bakery or coffee from Polly's Coffee are perfect. If you have time for a full meal, feel free to head to George's Greek Cafe or Taco Beach Cantina. The price range in establishments is average for US airports: the cost of a main dish is approximately 15-25 dollars. Most restaurants and cafes open early in the morning (around 5:00) and operate until the last flight departs, so you will not go hungry at any time.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Long Beach city is as comfortable and stress-free as possible, use these proven tips. This airport is valued for its compactness and pleasant atmosphere, and knowing a few nuances will make your experience even better.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights within the USA, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 2 hours before departure. Although Long Beach Airport is usually less busy than its giant neighbours, during peak hours (early morning and evening) it is better to have a time buffer. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight in advance and save the boarding pass on your smartphone.

Security Screening and Hand Luggage. The checkpoint here generally works quickly. To speed up the process, prepare your documents in advance and place large electronic devices (laptops, tablets) in a separate tray. Remember the rule for carrying liquids: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in one transparent bag. Sharp objects and aerosols are prohibited in hand luggage.

Seat Selection and Transfers. If you want to enjoy views of the Californian coast, choose a window seat. For greater comfort and the ability to leave the cabin quickly after landing — choose an aisle seat. If you have a connecting flight in Long Beach, you are in luck: thanks to the airport's compact size, moving between gates will not take much time, and you will not have to go through security again for domestic transfers.

Customs Control. Long Beach Airport primarily serves domestic flights. However, if you are arriving on an international flight, be prepared to pass through customs and passport control. Fill out the customs declaration in advance (often this can be done electronically) and have your passport ready. Honestly declare all imported goods to avoid fines.

How to Save Money. To avoid overpaying for parking, book a spot online in advance — this is often cheaper. Bring an empty reusable water bottle with you and fill it after passing security at special fountains. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are always higher, so a light snack brought from home will help save your budget.

In Case of Flight Delay. First of all, contact your airline representative for information about the new departure time and possible options (for example, rebooking on another flight). Long Beach Airport is one of the most pleasant places to wait, thanks to its open zones with palm trees and cosy cafes. Use this time to relax in the fresh air rather than in a stuffy waiting room.