Long Beach Airport in California is a breath of fresh air compared to the region’s bigger, busier hubs. It’s less crowded, which honestly makes the whole flying experience a bit more relaxed.
If you’re flying out of Long Beach, you’ll spot several airlines offering reliable service to popular spots. Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Hawaiian Airlines are usually top picks for their routes and customer service.
These airlines cover cities like Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, and Honolulu. It’s easier to find a flight that fits your schedule and budget when you have those options.
Whether you’re after a cheap ticket or just want a smooth travel day, these airlines tend to deliver. Having the right airline can make trip planning a lot less stressful.
Key Takeways
- You can fly from Long Beach Airport with several major airlines.
- Some airlines offer better prices and routes from Long Beach.
- Choosing the right airline helps you save time and money.
Overview of Airlines at Long Beach Municipal Airport
Long Beach Municipal Airport (LGB) is a smaller airport in Southern California. It’s a practical choice for travelers who want to dodge the chaos of LAX.
You’ll find a handful of major airlines here, with a mix of direct flights and connections.
Major Carriers Operating from LGB
Southwest Airlines leads the pack at Long Beach. Their daily flights hit popular spots like Las Vegas and Denver.
Delta Air Lines and Hawaiian Airlines are also in the mix. Delta connects you to several hubs, which opens up more destinations. Hawaiian offers a direct link to Hawaii, which is a nice perk for island-bound travelers.
You won’t see giants like KLM here. International trips usually mean connecting through bigger airports.
Destinations and Route Networks
From LGB, you can fly nonstop to about 24 destinations. Top routes? Las Vegas, Sacramento, and Oakland.
Most flights stick to the West Coast and vacation hot spots. Southwest’s strong presence means frequent, affordable flights to places like Denver.
Delta gives you access to major hubs, so your options widen if you don’t mind a layover. Still, Long Beach is mostly about short and medium-haul trips.
Direct and Indirect Flight Options
LGB’s got plenty of direct flights—mainly to California and Nevada cities.
Need to go farther or international? You’ll probably connect through LAX or San Francisco. The big airlines at those airports cover more ground.
So, Long Beach is perfect for regional getaways or quick business trips. For long-haul journeys, expect an extra step or two.
Best Airlines for Value and Service from Long Beach
There are a few solid choices when you’re flying out of Long Beach. Some airlines keep fares low, while others lean into comfort and perks.
Southwest Airlines: Leading Carrier at LGB
Southwest Airlines is the go-to for budget-conscious travelers at Long Beach. One-way fares sometimes start around $49, which is tough to beat.
You can change or cancel flights without getting slammed with hefty fees. Free checked bags are a nice bonus—no surprises at the counter.
Their flights hit a lot of big U.S. cities, so you’re not stuck with limited options. The open seating thing means you might want to show up early if you care where you sit.
All in all, Southwest is a favorite for folks who want a straightforward, no-nonsense experience.
Delta and Other Notable Options
Delta runs flights to big hubs from Long Beach. Prices are usually a bit higher than Southwest, but you get perks like in-flight movies and snacks.
Their planes tend to be newer, and you’ll pick your seat when you book. If you like knowing where you’ll be sitting, that’s a plus.
Delta covers several major U.S. cities and even some international routes, so you’re not boxed in. Hawaiian Airlines is another option if you’re heading to the islands, but it’s a bit pricier.
Comparing Fleet, Comfort, and Onboard Services
It’s worth checking what each airline offers in terms of planes and onboard experience. Southwest mainly flies Boeing 737s—reliable, but basic when it comes to extras.
Delta uses both Boeing and Airbus aircraft. You’ll find better entertainment, Wi-Fi, and more comfortable seats, especially on longer flights.
Snacks and drinks vary. Delta hands out complimentary snacks on domestic routes, while Southwest gives you free soft drinks (but charges for booze).
If you care about the little things, check what’s included before booking. Online travel sites make it easy to compare prices, schedules, and reviews.
Tips for Finding Cheap Flights and Travel Deals
Scoring the lowest fare takes a bit of effort and timing. It helps to use tools that track prices and to be flexible with your plans.
How to Use Price Alerts and Flight Calendars
Set up price alerts on sites like Kayak or Google Flights. They’ll let you know when fares drop, so you don’t have to keep checking yourself.
Flight calendars show prices across different days. If you can be flexible, this is a great way to find cheaper dates. Even shifting your trip by a day or two can make a big difference.
Always double-check for hidden fees before you hit “book.” Sometimes that bargain fare isn’t so cheap after all.
Round-Trip vs. One-Way Flight Strategies
Round-trip tickets can save you money, but not every time. Sometimes, booking two one-way flights (even on different airlines) is the better deal.
If your plans are set, round-trips are easy. If you might need to change things up, one-ways offer more flexibility.
Play around with both options and use price alerts to spot the best combo. It’s worth the extra couple minutes.
Useful Travel Information for Long Beach Airport Passengers
Long Beach Airport (LGB) is easy to reach, whether you’re coming by car, bus, or rideshare. If you need more flight options, there are other airports nearby.
Planning trips to popular places is simpler when you know your options for direct and connecting flights.
Ground Transportation and Public Transport Access
You can get to Long Beach Airport by taxi, rideshare, or just driving yourself. There’s parking for both short and long stays.
It’s right off the 405 Freeway, so driving in isn’t a hassle. Local buses connect the airport with downtown Long Beach and nearby neighborhoods.
Long Beach Transit buses and regional transit links are available. If you’re heading to places like Huntington Beach or Santa Ana, you might need to combine bus and train rides.
Some shuttle companies run to hotels and to Los Angeles, including LAX. Booking ahead is usually cheaper and less stressful. Check transit schedules so you’re not left scrambling.
Nearby Airports and Alternative Options
If you want more choices, look at nearby airports. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is about 20 miles away and has tons of flights.
John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Orange County is even closer—around 14 miles. It’s smaller, but sometimes easier to deal with during busy seasons.
Ontario International Airport (ONT) is another option if you’re headed east or need cargo services. Each airport has its own pros and cons, so peek at prices and schedules before deciding where to fly out.
Planning Travel to Popular Destinations
Long Beach Airport offers plenty of non-stop flights. Delta Airlines, for example, flies directly to cities like Salt Lake City and Houston.
You can book direct flights to lots of popular spots on the West Coast and even farther out. If your chosen destination isn’t served directly, you’ll probably need to connect through a bigger hub.
Trips to places like New Orleans might mean making a transfer somewhere along the way. It’s not always the most convenient, but sometimes that’s just how it goes.
Travel agents and airline websites are handy for finding the best routes from Long Beach or nearby airports. If you’re planning to see spots like the La Brea Tar Pits or other classic Los Angeles landmarks, don’t forget to factor in time for local transit or a rental car.
Honestly, building in a little extra time can save you from last-minute headaches. No one wants to start their trip stressed out.