Navigating the Flames: LAX Status and Safe Travel Destinations Amid LA Wildfires

Wildfires are still disrupting flight conditions in California, leading to uncertainty regarding arrivals and departures from Los Angeles’ largest airport.

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is situated in the region experiencing the fires, causing several major airlines to provide warnings and travel waivers concerning the area.

LAX refrained from commenting when queried by Newsweek.

Why It Is Important

The wildfires in California have resulted in significant evacuations in Los Angeles, with the Palisades fire alone displacing over 30,000 individuals. At least two fatalities have been reported, alongside thousands injured. The flames have also disrupted travel into the city.

Are Flights Departing from LAX

The airport’s website indicates that it is continuing to process departures as usual, but it is recommended that travelers verify with their airlines prior to boarding flights.

“LAX is open and functioning normally. Passengers should confirm their flight status directly with their airline,” stated a notice on the site.

Are Flights Arriving at LAX

Flights are also landing at LAX. Nevertheless, several airlines—including United Airlines, American Airlines, and JetBlue—have issued waivers for customers wishing to cancel or modify their trips.

Some of the most significant tourist attractions in Los Angeles, including Universal Studios Hollywood, have ceased operations due to safety concerns.

“In an abundance of caution, Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk will remain closed on Thursday, January 9 as a result of the extreme winds and fire conditions,” announced the theme park on its website. “As always, the safety of our team members and guests is our highest priority.”

Is Los Angeles Safe for Travel

Although airports are operating safely and normally, the city is under a state of emergency due to the wildfires in the Palisades. The fires have led to widespread evacuations throughout Los Angeles, and reports suggest that the city may lack sufficient resources to manage the fires.

What to Do If Your Flight Has Been Canceled

Travelers should reach out to their airlines if their flights are canceled. Some of the largest airlines in the U.S. have waivers in effect for flights to Los Angeles that may apply.

What Others Are Saying

Hollywood Burbank Airport posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Wednesday: “Weather conditions are impacting various flight operations today. Please check with your airline about the status of your flight before heading to BUR.”

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection stated in an incident update: “Extreme fire behavior, including short and long-range spotting, continues to challenge firefighting efforts for the Palisades Fire … Firefighters and aerial resources will persist in their work to protect the community and infrastructures and gain control over fire containment.”

What Will Happen Next

Wind conditions are anticipated to continue spreading the fire throughout the week while containment efforts are consistently deployed.

Update 1/9/25, 11:40 a.m. ET: This article was amended to reflect LAX’s response to the comment request.

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